Shih Tzus are beloved companions known for their adorable appearance and affectionate nature. However, they also have some quirky behaviors that can leave their owners puzzled. Understanding these behaviors can enhance your relationship with your Shih Tzu and ensure they are happy and well-adjusted. Let’s delve into five common behaviors exhibited by Shih Tzus and what they might signify.
Intense Staring
One of the most notable behaviors you might notice is your Shih Tzu staring at you intently. This intense gaze can sometimes feel a bit unnerving, but it’s usually a sign of love and trust rather than judgment.
Why Do Shih Tzus Stare?
- Bonding and Affection: When your Shih Tzu stares at you, they are often trying to understand your cues and desires. This behavior indicates a strong bond and their eagerness to please you.
- Seeking Attention: Sometimes, they might stare to get your attention, especially if they want to play, go outside, or need something.
- Understanding Cues: Shih Tzus are highly observant and intelligent. They use their eyes to gauge your reactions and learn from your expressions.
How to Respond?
- Engage Positively: When your Shih Tzu stares at you, respond with gentle words or a loving pat. This reinforces their behavior and strengthens your bond.
- Check Their Needs: If they are staring for a prolonged period, ensure all their needs are met, including food, water, and potty breaks.
Bed Digging
Despite being domesticated, some Shih Tzus still exhibit behaviors like digging, particularly in their beds or on the couch. This behavior can be traced back to their ancestral instincts.
Why Do Shih Tzus Dig?
- Ancestral Instincts: Wild canines dig to create a comfortable sleeping area or to hide from predators. Your Shih Tzu might dig as a way of making their sleeping area more comfortable.
- Curiosity and Exploration: Digging can also stem from curiosity or an excess of energy. They might be trying to uncover something hidden or simply entertain themselves.
How to Manage Digging?
- Provide a Cozy Bed: Ensure their bed is comfortable and inviting. Sometimes, adding a blanket or their favorite toy can make it more appealing.
- Exercise and Stimulation: Regular exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce excessive digging by burning off excess energy.
Picky Eating
Many Shih Tzus are notorious for being picky eaters, which can pose a challenge for owners trying to ensure their pet gets proper nutrition.
Why Are Shih Tzus Picky Eaters?
- Health Issues: Sometimes picky eating can be due to underlying health issues such as dental problems or gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Learned Behavior: Shih Tzus can develop picky eating habits if they are regularly given treats or human food, leading them to hold out for more appealing options.
How to Encourage Healthy Eating?
- Consistent Meal Times: Establish a regular feeding schedule to create a routine.
- High-Quality Food: Offer high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food that meets their dietary needs.
- Avoid Over-Treating: Limit the number of treats and avoid feeding them table scraps to discourage pickiness.
Excessive Barking
Shih Tzus are naturally vocal dogs, but excessive barking can become problematic if not addressed.
Why Do Shih Tzus Bark Excessively?
- Boredom and Loneliness: Shih Tzus may bark out of boredom or loneliness, especially if left alone for long periods.
- Need for Attention: They might bark to get your attention or to alert you to something they perceive as a threat.
- Lack of Training: Without proper training, barking can become a habitual behavior.
How to Curb Excessive Barking?
- Training: Implement training techniques such as teaching the “quiet” command and rewarding them when they stop barking.
- Mental and Physical Stimulation: Provide plenty of toys, interactive games, and regular exercise to keep them occupied.
- Address the Root Cause: Identify and address any triggers that cause excessive barking, such as unfamiliar noises or separation anxiety.
Coprophagia (Eating Poop)
While it may seem gross, coprophagia (eating poop) is a common behavior in Shih Tzus and can be quite concerning for owners.
Why Do Shih Tzus Eat Poop?
- Maternal Instincts: Female dogs often clean up after their puppies by eating their feces, and this behavior can carry over into adulthood.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Sometimes, eating poop can be a sign of a nutritional deficiency, prompting them to seek out additional nutrients.
- Fear of Punishment: Dogs that are punished for accidents might eat their feces to hide the evidence.
How to Deter Coprophagia?
- Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement to reward them for not engaging in this behavior.
- Diet Check: Ensure they are on a well-balanced diet to eliminate the possibility of nutritional deficiencies.
- Clean Environment: Keep their living area clean and promptly dispose of any feces to reduce the opportunity for this behavior.
Conclusion: Nurturing a Happy and Healthy Relationship
While it may seem gross, coprophagia (eating poop) is a common behavior in Shih Tzus and can be quite concerning for owners.
Why Do Shih Tzus Eat Poop?
- Maternal Instincts: Female dogs often clean up after their puppies by eating their feces, and this behavior can carry over into adulthood.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Sometimes, eating poop can be a sign of a nutritional deficiency, prompting them to seek out additional nutrients.
- Fear of Punishment: Dogs that are punished for accidents might eat their feces to hide the evidence.
How to Deter Coprophagia?
- Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement to reward them for not engaging in this behavior.
- Diet Check: Ensure they are on a well-balanced diet to eliminate the possibility of nutritional deficiencies.
- Clean Environment: Keep their living area clean and promptly dispose of any feces to reduce the opportunity for this behavior.
