The Shih Tzu is a small but energetic and vibrant breed. They have an easygoing temperament. Given adequate exercise daily, they will contently sit in your lap for hours. Be careful, though, as they can be prone to laziness.
Are Shih Tzu High or Low Energy?
Your pet has a moderate energy level. They require routine exercise. Fun games and daily walks are essential to keep your Shih Tzu stimulated. This is true for both its physical and mental states.
Why Is My Shih Tzu So Restless?
Your Shih Tzu is an energetic little dog. They seem to be tireless. If you suddenly notice restless behavior in your pet, it may be in pain. It can be due to health issues or anxiety.
Remember that your Shih Tzu needs to get enough exercise to keep its tip-top shape. It may become bored, lethargic, or frustrated if it lacks activity. It can also manifest with destructive behavior and aggression.
Why Is My Shih Tzu Puppy So Hyper?
The Shih Tzu are spirited and active dogs especially when they are young. They can be extremely hyper.
Allow them to release their high energy. Always give them time to be out and about. Otherwise, your pet can start to feel pent up and frustrated.
Why Is My Shih Tzu Restless at Night?
Restless sleep is commonly seen if there has been a significant change in your Shih Tzu’s environment. They can also be restless if the sleeping arrangement is in a hot room.
Essentially, they might feel agitated if they did not get the level of exercise they needed for the day.
If restlessness at night persists, visit your vet. The doctor will help you rule out possible medical conditions affecting sleep. Dementia (especially for older dogs), pain, or anxiety can be considered.
How Do You Tire Out a Shih Tzu?
Occupy your Shih Tzu in fun and enjoyable ways to help your sprightly pet burn off its excess energy.
- Walking Is Out, Running Is In! In place of a relaxing stroll in the park, don your best running shoes and take off with your pup at a faster pace. It will surely be good for you both.
- Swing In a Game of Fetch In Your Outings. Playing fetch is a great way to exercise your Shih Tzu. It appeals to their breed instincts, so they have a grand time. They also get to rack up more miles.
- Take a Dip. Swimming is also a good exercise for your canine. Most dogs love the water. If you have an older dog, it’s a perfect exercise since it’s not weight-bearing. It won’t cause strain on sore joints.
- Provide Agility Obstacles. Basic agility kits are available for purchase. Set it up in your garden and give it a try. It will be an excellent exercise and bonding time with your pet.
- Teach Your Dog a New Trick. Your Shih Tzu needs both physical and mental stimulation. Engaging their brain is an excellent way to sustain their enthusiasm.
- Try Tug-Of-War. Lots of dog owners attest to their pet’s fondness for playing tug. Use an old towel if you don’t want to splurge on a rope toy from the toy shop.
- Host or Attend Play Dates With Other Dogs. Your Shih Tzu is a social butterfly. Having its buddies over is a great way to tire it out. Doggie playdates can also be in the form of a walk.
How Do You Tire Out a Shih Tzu Puppy?
Your Shih Tzu puppy is more active than the older ones of the same breed. Stay engaged with it and give it plenty of playtime.
Even if you stay indoors, you can play fetch, tug-of-war, and other fun games to keep them engaged and healthy. A lot of running around the furniture in the house should be enough.
However, you should try to take your puppy out on at least one brief walk per day.
Being outdoors gives your pup the chance to explore. Let it sniff around and see the exciting world outside of your home. They get to know diverse sounds and smells, which mentally stimulate them.
Why Is My Shih Tzu Lazy?
The Shih Tzu breed is known for fondly lying on their owner’s lap. Being small dogs, they only require short walks per day. By running through the house, they can burn off their energy.
If a lapdog is what you’re looking for, there is no need to look further.
Why Is My Shih Tzu Puppy Lazy?
If your puppy was rambunctious in the past and suddenly became lazy, they’re either bored, or they’re growing. Left idle, your pup will probably choose to lounge all day.
