Everything About Shih Tzu From Stain Glass Shih Tzu

A Look at Dog Food Ingredients that Promotes Good Health for Your Shih Tzu

2007-10-25T07:57:00.001-07:00

A high quality dog food for the Shih Tzu does not contain by-products or inferior grains, chemical additives or preservatives of any kind. By-products, inferior grains, chemical additives and preservatives are all known to be harmful to your Shih Tzu.
Many times dog food manufacturers will use very high temperatures when cooking their products. This actually destroys nutrients and vitamins. They will then add flavor enhancers or coloring to replace what the high temperature cooking process takes from the appearance and flavor of the food. Pay attention to how your dog food is cooked.
A high quality dog food for the Shih Tzu will only contain natural goodness in a superior food product that is formulated especially to promote good health. Dog food manufacturers who are actually concerned about the health of your Shih Tzu will be extremely careful about every single ingredient. Fresh human quality foods from carefully selected farmers and growers combined with the high quality extras such as proteinated minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and bacteria cultures are known to have a beneficial effect on the health and well-being of the Shih Tzu as well as other canine breeds.

Shih Tzu Nutrition: Tips for Choosing the Highest Quality of Food for Your Shih Tzu

2007-10-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

Your Shih Tzu will eat about the same food every day. This is why it is so important that the brand of dog food you feed is high in nutrition. The food you feed your Shih Tzu is his or her main source of nutrition and it is vital to a long and healthy life.
You might think that all pet food manufacturers have your dog’s best interests in mind when it comes to formulating their dog food products. This is not always the case. The current pet food regulations allow manufacturers to use ingredients that you would never knowingly feed your Shih Tzu. You would probably be in a state of shock to learn exactly what some pet food manufacturers actually put into their foods. Many pet food manufacturers include by-products like feet, bones and intestines, chemical preservatives like BHA and BHT, and grains like corn, wheat, gluten and soy, that are used as protein sources, but are most often difficult to digest. All these “wrong” kinds of ingredients can put unnecessary stress on your pet’s system and can lead to an unhealthy Shih Tzu as well as shorten the life of your Shih Tzu. Read on at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ purchase high quality dog foods at http://www.healthylife27.com/

Learning to Tube Feed Shih Tzu Puppies

2007-10-20T10:44:00.001-07:00

It is not difficult to learn the correct tube feeding procedure. Purchase the tube feeder through your veterinarian, who will be able to equip you with the correct diameter catheter and syringe size for your Shih Tzu. Sterilize both catheter and syringe between early feedings. The syringe will have graduated markings on the side to record accurate intake. You will need a bowl or large measuring cup for warm water, a candy thermometer and a nontoxic indelible pen or dull knife.
1. Place water heated to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the bowl or measuring cup.2. Heat the formula separately (also to 100 degrees Fahrenheit) using the candy thermometer to regulate the temperatures of both liquids.3. Put the thermometer, syringe, catheter and warmed formula into the bowl of water for transport to the Shih Tzu puppy.
Each puppy should be measured for gavage feeding. Correct measurement is crucial to the Shih Tzu puppy’s well-being. Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Early Shih Tzu Puppy Stimulation

2007-10-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

The first sense of a Shih Tzu puppy is “scent.” The newborn Shih Tzu puppy will be able to smell the scent of the breeder immediately after the sac is broken. The Shih Tzu breeder is familiar with litters of Shih Tzu puppies before their eyes open. Up until the Shih Tzu puppy opens its eyes they became familiar with their breeder’s scent through their dam’s coat. Shih Tzu puppies learn where there is and is not a place of milk and nourishment on their mother through scent.
It is advisable that only the Shih Tzu breeder handle puppies during their first two weeks. This does limit the Shih Tzu puppy’s reality of the world around them; however, it is practicing sound early responsible care practices. As Shih Tzu puppies begin to open their eyes they become aware of differences in people. Because of this awareness, a very young Shih Tzu puppy may act violently the first time handled by anyone other than their breeder. The Shih Tzu puppy may begin to struggle or scream to be free. It really is not necessary for other people besides the breeder to handle Shih Tzu puppies during this very early period of their lives. If a Shih Tzu puppy is frightening by early interactions with other people it could set the stage for later mistrust toward all humans. It is therefore extremely important that all early contacts with a Shih Tzu puppy be positive. Once a barrier of distrust is instilled in a newborn Shih Tzu puppy, the puppy can become hard to work with and sometimes even unmanageable as adults. Limiting contact with humans also aids in the spreading of germs to newborn Shih Tzu puppies.
There is a proper way to hold a very young Shih Tzu puppy. You should not “swoop” a Shih Tzu puppy quickly into your arms, or hold it at arm’s length. Do not ever pick up a Shih Tzu puppy by its legs, ears, tail or scruff. Severe and even irreparable damage can result.
Use the following steps to pick up and hold a newborn and very young Shih Tzu puppy: Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/

