Once upon a time, in a far away land, lived an emperor and his royal palace was filled with the tiniest, the most adorable and the most royal of dogs – Shih Tzus. Known as ‘Lion Dogs’, Shih Tzus were bred for companionship and they take this job quite seriously. What’s fascinating is that they don’t bark as much as other breeds, they aren’t hyperactive and neither are they lazy lumps who would rather snooze all day. Now you may wonder, are these dogs difficult to handle?
Shih Tzus, with their friendly nature and cute button-like eyes, are a crowd favorite. But like every rose has its thorns, every dog breed has its challenges. The road to raising a Shih Tzu isn’t always filled with tail wags and sunshine. So, let’s dive deep into this and address your concern – Is a Shih Tzu a difficult dog?
One of the biggest challenges Shih Tzu owners face is their grooming requirements. This breed is famous for its long, silky hair which gives it the lovable, snuggly teddy bear look. But, this aesthetically pleasing feature needs a fair amount of maintenance. Daily brushing is an absolute necessity to prevent their hair from matting and tangling. Regular visits to the groomer are also recommended to keep your Shih Tzu looking their best.
Let’s talk about their temperament. These dogs are known to be relatively gentle and polite, although some can be a bit stubborn! Yes, you read that right. Shih Tzus may occasionally see themselves as the boss and display some resistance when it comes to training. They occasionally like marching to the beat of their own drum, so consistent and persistent training from a young age will prove beneficial.
Shih Tzus also require plenty of socialization from a young age. They thrive in the company of their human families and do not like being left alone for long periods. And when they are forgotten, you’ll almost certainly hear about it; these dogs are famous for expressing their unhappiness through destructive behavior. Hence, setting aside regular ‘family time’ for your Shih Tzu is a must.
When it comes to their health, Shih Tzus are prone to few breed-specific issues. Because of their short noses, they often experience breathing difficulties and are more susceptible to heat stroke in warm weather. Regular Vet check-ups are critical to keep these issues in check and ensure your fur-friend’s happiness.
“But are they good with children?” you may ask. Despite their regal background, Shih Tzus are very fond of children. They love to play and are gentle and patient, making them a great option for families. Just ensure that interactions with very young kids are always supervised to keep both the kid and the dog safe.
Despite these points that might seem as challenges, owning a Shih Tzu is filled with joy and loyalty that is unmatched. After all, there’s a reason why they were cherished by the Chinese royalty. They are affectionate, intelligent and superb companions, qualities that far outweigh the few ‘difficult’ traits that they might possess.
It’s safe to say that any dog breed can be ‘difficult’ if their specific needs and traits are not appropriately taken care of. Same applies to the adorable Shih Tzus. When their unique needs are respected, and they’re adequately trained and nurtured, raising a Shih Tzu can be a gratifying experience.
Now that we have dispelled the complexities of having a Shih Tzu, it’s essential to know that owning a dog, any dog, becomes easier and enjoyable when you are invested in building a relationship with them. Remember, they are not just pets, but a part of your family. Love them, respect their space, and give them all the care they need. In return, you will get a best friend who will always be there by your side, come what may.
In the end, it’s safe to say that whether or not a Shih Tzu is difficult depends on your perspective. With a little patience, and a lot of love, your Shih Tzu will transform from being a royal highness to a beloved family member, ruling not an ancient kingdom, but the kingdom of your heart.