You should also know that as they grow old, their activity level relaxes a bit. Sometimes, hot or cold weather also makes them lazy.
Is a Shih Tzu a Calm Dog?
The Shih Tzu is an even-tempered dog. They enjoy a moderate activity and are generally calm. Unless they have serious underlying issues, it is very seldom to see an aggressive Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzu make great pets for young children. Further, they have minimal to no prey drive. You or your children will not have any problems with them.
Are Male Shih Tzu Calmer Than Females?
In general, the Shih Tzu is a calm breed. They are affectionate and loyal to their owners.
Males have demonstrated to be more affectionate, attentive, and accepting than females. On the other hand, females are seen to be more confident, dominant, assertive, and stubborn.
Some reported that males are easier to train while females are more aggressive. However, experts believe that when it comes to dogs, there is no superior sex. All these are shared observations of many dog owners.
When Do Shih Tzu Slow Down?
If you train your puppy correctly, your Shih Tzu will begin to calm down from six months to one year.
As puppies, they will need more hours to sleep to grow healthy. Naptime allows them to store the energy they need to explore their surroundings. Training and opportunities for exploration will slow them down as they age.
How Do You Calm a Hyper Shih Tzu Puppy?
Teach your pup what behavior is appropriate and what is not. Think about what might be causing its hyperactivity.
Usually, its high energy levels need to be released through exercise. Make sure it is active throughout the day. Applying positive reinforcement for positive behavior can also be helpful.
How Do You Calm a Shih Tzu Puppy?
Most puppies are highly energetic. You can address this by:
Give Proper Channels to Release the Energy
Too much energy makes your puppy get hyper and act up. They don’t know what to do with it. Even if they want to, they are just learning to express themselves. Having a routine walk and a nap time within the day can help. They know when to expect their activities within the day.
On your walk, take them on a long and fast-paced stroll. Squeeze in drills and games that they enjoy. These will help them calm down. It will surely help them burn energy.
After the walk or a game of catch or fetch, your puppy will probably feel tired. Rest together. Sit around and do nothing. It might be the best time to take a nap.
Play Games With It
Find out what games your Shih Tzu puppy enjoys. Indulge them, especially on days when they seem to have too much energy and need to burn some off. Try these:
- Fetch: When your puppy appears hyper, get it to play fetch for a few minutes. Throw the ball or any retrieval toy. It will give your pup a good run each time it needs to fetch.
- Tug: Playing tug with your Shih Tzu will burn some of their excess energy and a bit of yours. You will also get that bonding time your pet will surely appreciate.
- Flirt Poles: Flirt poles are toys in the form of a fishing pole with the actual toy at the end. Hold the pole. Watch your Shih Tzu jump as high as possible to reach for the toy on top of the pole.
Don’t Indulge the Habit
Sometimes, your Shih Tzu can be like a kid who acts out to get your attention. Do not give them attention. If you do, your pet will likely use this attitude to get what it wants.
More often than not, your pet needs tough love. The best thing to do is to ignore the habit. Before you give the attention it seeks, calm it down. If it realizes acting up doesn’t work, it will relax and listen to you.
Ensure That You Include Training
Teach your Shih Tzu good manners. Especially if your pet is new. It needs to know when and how to keep calm.
Ensure that it knows how to act appropriately. Some valuable lessons are how to ask for the things he needs and not throw tantrums to get what he wants.
Teach your Shih Tzu puppy to sit to get his requests granted. Jumping around, barking, or acting up will never get him anything.
Before you hand the food or ball over, command your puppy to ‘sit’ first. Only after sitting can it be given whatever it is asking for.
Also, teaching your Shih Tzu some appropriate behaviors will buy you a stress-free life in the long run. Train it how to act outdoors, how to react to people, and how to get your attention.
Do not allow your pet to get away with a bad attitude, no matter how much love you have for it.
Throw in Some Mental Exercise
Most of the time, physical exercise won’t be enough. You have to add mental exercises to keep your Shih Tzu calm. Mental exercise is an essential means to tire your pet.
