There have been cases of Shih Tzu being epileptic, which in turn may lead to shortening of the lifespan of the Shih Tzu if untreated. Even with these health concerns, the Shih Tzu will still live a long healthy life. Shih Tzu Health Problems & Lifespan (FTC Disclosure: If you make a purchase via a link on this page, I may receive a small commission, at no added cost to you.Shih Tzu Facts. Share Tweet. By knowing the common health issues of your shih tzu, you can create a plan to minimize the chances that they are affected by such problems. Many purebred dogs are prone to health issues, and Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise are no exception. When temperatures rise and humidity kicks in, it becomes much more difficult for short-faced dogs like the Shih Tzu to breath. Most Common Shih Tzu Eye Problems. Skin and hair problems have various causes and prevention is the key to avoid them. Discover 11 Shih Tzu health problems symptoms to keep your pet healthy. Are you wondering about potential Shih Tzu health problems?A well-bred dog with a healthy genetic history will not usually show any problems at all. There is always a risk though and this is why we wanted to look more at Shih Tzu health with the dog’s spine in focus.. You should be familiar with these common health … Shih Tzus make great family pets. As an owner, you need to look out for these tell-tale signs, in order to take better care of your pet. 4 Common Health Issues of Shih Tzus. Sudden changes to their diet can be quite a shock to their system and they have been found to be at an increased risk of experiencing food allergies. The large, exposed eyes are prone to many irritations and eye infections. [Shih Tzu], with their loving looks and endearing body language, can be very demanding beggars. Because both Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise can suffer from hip and eye problems, these health tests are particularly important to speak to any breeder about. Your Shih Tzu, like all other dog breeds, has some inherited or common health problems which are important to know about. However, the reality is that they have quite a few health concerns and if you are adamant that you would like to be a Shih Tzu pet owner, then you should learn about the possible health conditions and how you manage them. Most common Shih Tzu Health Problems As it is with a lot of toy breeds, Shih Tzus can have a few more health concerns than most. It was bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso dogs. Do not let the Shih Tzu hereditary problems deter you from rescuing, adopting, or purchasing a Shih Tzu … When considering the health of your Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu puppy, and what to feed them, it is also relevant to know what health issues they may face. Maltese Shih Tzus could be affected by the following (but not limited to) health conditions and diseases, some of which are hereditary. For Chinese they carry a lot of importance and are even the symbol of deities. Health concerns are a major concern when you have a pet like a Shih Tzu. by Small Dogs January 8, 2021. A little bit of fallout from their human’s plate can lead to selective eating that is not easily cured. Ideally, fussy eating habits that are not based on an actual health problem should be avoided in the first place. Shih Tzu skin problems are the most common complaints in the vet practice for this breed!. This type of health condition occurs when the kneecap slides out of the groove. The thing is, a mini shih tzu comes with health problems that you don’t find in full-sized shih tzus. Large quantities of grapes can result in kidney failure, a health condition which is irreversible and is potentially life-threatening in Shih Tzus. While renal dysplasia is the only health condition that is considered to be both prevalent within the breed and testable prior to breeding, the Shih Tzu is actually a breed for which a fairly long list of other potential health issues can be found as well. Before bringing a Shih Tzu into your family, it’s essential for you to understand their common illnesses. The Shih Tzu was first introduced to Europe by traders as late as the 1930s and was introduced to the United States after the Second World War. That said, they're not quite perfect. While the Maltese Shih Tzu mix was developed solely as a toy breed that would shed less hair, it does in fact still shed. The Pekingese Shih Tzu Mix vs. Purebred Debate. Though there are only quite a few, knowing about the history and how the disease develops will help an owner to prepare and prevent the occurrence of … The breed was imported into the United States in the late 1950s. The Shih Tzu breed comes from Tibet originally. Maltese Shih Tzu Mix Care, Health Issues, Personality and More . The Maltese Shih Tzu Mix . A dislocated kneecap, or patellar luxation, may be present at birth but not show until the dog is older.For instance, this health problem is most likely to present itself through the Shih Tzu limping or merely walking on three legs. It is inevitable that your pet Shih Tzu will get old. Here You can find everything about Shih Tzu dogs. There are many myths involving the health of Imperial Shih Tzu commonly known as the Chinese Imperial Dog. Though Shih Tzu’s live on an average age anywhere from 10-16 years, there are few common health problems. Shih Tzu dogs have very large, slightly protruding eyes. The inherent mix of the Pekingese Shih Tzu is … Health and Welfare Problems due to Conformation (Body shape and physical characteristics) The Shih Tzu’s long coat, unless groomed and regularly trimmed, will impact on his quality of life. Wrong hair and skin care can cause very serious skin problems. Keeping of the Shih Tzu is not an easy task, as the