Shih Tzu – Difficult Deliveries

2007-10-20T10:27:00.000-07:00

Most Shih Tzu puppies present themselves normally at birth. There are times, very few times, of which I have experienced with the Shih Tzu that required assistance. Usually the most difficult Shih Tzu puppy birth is the first one. Delivery of a dry Shih Tzu puppy or overly large Shih Tzu puppy can take longer than normal and may affect the next Shih Tzu puppy birth. This next Shih Tzu puppy may be stillborn or have more fluid in the trachea and lungs. Oftentimes, subsequent Shih Tzu siblings are born normally.
Not every stillborn Shih Tzu puppy or difficult delivery is the result of a Shih Tzu matron suffering inertia. The problem of inertia, however, will cause a higher percentage of stillborn Shih Tzu puppies. Shih Tzu puppies are normally vigorous while attached to the uterine wall. Once freed from the uterine wall, a Shih Tzu puppy has limited time in which to arrive. Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Bottle Feeding Orphan Shih Tzu Puppies

2007-10-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

Nursing bottles for orphaned Shih Tzu puppies can be obtained through the veterinarian, pet supplier, wholesale catalogs or the internet. You should purchase several nipple styles to see which works best for you and your Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzu puppies can become colicky just like human newborn babies. Be careful about allowing a Shih Tzu puppy to ingest air when either tube or bottle feeding. Always turn the bottle and nipple end down, before offering it to the Shih Tzu puppy. All the air in the bottle will rise to the solid end. When the Shih Tzu puppy is nursing freely bubbles rise in the bottle. The bubble flow should be fairly rapid, small and uniform in size, rising in even response to the Shih Tzu puppy’s nursing. If the bubbles are large the Shih Tzu puppy may also be ingesting air. Check the nipple cap.
Occasionally remove the bottle from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth to allow a return passage of air back into the bottle. A return passage of air occurs either through turning the bottle upright or by momentarily loosening the cap. Do not abruptly pull the bottle from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth. Place a finger in the corner of the Shih Tzu puppy’s lip to break the nursing hold.
Some Shih Tzu puppies may instinctively resist the unnatural feel of a manufactured nipple. 1. If the dam is available, rub the bottle and nipple and a towel over her mammaries.2. Drape this towel across your stomach and lap.3. Hold the puppy on your lap against your abdomen.4. Express a small amount of formula from the bottle and wipe it over the nipple. Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Does Your Shih Tzu Eat Its Own Stool?

2007-08-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

One of the most unpleasant aspects of Shih Tzu breeding or owning a Shih Tzu is the Shih Tzu who takes to eating its stool. The official name for this practice is “coprophagy.” It is one of the unsolved mysteries in the dog world. However, there are several theories.

Some people say nutritional deficiencies. I can honestly say that since I have been feeding my Shih Tzu HealthyPetNet Life’s Abundance food I have seen a remarkable “decrease” in this activity. I can only assume my problem was being caused by inadequate nutrition. Read on at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Imagine Yourself as a Little Dog

2007-08-15T13:38:00.000-07:00

Benny pictured here is available from his litter of 3 girls and him. He is a sweet little guy with beautiful coloring in the category of silver/blue. He will lighten to a bluish beige platinum color. He is an Imperial size Shih Tzu.

Your little dog has just as much intelligence and instincts as the larger 150 pound dogs. Sometimes these little dogs forget they are little. When he growls and snaps at bigger dogs it is most likely he figures that he is safer being the aggressor. Your little dog needs extra encouragement to feel safe. Gentle and happy training methods work best for the little dogs. Positive training methods are essential for the small toy breed dogs.

Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/

Always Feed Your Shih Tzu the Highest Quality of Pet Food to Avoid Pancreatitis

2007-08-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

The disease of pancreatitis can occur in your Shih Tzu if you feed the Shih Tzu table scraps and/or garbage. It is important to feed your Shih Tzu a well-balanced diet of high quality pet food. Pancreatitis presents itself from a severe inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ that aids in the digestion of the Shih Tzu’s food.

Symptoms of pancreatitis in the Shih Tzu include:

A Shih Tzu who suddenly starts to vomit
The vomiting may cause dehydration and the Shih Tzu may become lethargic
The Shih Tzu may also experience diarrhea

The above symptoms are of course common to many diseases in the canine population as well as your own beloved Shih Tzu puppy or Shih Tzu adult. To help your vet make an appropriate diagnosis, be prepared to give him or her a good past history of events of your Shih Tzu eating patterns and what you been feeding the Shih Tzu as well as other health related history. A good history from you, the Shih Tzu owner, will help your vet determine whether or not the Shih Tzu has pancreatitis due to improper eating or some other disease.