Play games and teach new tricks that require focus and mental stimulation. These can burn out all the excess energy of your pup. After doing these, it might want to cuddle up in a corner quietly.
Look Closely at Your Shih Tzu’s Meals
Sometimes, there is a direct relationship between your Shih Tzu’s mood and food. Dog food with unhealthy ingredients disrupts your pup’s disposition.
Feed your Shih Tzu with high-quality food made of natural and healthy ingredients. Always check the label. Ensure that the meals you give are free of artificial contents. Avoid coloring, preservatives, fillers, and others.
Spend Quality Time With Your Shih Tzu Puppy
Consider if your puppy feels neglected. It might be confused about how to call your attention to its needs. Spend quality time with your pet.
Seek Medical Consultation
Biological factors or medical conditions can cause changes in your dog’s behavior. These can include liver dysfunction, neurological disorders, and hyperthyroidism.
If you have tried other methods to calm your Shih Tzu and nothing works, perhaps it’s time to visit your vet.
Do Shih Tzu Need a Lot of Exercise?
The Shih Tzu has a small stature but a lively attitude. Brief but consistent periods of exercise are what it needs. Avoid intense physical activities like long runs.
Play five-minute sessions of catch or fetch but not longer than that. Walking on the beach or taking a hike in the mountain might also be too much.
How Much Activity Does a Shih Tzu Need?
One to two daily walks for 20 to 30 minutes is good for the Shih Tzu. It should be done at a pace considered brisk for your dog. Other activities can be added, such as active games, from one to three times per day.
How Much Exercise Does a Shih Tzu Puppy Need?
Shih Tzu puppies are more active and have more energy than their adult counterparts. They need about 70 minutes of exercise a day. It’s ideal to split these tasks into two or three parts.
Playing with your puppy is also considered to be a physical exercise. Ensure you squeeze breaks in to prevent it from being too tired or overstimulated.
Can You Overexercise a Shih Tzu?
Never give a physical activity or exercise more than your Shih Tzu is used to. If you do, they might incur injury and medical problems.
Resistance to exercise can also result from too much activity. They might develop mobility issues, anxiety, and exhaustion. Avoid overexercising them at all costs.
What Activities Do Shih Tzu Like?
There are a lot of activities to do with your energetic Shih Tzu. Here are just a few of them:
Play Fetch: This is among any dog’s favorites. Your Shih Tzu will get heart-healthy exercise and a fun and enjoyable game.
Walking: One of the easiest ways to exercise with your Shih Tzu is walking. It is low-impact. You can also do it pretty much anywhere.
Hiking Through the Woods: This is more challenging than a park stroll. But your Shih Tzu will love the sights and the sounds. They can do well hiking a couple of miles through the woods. Keep them hydrated and take breaks as needed.
Swimming: If your Shih Tzu likes water, swimming is a fun activity. It is suitable for older dogs and those with arthritis. Taking a dip in the water provides an excellent low-impact exercise. Keep a watchful eye on your pet. Its full coat can quickly get waterlogged and cause it to drown.
If your pet enjoys this activity, getting a doggy life jacket for it can be worth it. Choose one that has a handle on the top. It allows you to keep your dog afloat as it swims. Also, the ocean current can be too much for your little dog.
Playing With Other Dogs: Hit two birds with one stone. When you set up play dates, you address your Shih Tzu’s needs. This is especially true for its physical exercise and social opportunities.
Your dog can also socialize with other dogs when you take it for a walk in the park. Be vigilant for potentially aggressive dogs.
Bike Riding: Place your Shih Tzu in a basket on your handlebars. You can also use a pet trailer attached to the back of your bike. Your pup gets less exercise but will enjoy the wind on its face and the time spent with you.
Are Shih Tzu Athletic?
The Shih Tzu is not a sporty breed. However, its high energy level warrants daily brisk walking and running or playing fetch.
