15 Things No One Tells You Before Getting a Shih Tzu

Getting a shih tzu is a wonderful experience, but there are so many things that you need to know. What follows are fifteen things that you should know before getting a shih tzu.

Boredom

Shih Tzus get bored just like the rest of us even with the toys we give them. Be sure to buy new toys ever so often.

Bugs

A shih tzu has no issue either chasing or eating bugs. For the most part, that behavior is harmless, but it can be distracting.

Dog Hair

Although shih tzus do not shed as much as some other dogs, they still shed enough for guests to know you have a dog even if they can’t see them.

Eating Their Own Vomit

This is quite common with dogs, even shih tzus. So, if you are not familiar with this habit, you will need to get familiar because it is going to happen.

Get to Know You

Remember that dogs and humans have been bonding for many thousands of years. So, do not be surprised if your shih tzu really gets to know your habits.

Licking Their Genitals

This is a part of their normal grooming behavior. Why they tend to do it in front of your guests is another matter.

Peeing

While all mammals urinate, a shih tzu will pee just about anywhere unless you train them. Smelling urine is part of the communication between dogs, so it pays to know that.

Pooping

For whatever reason, shih tzus like all dogs will poop frequently when on walks. Whatever causes this behavior is unknown, but they do seem to engage in it every time.

Post-Bath Frenzy

Sometimes called the zoomies, this is when your shih tzu suddenly gets energetic after taking a bath. This is how your shih tzu releases all that pent-up energy, so don’t panic when you see it.

Rolling in Stink

Another common dog trait, there is no complete explanation for this behavior. But if your shih tzu comes across something stinky like poop, a dead animal, or the like they will want to roll in it.

Routines

Shih Tzus love to engage in routines which you help establish with your daily activities. Once you change your activities like sleeping late, they will not like that.

Sloppiness

Even shih tzus have trouble keeping a dog food and water bowl neat. You’ll find dribble around both bowls, so be prepared for that.

Smelly Paws

The bacteria that grows on the paws of your shih tzu will smell something like corn chips. So, be prepared to wash their feet if you do not like that smell.

Teaching Manners

You better teach them where to relieve themselves, not to jump on things, or stay out of unwanted areas. Because shih tzus will not learn this on their own.

Toilet water

Water from the toilet tends to be fresher than what is in their bowl. So that is why they drink from it.

Once you know the fifteen things, then you will feel more comfortable in deciding if a shih tzu is right for you. Just remember that along with the responsibilities comes the love and affection that only a shih tzu can bring.