Basics of a Shih Tzu Dog Show

2007-08-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

If you have never gone to a Shih Tzu or any breed dog show you might wonder exactly what the judge will be doing.

The judge will look into the mouth of the Shih Tzu or other dog breed to check for the correct number of teeth and the bite. I mean after all, do you ever see a winning Miss America with no front teeth? The same holds true for Shih Tzu and other dog breeds in the show ring. Missing teeth is a disqualification in many of the breeds.

He will also check a male to be sure he has two testicles. A missing testicle is a disqualification.

During this inspection the judge will feel various parts of the Shih Tzu or other breed of dog, searching out the angles of the shoulders and hips, the head and ribs. This is especially true with the heavily-coated breeds like the Shih Tzu. You can’t tell exactly what the structure of a heavily-coated Shih Tzu is without hands-on examinations. Some of the smaller breeds are examined on a raised table. If you see a handler lift the Shih Tzu or other dog breed from the table to the ground with one hand under the chin and the other hand using the tail, they do this to avoid messing up the Shih Tzu’s hairstyle. It is not uncomfortable for the dog at all.

Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/

Dog Fashions For Toy Dogs and The Shih Tzu

2007-08-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

The tiny breeds such as the Imperial and Teacup Shih Tzu do look a whole lot cuter in their fancy clothes than say an Alaskan Malamute. But even if you have a large hardy dog that has a double coat, a raincoat is still a must to keep you from bringing home a sopping wet dog after a run through the park. Almost anyone with a little money can dress their Shih Tzu to ward off the elements. However, dog fashion has extended into leashes and collars. You rarely see a piece of rope around a Shih Tzu’s neck for a collar these days. This is just no longer appropriate for our best of friends, the dog.

Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/

We have new Imperial Puppies available. There are two puppies left from this recent litter. Check them out here: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/page/page/4472579.htm

Bella pictured here is mom to this litter.

Shih Tzu Comfort, Safety and Fashion with Collars and Leashes

2007-08-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu collars are practical and fashionable. A Shih Tzu collar can hold your Shih Tzu’s identification which can be his ticket back home to you if he gets lost. A Shih Tzu collar can also be your Shih Tzu’s most fashionable statement showing the world just how pampered and stylish he is.

Every Shih Tzu needs at least one collar. But as it is with you and earrings or necklaces and rings, your Shih Tzu and you will enjoy having several. Of course, you only really need one pair of shoes, but chances are you have many, a style and color for every occasion. So can it be the same with your Shih Tzu’s collar. You and your Shih Tzu can enjoy a color and style for any and every occasion.

The Shih Tzu that belongs to celebrities is known to wear some of the most fabulous-looking collars. The celebrities love to dress their Shih Tzu in the finest and most fashionable collars for their Shih Tzu. Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ (Home Page)

We have new IMPERIAL PUPPIES available on this page: http://www.stainglassshihtzu.com/page/page/4472579.htm

Shih Tzu Comfort, Safety and Fashion with Collars and Leashes

2007-08-04T21:01:00.000-07:00

Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ (on home page)

We have new IMPERIAL SHIH TZU PUPPIES available now on this page: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/page/page/4472579.htm

First Aid Treatment for Your Shih Tzu

2007-04-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

Be prepared for injuries and accidents for your Shih Tzu. Accidents can and do happen. Sometimes they can be quite serious. Being prepared for emergencies can increase chances of saving the life of your Shih Tzu and/or reducing the severity of the injury.

Every Shih Tzu owner should have a basic first aid kit. Items included in the kit should be:

• Ace bandage
• 1-inch adhesive tape
• Anticoagulant powder
• Topical antibiotic ointment
• Bandage scissors
• Betadine soaked gauze sponges
• A 2-1/2 inch gauze roll
• Gauze sponges
• Hydrogen peroxide solution, 3%
• Spoon splint
• Rectal thermometer

Cuts or lacerations are one of the most common accidents. Even though most likely your Shih Tzu will be kept indoors and carefully guarded, there is always the chance of an unpredictable accident or injury. For cuts or lacerations the most important thing to have on hand is bandage material, cleaning material and anticoagulant powder (the kind of powder you and/or your groomer would use for nails being cut too short).

I keep anticoagulant powder always close at hand when I am grooming my Shih Tzu. No matter how careful I am it seems I always cut a nail too short and it makes me just want to cry and scream to see just the least bit of blood coming from my Shih Tzu nails. I reach for the anticoagulant powder and some q-tips while apologizing for the nick. I dip the q-tip in the anticoagulant powder and apply it to the spot that is bleeding, applying as much pressure as possible for several minutes. This same method will take care of most minor wounds. Larger wounds should be seen by a vet immediately. Even a very small wound, other than a toenail cut too short, should be reported to your vet.