Many Shih Tzu have won agility competitions over the years. In 2014, a Shih Tzu became the first breed to win a champion title in an agility competition.
Is Walking Good for Shih Tzu?
For this cute and vibrant breed, walking is one of the best types of exercise. It is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for your Shih Tzu.
Plus, there is a starting and ending point in walking. It means that proper duration and the pace can be controlled.
Do Shih Tzu Like to Go for Walks?
Your Shih Tzu will enjoy walks through the yard, the park, and the woods. However, be mindful whenever you go for a stroll as they cannot tolerate heat. Their long coat may mat, tangle, and catch burrs.
How to Get Your Shih Tzu to Walk?
If you are new at taking your Shih Tzu for a walk, here are some tips to remember:
- Set a Schedule and Stick to It. Dogs have excellent inner time clocks. Your Shih Tzu will quickly learn to look forward to their walks.
- Instead of a Collar, Use a Harness. Brachycephalic breeds like your dog should wear a harness when on a leash. A collar can be constricting to the windpipe and cause breathing issues. On the other hand, a harness displaces pressure across the chest, shoulders, and back. It leaves the neck free.
- Keep Your Pup in a Heeling Position. The heeling position is to your left side and no further ahead of you than the extension of your foot. This position allows you to be in control of the walk. It also reinforces the proper hierarchy concerning the dog’s alpha and beta ranking.
- Ensure That Your Pet Stays Hydrated. Bring water and take breaks for a sip. If you notice your Shih Tzu pant heavily or seem to overheat, take the leave at once and offer a drink of water.
Can Shih Tzu Walk Off-Leash?
Your Shih Tzu is unlikely to walk off-leash. However, keep that harness on it if it’s the first time and you’re unsure how your dog will react.
Are Shih Tzu Known to Run Away?
One dog breed that is the least likely to run away is the Shih Tzu. This breed has a low prey drive. They’re probably looking for adventure or chasing a new playmate if they run off.
Most Shih Tzu love to run for the sake of running. They take off at top speed and forget where they’re going. Call them, and they’ll return at once if they’re not too tired or too far away.
If you observe that your dog runs away repeatedly, it’s essential to understand why. Some reasons are boredom, looking for a mate, chasing something, and fear. Figure out how to stop it.
How Do I Stop My Shih Tzu From Running Away?
The key to keeping your dog from running away is straightforward. Don’t make it easy for it to escape. Never leave your dog outdoors unattended. Build a fence if you don’t have one.
Supervision and fence can only help so much. But if your Shih Tzu is bored, scared, or motivated to escape, it will find a way out. It’s essential to treat the root of the problem. Below are ways to address them:
- Bored Dogs: Make them busy by giving them something to do to distract them from thoughts of running away. Playing games or providing chew toys will suffice.
- Lack of Exercise: Increase the duration and challenge of their activity. Some of them need more than 40 minutes of walking or running daily to be satisfied. In addition, taking your dog to doggie daycare will keep it mentally stimulated. This will help release the pent-up energy it uses in its plot to run away.
- Fearful Dogs: They may benefit from learning how to be comfortable with loud noises. Provide calming treats, white-noise machines, and techniques like systematic desensitization and counterconditioning. A flirt pole may allow prey-driven dogs to get their instincts out in a safe environment.
- Sexually Motivated Escapes: Having your Shih Tzu neutered or spayed will help reduce the hormonal drive to roam. If your pet persists in running away, you might consider getting help from a trainer. The latter can help devise a training plan to keep your Shih Tzu safe and far from escaping.
How Many Walks a Day Does a Shih Tzu Need?
Your Shih Tzu requires little physical activity. Two to three short walks are enough. Time your walks for 20 to 30 minutes. More than that is not recommendable. You may still play games in addition to the walks.
How Far Should a Shih Tzu Walk Each Day?
