Guides, How-To's and Videos all about the Shih Tzu Dog Breed

Is a Shih Tzu a good family dog? Shih Tzu's are great family dogs, they are loyal, confident, loving, and won't leave your side! A Shih Tzu is a small dog breed that can fit into any family and are a great choice for any family. The smaller stature makes them a very safe dog to have around your kids and very soon they will be a member of your family! Here are 8 reasons why the Shih Tzu makes a great family pet and is a safe dog for kids. The Shih Tzu is Kid-Friendly The Shih Tzu is an excellent dog with kids because of its small size and gentle demeanor. While most dogs have a strong prey drive, the Shih Tzu's instinct to chase after cats, squirrels, or other small animals is not very high. This makes them a good choice for young children who want to play ball or fetch since the dog will bring the ball back instead of chasing after it. Their short stature also means that they are unlikely to knock over a toddler by accident. The Shih Tzu is Gentle and Loves Attention The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, outgoing little dog who loves being cuddled and held by people. This tiny breed is happy to engage in play with other dogs and children, but it may become jealous if you lavish too much attention on another pet. That's only natural since the Shih Tzu's whole world revolves around their family members. Shih Tzus are not shy or timid animals, though they can be stubborn at times. They can also become snappy if mistreated or ignored for long periods of time. They will take advantage of any opportunity for attention and love. The Shih Tzu Can Adapt to Different Sized Homes The Shih Tzu is a small-sized dog and does not need a large house or yard to be happy. In fact, they are very content in homes with smaller lots or even apartments because they do not need a lot of exercise. But these dogs also do well in larger homes with more space because they can play games with their owners or children and still get the exercise they need. The small size of this breed makes them an ideal companion for families living in areas where space is limited, but it also makes them great pets for families who have the room for a dog to run around and play. The Shih Tzu is Protective of Its Family The Shih Tzu is a guardian breed, it was a breed for Chinese Royalty after all! It will protect its family from intruders, other dogs, and people. If you were thinking of getting a watchdog, this is the one to protect your home. However, it is not always the best move to get a dog that will bite an intruder. Think of your home situation before you consider buying one. Is your home in an area where there are often intruders? Do you have children at home who are taught not to talk to strangers? Are there any other pets in your household that might confuse a small dog like the Shih Tzu into defending them instead of its humans? The Shih Tzu Doesn't Require a Lot of Exercise Yes! This pet is an indoor dog and doesn't require a lot of exercise, which makes it the perfect pet for a family with children. With just some basic training, you can teach your Shih Tzu to use a pee-pee pad or go outside to potty. It loves playing games in the house and going on brisk walks around the block. You can also play fun games with him in your yard when you don't want to go outside. If you live in an apartment or small house, the Shih Tzu will fit well into your living space because he doesn't need much room to run around and play. The Shih Tzu is Easy Going Your Shih Tzu might be small in size, but he is a big dog inside. They are very protective and alert to the things going on around them. If they sense danger or are just afraid of something (fireworks, thunderstorms, etc.), they will bark at whatever it may be. For most Shih Tzu, people who enter their personal space will not get off scot-free. Some dogs want a quick sniff, while others want to jump up and lick you all over your face. Your dog will let you know what his preference is. Of course, there may be some who like to keep to themselves. This can be somewhat stressful for your dog unless he has been properly socialized since puppyhood. Growling and barking are signs that your Shih Tzu does not feel comfortable with someone else in his space (or around him at all). I had had both of my Shih Tzu growl at people when they were young because they did not understand what was happening or why these new people were coming into their home (and touching them!). The Shih Tzu gets Along Well with Other Pets Along with being a great family pet, the Shih Tzu also gets along well with other pets. A Shih Tzu can be raised in a family that has cats, other dogs or even small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs. This makes the Shih Tzu one of the most sociable dog breeds around. As long as your Shih Tzu puppy is introduced to your other pets at a young age, he will get along fine with them and become their friend for life. Once you have decided that a Shih Tzu is right for you, be sure to check out our puppy care guide next to learn how to care for your new family pet properly. The Shih Tzu is Playful and Sociable Most Shih Tzus tend to be very playful and sociable dogs. They enjoy a good game of fetch, going for walks, playing outside, and visiting the dog park. Shih Tzus enjoy toys that squeak and have features they can rip apart with their teeth (such as stuffed animals), and balls they can nudge around. When it comes to interacting with other dogs, Shih Tzus do best with breeds about their size or those that are larger than them; smaller breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers may be viewed by a Shih Tzu as playthings rather than playmates. Final Thoughts Shih Tzu are great with children and other pets. Small children and the elderly are a good match for each other, and a Shih Tzu can be a great pet for a family. A Shih Tzu can make a good companion for seniors, as it is more laid back than many breeds, but also loves to play. They do well with other pets in the home. If you have multiple dogs and cats, your pet will adjust well. If you have young kids or grandchildren who love to hug your dog or carry it around, this breed is perfect! These pets need lots of attention. They love being with their humans-in fact they may occasionally go so far as to curl up on your lap or sleep at the foot of your bed. It's important to keep them brushed daily and bathe them two or three times per week if they're prone to skin infections or eye problems (which some Shih Tzus get). If you want to know more we suggest you read our Shih Tzu ultimate guide. More Shih Tzu Advice Articles Below:

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