Q. I am looking to get a new shih tzu puppy. I am devoted to giving it the best care and love possible. I am just curious so i can know what to expect.
How much time should i expect it to take up out of my day? For example, taking it outside for restroom breaks, walks, feeding, and playing? Also, what are my rights if buying from a pet store and the puppy is sick?
Thanks.
How much time should i expect it to take up out of my day? For example, taking it outside for restroom breaks, walks, feeding, and playing? Also, what are my rights if buying from a pet store and the puppy is sick?
Thanks.
A. If you are thinking of dogs in these terms I really question whether you are prepared for a dog. A dog is a full-time responsibility, and owning one is like having a child that never grows up.
Any puppy is going to take up virtually all of your free time in the beginning. In addition, a dog like a Shih Tzu can require daily grooming for the rest of it's life.
Generally speaking, for a Shih Tzu I would expect the following:
In the beginning you'll need to take her out every 2-3 hours, for up to 15 minutes at a time, until she's house trained.
If you keep it's hair long you'll need to brush her for at least 15-20 minutes every day. If you want to keep it groomed short you'll be spending $50+ every six weeks for grooming.
You'll need to walk it for at least 45 minutes twice a day.
Plan on spending 15-30 minutes playing each day.
So, I would say in the neighborhood of 3+ hours until it's housebroken.
ABSOLUTELY UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU BUY YOUR SHIH TZU FROM A PET STORE.
Due to a limited gene pool, pure bred dogs are inherently more prone to genetic disease and defects. Reputable breeders will make some effort to ensure they are minimizing these issues by only breeding the healthiest dogs with the best genes. The type of breeders who sell their dogs at pet stores see dogs as a commodity and usually make no effort to make sure their dogs are healthy. Contact your local shelter, or Shih Tzu rescue group to find a dog that needs a home, and may already be house trained which will save you a lot of time.
Good luck,
Matt
Any puppy is going to take up virtually all of your free time in the beginning. In addition, a dog like a Shih Tzu can require daily grooming for the rest of it's life.
Generally speaking, for a Shih Tzu I would expect the following:
In the beginning you'll need to take her out every 2-3 hours, for up to 15 minutes at a time, until she's house trained.
If you keep it's hair long you'll need to brush her for at least 15-20 minutes every day. If you want to keep it groomed short you'll be spending $50+ every six weeks for grooming.
You'll need to walk it for at least 45 minutes twice a day.
Plan on spending 15-30 minutes playing each day.
So, I would say in the neighborhood of 3+ hours until it's housebroken.
ABSOLUTELY UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU BUY YOUR SHIH TZU FROM A PET STORE.
Due to a limited gene pool, pure bred dogs are inherently more prone to genetic disease and defects. Reputable breeders will make some effort to ensure they are minimizing these issues by only breeding the healthiest dogs with the best genes. The type of breeders who sell their dogs at pet stores see dogs as a commodity and usually make no effort to make sure their dogs are healthy. Contact your local shelter, or Shih Tzu rescue group to find a dog that needs a home, and may already be house trained which will save you a lot of time.
Good luck,
Matt
How many times does a shih tzu puppy need to eat?
Q. We currently bought this very adorable Purebred Shih Tzu puppy. He is very healthy. We just need to know what portions of food to give him and how many times they need to eat daily and how many hours or minutes until feeding time again. Than you so much.
P.S He is 12 weeks old.
P.S He is 12 weeks old.
A. Shih Tzu puppies should be fed at least 2 times a day with food that are healthy and full of nutrients for them so they won't eat their crap. You should feed your Shih Tzu at about 6:30 in the morning and again at about 6:30 in the evening. Always remember to take him out 10 minutes after eating so he won't crap in your house. You shouldn't ever leave food out for your Shih Tzu for these kind of breed can get overweight easily. The only time you should leave food out for your Shih Tzu is when you're going to be gone for a large amount of time and no one is there to take care of him. Good luck with taking care of your Tzu and I hope you enjoy him!
Vote me as Best Answer! ;)
Vote me as Best Answer! ;)
I just got a shih tzu and I never knew how to take care of a dog?
Q. My mom's co-worker gave us a 6 week old shih tzu puppy and we need to do a lot of stuff for it. Can you give me the basic information like exercise, eating, etc. What shots it will need. Why is it breathing kinda fast. Any information on a shih tzu and how to take care of a dog is useful!