The Shih Tzu breed is a small lapdog. Typically, they don’t need very long walks. When trained and conditioned, they can walk as far as three miles (4.8 km).
It does not mean that you should push until your pet reaches this distance. Keep in mind that there is a limit to what their little bodies can take.
Can Shih Tzu Walk Long Distances?
Long walking distances that last more than an hour should be split into two to three outings. If you should do it in one, keep your Shih Tzu hydrated. Give it rest as needed.
Are Shih Tzu Good for Hikes?
Walking briskly is one of the best exercises to give them. You can take them for a hike but take plenty of rest. Be keen on its need for water.
The Shih Tzu breed is brachycephalic. They may have more difficulty with more challenging exercises.
If you plan to take it on a hike, it is best to prepare it by starting small. Take a few neighborhood walks to condition them for a longer hike.
How Far Can Shih Tzu Walk?
Most Shih Tzu manage at least three miles (4.8 km) of walking. When appropriately conditioned or when your dog is used to it, they can probably walk farther and longer.
How Fast Can a Shih Tzu Go?
Most Shih Tzu, especially the youth, love running and walking briskly. This breed has once been declared champion at an agility competition.
Underneath that luxurious double coat, their tiny bodies can be trained to be fast and agile.
Can You Overwalk a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzu’s need for little physical activity is answered by 15- to 20-minute walks, two to three times per day.
Although they can stand longer walks, it is not advisable. Injuries, exhaustion, and resistance might result from overwalking.
When Can You Start Walking a Shih Tzu Puppy?
After your puppies take all their shots, you can start safely taking them outside. Most vaccination is complete by the four-month mark. You can take your puppy for a walk in the park, yard, or public places.
How Do You Train a Shih Tzu Puppy to Walk on a Leash?
You will need many repetitive actions and tasty treats when you train your Shih Tzu to walk on a leash. Stick to your scheduled leash training sessions. There are several methods for leash training:
The Command Word Method
- Introduce a command to your Shih Tzu, the one you will use when you walk together. It can be “Let’s go” or “Let’s walk.” Use it each time you take your puppy for a walk on a leash.
- Attach the leash to your Shih Tzu puppy’s collar or harness. Condition by letting it walk around the house with the leash. It will get used to how it feels, how heavy it is, and the sound it makes. When your pup obliges, give it a treat.
- Use your command and begin walking. Start with your Shih Tzu beside you on a fairly tight leash. There shouldn’t be any pulling. Ensure that the leash is loose enough but not too loose. If it’s too loose, your puppy can get away from you, pull on you, or get tangled around your feet.
- While walking, give your puppy a treat every now and then. Offer verbal praises such as “yes” or “good job.” Try to use the same terms each time.
- Whenever your Shih Tzu puppy pulls on the leash, stop walking. Wait until it stops pulling. Then give the command to start again and begin walking.
- Keep using this method. As soon as your pup is doing well, slowly loosen the leash to give it more space for loose-leash walking.
- Remember to reward your young canine along the way and at the end of your walk. Upon arriving home, take off its leash, give it a treat, and verbal praises.
- You can schedule longer walks together after constant practice and good results. Take at least one walk a day with your Shih Tzu puppy.
The Change Direction Method
- Put a collar and a leash on your pup before leaving the house. Like the Command Word Method, you can practice on the leash inside your home. It will help your young dog get used to how the collar or harness feels around his neck or body.
- When your dog gets used to the leash and collar or harness, offer a treat. Always reward your puppy for positive behaviors.
- Initiate a short walk together with your Shih Tzu on the leash. During the walk, say “yes” often to your Shih. Hand a treat when you say the word. Your pup will know that the word “yes” is positive.
- If your Shih Tzu pulls on the leash, stop walking. Turn around and start walking in the opposite direction. While doing this, your puppy will be tugged on by your walking in the opposite direction. It will, then, have to stop or catch up.
