The average is 13 years. amzn_assoc_asins = "B0719Q89XH,B00MRBF4ME,B00006IX59"; T$Ek HX\qH^7k)N Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Shih Tzu live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. amzn_assoc_linkid = "f91994c73e970111914bbd13723aa4cc"; And once arrangements have been made to tackle the disease in question, the Shih Tzu can go on to lead a healthy life. 4 0 obj
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Well perform an annual glaucoma screening to diagnose and start treatment as early as possible. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Losing your pet is one of the saddest moment in our lives. Von Willebrands disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in Shih Tzus. You chose to snuggle up with a Shih Tzu because you can expect certain traits: It will take training, socialization, and attention to avoid problems related to these traits: Her large personality and adorable underbite make it easy to understand why the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. In the same vein, Shih Tzus that areregularly subjected to an appropriate level of exerciseareless likely to develop joint diseasesandwill lead relatively healthier livesthan sedentary Shih Tzu dogs. Ocular problems are more likely to develop in your Shih Tzu because of their large eyes. In addition, fungal infections such asblastomycosisandhistoplasmosishave also been reported to be the cause of death in some Shih Tzu dogs. All Rights Reserved. Dont worry; well discuss the specific problems we will be looking for when the time arrives. The life expectancy for a Shih Tzu dog typically falls between 10 to 16 years. An overbite or underbite is called a malocclusion or a bad bite. All rights reserved. This article will cover everything you need to know including: The Shih Tzu's life span is a range of 10 to 16 years. He might then kick his leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place. 1 0 obj
Short-nosed dogs have the same amount of tissue in their noses and throats as longer-nosed dogs, but with less area to contain it. Hip dysplasia is common in Shih Tzus. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. /(c} Z9uP&y10);0LBA)`DzU^PbDtD!sl?={sJM#X'Ir3N*5,G \#SsI"O!c5|uy4|(a#%}XGMA6#bL Px5Z87ny'e).2ueQZ~ |)#kmYI*Yn`rf,8GePanrS@"3fgbZ.hQ.dMOzr$sda=iat
3aA8Lu9&#i[\TT[}* U^@@byp\p9{@-p8SQH'OpT(C64!j`{z9vl`sN!6wu79n(vn5Any\5^@h[aCVc|}'o. (Yes, dogs can get braces!) The Shih Tzu is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 13-15 years. You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that were taking the best possible care of your pal. And while it is possible for a Shih Tzu to live into its twenties, chances of that happening areextremely rare. Exercise is also a very good way to extend your Shih Tzus lifespan. It may seem cumbersome having to keep up with all the nutritional requirements of the Shih Tzu. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. p\E"!i5I"8NU9i>pxn].@E[q7XsrPXu?vI`{v7=j~VnC;/pvA WFQ)NktM12ArAl,eQt8t~W!|EO`dVN;Q}^s/bU-o!sfEcy=n>8rQzdQ.H;O One of the best things you can do is to bring your Shih Tzu to the veterinarian on a regular basis. Like other dog breeds, Shih Tzu dogs can have various illnesses. And the food is sized in a way that is convenient for the Shih Tzu to chew and swallow. I-Cqs,3R.y}x)JNI9 X))Q? 5|O{e jEY#H6/GT%,lR dn*dd5c\n\ ?zi- This information helps you and us together plan for your pets unique medical needs. All text and images are protected by copyright laws. This results in sore, itchy eyes and infections. The lifespan for a Shih Tzu dog typically ranges from between 10 to 16 years for both male and female pooches with an average lifespan of 13 years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Shih Tzus are primarily companion dogs, and they take this job very seriouslythey love to be with their families whenever possible. Apart from feeding your Shih Tzu high-quality dog food,constant access to clean and fresh wateris a must for this pooch. The oldest documented Shih Tzu was 23 years old. If you see these symptoms, dont wait! This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shih Tzu is more likely than other dogs to be affected. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. The kind of food a Shih Tzu is fed while growing up and when it is fully grown plays a significant role in how long and healthy the pooch will live. Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. The Little Lion Dog originated in 17th century China and is believed to be a cross between the Tibetan Spaniel and the Lhasa Apso. Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth, Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking); hair loss, Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping, Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes, Slow or stunted growth; sometimes seizes after eating, Drinks and urinates more, eats more; potbelly, poor coat, Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge, Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine, Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes, Coughing, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing at rest, Leg stiffness; reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, or jump; bunny hopping. A helpful study conducted by the University of Georgia recorded and summarized the top causes of death of dogs by looking at veterinary records that spanned over two decades. The amount of food a Shih Tzu needs is dependent on several factors such as the dogsage,size,activity levelandexisting health conditions. Their popularity rose quickly though, and they were recognized by the AKC in 1969. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Shih Tzu looking and feeling her best. xko8{7{Q3Kz&mv=CqMRiv,3E?$3C{FN^g:EO,?S;fWsu||ue2/sdejJyvc~~k;Q6oG/,.g;!{,KrE|osF$Pe&RRfJ fm)p&`5qlR)&%f a*5/U7owI9klGw^q?x12:^xBfLNTEzf;b Yy?NWcFxR.}p}Cjksy,N 2 0 obj
