Understanding the behavior of Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu breed is known for its affectionate,  playful, and extroverted temperament. They are generally loving companions who enjoy human company and thrive on attention. Shih Tzus are described as being a little bit feisty at times but are also known to be affectionate and friendly pets. 

They are considered cat-friendly due to their sociable and affectionate nature. Shih Tzu’s are intelligent dogs that aim to please their owners, but their stubborn nature can sometimes present challenges during training sessions.  Keeping training sessions short, fun, and engaging is recommended to maintain their interest. They have a history of being lap dogs but have also excelled in dog sports such as obedience, rally, and agility competitions in recent years.

The elegant features of Shih Tzu

• The Shih Tzu is a small-sized dog breed with an average weight ranging between nine and 16 pounds and a height of eight to 11 inches

•  They fall into the toy-sized category, characterized by a regal gait, curled-up tail, and luxurious coat

• The breed’s coat can come in various colors, with a preference for dark pigment around the nose and eyes

•  Shih Tzus are brachycephalic dogs, which means they have a significantly shortened nose and upper jaw, leading to distinctive features such as a round head, prominent eyes, short muzzle, and noticeable underbite

Price of Shih Tzu in India

The price range for Shih Tzu puppies in India varies from ₹30,000 to ₹70,000, depending on their quality. Shih Tzu puppies of average quality are priced between ₹30,000 and ₹35,000. Kennel Club of India (KCI) registered Shih Tzu puppies are priced from ₹40,000 to ₹50,000.

Show quality Shih Tzu puppies cost between ₹50,000 and ₹70,000, with prices varying based on gender and availability.

Ultimate Guide to Shih Tzu Care

Nutrition

Ensure your Shih Tzu is fed a balanced diet consisting of high-quality dog food with real meat as the main ingredient. Avoid feeding them foods like onions, garlic, high-sodium foods, dairy products, and certain fruits that can be harmful to their health. Portion control is essential to prevent obesity.

Healthcare

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor your Shih Tzu’s health and address any emerging issues promptly. Stay up to date with vaccinations, especially for common health issues like hip dysplasia, heartworm, and respiratory problems. Maintain a healthy weight, provide proper grooming and dental care, and ensure they get enough exercise.

Grooming

Due to their long coat, Shih Tzus require regular grooming including bathing, brushing, ear cleaning, eye care, nail trimming, and teeth care. Grooming not only keeps them looking good but also contributes to their overall health by preventing infections and maintaining cleanliness.

Exercise

Shih Tzus has a medium energy level and needs about 30-60 minutes of exercise daily.  Engage them in activities like walking, playing games, agility training, and socialization to keep them active and content.

Environment

Provide a safe and comfortable living environment for your Shih Tzu in India. Ensure they have access to clean water at all times and that the temperature is suitable for their well-being (15º-24ºC).

Training

Shih Tzu’s are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training. Teach them basic commands and tricks to keep their minds stimulated and build a strong bond with them.

Socialization

Introduce your Shih Tzu to various people,  pets, and environments from an early age to prevent behavioral issues like aggression or shyness. Proper socialization helps them become well-adjusted companions.

Hygiene

Maintain good hygiene practices for your Shih Tzu by following a regular grooming routine and keeping their living area clean. Pay attention to their grooming needs to prevent matting of their coat or skin issues.

Popular Shih Tzu’s of India

Some of the famous Indian celebrities who own a Shih Tzu are Sophie Choudry, Khushi Kapoor, etc. This is what most of the celebrities have to say about Shih Tzu as a proud pet parent.

• Khushi Kapoor: “My little furball brings so much joy into my life every day. I can’t imagine not having my Shih Tzu by my side.”

• Raima Sen: “Dasho is always glued to me. When I’m home, he follows me around. I went to Mumbai for 15 days and my friends told me that he waited for me at the door for hours.”

• Saayoni Ghosh: “The cool temperament of Shih Tzus makes them easier to handle and I can take them along anywhere I go.”

• Sophie Choudry: “Shih Tzus are intuitive and funny. Though they need moderate exercise, Tia is equally happy running on the beach.”

Murphytheshitzu803 ( Anika Sharma)

Murphytheshitzu803 (Anika Sharma) is a popular social media influencer who primarily focuses on creating content related to pet care, specifically centered around Shih Tzus. Their content often includes tips on grooming, training,  health care,  and overall well-being of Shih Tzus. Murphytheshitzu803’s posts typically feature their own Shih Tzu or other dogs, showcasing various aspects of pet ownership and providing valuable insights for dog owners and enthusiasts.

Through their engaging content and informative posts, they have built a loyal following of pet owners who look to them for guidance and advice on caring for their furry companions. The influence of Murphytheshitzu803 extends beyond just Shih Tzu owners, as they also attract a wider audience interested in general pet care and animal welfare.

Conclusion 

Shih Tzus are highly regarded for their charming appearance and gentle character. Their distinctive long,  flowing coat and friendly demeanor make them popular companions among Indian families. Shih Tzus are known to adapt well to apartment living, which is common in urban areas of India. 

Their playful nature and affectionate personality endear them to their owners,  often forming strong bonds with family members. In India, Shih Tzus are often seen as symbols of luxury and elegance, prized for their beauty and grace. Overall, Shih Tzus hold a special place in the hearts of many Indians for their lovable traits and delightful presence.