A. Had to post in two posts. Spent too much time looking to just not post or to cut out info.
I agree with the post before mine, but I'll help.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need:
�Puppy food
�Water
�Dog brush
�Nail clippers
�Veterinarian
�Collar (these are cute=] http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3046153&utm_source=bingcashback&utm_campaign=5129249&utm_medium=cse&mr:referralID=5746a0e7-a97f-11df-b8fb-001b2166c62d
�Leash (a simple one is good http://www.hassonhomecenter.com/product_info.php?ref=1&products_id=847315)
1.Step 1
Feed your shih tzu puppy the same food the seller was feeding it. Since puppies digestive systems are still developing, it's important that you don't vary their diets at such a young age. Whether you purchased your puppy from a breeder, rescue foundation or pet store, inquire about the brand of puppy food they've been giving it. Follow the direction on the package if you choose to feed another brand.
2.Step 2
Have fresh water available to your puppy at all times. Hydration is key for all dogs, but particularly for puppies.
This is cool:
Dog water fountain
http://www.entirelypets.com/fountain.html?mr:referralID=c3e14845-a97d-11df-bb45-001b2166bec9
3.Step 3
Brush your shih tzu puppy daily. With their long, double coats, shih tzu's are particularly prone to tangles. If neglected, these tangles can cause hot spots, irritation and even bruising on your shih tzu's skin. Begin at your puppy's head and work your way down its body with the brush. Its entire body needs to be brushed, including legs, feet, belly and tail. Take extra care when brushing the hair around its face.
One of each:
A slicker brush
http://www.opentip.com/Pet-Supplies/Four-Paws-Ultimate-Touch-Pro-In-Brush-Medium-p-1205829.html
and a metal comb
http://www.dinodirect.com/comb-dog-grooming-metal-finishing/AFFID-56.html
4.Step 4
Use a damp cloth to clean your puppy's face every day. Remove any food particles from the area around your puppy's mouth, as well as any sleep residue from the eye area.
5.Step 5
Trim your puppy's toenails every month. You can either trim them at home, using a nail clipper designed for dogs, or take your puppy to a professional groomer.
This is a good one:
Small dog nail clippers
http://www.opentip.com/Pet-Supplies/Bamboo-Nail-Clipper-Small-p-759244.html
6.Step 6
Bathe your shih tzu puppy every four to six weeks. Use a shampoo that is designed for dogs with long hair. Make sure you completely rinse the shampoo out to avoid skin irritation issues. Apply a conditioner designed for dogs. This will help to untangle the puppy's hair and keep it soft.
This brand is good:
http://www.opentip.com/Pet-Supplies/Puppy-Shampoo-Oz-p-581452.html
7.Step 7
Remove any tangles from the puppy's coat. Use the comb to slowly ease the hairs out of the tangle. Though this can be a very time-consuming process, you should never rush it. If you pull on the tangle, you will cause your shih tzu puppy significant pain and it may result in tearing the skin.
8.Step 8
Take your puppy to a professional groomer once every two to six months, depending on the length of its hair. If you prefer a short cut on your shih tzu, you should have it clipped every two to three months. Even if you opt for long hair, take your shih tzu to the groomer every few months for maintenance care. The groomer will trim the area around its eyes, ears, mouth, anus and belly, as well as clip the nails.
Different cuts:
Short cut (this site has a lot of different pictures you could choose from http://topdogpetgroomingsalon.com/Shihtzualbum.aspx )
http://topdogpetgroomingsalon.com/images/dogsagost26-09%20006.JPG
Long cut (lots more work)
http://puppygallery.net/imagenes/otras/shih%20tzu.jpg
9.Step 9
Maintain annual checkup appointments with your puppy's veterinarian. The vet will ensure that your pup is in good health and administer necessary vaccinations.
10.Step 10
Exercise your shih tzu puppy daily. Shih tzu's don't need extensive exercise but a daily walk will promote good health in your pup. If you have a yard, play with your puppy in it daily.
I agree with the post before mine, but I'll help.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need:
�Puppy food
�Water
�Dog brush
�Nail clippers
�Veterinarian
�Collar (these are cute=] http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3046153&utm_source=bingcashback&utm_campaign=5129249&utm_medium=cse&mr:referralID=5746a0e7-a97f-11df-b8fb-001b2166c62d
�Leash (a simple one is good http://www.hassonhomecenter.com/product_info.php?ref=1&products_id=847315)
1.Step 1
Feed your shih tzu puppy the same food the seller was feeding it. Since puppies digestive systems are still developing, it's important that you don't vary their diets at such a young age. Whether you purchased your puppy from a breeder, rescue foundation or pet store, inquire about the brand of puppy food they've been giving it. Follow the direction on the package if you choose to feed another brand.