Another problem especially with dogs and the Shih Tzu are bee stings. If this occurs your best bet is to call your vet for his advice. You can give Benadryl, but you will need to call your vet for exact dosage and the go ahead to give this. A good plan may be to ask in advance and have whatever the vet recommends on hand in case of a bee sting emergency. It is reported that most dogs do not have a problem with bee stings, but some may have respiratory difficulty. If your Shih Tzu gets a bee sting, by all means carefully watch him or her for at least 24 hours.

Since the Shih Tzu is considered to be a small breed dog, regardless of the exact pounds, the Shih Tzu may have bouts of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs of hypoglycemia are the Shih Tzu will be lethargic and weak. You can rub karo syrup on the gums to quickly give the Shih Tzu an extra boost of glucose. I always keep Nutri-cal on hand to use for this with my Shih Tzu. Multiple episodes of hypoglycemia can be a sign of a more serious problem that should be reported to your vet for proper evaluation.

You should be able to distinguish between choking, gagging and coughing. Coughing may be brought on by strenuous exercise and go away once your Shih Tzu has settled down. Gagging may happen if your Shih Tzu swallows incorrectly and gets food caught in the trachea. If this occurs, a modified Heimlich maneuver can be used. Bend over your Shih Tzu, wrap your hands around its chest and do a quick jerking movement. This technique may be enough to dislodge something caught in the trachea. Choking can be caused by either an obstruction or a defect in the trachea. In the case of choking you should get your Shih Tzu to a vet as soon as possible. You might try to open your Shih Tzu’s mouth and remove the obstruction if this is the cause of the choking. Be aware that you could receive a bite; therefore, this is not highly recommended.

If your Shih Tzu is hit by a car, get him or her on a firm surface. If that is not available, put your Shih Tzu in a blanket. You want to move the Shih Tzu in one piece with a minimal amount of motion. In this case, you need to transport your Shih Tzu to the vet as soon as possible.

Poisonings are a major concern. There are three more common types of poisonings in dogs, they are:

• Anti-freeze
• Rodenticide
• Garbage ingestion

In all cases of poisonings, contact your vet immediately, even if you only suspect a poisoning has occurred. It takes 24 to 72 hours for clinical signs of a poisoning to manifest. In your first aid kit and nearby your phone keep the National Animal Poison Control Center number, which is 1-800-548-2423.

The treatment for heat stroke is to soak your Shih Tzu in cool or lukewarm water. Provide water, but do not force feed water. Take your Shih Tzu’s temperature. Normal temperature is 101 F and 102.5F. Contact your local veterinarian for further instructions and treatment.

In all cases of emergency with your Shih Tzu keep your veterinarian informed. He or she will know best as to how to treat your pet once you have administered emergency first aid treatment.

Author: Connie Limon, Breeder of pet and show prospect Shih Tzu in a variety of colors. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletters. Our website provides a wealth of information. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Shih Tzu Eating Feces: Why?

2007-04-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

If your Shih Tzu eats its own feces as well as the feces of its companions do not be alarmed and feel as though you have gotten a Shih Tzu from a breeder that was not reputable or some other cause. Behavioral research now says the idea that it is a dietary deficiency or a pancreatic enzyme deficiency is not even the source. Dogs in general are historically scavengers and this is believed to be a scavenger behavior.

I cannot believe how some people who have purchased Shih Tzu will call me immediately and announce: “that dog eats its feces,” or some other negative sounding remark about the Shih Tzu in particular and often they are also referring to me as the breeder as something “guile” now that they witness “that dog eats its feces.” I am forever amazed at how people do not realize dogs and Shih Tzu are “animals,” and they will all have traits peculiar to what people would do. Of course, no human in their right mind would ever eat feces, although this has occurred in the human race as well.

A human eating feces, however, is very abnormal and is a reason to seek help for that individual as soon as possible. A human that eats feces is definitely mentally disturbed. Dogs are animals. They are not humans regardless of how much people domesticate them, they are still animals and will always carry some of their animal instincts with them wherever they go, and for as long as they live.

