You already know your Shih Tzu is royalty. They’ve got their favorite spot on the couch, a wardrobe that rivals yours, and a way of getting exactly what they want with just one look. But here’s something you might not know, some common mistakes (even ones made with love) could be cutting their time with you short.
Shih Tzus are built for longevity, but little things like diet, dental care, and even how you carry them can make a huge difference in how long and how well they live. The good news is that these mistakes are totally fixable.
A few small changes now can mean more years of snuggles, sass, and that signature Shih Tzu attitude. Let’s talk about it.
1. Neglecting Dental Care
Bad breath isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a sign of potential gum disease, which can lead to infections affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues due to their small mouths, so regular brushing, dental chews, and vet cleanings are non-negotiable. Skipping this? You could be setting your pup up for serious health problems.
2. Feeding the Wrong Diet
Just because your Shih Tzu gives you those please-share-with-me eyes at dinner doesn’t mean they should be munching on your leftovers. Feeding a poor diet—especially one filled with low-quality kibble, fillers, or too many treats—can seriously impact their health and shorten their lifespan. At Divine Pups, we feed our dogs PawTree Freeze-Dried Raw Beef and White Fish Kibble because it supports optimal digestion, energy, and overall wellness. But diet isn’t just about the kibble—daily supplements are key, too. Our go-to essentials are these faves – Gastro Pro Plus, Joint Support Plus, ImmunoShroom, and Salmon Oil. These powerhouse additions help keep our pups thriving from the inside out. Skip the scraps and prioritize nutrition—it really can add years to your Shih Tzu’s life.
3. Lack of Mental Stimulation
Shih Tzus might not need hours of exercise like a Border Collie, but they still need mental engagement to stay sharp and happy. Ignoring their need for puzzle toys, interactive games, or basic training can lead to boredom, anxiety, and even destructive behaviors. A mentally engaged pup is a healthy pup!
4. Skipping Routine Vet Checkups
If you’re only taking your dog to the vet when something is obviously wrong, you’re missing out on catching issues before they become life-threatening. Regular wellness checks help monitor their weight, dental health, and catch silent killers like heart disease or kidney problems before they spiral out of control.
5. Overlooking Breathing Issues
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic (aka, those squishy little faces come with challenges). Hot weather, overexertion, and even stress can make breathing difficult for them. Not managing their environment properly—like leaving them outside in extreme heat or pushing them too hard during play—can be a serious risk.
6. Not Keeping Up with Grooming
Those luscious locks don’t just make your Shih Tzu look fancy—they also require maintenance. Matting, skin infections, and even eye problems can arise if grooming is neglected. Regular brushing, trimming around the eyes, and keeping their skin clean prevents discomfort and potential long-term health issues.
7. Letting Them Jump on and Off Furniture
You might not think of your Shih Tzu as fragile, but their small size makes them prone to spinal injuries, broken bones, and joint problems. Allowing them to jump from high surfaces without ramps or stairs can lead to long-term issues like arthritis or serious injuries that could have been avoided.
In Conclusion
Shih Tzus are tougher than people give them credit for, but they still need proper care to live their longest, healthiest lives. Avoiding these mistakes can add years to your pup’s life, keeping them happy, energetic, and full of that signature Shih Tzu attitude. If you’re serious about giving your Shih Tzu the best life possible, check out The Shih Tzu Breed for a deeper dive into what makes this breed so special!
