10 Reasons Not to Get a Shih Tzu

Undoubtedly endearing, Shih Tzus are famous for their amiability, plush coat, and loving personality. Having said that, they do have their quirks and difficulties, just like every breed. Take a moment to think about these 10 points that may make you reconsider adding this cute breed to your family before you welcome a Shih Tzu into your house.

Why Shih Tzu Are the Worst Dog?

Although Shih Tzus are great companions for many, their sensitivity to health issues could make them difficult for others. Asthma, ocular, dental, and respiratory problems are common in this breed. Additional care, numerous trips to the vet, and the costs associated with managing these health conditions may discourage some people. Any prospective Shih Tzu owner worth their salt will be well-versed in these possible health issues and will be ready to give their pet the TLC it needs to thrive. Adhering to the specific requirements of the breed, including any health concerns, is an important part of being a responsible owner.

1. Grooming Demands

With their plush double coat, Shih Tzus needs frequent brushing and styling. To keep it healthy and looking good, you have to brush their long, flowing hair every day since it mats and tangles easily. To maintain the healthiest coat possible, regular visits to a skilled groomer are also required. Shih Tzus are beautiful dogs, but their high upkeep grooming requirements could be a problem for those who aren’t up for the task. This breed isn’t ideal for those who want low-maintenance dogs.

2. Potential Health Issues

Because of their brachycephalic face form, Shih Tzus are prone to some health problems, the most prominent of which is respiratory problems. They are more likely to suffer from some eye diseases due to their big, wide eyes. To keep these little friends healthy and happy, it’s important to take them in for checkups and preventative treatment at the vet often. To keep a Shih Tzu healthy for its whole life, prospective owners should be financially ready to pay for any medical treatment the dog may need.

3. Stubborn Streak

Shih Tzus are smart dogs, but they also tend to be defiant. Owners should be patient and consistent since they may be stubborn when it comes to training. If you are looking for a dog that is easy to train or are irritated by the time and effort required to do so, this breed may not be for you. Be mindful of this tendency when thinking about getting a Shih Tzu as a pet; with the right training and plenty of positive reinforcement, owners can get over the stubbornness.

4. Potential for Separation Anxiety

Because of their sociable nature and need for constant human interaction, Shih Tzus might experience separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. When left alone, dogs of this breed may display destructive tendencies or excessive barking because of the deep relationships they build with their owners. Prospective owners should think long and hard about whether a Shih Tzu is a good match for their lifestyle if they have busy schedules or can’t provide continuous companionship. These devoted friends may overcome their separation anxiety with the right kind of socialization, training, and slow introductions to time alone.

5. Excessive Barking

Shih Tzus are hypervigilant dogs who might bark excessively due to their extroverted personality. Although this trait makes them good guard dogs, it might be a problem in areas where there are noise regulations or when people live in close quarters. To control and manage barking, potential owners should be ready to use positive reinforcement and regular training. If owners can figure out why their Shih Tzu is barking—for example, because he or she is anxious or bored—then they may put measures in place to stop the barking and keep the peace in the house.

6. Healthcare Expenses

Healthcare costs may arise from owning a Shih Tzu due to the breed’s susceptibility to certain health problems. To keep them healthy, it is crucial to take them in for checkups and immunizations at the vet often. Issues with the eyes or the lungs might need veterinary care for Shih Tzus. Anyone thinking about buying a home should be financially ready to pay for medical care, including preventative checks and emergency treatments. Taking your Shih Tzu to the vet regularly is an important part of being a responsible pet owner because it allows you to catch any problems early and gives your dog the best chance of living a long, healthy life.

7. Socialization Challenges

Some Shih Tzus are more reserved or hesitant among strangers, which may make socializing difficult. To assist them in adjusting to new places, people, and animals, it is essential to socialize with them early and often. Shih Tzus, if not socialized correctly, may act nervously or timidly when faced with new things. To ensure that Shih Tzus develop into confident, well-adjusted companions who are comfortable in a variety of social situations, prospective owners should be willing to devote significant time and energy to socializing their dogs.

8. Potential for Small Dog Syndrome

Without adequate training and limits, Shih Tzus might acquire Small Dog Syndrome. A little dog may act out in this way if it thinks it is the alpha dog in the group. Untreated Small Dog Syndrome may manifest as domineering or demanding behavior toward owners. One way to avoid this condition is to start training and setting limits at a young age. The lovely Shih Tzu may be prone to issues like Small Dog Syndrome, so prospective owners should be ready to put in a lot of time and effort into teaching and leading their dogs.

9. Challenging Housetraining

Housebreaking a Shih Tzu might be difficult if you don’t utilize regular training techniques and good reinforcement. Housebreaking them may demand a lot of time and effort from owners because of their independence and perhaps stubbornness. Anyone thinking about getting a Shih Tzu should be ready for the possibility of mishaps when training and should make a firm commitment to provide constant guidance. When housetraining a Shih Tzu, it’s important to establish a schedule, utilize positive reinforcement, and be patient so that everyone in the household may enjoy life to the fullest.

10. Not Ideal for Families with Young Children

Because of their small stature, Shih Tzus aren’t the best choice for households with active young children, despite their loving nature. Because of its frail build, the Shih Tzu is more prone to inadvertent injuries. Kids might hurt themselves if they play hard with the dog or mishandle it. There may be better options for families looking for a sturdy breed for energetic play or with older, more mature youngsters. Before deciding to bring a Shih Tzu into your home, be sure that everyone’s safety, including the kids, is a top priority.

Conclusion

Finally, prospective owners should thoroughly research the breed’s unique characteristics and difficulties before bringing one into their homes, even though Shih Tzus are inherently lovely and loving pets. Some people may find it difficult to deal with the demands of grooming, possible health problems, and behavioral features such as stubbornness and barking. There must be an effort to socialize, continuous training, and financial preparation for possible healthcare costs. Because of Shih Tzu’s small stature, households with small children should also consider the dangers. To foster a happy and healthy connection between dog and owner, responsible dog ownership entails learning about and meeting the specific requirements of the Shih Tzu breed.

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