It is important for Shih Tzu owners and other dog owners to know this behavior is normal for a mother Shih Tzu or mother dog with puppies. Newborn puppies have to learn to urinate and defecate. They are not born able to eliminate their wastes automatically as human babies are.
Honestly, sometimes I feel like saying if you cannot accept that the Shih Tzu is an animal and accept some of its ways as being normal to this fact, then you need to adopt you a real live baby instead of adopting the Shih Tzu or other dogs and then being angry at the dog or the Shih Tzu or the breeder for that dog’s animalistic behaviors. I have even had people to tell me: “since that dog ate its feces, I have been turned against it,” and I sure don’t want that dog kissing me after knowing it eats feces.” Well, if you are a person such as this, you don’t need to adopt a Shih Tzu or any other kind of a puppy. Stay away from them, and if you must adopt something, adopt a human baby. But, I warn you, there will be problems with that as well.

Not everyone is able to be a Shih Tzu owner or dog owner. For those of us able to bear some of these less tasteful annoyances, hooray for us, because there is so much more to enjoy about the Shih Tzu and being a dog owner than there are those things that are negative.

A mother Shih Tzu licks the bottoms of their newborns. This licking stimulates the newborn to urinate and defecate. The Shih Tzu mother then consumes the newborn puppies’ excrement, which in the dog kingdom and as order of Mother Nature serves two protective purposes which are:

• It keeps the den area clean
• It removes smells that could attract a predator

A lot of Shih Tzu puppies and other breeds of puppies learn the behavior of eating feces from their mother and will stimulate themselves and consume their own feces. A person could go a little further and speculate the puppy is continuing the tradition of its mother to keep itself and its environment clean and to help ward off predators from its immediate environment. In the doggie kingdom, this would be considered “highly intelligent” behavior, rather than something so very awful and disgusting as it is in the world of humans. Most Shih Tzu puppies will eventually stop this behavior.

Adult Shih Tzu can learn this behavior from other adult Shih Tzu. In some cases it may also be an attention-seeking behavior, or due to anxiety or boredom. Animal behaviorist for the most part says though motivation for eating feces is just not known.

I have watched how my own Shih Tzu will follow me around when I am scooping feces, and some of them will try to get the feces up before I can get to it. In this case, I really feel they are playing a game with me, as if to say, I can get those feces before you get it. I can sit and look at the same section of feces, and nobody touches it, until I grab the scoop to get it, then there is a crew right there, ready to pick it up “first.” I call this behavior just plain “comical antics of the Shih Tzu.”

Eating feces is still a problem in that it exposes the Shih Tzu to parasites and diseases. The behavior is easier to prevent than cure. Do not allow the opportunity to arise. Keep the Shih Tzu’s area as clean as possible and dispose of feces promptly. This is probably the best possible solution for the problem.

You should also consult with your vet about other possible solutions to the Shih Tzu eating its own feces, and/or the feces of other dogs.

Author: Connie Limon, breeder of pet and show prospect Shih Tzu in a variety of colors. Website provides a wealth of information. Please visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ and sign up for our newsletters. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines. Visit our Shih Tzu Article collection for FREE reprints to your newsletter, website or blog at http://shihtzuarticles.com

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Reverend D. Allan Easton's Theory Regarding the "Imperial" Shih Tzu

2007-04-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Photo: Betty Sue, Imperial Size Shih Tzu, of Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Betty is a silver/blue color with black mask

Reverend D. Allan Easton was a Fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland and a Member of the American Oriental Society, the China Institute of America, and the Tibet Society of the United Kingdom, and the International Platform Association which unites public speakers and writers of the free world.

After he completed his studies in Glasgow and New York, Mr. Easton visited Peking in 1937. From that experience began his enthusiasm for the rare little Lion Dogs from the Manchu Palace.

Mr. Easton was one of the first Europeans to visit the hidden land of Tibet. He made the journey by mule and pony across a 15,000 foot mountain pass.

Mr. and Mrs. Easton’s first Shih Tzu was purchased in 1961 from the Pennsylvania fancier, Ingrid Colwell. They then imported dogs from England, Germany, and Holland and produced their own famous outstanding Chumulari line.

Reverend D. Allan Easton’s theory regarding the development of two different types of Shih Tzu in Old Peking was confirmed by a little-known essay written by the Princess Der Ling. Mr. Easton continually searched for first-hand information regarding the issue of different sizes in the Shih Tzu.

In this essay, Princess Der Ling describes the royal kennels. The essay was published in the United States in 1933. Princess Der Ling wrote about some fascinating information she received from the Empress Dowager about her beloved Shih Tzu:

“Out of a litter of four,” Her Majesty told me, “there are seldom more than two which are worth keeping. The others, even though they have the same father and mother, have something the matter with them – too short legs, too long bodies, or the wrong markings. They are inferior.”

“Particular care must be taken with feeding,” explained Her Majesty. “A Harba Go (Manchu words for this species of dog) must not be given too much water while he is growing, or he will become too large, which makes him ugly………”

“Puppies were not killed,” wrote the Princess Der Ling. “The eunuchs usually took discarded puppies out into the city and sold them, receiving good prices because the animals were from the imperial kennels.”

