LoveToKnow Dogs:AllComments

From LoveToKnow Dogs

Comments

Hi Carol,

Jasper sounds like an interesting little dog. I used to raise and show Shih Tzus, so I know what you mean about the coat. It is the most difficult part of taking care of what is otherwise a delightful breed. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I have a Shih Tzu called Jasper he is 8 years old , we got him from a puppy he was 7 weeks old and so tiny but such a lovely looking dog. He has grown up into a real lovely companion for myself and my husband. I normally bathe him about every 3 weeks as he sleeps on our bed, i also have brought some dry shampoo which i put on between bathing and he doesn't like his teeth brushed so i managed to buy a dental spray from a pet shop which keep's his breath fresh and keeps his teeth healthy. I take him to a groomer about every 9 or 10 weeks and she does a really good job on his coat and his nails etc. I groom him everyday but when he gets to long i find it harder to keep his coat tangle free. He is worth all the effort though he is so sweet, but at times he can be a little horror as he has a strong personality, but we wouldn't change him for all the tea in China.

-- Contributed by: Carole Heath Surrey England

Hi Melissa,

The top knot will tend to thin out due to breakage caused by rubber bands, dogs scratching at their top knots and related matting. The good new is that a Shih Tzu's hair never stops growing, so the spot will eventually fill in again. Just be sure to take the top knot down each day and gently brush it out before you put it back up. If you're feeding your dog a high quality kibble, she should be getting all the protein she needs to grow coat.

Thanks for your question. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

My 2 year old Shih Tzu has a small bald spot that formed on the top of her head. Her groomer said her bows may have been too tight? Will this hair grow back or is there something I can do to help speed this process?

-- Contributed by: Melissa

Hi Heavenbound,

If your dog nips when groomed and the mats are very bad, it might be best to let a professional groomer handle the tangles this time. It may actually become necessary to trim the worst of the matting away, and a professional will know how to do that while still keeping your dog looking as good as possible.

Thanks for your question. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I have a Shih Tzu who's hair become knotted just under his eyes. he bites terribly. How can I groom him safely at home?

-- Contributed by: Enter your name here

Hi,

A Shih Tzu's hair grows maybe an inch a month, so it depends on how long you want to let it grow. Many people keep their Shih Tzus in a short puppy cut to make that glorious coat more manageable.

Thanks for your question. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I cut shih tzus hair very short (2inch), makes my father angry... how long will it takes back? thanks..

-- Contributed by: shih tzu's hair

Hi Beatrice,

On average, all dog pregnancies last about 63 days from the date of the first breeding. If you'd like more information, visit our articles on

Thanks for your question. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

How long do the Shih Tzus take to have their litter?

-- Contributed by: Beatrice

They are SUCH great dogs. I have had mine for 6 years and i got him when he was only 9 weeks old =]

I definately reccommend them!

-- Contributed by: Teresa

I have a male Shih Tzu and a female she just came in heat and is 8 months old. I am pretty sure she is pregnant. But she has not finished her shots. Can she finish her shots? Worried mom.

Hi Diana,

I recommend you consult with your vet to be sure, but most vets refrain from vaccinating pregnant bitches. You might also want to discuss what affects your bitch's own immunity will have on her newborn pups. Puppies typically receive immunities through their mother's milk, especially the first milk known as colostrum.

Thanks for your question, and I hope everything turns out alright.

-- Contributed by: Diana

I have 2 Shih Tzus. Ihe bigger one seems to get hot spots and ear infections alot. and just seem to be feeling under the weather alot. The smaller one is the healthier one. I've had him 3 1/2 yrs and hes only been sick 2 times right now he has this coughing...snorting thing hes doing. He's been doing this for 2 days now. its of and on through out the day. he was running a fever the other day and the vet give him a shot of antibiotic and he perked back up. But now he seems to be gloomy again any ideas. And they are right these are the best pets and one could ever own. they are truly a part of our family.

Hi Robin,

Shih Tzus do snort a lot due to their short muzzles, but it's possible your dog has picked up a case of Kennel Cough. You might want to call your vet to let him/her know that the symptoms are back. In the meantime, you might want to check out our article on Home Treatment for Kennel Cough.

Hope your dog is feeling better soon.

-- Contributed by: ROBIN

Thank you Jarkevis!

-- Contributed by: Kelly

You are good People 125

-- Contributed by: Jarkevis simpson

Hi Stephanie,

Shih Tzus can be bathed on a weekly basis if needed, but if your dog is carrying a constant odor then there may be some sort of skin problem in play.

I have to say that I have been greatly dissapointed with how effective Frontline, Bio Spot and Sentry Pro spot on flea products have been this summer. It seems to me that they are less effective than in previous years, and I'm sure I'm following the directions to the letter.

That said, your dog's scratching may have led to a secondary yeast infection or other skin disorder that is causing the odor. I honestly think you should take him to your vet to try to figure out exactly what is going on. Your vet will be able to prescribe medicine to relieve the itching and halt any infection that may be found. If there is no skin infection, then suggest your vet consider a possible food allergy. This can also cause skin problems and body odors.

Thanks for your question, and I hope this advice helps.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

My dog is around 11 months old. He is the first pet I have had. I try to keep his hair short but he has a constant odor to him. Got any suggestions? Also he digs at himself a lot. I only give him a bath about twice a month and Front line plus once a month. I even got a special kind of shampoo for sensitive skin but it hasnt helped.

-- Contributed by: stephanie
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