Mary Allen
Introduction
Shih Tzu is a popular breed of small dog known for its long, silky coat and friendly nature. While they make great pets, it’s important to know what is not allowed for Shih Tzu in order to keep them healthy and happy. In this article, we’ll explore the things you should avoid doing with your Shih Tzu to ensure they have the best possible life.
No Human Food
One of the most common mistakes Shih Tzu owners make is feeding their dogs human food. While it may be tempting to share your meal with your furry friend, many human foods are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes are just a few of the foods that should never be given to a Shih Tzu. Stick to a high-quality dog food and occasional dog-safe treats to keep your Shih Tzu healthy.
No Harsh Punishments
Shih Tzus are sensitive dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement. Harsh punishments such as hitting or yelling can cause anxiety and aggression in your pet. Instead, use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and toys to encourage good behavior. If your Shih Tzu misbehaves, redirect their attention to something positive rather than punishing them.
No Rough Play
Shih Tzus are small dogs that can be easily injured during rough play. Avoid playing tug-of-war, wrestling, or any other games that could lead to injuries. Stick to gentle games such as fetch or hide-and-seek. Additionally, be careful when holding or carrying your Shih Tzu to avoid accidentally dropping them.
No Overheating
Shih Tzus are prone to overheating, especially in hot weather. Avoid leaving them outside in the sun for extended periods of time, and make sure they have access to plenty of water and shade. If your Shih Tzu seems overheated, move them to a cooler location and offer them water. If they continue to show signs of overheating, take them to the vet immediately.
No Off-Leash Walking
Shih Tzus are small dogs that can easily be injured by larger dogs or vehicles. Always keep them on a leash when walking them outside to ensure their safety. Additionally, make sure your Shih Tzu is wearing a collar with identification tags in case they get lost.
No Neglecting Grooming
Shih Tzus have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and skin infections. Neglecting grooming can lead to painful skin conditions and even infection. Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat daily and take them to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks for a trim.
No Overfeeding
Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, which can lead to health problems such as joint pain and heart disease. Avoid overfeeding your Shih Tzu and stick to the recommended serving size on the dog food package. Additionally, avoid giving them table scraps or too many treats.
No Unsupervised Children
Shih Tzus are gentle dogs, but they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental mishandling. Always supervise children around your Shih Tzu and teach them how to interact with dogs gently and respectfully.
No Loud Noises
Shih Tzus are sensitive to loud noises such as fireworks and thunderstorms. Keep them indoors during these events and provide them with a safe, quiet place to retreat to. Additionally, avoid playing loud music or yelling around your Shih Tzu to prevent anxiety.
No Excessive Exercise
While Shih Tzus need daily exercise, they should not be overworked. Avoid excessive exercise such as long runs or intense agility training. Stick to daily walks and gentle play to keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many things that are not allowed for Shih Tzu. Avoid feeding them human food, using harsh punishments, playing rough, and neglecting grooming. Keep them on a leash, avoid overfeeding, supervise children, and provide a quiet environment to prevent anxiety. With proper care and attention, your Shih Tzu can live a happy, healthy life.