We all know that different types of dogs have different types of personalities just as you and I do. So this is one of the most important things to consider when thinking about bringing a Shih Tzu dog into your home. If you are away from home a lot, will your little dog be okay with that? Will you be angered or upset if you find your dog is barking nonstop? This is your chance to think about what you would like to have in a dog.
Think of it like you are building a blueprint for the perfect dog and compose a list of things that you need your dog to be. Once you have established the type of dog you and your family want, you can compare this to the personality of a Shih Tzu dog and see if you still think that it is the perfect dog for you. For some it will be, but for others it won't. Either way, it is better to know upfront instead of finding out after your dog has been brought home.
After putting together your list of things that are and are not okay in a dog it is time to compare them to the typical personality of the dog. At first glance, you already noticed that this dog is a small breed and even with their size, they are extremely sturdy animals. The dog generally carries himself with a dignified presence about them although they do remain happy and playful.
Something that makes these breeds so wonderful for certain people is that they do not require a lot of exercise and they are not as yappy as one may expect from toy breeds. And there is generally little or no fear of strangers or other animals, which makes the dog a companion that is social and friendly. This proud dog does carry with them many qualities in their personality, which would make them a wonderful addition to your family.
But if you are looking for a breed that will not be prone to a lot of problems, which can require costly vet bills, then this breed may not be for you. The Shih Tzu is prone to many things but problems with their breathing are often the most noted issue. Because of their face structure and upturned nose, the dogs have a lot of breathing problems which can unfortunately lead to heatstroke if they are in hot and humid weather for too long.
Even though those beautiful, large, and shallow eyes are amazing to look into, they are very much at risk for infection and eye injuries. Disk problems also generally occur in these breeds because of their long backs and their joints are often times a cause of a lot of pain for them. This breed is also known to have a variety of skin and kidney problems. So, in thinking of whether or not a Shih Tzu dog is right for you, consider all the good and bad and think hard about if they are truly a good fit for you and your home.
Rebecca Simpson, a native of Hong Kong, wrote a graduate thesis on the influence of dogs on recent Chinese royal culture. The Shih Tzu is as well known for its delightful personality as it is for its long, flowing coat. Shih Tzu information can be found online, at public libraries, and from breeders.
Source: www.a1articles.com