The practice of discarding puppies, which the Empress Dowager had rejected as inferior in quality, out into the city, was no secret. It was an accepted practice and was done on a considerable scale.

The Empress Dowager was intensely fond of animals and even though she regarded these as poor specimens of the breed she was glad to see her puppies go to homes where they were valued. It is speculated that the Empress Dowager probably wished these would be treated as pets, and not used for breeding, but this was a matter over which she had no means of exercising effective control. It is very questionable how much she knew went on outside the palace walls, as the life of the court was completely cut off from that of the ordinary citizens of Peking.

It is also not known just how small the Imperial Palace Shih Tzu was. According to most of Mr. Easton’s writing and research they were at least 9 pounds, solid and compact. For all any of us know today, there definitely could have been even smaller specimens kept in the Palace, and quite possibly could account for the under 9 pound Shih Tzu we still see occurring today.

Mr. Easton also writes often that the practice of breeding Shih Tzu with Pekingese was very common in the Imperial Palace. As author of this article, I believe this is another factor that could account for our even smaller versions of Shih Tzu today, of which some refer to as “teacups.”

Many of the under 9 pound Shih Tzu I live with today are healthy and they do not have liver shunt disease as the reason for their smaller size as so many of the advocates of the larger size Shih Tzu tell the consumer.

It could be medical fact that liver shunt disease is seen more often in the smaller sizes than the larger sizes, but it is not a condition specific to the small size Shih Tzu. Any breed of dog and/or any size of dog can have liver shunt disease. It is not true that the reason we have less than 9 pound Shih Tzu today is because they are just the runts of the litter, or they are sickly specimens of the breed, or they most definitely have and/or carry the liver shunt disease. There are many of these little ones that live just as long and healthy lives as the larger versions. The size of any living creature does not dictate the health of that creature. I personally like the little ones just as much as the 9 to 12 pound Shih Tzu. I do not like a very large Shih Tzu of 16 pounds or more. I still live with a few as my dear pets and companions, but as I continue with my breeding program, I search for the lower end of the AKC standard, which is anywhere from 9 to 12 pounds.

From all that I have read about Shih Tzu history, it was Shih Tzu weighing at least 9 pounds and not anymore than this that were the favored and treasured Shih Tzu of the Imperial Palace. I imagine there were a few weighing even less than 9 pounds just as we see them today who remained in the Imperial Palace. I can certainly see how people do want to call the smaller version “Imperial Shih Tzu.” However, as noted elsewhere in this article, The American Shih Tzu Club and the American Kennel Club are dead set against this term or any other term to describe a Shih Tzu.

As a result of the practice of Empress Dowager rejecting the larger Shih Tzu specimens and sending them out into the city for sale, it is easy to see how two different types of Shih Tzu developed in the Chinese capital by the time the breed became known to the outside world. On one hand, hidden in the palace and beloved at court were the exquisitely dainty and well-proportioned little jewels, bred with the strictest selectivity and carefully screened to conform to the imperial ideal. On the other hand, and much more accessible to the general public and bred by them with less discrimination were the coarser specimens, treasured by those who had long ago learned to be satisfied with something less than the best.

Mr. Easton felt that in all fairness to the general public, which do have rights in the matter, the two types of Shih Tzu should be clearly designated in a manner which is historically accurate and in no way misleading. He felt the larger size Shih Tzu should have been known as the “English Shih Tzu,” since it was in England where most of the larger sizes were bred. However, many English breeders during his time period preferred the smaller type. It just seemed obvious that since the smaller type Shih Tzu had been such a guarded secret of the Imperial Palace and the larger size Shih Tzu is what all others outside the Palace got hold of to breed, Mr. Easton felt like the larger size should just be known as “Shih Tzu,” and the smaller type should carry the prefix “Imperial” to mark their special association with the Peking Palace.

The Reverend D. Allan Easton obviously did not get his way about the official names to distinguish the small Shih Tzu from the large Shih Tzu. The American Kennel Club today recognizes only one name for the Shih Tzu, and that is Shih Tzu. They along with the American Shih Tzu Club do not want anyone referring to the smaller version Shih Tzu as “Imperial.”