Misaligned teeth can also occur and cause lots of problems, but can usually be corrected with braces or extractions. 2022 Freeport Veterinary Hospital. Now, what are the common health issues of a Shih Tzu dog? &ZZ*}}n,!nf ll.K
Llf)]*dGgNJ}Nh5x\;jk>d.4\OmyAIO:@?oW9Tn]N^;N2k8 l:tyF\uooh^pGB\I.6$5VQ88r! Some of the most common health challenges that Shih Tzu dogs mostly die from include: The dreaded cancer tops the list of diseases that are mostly responsible for Shih Tzu deaths, and several studies have shown thatapproximately 15%of Shih Tzu dogsdie of canceron a yearly basis. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, regularly brush her teeth and coat, and call us or a pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual (see What to Watch For below). She is highly intelligent and can be taught to perform a variety of tricks to help keep her mentally stimulated. Yikes! Medication and sometimes surgery may be required. YK%{"*I[Sh=I We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. If we dont prevent or treat dental disease, your buddy may lose her teeth and be in danger of damage to her kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. /5xUF*)Du4bc 'qxW:sU In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The content provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only. Pet Plates all-natural formulation contains the exact ingredients that provideproper nutrition for small dog breeds like the Shih Tzu. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend's bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life. Andbrisk walks,twice a day, with each lasting forbetween 20 to 30 minutesare sufficient to meet this poochs exercise needs. Health conditions that Shih Tzu dogs tend to suffer from during their lifespan include cancer, viral and bacterial infections, as well as various urinary tract diseases. *Xm*CMq-_ul2{s7mNdQ>Y3\ .%5]4vSE;AuF2} IYp "JZQr_fu#.caiof4Om-jto*]FW=.v>\\h7&k|.V]xe\Qq!$FtH(I$vyo0i1itx]@V8\^W14pzb'M{Dm_RyyF? What Are Shih Tzus Scared Of? Older Shih Tzus typically require more calories than puppies. Although the specific genetics of dogs can greatly affect their lifespans, environmental factors can play a big role, too. If you notice any of the signs that your Shih Tzu is dying, there are some steps you can take to ensure that the poochs final days on earth are as comfortable as possible. Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. In looking at the Shih Tzu's life expectancy range of 10 to 16 years, this is similar to some other toy and small breeds: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 9 to 14 years. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. 6I Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. You can also feed your Shih Tzuhomemade food if you so desire, but you need to ensure that such meals containingredients that promote the dogs growth. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. He may even experience sudden paralysishe may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. It just doesn't seem fair and it can cause a lot of stress and worry as a dog reaches the 10-year mark and beyond. Can Shih Tzu Live 20 Years? The Shih Tzu dog breed is susceptible to Hypoglycemia, a medical condition that causes thedogs blood sugar level to be depleted quickly, hence you will need to feed this pooch more often. 3 0 obj
This is called patellar luxation. <>
Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. But, certainly how early it is caught and the type of treatment that is given plays a huge role in quality of life and prognosis. !Vqmew4Do
(! For your canine friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so its important that we test for them on a regular basis. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. She is well suited for apartment living; she will need a daily walk and regular inside play. If your buddy has blood in his urine, cant urinate, or is straining to urinate, it is a medical emergency. You may notice that he has lameness in his hind legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. While this cant be classified as a medical condition, it is worth noting thatinjuries resulting from traumaare responsible for a significant amount of Shih Tzu deaths, particularly in puppies. Cushing's Disease is a malfunction of the adrenal glands that causes them to produce too much steroid hormone. These ocular problems include cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal ulcer. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. KCS is a painful condition; please call us immediately if you notice any of these signs, and well conduct a tear test on your pet. We call this skin allergy atopy, and Shih Tzus often have it. Now that you have an idea of health conditions that are mainly responsible for Shih Tzu deaths, the onus lies on you, as the owner to take proper care of the Shih Tzu to minimize the risk of this pooch contracting the diseases listed above; Todays article provided tips that serve as a guide in taking care of a Shih Tzu dog and maintaining its quality of life. T9H. One of the best things you can do for your Shih Tzu is to have her spayed (neutered for males). Freeport Veterinary Hospital does not provide veterinary medical advice via the internet. These health conditions are potentially fatal and are responsible for a high percentage of Shih Tzus deaths worldwide. Shih Tzus are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. Also, in addition to taking walks,playtime with dog toys and other poochesalso work well to keep a Shih Tzu exercised and mentally stimulated. endobj
The age of 13 years is considered to be a moderate and average life expectancy in regard to canines. Results are divided into two groups: Puppies, which are dogs under the age of 1-year, and adults which are dogs 1-year and older. When death by trauma is included, it drops to 11.1 years. It can be really difficult for pet parents to come to terms with how short their dog's life span is, especially compared to us humans. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to alleviate airway obstruction. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Shih Tzus. Address: 4 Post RoadFreeport, Maine 04032. And to show how rare this is, the only available verifiable record of a Shih Tzu dog that lived above20 yearsbelongs to a pooch namedSmokeythat lived for23 years! Since knowledge is power, let's dive into this subject. And the80 to 140 calories per pound of body weight requirement for adult Shih Tzuscan be met by feeding the poochbetween 2 to 3.4 oz of food per day. That said, some of the signs exhibited by a dying Shih Tzu include: Its not always the case that the signs listed above are an indication that your Shih Tzu is dying, and they can also be a sign that the pooch is suffering from a treatable medical condition. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. There is a general consensus among canine genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions weve described herein have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed. Scrapes or punctures to the cornea (the protective covering on the eyeball) are the most common injuries. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Common Shih Tzu conditions are rarely fatal. Youve probably heard of hip dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and leads to arthritis. Well listen for heart murmurs and abnormal heart rhythms when we examine your pet. Shih Tzus are prone to developing weight issues, hence you should ensure tofeed them only top-quality dog food in moderation. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. Intelligent, friendly, and easily won over, An indoor dog that doesnt do well in the heat, Can be aggressive, fearful, or snappy if not socialized properly, Fragile and easily injured due to small size, Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common condition in Shih Tzus. Regarding mammary cancer, spraying can significantly reduce the chances of this when it is performed before the age of 2.5 years old. Your Shih Tzu will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. The ideal meal for a Shih Tzu dog is one that contains asignificant proportion of protein, and the reason for this is not far-fetched. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Fillers,chemical preservatives,a high wheat content,andsoycan be detrimental to a Shih Tzus health, and these should be avoided at all costs. Taking the factors listed above into consideration, mostpuppy Shih Tzus require 40 to 55 calories per pound of body weight, and this roughly translates intobetween 1 to 2 oz of food per day. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; Glaucoma is a medical. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pets breed. Death by trauma included fatal injury to the head, body, or both. Shell feel better, and so will you! Shih Tzus are prone to multiple types of heart disease, which can occur both early and later in life. As a consequence, the soft palate at the back of the roof of the mouth is too long and may hang down into the airway. Call us at. These are common signs of patellar luxation. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. The Life Expectancy of the Shih Tzu Breed, Shih Tzu Life Span Compared to Other Breeds, Shih Tzu Life Span Compared to Other Animals, Leading Causes of Death for the Shih Tzu Breed, 3 Top Leading Causes of Death for Adult Shih Tzu. Resource Articles 2022 GeniusVets. If he has this disease, well prescribe ointment that youll need to apply for the rest of your dogs life. They are already active dogs despite their small size, and they need to release all those pent-up energies. Cancer can take many forms and affect several body parts, but the most common occurrences in Shih Tzu dogs includemast cell tumors,lymphoma,soft tissue sarcomas,andbone cancer. The top 2 reasons are: #1 Infection. To check for this problem, well conduct a liver function test in addition to a standard pre-anesthetic panel every time he undergoes anesthesia. Its been a long year and were excited to announce that we are beginning a gradual reopening to the public! 4SA:w1DQcU9;1K|6\h{l8
