You, as a pet parent, are aware of this fact when it comes to the love that we give our pets since they are members of the family, but sometimes the stench is too much. It can be your dog, cat or even other pets and that unpleasant smell is something that makes your home look less clean. Don’t worry. You do not have to use costly sprays and chemical cleansers. Actually, some of the solutions are next to your kitchen. I will take you through easy, natural, and cheap methods of eliminating the smell of pets in your home. I will put it all across in a casual yet cordial manner--almost as to a friend. The Question of Why Pet Smell Remains in the House. It is worth understanding the problem before correcting it. Pet smell usually comes from: • Fur and dander (dead skin) • Urine or accidents • Saliva and drool • Bedding and carpets • Poor ventilation Alt...
The Shih Tzu dogs are among the friendliest companions worldwide. Their cute face, fluffy coat and friendly personality, though, make them a member of the family soon. The fact that we attach to Shih Tzus, you are likely already aware of given the fact you own one. They are everywhere with us, they sit by us as we rest and even assumed the role of a baby.
Nevertheless, Shih Tzus are prone to certain health complications as any other breed of dogs. They are small in size, have a flat face, and long hair, so they may have some issues with some problems more than other dogs. The upside of these problems is that they can be prevented or controlled with proper attention by the majority.
In this paper, we shall discuss 10 typical health issues among the Shih Tzu dogs and the easy measures that can be taken to ensure they are avoided.
1. Breathing Problems
Shih Tzus possess flat face nose. Due to this they are at times faced with difficulties in breathing, particularly during hot weather.
Common signs
• Heavy breathing
• Snoring loudly
• Easy fatigability when playing.
How to prevent it
• Do not expose them to very hot afternoons.
• Store them in the cool environment.
• Do not over-exercise them
• Eat well to maintain good body weight.
Existing care may suffice to help them feel better.
2. Eye Problems
The huge handsome eyes of a Shih Tzu are one of the most apparent features. The big eyes are, however, easily irritated or infected.
Common issues
• Eye discharge
• Redness
• Excessive tearing
How to prevent it
• Wipe down the eye flask with a damp cloth.
• Have regular hair cuts around eyes.
• See a vet in case discharge gets thick or yellow.
It is highly important that their eyes are kept clean.
3. Skin Allergies
Most of the Shih Tzus are allergic to skin. This may occur as a result of food, dust, pollen and even grooming products.
Common signs
• Itching and scratching
• Red skin patches
• Hair loss in some areas
How to prevent it
• Use mild dog shampoo
• Keep their bedding clean
• Feed high-quality dog food
• According to regular grooming, skin remains healthy.
When the scratching goes on over several days, one should visit a veterinarian.
4. Dental Problems
Shih Tzus possess tiny mouths and this makes their teeth to be crowded together. The result of this crowding may be accumulation of plaque, gum disease and bad breath.
Common signs
• Yellow teeth
• Bad breath
• Difficulty chewing food
How to prevent it
• Clean their teeth twice- three times per week.
• Provide dental chew toys
• Get dental cleaning with a veterinarian as required.
Dental care is not given much attention as a daily routine but it has a significant impact on the general health of a dog
5. Ear Infections
Moisture and dirt can be trapped in their floppy ears and fat hair causing ear infections.
Common signs
• Scratching the ears
• Bad smell from ears
• Shaking the head often
How to prevent it
• Clean ears gently once a week
• Keep ear hair trimmed
• Do not put water in the ears when taking baths.
Ear checks should be done regularly to detect infection on time.
6. Obesity (Weight Gain)
Shih Tzus are serious eater, and within no time they may add up to excess weight. Other health issues such as joint pain and breathing problems may occur as a result stemming out of obesity.
How to prevent it
• Eat the appropriate amount of food.
• Avoid giving too many treats
• Give him daily light exercise such as short walks.
• Measuring their weights on a regular basis.
A good weight will make them active and cheerful.
7. Joint Problems
Other Shih Tzus have joint problems particularly with age. Sometimes their small legs may be strained because of jumping out of sofas or beds.
Common signs
• Limping
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Slower movement
How to prevent it
• Do not allow them to leap on elevated areas.
• Provide soft bedding
• Maintain proper body weight
• Administer supplements that are veterinarian approved.
Early care of their joints will help them avoid life long discomfort.
8. Heat Sensitivity
Shih Tzus are sensitive to heat. During hot environment, they are prone to overheating.
Common signs
• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Weakness
How to prevent it
• Keep them indoors in the open season.
• It should supply fresh water whenever necessary.
• Proper ventilation at home.
• Do not take long walks out in the afternoon in summer.
This is particularly significant in the owners of pets residing in hot areas.
9. Digestive Problems
There can also be a problem with stomachs of Shih Tzus sometimes because they suddenly changed food or ate inappropriate food.
Common signs
• Vomiting
• Loose stools
• Loss of appetite
How to prevent it
• Introduce new food slowly
• Avoid feeding table scraps
• Deliver clean and fresh drinking water.
• Keep on a regular feeding schedule.
Their intestinal tract is also good due to a stable diet.
10. Hair and Grooming Issues
Shih Tzu coat is long and beautiful and it needs to be taken care of. Otherwise, it may cause matting, irritation of the skin, and infections.
How to prevent it
• Brush their coat daily
• Arrange grooming sessions.
• Have hair about paws and eyes cut.
• Wash them with mild shampoo of dogs.
They are kept in good grooming to make them look cute.
A Small Personal Note
Every person that owns Shih Tzu can attest that they are not pets; they become family. I recall a time when I had seen my dog scratching her ear. It first appeared to be small but a visit to the veterinarian showed a minor ear infection. Fortunately, this was detected at an early stage and thus it was easily treated.
The experience taught me a very crucial lesson that I can be able to save my pets some huge things in future by simply doing routine check-ups and performing preventive care that is easy to carry out.
Final Thoughts ❤
Shih Tzu are personalities that are loving and loyal. They are able to lead a healthy life with the right attention of many years. The above health issues can be avoided by means of:
• Regular grooming
• Balanced diet
• Routine vet check-ups
• Observation of the behaviour of your pet daily.
Keep in mind that the healthier the dog the happier he is. In case you found this article useful, you are welcome to spread it with the rest of social media users so that the other dog lovers could learn how to take care of their Shih Tzus as well. And the last thing is to become a subscriber to our blog to get some more tips, guides, and information helpful.
The little thing that you do could save another pet parent a life with a furry love.💗
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