Jump into any conversation with a Shih Tzu owner and you’d think they were talking about a stuffed animal rather than a frisky four-legged friend. Known for their docile nature, unwavering loyalty, and long silky coats, Shih Tzus have gained a reputation as some of the friendliest and cuddliest dogs in the canine kingdom. In fact, these ancient oriental breeds were so highly cherished that they often found themselves in the company of Chinese royalty. With a history as grand and pompous as theirs, it might surprise you to learn that some people consider Shih Tzus to be dangerous dogs. But before you go cowering behind your couch in fear, let’s debunk this misconception right away: Shih Tzus, in their temperament, are as far removed from being ‘dangerous’ as a bunny is from being a T-Rex!
But where on earth did this reputation come from then? Well, the ‘danger’ tag linked to Shih Tzus isn’t so much about them lashing out as it is about poorly managing the breed’s unique traits and quirks. Rather than worrying about losing a finger to your pint-sized pooch, you’re more likely to struggle with handling their spunky personalities, grooming their luxurious hair or dealing with their sometimes snobbish demeanor.
Shih Tzus are called the “Lion Dogs” for a reason. They might not look like Simba from The Lion King, but they certainly can unleash a lion-like will if they feel annoyed or threatened. Despite their royal status, they’re no different from toddlers when it comes to throwing tantrums. If they’ve had enough playtime or feel that their naptime is being disrupted, Shih Tzus can snap, growl, or even bite as a way to exert their control.
This isn’t to make you freak out every time your Shih Tzu growls at their squeaky toy—it’s far from it! Instead, this characteristic serves as a reminder to respect your dog’s boundaries. As long as you’re treating them fairly, providing for their needs, and giving them their ‘me’ time when they need it, there’s no reason for your Shih Tzus to act out in the harmful manner. The best part is: this rule is universally applicable to all dog breeds, not just Shih Tzus.
Another reason why Shih Tzus have been unjustly labeled as ‘dangerous’ is because of their stubbornness. When they find a favorite spot on your couch or a tasty morsel to chew, it can be quite a challenge to convince them otherwise. They tend to think they are bigger than their actual size and may even confront larger dogs which can put them into risky situations. The key here is to establish a firm and consistent training regimen from puppyhood to ensure that your Shih Tzu grows up knowing what is acceptable behavior and what isn’t.
To tackle this, acquaint your dog with the concept of rewards and consequences. Make sure they understand that following commands leads to belly rubs and treats,while misbehavior means no playtime. This mindset can make training your stubborn Shih Tzu a bit of a breeze rather than a battlefield.
Lastly, Shih Tzus need regular grooming, which if ignored, can lead to painful hair mats and skin conditions. Since their hair grows continuously, like human hair, they might be uncomfortable due to heat, itching or even due to compromised vision because of the hair falling into their eyes — which can make them snappy. Regular grooming will make sure your Shih Tzu is comfortable and that there are no hidden health issues that may be causing discomfort that your Shih Tzu may be misbehaving about.
So, can a Shih Tzu be a director for some household drama? Absolutely. But could it be a dangerous dog? Nope! Like any other breed, properly trained and adequately cared for Shih Tzus are nothing short of lovable fluff-balls to cuddle with! Remember, good owners make good dogs and Shih Tzus are no exception. With the right care, love, and respectful boundaries, Shih Tzus make for joyful, affectionate, and absolutely danger-free companions for both the young and old!
