Shih Tzu Health Problems: Important Things You Need To Know

Shih Tzus are adorable little dogs with big personalities. They have a warming heart and with a playful nature and loving dispositions.

Like we say; Every Things isn’t always perfect, So they aren’t 100 percent perfect. Shih Tzus can face some health challenges. It’s super important to know about these potential issues.

This way, you can spot problems early and keep your furry buddy happy and healthy for years to come.

What You’ll Learn

In this article, I will work you through the most common health problems that Shih Tzus might face.

We’ll also talk about ways to prevent these issues and what to do if you notice something’s not quite right with your pup.

Common Health Problems in Shih Tzus

Eye Problems

Shih Tzus have those big, beautiful eyes that we all love. But sometimes, these eyes can give them trouble. Here are some eye problems to watch out for:

1. Corneal ulcers: These are like little sores on the surface of the eye. They can hurt and make your dog’s eye look red and watery.
2. Cataracts: This is when the lens of the eye gets cloudy. It can make it hard for your dog to see clearly.
3. Entropion: This happens when the eyelid rolls inward. It can make your dog’s eyelashes rub against their eye, which is not comfy at all!
4. Epiphora: This is a fancy word for excessive tearing. You might notice wet spots under your dog’s eyes.

To help you understand these eye problems better, here’s a simple table:

Eye Problem	What It Looks Like	What It Feels Like for Your Dog
Corneal ulcers	Red, watery eye	Ouch! Stinging or burning
Cataracts	Cloudy eye	Blurry vision
Entropion	Eyelid rolled inward	Scratchy, irritating
Epiphora	Wet fur under eyes	Damp and uncomfortable

Respiratory Issues

Shih Tzus have cute, squishy faces that we love to smoosh. But this face shape can sometimes cause breathing problems. Here are two main issues to know about:

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): This is a mouthful to say! It means that because of their flat faces, some Shih Tzus might have trouble breathing easily.
• Heatstroke risk: Because of their breathing difficulties, Shih Tzus can get too hot more easily than other dogs.

Back and Joint Problems

Shih Tzus are small, but they can still have problems with their backs and joints. Here are three common issues:

1. Intervertebral disc disease: This is when the cushions between the bones in the spine get hurt. It can cause pain and make it hard for your dog to move around.
2. Luxating patella: This is when the kneecap slips out of place. It can make your dog limp or hop on three legs.
3. Hip dysplasia: This is when the hip joint doesn’t fit together quite right. It can cause pain and make it hard for your dog to run and play.

Dental Health Issues

Shih Tzus can have problems with their teeth and gums. Here are two main things to watch out for:

• Periodontal disease: This is when the gums get infected and sore. It can make your dog’s breath smell bad and even cause them to lose teeth if it’s not treated.
• Importance of oral hygiene: Keeping your Shih Tzu’s teeth clean is super important to prevent these problems.

Skin and Allergy Conditions

Shih Tzus have long, beautiful coats. But sometimes, their skin can get itchy or infected. Here are two common issues:

1. Allergies leading to skin infections: Just like people, dogs can get allergies. These can make their skin itchy and lead to infections if they scratch too much.
2. Ear infections: Shih Tzus have floppy ears that can trap moisture. This can lead to ear infections if not kept clean and dry.

What Are the Signs of Health Problems in Shih Tzus?

It’s important to know what to look for if your Shih Tzu isn’t feeling well. Here are some signs that might mean your pup needs to see the vet:

• Scratching a lot
• Shaking their head or scratching their ears
• Rubbing their face on the carpet or furniture
• Limping or having trouble walking
• Coughing or making weird noises when breathing
• Not wanting to eat or drink
• Seeming sad or not wanting to play
• Having red or watery eyes
• Throwing up or having diarrhea

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to call your vet and ask for advice.