2.Step 2
Have fresh water available to your puppy at all times. Hydration is key for all dogs, but particularly for puppies.
This is cool:
Dog water fountain
http://www.entirelypets.com/fountain.html?mr:referralID=c3e14845-a97d-11df-bb45-001b2166bec9
3.Step 3
Brush your shih tzu puppy daily. With their long, double coats, shih tzu's are particularly prone to tangles. If neglected, these tangles can cause hot spots, irritation and even bruising on your shih tzu's skin. Begin at your puppy's head and work your way down its body with the brush. Its entire body needs to be brushed, including legs, feet, belly and tail. Take extra care when brushing the hair around its face.
One of each:
A slicker brush
http://www.opentip.com/Pet-Supplies/Four-Paws-Ultimate-Touch-Pro-In-Brush-Medium-p-1205829.html
and a metal comb
http://www.dinodirect.com/comb-dog-grooming-metal-finishing/AFFID-56.html
4.Step 4
Use a damp cloth to clean your puppy's face every day. Remove any food particles from the area around your puppy's mouth, as well as any sleep residue from the eye area.
5.Step 5
Trim your puppy's toenails every month. You can either trim them at home, using a nail clipper designed for dogs, or take your puppy to a professional groomer.
This is a good one:
Small dog nail clippers
http://www.opentip.com/Pet-Supplies/Bamboo-Nail-Clipper-Small-p-759244.html
6.Step 6
Bathe your shih tzu puppy every four to six weeks. Use a shampoo that is designed for dogs with long hair. Make sure you completely rinse the shampoo out to avoid skin irritation issues. Apply a conditioner designed for dogs. This will help to untangle the puppy's hair and keep it soft.
This brand is good:
http://www.opentip.com/Pet-Supplies/Puppy-Shampoo-Oz-p-581452.html
7.Step 7
Remove any tangles from the puppy's coat. Use the comb to slowly ease the hairs out of the tangle. Though this can be a very time-consuming process, you should never rush it. If you pull on the tangle, you will cause your shih tzu puppy significant pain and it may result in tearing the skin.
8.Step 8
Take your puppy to a professional groomer once every two to six months, depending on the length of its hair. If you prefer a short cut on your shih tzu, you should have it clipped every two to three months. Even if you opt for long hair, take your shih tzu to the groomer every few months for maintenance care. The groomer will trim the area around its eyes, ears, mouth, anus and belly, as well as clip the nails.
Different cuts:
Short cut (this site has a lot of different pictures you could choose from http://topdogpetgroomingsalon.com/Shihtzualbum.aspx )
http://topdogpetgroomingsalon.com/images/dogsagost26-09%20006.JPG
Long cut (lots more work)
http://puppygallery.net/imagenes/otras/shih%20tzu.jpg
9.Step 9
Maintain annual checkup appointments with your puppy's veterinarian. The vet will ensure that your pup is in good health and administer necessary vaccinations.
10.Step 10
Exercise your shih tzu puppy daily. Shih tzu's don't need extensive exercise but a daily walk will promote good health in your pup. If you have a yard, play with your puppy in it daily.
where is the best place to get shih tzu puupys in or around manchester?
Q. I am getting a shih tzu puppy but i am not sure where to buy one from.
I want it from a breeder who cares for there puppy's well and not a major pet store because they're puppy's come from puppy mills where they are badly cared for.
Thanks
I want it from a breeder who cares for there puppy's well and not a major pet store because they're puppy's come from puppy mills where they are badly cared for.
Thanks
A. Shih tzu dogs are notorious for being breed in horrible puppy mills. So I'm glad your looking to get your puppy from a reputable breeder. It would be fantastic if you could find a shih tzu to adopt from a shelter. That way the puppy would not only cost less but you'd be rescuing him/her.
I'm not sure if you are taking about Manchester, England or one of the Manchester cities in the states but if you are in the states definitely go to www.petfinder.com. It lists all the animals in shelters across the country.
If your not in the states then I would suggest that you ask a local veterinarian if he or she knows any reputable breeders in your area.
Good luck.
I'm not sure if you are taking about Manchester, England or one of the Manchester cities in the states but if you are in the states definitely go to www.petfinder.com. It lists all the animals in shelters across the country.
If your not in the states then I would suggest that you ask a local veterinarian if he or she knows any reputable breeders in your area.
Good luck.
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