| Every Shih Tzu owner wants their dog to live a long, | | | | Tzu's coat remains free from mats and snarls is to |
| healthy life. Fortunately, owners can add years to their | | | | brush your dog every single day. This can be a |
| dogs' lives by following these Shih Tzu care tips. | | | | pleasant task for you and your dog if you use "lap |
| Shih Tzu puppies should continue on the same food | | | | time" to brush your dog. Shih Tzus love to spend time |
| they received from the breeder, so be sure to ask | | | | sitting quietly in their masters' laps. Simply keep the dog |
| your breeder what kind of food to get. Making gradual | | | | brush close to your favorite chair, and your dog will |
| dietary changes will help avoid upsetting your dog's | | | | think the brushing routine is just another way you |
| stomach. As your dog grows, transition her from | | | | shower her with attention. |
| puppy food to premium food especially formulated for | | | | Every dog needs veterinary care, and the Shih Tzu is |
| smaller dogs. | | | | no different. However, small dogs tend to have fewer |
| The best Shih Tzu diet is fresh food you cook for | | | | health problems than larger dogs, and if you have |
| your dog. Simply sauté ground chicken, beef, or | | | | owned large breeds before, you may be pleasantly |
| lamb, stir in cooked brown rice, and serve-your dog will | | | | surprised by how easily your Shih Tzu health will be to |
| love it! Small pieces of cooked meat or vegetables are | | | | maintain. |
| perfect to feed as dog treats. Avoid rawhides and pig | | | | Choosing the right veterinarian is the first challenge. If |
| ears, as these foods are hard to digest and may | | | | you've had pets before, then you probably already |
| damage your dog's digestive system. | | | | have a vet. If you don't, then the best way to find a |
| The key to making Shih Tzu care easy is to keep up | | | | reliable vet is to talk to your friends, co-workers, and |
| with maintenance chores. Therefore, your dog's eyes, | | | | family members who have pets and find out who they |
| ears, mouth, feet, and coat should be regularly | | | | use for veterinary services. You should be able to |
| inspected for problems. | | | | develop a short list of really good vets this way. |
| Watch the eyes for excessive watering or redness. | | | | Choose the veterinary clinic closest to your home, and |
| Keep the hair around your dog's eyes trimmed, or tie | | | | make sure the clinic is open for business during hours |
| the hair up away from the eyes with a ribbon to keep | | | | that are convenient for you. |
| the eyes from getting irritated. Clean your dog's ears | | | | Take your new Shih Tzu to the vet for a health |
| using cotton balls dipped in a cleaning solution you can | | | | inspection as soon as you get it. Your vet will diagnose |
| get from your veterinarian. Report any redness or | | | | any health conditions, will make sure your dog has all |
| bleeding to the vet. | | | | the required vaccinations, and will set your dog up on a |
| Shih Tzus are instantly recognizable by their long, | | | | schedule of regular health checks. |
| flowing coats. The best way to ensure that your Shih | | | | |