representatives of this breed require constant care, attention and attendance. Therefore, they are ideal for those who have allergies. Maltese is bred with a purpose in mind: to have a small, friendly dog who doesn’t shed too much fur. 4 Common Health Issues of Shih Tzu’s. Some of them are environmental illnesses so can be easily avoided by giving Maltese Shih Tzus proper care and attention. Shih Tzus have a small mouth, which means their teeth are frequently misaligned or missing. Some health issues in the breed are portosystemic shunt of the liver and hip dysplasia in standard sizes. Imperial Shih Tzu have very few health issues but I have listed the ones that people may have or may not of heard of. Shih Tzu Expert. There is a still risk that your mixed breed will inherit these problems. Being in the know about these conditions will help you provide your pet with the best possible care. During Tang and Ming dynasties, they were invented in Asia. I have adopted a healthy Shih Tzu puppy from a registered dog breeder, do my Shih Tzu prone to any health issues? SHARES. When it comes to dogs Shih Tzu’s are the most famous breeds. Care should be taken especially with the hair around the face and eyes. The Shih Tzu's short face not only makes them susceptible to eye problems, but also respiratory issues, such as heatstroke. My goal here is to dispel the myths concerning the health of the Imperial Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu is known for having a sensitive stomach. Shih Tzus have a life expectancy of 10 – 16 years. Many Shih Tzu dogs are also prone to ear infections. It’s part of what makes them so cute, but it’s also a health hazard. We’re going to break it all down, and explain why at the end of the day, you as a responsible pet owner, should still consider getting a teacup shih tzu. The discharge they produce makes for a very accommodating environment for bacteria to breed. 2. Shih-Poo is an offspring of Shih Tzu and Poodle cross and puppies resulting from the mix may inherit some of the Shih Tzu as well as some of the Poodle genetics that determines Shih Poo puppy's size, coat color and even coat texture, health issues as well as temperament of the dog. The breed is prone to certain hereditary health problems, as well as some less-than-desirable behavioral traits. The Maltese Shih Tzu, sometimes called Malt-Tzu, Malti Zu, or Mal-Shi, is a hybrid dog, a cross between the Shih Tzu and Maltese. The purpose of listing what the Shih Tzu may be more prone to develop is a method of showing owners what to keep an eye on. When you notice any change in the skin or hair loss, always refer to your vet to get your pet treated soon. Other health issues. Shih Tzu Health Issues For Shih Tzu owners, it is important to know what the common health issues these dogs usually get are. The Shih Tzu (meaning "lion" in Chinese) is primarily of Tibetan origin. Below are some of the common health issues of Shih Tzus: 1. That means your Shih Tzu puppy will likely be born with these traits. Diet-Related Health Issues in Shih Tzus. It is important to keep in mind that Shih Tzu serious health issues is a guideline to what illness may find its way to this breed, not what the dog is doomed to suffer from. Remember, A Shih Tzu is a beautiful dog with a silky soft and long coat. Although shih tzus may not share the same health issues as many larger dogs, they still have potential problems that may be faced even when they are fed properly and exercised. Most of these are unfounded. However, most owners fail to notice the signs and as a result, fail to address the ailments that trouble these little balls of fur. Health Details: Shih Tzu Health Issues For Shih Tzu owners, it is important to know what the common health issues these dogs usually get are. Before bringing a Shih Tzu into your home, research the good and the bad about the breed. Advice from veterinarians for Critical health issues, how to prevent, detect and treat your Shih Tzu. Like the Pekingese, it is viewed as a toy dog breed. 0. Entropion. Luxuting Patella: Small breed dogs like Shih Tzuss are risk for this health issue. People adore Shih Tzu as they look like loins a lot. The skin of dogs and its condition reflects the state of the animals and […] Shih Tzus are sweet, loving little companion dogs. # 4. Health Issues Common to Shih Tzus The Shih Tzu suffers from most of the health problems common to tiny dogs and has a few particular health problems, but overall, it is a fairly healthy breed. Shih Tzu Health Care & Feeding By Michele Welton , Dog Trainer, Breed Selection Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books Start your Shih Tzu off on the right foot by feeding the right food, giving the right vaccinations, finding the right vet, and if you're going to spay or neuter, don't do it too early. Mushroom: Make sure that your Shih Tzu never eats this because the effects can range from a short illness to the worst, death. They aren't all high-risk health conditions and diseases for Maltese Shih Tzus. Here are some Shih Tzu Health Issues you Should Know About:. This means regular hygienic procedures and good nutrition. The Shih Tzu, along with a few other small and long backed breeds, is susceptible to a spinal condition, caused by arthritis. While luxating patella is considered to be a “congenital disease”, it can also be acquired because of trauma. Shih Tzu Health Issues - Shih Tzu City. Here is a look at a few of the most common Shih Tzu health problems. 1. In old age, your pet requires extra care and attention, to make their lives as comfortable as possible.. Non traditional treatments options for Distemper. Those who have allergies the United States in the breed was imported the. 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