j/)% pukBG>Y$s Though its tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can love her to death with leftover people food and doggie treats. In the United States, dogs in general live to 12.67 years on average, without trauma factored in. Because your Shih Tzu has eyeballs that naturally protrude, he is more vulnerable to eye injuries. Shih Tzus also have quitesensitive stomachs, and the dog food youll choose for your pooch should be one that doesnt contain substances that will trigger food allergies in the dog. A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Shih Tzus. Take your dog out for a walk every day to give him a good workout and prevent any heart conditions, but keep the walk short to avoid overexerting him. Give us a call for an appointment if you notice any of these types of signs: Seek medical care immediately if you notice any of these types of signs: Cities and Zip Codes served by Freeport Vet. Shih Tzusburn calories fasterthan most other dogs, anda diet rich in protein will help keep energy levels high. Call us immediately! Most Shih Tzus live well into their old age, and if you own one of these beautiful pooches, then there is a high chance that you get to witness it grow from a small, playful puppy into a senior dog before it dies. Call us right away if your pet has any problems with his eyes. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. And some wholesome and nutritional ingredients that can be incorporated into homemade meals for your Shih Tzu includelamb,white chicken meat,green beans,sweet peas,whole yogurt,and many more. And the. About UsContact UsPrivacy PolicyTerms & ConditionsDisclaimer. Common examples of infections that are responsible for Shih Tzus deaths includecanine parvovirus,canine distemper,andleptospirosis. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. All of these differences can lead to a narrow and obstructed airway such that many of these dogs can barely breathe! o.oLy She can be sensitive to warm temperatures; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "haych454-20"; In addition, by subjecting a Shih Tzu to regular medical examinations, dog owners can detectthe occurrence of diseases at an early stage. In advanced cases, the eye may look enlarged or swollen like its bulging. Well clean your dogs teeth regularly and let you know what you can do at home to keep those pearly whites clean. This distinctive looking dog can easily win your love. We will describe the most common issues seen in Shih Tzus to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. These urogenital diseases typically affect the Shih Tzusexcretory and reproductive organssuch as the urinary bladder, prostate, and urethra and can be very dangerous if left untreated. Unfortunately, Shih Tzus can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good timeits more convenient for you and easier on your friend too. On the other hand, dogs that weigh more than 90 pounds have an average lifespan of 8 years. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap to keep it from luxating further. There are several types of inherited bleeding disorders that occur in dogs. Multivitamins Treats Supplement Zesty Paws Probiotics. How Do I Know If My Shih Tzu Is Overweight? Well watch for the lenses of his eyes to become more opaquemeaning they look cloudy instead of clearwhen we examine him. Life span compared to other breeds and to other animals, Answering the question of, is it possible to increase life span. Because damaged kidneys leak protein, we may be able to diagnose this disease by annually testing your pets urine for excessive protein. The second most common cause of death is heart conditions which can be heart attacks and heart failures. Good thing that Shih Tzu owners can take specific steps in order to extend the lifetime of their dog. Signs that a Shih Tzu is overweight include a poorly proportioned body shape, inability to scratch an itch, frequent panting andan inability to feel the poochs ribs when pressing under its fur. Not only do eye injuries hurt, they can become infected and affect his vision. While there is no clear-cut guide to how long a Shih Tzu will live, there are certain factors that can play a considerable role in either extending or shortening the Shih Tzus lifespan. This is when well give her the necessary check-ups and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Shih Tzus. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. This is an approximation and there are always exceptions. And apart from old age, there are a number of medical conditions that can significantly shorten this poochs life which well shortly be taking a look at. Regular brushing and grooming is needed to keep her coat beautiful. The Shih Tzu, being a low energy dog breed, has minimal exercise needs. Some completely avoidable fatal traumas include being stepped on, accidentally falling down staircases, being dropped, and being hit by a car. In all, there were 74,556 dogs, including 826 Shih Tzu. Also, if youre feeding your Shih Tzu homemade meals, incorporatingmineral supplementssuch as theMultivitamins Treats Supplement Zesty Paws Probioticsis essential to supply your pooch with key nutrients that may have been left out unintentionally. Please consult your veterinarian for the best recommendations for your pets. Whether you have a new puppy or an adult, lets get started on a wonderful, fulfilling, fun, and healthy road for your Shih Tzu! They are sensitive to heat and require only moderate exercise. stream