Less Common but Serious Health Issues

While not as common, there are some other health problems that can affect Shih Tzus. It’s good to know about these too:

1. Juvenile renal dysplasia: This is a kidney problem that some Shih Tzus are born with.
2. Liver shunt and liver disease: These are problems with how the liver works.
3. Blood disorders: Some Shih Tzus can have problems with their blood, like von Willebrand’s disease or autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

These problems are not as common, but they can be serious if they happen. That’s why regular check-ups with your vet are so important.

Preventative Care for Shih Tzus

The best way to keep your Shih Tzu healthy is to prevent problems before they start. Here are some tips:

1. Regular veterinary check-ups: Take your pup to the vet at least once a year for a check-up, even if they seem healthy.
2. Balanced diet and exercise: Feed your Shih Tzu good quality food and make sure they get plenty of playtime and walks.
3. Grooming: Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat regularly and keep their ears clean and dry.
4. Dental care: Brush your dog’s teeth regularly or give them dental chews to keep their mouth healthy.
5. Weight management: Keep your Shih Tzu at a healthy weight to avoid putting extra stress on their joints and back.

How Can I Maintain My Shih Tzu’s Eye Health?

Keeping your Shih Tzu’s eyes healthy is super important. Here are some tips:

• Gently clean around their eyes every day with a soft, damp cloth
• Trim the hair around their eyes to keep it from irritating them
• Use eye drops recommended by your vet if your dog’s eyes seem dry
• Watch for any redness, discharge, or squinting and tell your vet if you notice these

Managing Respiratory Issues in Shih Tzus

Because of their cute flat faces, Shih Tzus can sometimes have trouble breathing. Here are some ways to help:

Tips for avoiding heatstroke:

• Don’t let your Shih Tzu get too hot on warm days
• Always have fresh water available
• Never leave your dog in a car, even for a short time
• Exercise in the cooler parts of the day

Recognizing signs of respiratory distress:

Watch out for:

• Noisy breathing
• Panting a lot
• Blue-tinged gums
• Collapsing

If you see these signs, get your dog to a cool place and call your vet right away.

What Should I Do If My Shih Tzu Shows Signs of Pain or Discomfort?

If your furry friend seems to be in pain or just not feeling right, here’s what to do:

1. Stay calm – your pup can sense when you’re worried
2. Check for any obvious injuries or swelling
3. Call your vet and describe what you’re seeing
4. Follow your vet’s advice – they might want to see your dog right away

Remember, you know your Shih Tzu best. If something seems off, trust your instincts and get help.

Last Words…

Shih Tzus are wonderful little dogs with so much love to give. By understanding their potential health issues, you can help your dog live a long, happy, and healthy life. Remember, regular check-ups with your vet, good nutrition, plenty of exercise, and lots of love are the keys to keeping your Shih Tzu in great shape.

Let’s not forget – every dog is unique. Some Shih Tzus might face all of these health challenges, some might face some of these health issues, while others might sail through life with no problems at all.

The most important thing is to pay attention to your dog, give them lots of love and care, and work closely with your vet to address any issues that come up.

What are the most common health problems in Shih Tzus?

The most common health problems in Shih Tzus include:

• Eye issues like corneal ulcers and cataracts
• Breathing difficulties due to their flat faces
• Back and joint problems like intervertebral disc disease
• Dental issues
• Skin allergies and ear infections

How can I tell if my Shih Tzu is healthy?

A healthy Shih Tzu should:

• Have bright, clear eyes
• Breathe easily without excessive noise
• Have a shiny coat without bald patches or excessive scratching
• Be eager to eat and play
• Have fresh-smelling breath
• Move around easily without limping

If you notice changes in these areas, it’s a good idea to check with your vet.

What should I look for during a vet visit for my Shih Tzu?

During a vet visit for your Shih Tzu, make sure the vet:

• Checks their eyes, ears, and teeth
• Listens to their heart and lungs
• Feels for any lumps or bumps on their body
• Checks their weight
• Discusses their diet and exercise routine
• Answers any questions you have about your dog’s health or behavior