9 Reasons to Never Buy a Shih Tzu
Small, long-haired, and short-snouted, Shih Tzus are a lot of responsibility in a small package.
There are about 100,000 dogs in UK shelters at any given time, but humans continue to breed dogs into existence with little or no thought to their welfare. Shih Tzu’s are often bred to suffer, and they can experience several different health problems. Here’s why you should never buy one.
1. Their Breathing Issues Can Be Fatal
With their squashed noses and flat little faces, Shih Tzus are a breathing-impaired breed (BIB), meaning that the compact size of their heads, achieved via engineered breeding, restricts their breathing.
This syndrome, called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), gives Shih Tzus (and pugs, bulldogs, and more) narrow nostrils, a tight trachea, and an elongated soft palate, which can cause them to wheeze their way through life.
It also makes it harder for them to exercise, puts them at higher risk of heat stroke, and can lead to fatal heart attacks.
2. They Can Have Problem Teeth
Little heads mean tiny mouths, but Shih Tzus still develop 42 adult teeth, just like bigger dogs.
Over their lives, they often find themselves at the vet for dental issues like crowding, which can lead to hard-to-reach plaque, infections, and gum disease.
They’re also prone to malocclusion (an overbite or underbite), which, if pronounced, may require surgery.
3. They Have Other Health Issues
Animals who are bred for aesthetics really get the short end of the stick when it comes to health.
Aside from laboured breathing and troubled teeth, Shih Tzus are also prone to cataracts, which they may be born with, atopic dermatitis and renal dysplasia, where the kidneys fail to develop in utero.
4. Vet Bills Add Up!
“Designer” dogs (and cats) bred to have small frames and squashed faces are at higher risk of health issues, meaning more frequent vet visits and more frequent vet bills.
Of course, being the guardian of any animal can be costly, but the additional financial demands of adequately caring for BOAS-affected dogs like Shih Tzus – who are more likely to need surgery – can strain resources, leading many to be surrendered to shelters.
5. You Must Be Diligent About Grooming
Shih Tzus typically sport thick, curly coats that require professional grooming every six to eight weeks to prevent painful matting.
Additionally, you must set aside around 10 minutes each day to brush your Shih Tzu, ideally with a slicker brush, and check for knots and flakes that may indicate a skin concern.
6. They Might Not Be Right for Kids
Many believe that a tiny dog will be the perfect match for small children. But Shih Tzus aren’t toys. Their small, delicate bodies require gentle handling to avoid injury.
Owing to their compacted skulls, Shih Tzus also have “bulging” eyes (exophthalmos), making them extra vulnerable to injuries like corneal scratches – or even their eye appearing to“pop out”– a condition named ocular proptosis, which may lead to their eye being removed.
7. They Are Prone to Separation Anxiety
Most dogs prefer to have their human caretakers by their side and Shih Tzus are particularly prone to separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety remain incredibly anxious when their guardian leaves, pacing, circling, barking, or howling – some may even vomit or chew on themselves. Like all dogs, they need lots of patience, time, and attention.
8. They’re A Lifelong Commitment
Perhaps surprising for their diminutive size, Shih Tzus may live up to 18 years, meaning you need to commit to two whole decades of care – through moves, babies, break-ups, and financial highs and lows.
As with any animal, never adopt until you’re ready to dedicate the time, space, attention and finances they will need for many years to come, no matter what.
9. Shih Tzus In Shelters Need You More!
Right now, there are Shih Tzus, and dogs of most other breeds including wonderful mutts, waiting for loving homes in shelters and breed-specific rescues across the country.
If you’ve done your homework and are sure you can meet a Shih Tzu’s lifelong needs for healthcare, grooming, training, and time, head to your local shelter to adopt; never shop.
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