Source: “This is the Shih Tzu,” written by Reverend D. Allan Easton and Joan McDonald Brearley

Author: Connie Limon, Breeder of pet and show prospect Shih Tzu in a variety of colors. Visit website at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletters. Our website provides a wealth of information. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines. Also visit our Shih Tzu article collection at http://shihtzuarticles.com

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Breeding to the AKC Shih Tzu Standard

2007-04-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

Photo: Duke of Stain Glass Shih Tzu

There is more than one area of the Shih Tzu that is considered in terms of “breeding to the AKC Shih Tzu Standard. I have been on Shih Tzu Puppies for sale websites in which they will state: “We breed to the AKC standard.” We do not breed “imperial or teacup” Shih Tzu. Our Shih Tzu weighs 9 to 16 pounds. They do not weigh below the AKC standard of 9 pounds. And they will go on to say: “My goodness, why in this world would anyone want to steer away from the AKC Shih Tzu standard.” If you take a quick look at the pictures of some of the Shih Tzu they are breeding from you will see rather quickly that most of them have excessive eye white (which shows very plainly in the picture). Excessive eye white is not breeding Shih Tzu to the AKC standards. There should be very little if almost no eye white at all showing on a perfect example of an AKC standard Shih Tzu. You might have the right weight there, but if the rest of the standard is missing, “you are not breeding Shih Tzu to the AKC standard.”

If you are truly breeding to the AKC standard you must also produce the Shih Tzu AKC standard in all other areas besides “weight.”

The following is a description of all else you must include in your Shih Tzu breeding program while breeding for the AKC standard:

General Appearance:

• Sturdy
• Lively
• Alert
• Long Flowing Double Coat
• Compact, solid, carrying good weight and substance.

Size:

• Height at withers is 9 to 10 ½ inches, but not less than 8 inches or more than 11 inches.
• Ideal weight of mature dogs 9 to 16 pounds
• Length between withers and root of tail is slightly longer than height at withers.
• Shih Tzu must never be so high stationed as to appear leggy or so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty.

Head:

• Round
• Broad
• Wide between eyes
• The size of the head should be in balance with the overall size of dog being neither too large nor too small
• Fault: Narrow head, close-set eyes
• Expression: Warm, sweet, wide-eyes, friendly and trusting.
• Eyes: Large, round, not prominent, place well apart, looking straight ahead. Very Dark. Lighter on liver pigmented dogs and blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Small, close-set or light eyes, excessive eye white.
• Ears: Large, set slightly below crown of skull; heavily coated.
• Skull: Domed. Stop – There is a definite stop.
• Muzzle – Square, short, unwrinkled, with good cushioning, set no lower than bottom eye rim, never down turned. Ideally no longer than 1 inch from tip of nose to stop, although length may vary slightly in relation to overall size of dog. Front of muzzle should be flat, lower lip and chin not protruding and definitely never receding. Fault: Snippiness, lack of definite stop.
• Nose: Nostrils are broad, wide and open. Pigmentation: Nose, lips, eye rims are black on all colors, except liver on liver pigmented dogs and blue on blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Pink on nose, lips or eye rims.
• Bite: Undershot. Jaw is broad and wide. A missing tooth or slightly misaligned teeth should not be too severely penalized. Teeth and tongue should not show when mouth is closed. Fault: Overshot bite.
• Neck, topline, body: Of utmost important is an overall well-balanced dog with no exaggerated features.
• Neck: Well set-on flowing smoothly into shoulders; of sufficient length to permit natural high head carriage and in balance with height and length of dog.
• Topline: Level.
• Body: Short-coupled and sturdy with no waist or tuck-up. The Shih Tzu is slight longer than tall. Fault: Legginess.
• Chest: Broad and deep with good spring-of-rib, however, not barrel-chested. Depth of ribcage should extend to just below elbow. Distance from elbow to withers is a littler greater than from elbow to ground.
• Croup: Flat
• Tail: Set on high, heavily plumed, carried in curve well over back. Too loose, too tight, too flat, or too low set a tail is undesirable and should be penalized to extent of deviation.
• Forequarters: Shoulders: Well-angulated, well laid-back, well laid-in, fitting smoothly into body.
• Legs: Straight, well boned, muscular, set well-apart and under chest, with elbows set close to body.
• Pasterns: Strong, perpendicular.
• Dewclaws: May be removed.
• Feet: Firm, well-added, point straight ahead.
• Hindquarters: Angulation of hindquarters should be in balance with forequarters.
• Legs: Well-boned, muscular and straight when viewed from rear with well-bent stifles, not close set but in line with forequarters.
• Hocks: Well let down, perpendicular. Fault: Hyperextension of hocks.
• Dewclaws: May be removed.
• Feet: Firm, well-padded, pointed straight head.
• Coat: Luxurious, double-coated, dense, long, and flowing, slight wave permissible. Hair on top of head is tied up. Fault: Sparse coat, single coat, curly coat.
• Trimming: Feet, bottom of coat, and anus may be done for neatness and to facilitate movement. Fault: Excessive trimming.
• Color and Markings: All are permissible and to be considered equally.
• Gait: The Shih Tzu moves straight and must be shown at its own natural speed. Smooth, flowing, effortless movement with good front reach and equally strong rear drive, level topline, naturally high head carriage, and tail carried in gentle curve over back.
• Temperament: Outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all.