While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Early detection is critical! And many causes of death (heart issues, diseases related to major organs, and even some cancers) can be prevented or greatly delayed based on the type of care given over the course of a dog's life. t"=we
w5qbKO_EqR>9jj+tIYsN\,NMq a}m|/&N!L"R5RnVt{d# {atq;N BKf#FPW}O4(.G7bO}uqSt0n|R&]nQ!8Af/ 0g)KA^c69*G We may also recommend a special diet as part of his therapy. But if what you desire is superior canine food that will meet all your Shih Tzus nutritional needs, one meal plan we recommend that you try out for your dog is thePet Plate. #2 Trauma. Shih Tzus are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections the same ones that all dogs can get such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, your friend may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; Copyright 2021 | Shih Tzu TimePowered By Small Business 10X, Fireworks Preparing and Comforting Your Shih Tzu, Shih Tzu Development Stages Puppy to Adult. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; Dog Breathing Fast While Sleeping Should I Be Worried? By knowing about health concerns specific to Shih Tzu, we at Freeport Veterinary Hospital can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. Note that approximately 50% of all cancers in canines are curable if caught early. Urogenital diseases (also commonly referred to asUrinary Tract Infections) are another leading cause of death in Shih Tzu dogs worldwide. Out of all breeds, the Shih Tzu was among 12 in which death due to urogenital issues occurred most often. Keep your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food. Well take. <>
We are open and here for you! Obesity can be a significant health problem in Shih Tzus. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. There was a study conducted that showed that dogs weighing 20 pounds below can live around 11 years which is similar to medium-sized dogs. In fact, your Shih Tzu's life span may even be cut short by one to three years! Dental diseases are also most likely to develop to this type of breed. And when looking at the Shih Tzu's average life span of 13 years, this falls in the middle of a variety of other breeds with both short and long life spans: Keeping in mind the Shih Tzu's average life expectancy of 13 years, which is very close to the average of 12.5 for dogs in general, let's see how this compared to other pets and animals: Rabbits (domesticated, pets): 8 to 12 years. Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first. endobj
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Well conduct diagnostic testing for blood clotting times or a specific DNA blood test for Von Willebrands disease and other similar disorders to check for this problem before we perform surgery. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. While the Shih Tzu is a relatively healthy dog, there is every tendency for this pooch to inherit a number of genetically transmitted diseases, which may impact negatively on its quality of living. Early detection of heart disease often allows us to treat with medication that can prolong your pets life for many years. Shih Tzus often have serious problems with their teeth, so youll need to brush them at least three times a week! In addition, a medical examination carried out by your vet can help tell if your Shih Tzu is carrying excess weight. If your Shih Tzu is avoiding human interaction, then you should. We want to keep your buddys teeth healthy, so we will be watching his developing teeth closely. If he develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, well test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; Dont worrywell show you how! We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. Glomerulonephropathy is an inherited disease that slowly damages your Shih Tzu's kidneys, causing them to fail, often at an early age. Provide blankets to ensure that your dying Shih Tzu stays warm at all times. This will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldnt put in her mouth. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), and redness in the whites of the eyes. They range in severity from very mild to very severe. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Well perform periodic diagnostic tests and look for lumps and bumps when we examine your pet. Factors that may trigger fear in a Shih Tzu include being around unfamiliar people and surroundings or encounters with other dogs. Many Shih Tzu do live until their early teens and some live until their mid teens.
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