- Each time your Shih Tzu demonstrates leash manners, say the word “yes” and give a treat. Leash manners include not pulling on the leash, not walking in front or behind you, crossing your path, and not chasing after anything along your stroll.
- On the other hand, stop and walk in the opposite direction each time your Shih Tzu chooses poor leash manners. Give treats and praises only when your puppy is doing well.
The Click-To-Heel Method
- Put your Shih Tzu on a leash or harness. Click and treat when the leash is on. Doing this will set your pup up for training mode.
- Place your young canine on your left side and ask it to sit. When it does, click and treat for a good job.
- Begin walking unless it is the first time your pup is on a leash. On your first time, give your dog a few minutes to get used to the feel and weight of the leash before walking.
- Hold a treat in your left hand and start walking forward. Use the command ‘heel’ while walking.
- After every few yards, click and treat as long as your puppy walks and stays by your side. The goal is to keep your Shih Tzu next to you on your left side. It shouldn’t be pulling on the leash, going too far ahead or behind.
- If your dog goes far from your left side, stop walking. Wait for it to stop as well. Then, start again. Don’t give it a click and treat until you have walked a few yards.
- Always reward your Shih Tzu whenever it is doing well. After the walk, remove the leash. Reward your pup with a tasty treat.
Leash training will keep you both safe and stress-free. When you are walking your Shih Tzu puppy on a leash, the goal is for it to take your lead.
Starting them early in teaching leash manners will significantly help. Ensure that your puppy is at least eight weeks old before introducing a leash. Get one that is appropriate for its adult size and weight.
How Much Should a Shih Tzu Puppy Walk?
For Shih Tzu puppies, about 5 minutes a day of walking is enough. Considering their little bodies, Shih Tzu puppies don’t need much exercise.
Even when fully grown, they’re still on the small side. Too much movement at a young age could cause joint and bone issues later in life.
How Long Should I Walk My 3-Month-Old Shih Tzu?
The rule of thumb in puppies is that they can walk for five minutes for every month of age starting at eight weeks old. Following this rule, a three-month-old Shih Tzu can walk for around 15 minutes.
How Long Can I Walk My Shih Tzu Puppy?
You can take your Shih Tzu puppy for a five-minute walk every month of its age. This means that a two-month-old can walk for 10 minutes. On the other hand, a four-month-old can do 20 minutes of walking.
How Far Can a 4-Month-Old Shih Tzu Walk?
Most Shih Tzu can walk up to three miles (4.8 km). However, it will depend on their energy levels, activity preference, and training. If you train your puppy early, then it can probably walk farther.
If you want your Shih Tzu to walk longer and farther distances, always start with short walks. Build it up over time.
Take your puppy’s lead and needs as a cue. Should your puppy sit or lie down in the middle of your stroll, it’s a clear sign that it needs to rest or stop.
How Far Can a 5-Month-Old Shih Tzu Walk?
Depending on your pace, you and your five-month-old Shih Tzu can cover varied distances. Being a small breed with short legs, they cannot cover a lot of ground even if they are briskly walking.
Add incline, terrain, and weather to the mix. Whatever walking conditions you put your Shih Tzu in, it will be happy spending the time with you. Expect it to cover around one to three miles (around 4.8 km).
How Far Can a 6-Month-Old Shih Tzu Walk?
Most six-month-old Shih Tzu walks briskly daily for 15 to 20 minutes. This is the bare minimum exercise requirement for them. It will keep them healthy with well-regulated activity levels.
Most Shih Tzu is happy with a one- to three-mile walk (around 4.8 km). If this is your pet’s favorite exercise, it may end up walking up to 10 miles (16 km) or more.
Be careful because the Shih Tzu is not made for strenuous activities. Follow along as your canine sets the pace. Look more at the time rather than distance.
Can You Overwalk a Shih Tzu Puppy?
Similar to the human child, your puppy’s bones and joints need time to grow and mature. Overexercising your puppy in their growing years is never a good idea.
A Shih Tzu pup that does strenuous exercises might damage its growth plates and joints. These can lead to painful conditions such as early-onset arthritis and hip dysplasia.
Can You Run With a Shih Tzu?
Although your Shih Tzu is a great walking buddy, they are not a good jogging companion. They weren’t built to run very fast. You may get a few minutes of jogging with them, but they will soon get exhausted.
Your pet hails from a brachycephalic breed. It means they have narrowed nostrils and partially obstructed airways. Vigorous activities will cause difficulties in breathing.
If your canine buddy is young and healthy, it packs a lot of energy. You may be lucky to score half of a mile with it. It will be a combination of brisk walking and light jogging.
How Fast Can Shih Tzu Run?
The average running speed of this breed can be anywhere from 6 to 18 mph (10 to 29 kph).
Based on records, the fastest Shih Tzu in the AKC FAST Coursing Ability Test logged a running speed of 21.13 mph (34 kph). Its name was Sweetiepie.
How Far Can a Shih Tzu Run?
The average distance your canine can run is between 2 and 5 miles (3–8 km) at peak performance.
The Shih Tzu has issues that prevent them from being the fastest or longest runners. Two of these are its skeletal build and breathing problems.
Nevertheless, if you train a Shih Tzu, you may be able to work it up to a certain speed. But be mindful in doing so. Because of the structure of their lung and nasal passages, running at top speed can be dangerous.
Do Shih Tzu Like Swimming?
Like all dogs, most Shih Tzu got an instinctual ability to swim. Due to their body size and build, it can be a brawl for them to get enough air. So they don’t have the stamina to do it for long periods.
Some Shih Tzu are fond of being around water. Others want nothing to do with it. Although swimming is an excellent exercise for your pet, they aren’t fit for a long and vigorous workout.
Can Shih Tzu Swim in Cold Water?
A quick swim on a hot summer day is a great way to cool a Shih Tzu down while getting them some exercise. If your dog loves to swim, it may be able to tolerate the cold water. Stay close and watch over its body temperature.
How Do I Get My Shih Tzu to Like Water?
Most dogs are natural swimmers. Some of them love the water. The rest are hesitant, guarded, or afraid of it. It could be because it’s their first time. Generally, it may come from fear of something new.
You can turn your Shih Tzu into a water-loving swimmer with proper introduction and training. Follow the suggestions:
- Make Every Bath Time Fun. Use warm water in a low-pressure setting. It will make the water comfortable for your Shih Tzu. Offer praises and treats. Doing this will make your pet know it is doing a good job and gets plenty of goodies in the water.
- You May Use a Kiddie Pool. When your pup enjoys its bath time, you’re ready for the pool. Make baby steps and introduce the kiddie pool. Fill it ankle-high. Throw in a few of your pup’s toys. Distract it by playing games such as a game of fetch. Increase the water level slowly. Your pet will love to splash in the pool soon!
- Join Your Dog in the Water. Especially if your canine is scared, lead the way. They will trust you and feel more confident by showing them that the water is okay.
- Invite a Water-Loving Playmate. If your pup sees its friends running and jumping into the water, it will realize that it is fun and not frightening.
Is It Good or Bad for a Shih Tzu to Jump?
All dogs can jump. However, distance and agility will vary significantly between different breeds. Toy breeds like the Shih Tzu should only jump sparing heights. Big jumps may cause these small breeds severe injuries.
How High Can Shih Tzu Jump?
With their short legs, Shih Tzu can jump up to eight inches (20 cm). Be careful as this can be too high for some. Allow your pup to jump between four to six inches (10–15 cm).
Remember that jumping down from your couch or bed is risky for this toy breed and other small dogs.
Is Agility Bad for Shih Tzu?
Agility is an excellent exercise for your dog. It can help reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and other serious illnesses.
Furthermore, dogs that exercise are healthy. It prevents mental and emotional issues like lowering stress and depression. Generally, they live longer than dogs that do not exercise.