Next time you run upon a Shih Tzu salesperson or Shih Tzu website who tells you they are breeding to the AKC standard, because they have Shih Tzu who are not Teacups or Imperials and who are 9 to 16 pounds, check to see if all the above is true also. If it is, then you can conclude they are breeding Shih Tzu to the AKC standard.

If you find deviation from the above then you can conclude that Shih Tzu salesperson or website is not breeding to the AKC standard regardless of their “size of Shih Tzu being 9 to 16 pounds.” People who breed to the AKC standard means they are producing Shih Tzu with all the above attributes, not just the right weight.

Sources: American Kennel Club Shih Tzu Breed Standard

Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our helpful newsletters. I raise Shih Tzu puppies in a variety of colors at reasonable prices for pet or show prospect. Puppies are sold with a health guarantee.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

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First Aid Treatments for Your Shih Tzu

2007-02-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

Be prepared for injuries and accidents for your Shih Tzu. Accidents can and do happen. Sometimes they can be quite serious. Being prepared for emergencies can increase chances of saving the life of your Shih Tzu and/or reducing the severity of the injury.

Every Shih Tzu owner should have a basic first aid kit. Items included in the kit should be:

* Ace bandage * 1-inch adhesive tape * Anticoagulant powder * Topical antibiotic ointment * Bandage scissors * Betadine soaked gauze sponges * A 2-1/2 inch gauze roll * Gauze sponges * Hydrogen peroxide solution, 3% * Spoon splint * Rectal thermometer

Cuts or lacerations are one of the most common accidents. Even though most likely your Shih Tzu will be kept indoors and carefully guarded, there is always the chance of an unpredictable accident or injury. For cuts or lacerations the most important thing to have on hand is bandage material, cleaning material and anticoagulant powder (the kind of powder you and/or your groomer would use for nails being cut too short).

I keep anticoagulant powder always close at hand when I am grooming my Shih Tzu. No matter how careful I am it seems I always cut a nail too short and it makes me just want to cry and scream to see just the least bit of blood coming from my Shih Tzu nails. I reach for the anticoagulant powder and some q-tips while apologizing for the nick. I dip the q-tip in the anticoagulant powder and apply it to the spot that is bleeding, applying as much pressure as possible for several minutes. This same method will take care of most minor wounds. Larger wounds should be seen by a vet immediately. Even a very small wound, other than a toenail cut too short, should be reported to your vet.

Another problem especially with dogs and the Shih Tzu are bee stings. If this occurs your best bet is to call your vet for his advice. You can give Benadryl, but you will need to call your vet for exact dosage and the go ahead to give this. A good plan may be to ask in advance and have whatever the vet recommends on hand in case of a bee sting emergency. It is reported that most dogs do not have a problem with bee stings, but some may have respiratory difficulty. If your Shih Tzu gets a bee sting, by all means carefully watch him or her for at least 24 hours.

Since the Shih Tzu is considered to be a small breed dog, regardless of the exact pounds, the Shih Tzu may have bouts of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs of hypoglycemia are the Shih Tzu will be lethargic and weak. You can rub karo syrup on the gums to quickly give the Shih Tzu an extra boost of glucose. I always keep Nutri-cal on hand to use for this with my Shih Tzu. Multiple episodes of hypoglycemia can be a sign of a more serious problem that should be reported to your vet for proper evaluation.

You should be able to distinguish between choking, gagging and coughing. Coughing may be brought on by strenuous exercise and go away once your Shih Tzu has settled down. Gagging may happen if your Shih Tzu swallows incorrectly and gets food caught in the trachea. If this occurs, a modified Heimlich maneuver can be used. Bend over your Shih Tzu, wrap your hands around its chest and do a quick jerking movement. This technique may be enough to dislodge something caught in the trachea. Choking can be caused by either an obstruction or a defect in the trachea. In the case of choking you should get your Shih Tzu to a vet as soon as possible. You might try to open your Shih Tzu's mouth and remove the obstruction if this is the cause of the choking. Be aware that you could receive a bite; therefore, this is not highly recommended.

If your Shih Tzu is hit by a car, get him or her on a firm surface. If that is not available, put your Shih Tzu in a blanket. You want to move the Shih Tzu in one piece with a minimal amount of motion. In this case, you need to transport your Shih Tzu to the vet as soon as possible.

Poisonings are a major concern. There are three more common types of poisonings in dogs, they are:

* Anti-freeze * Rodenticide * Garbage ingestion

In all cases of poisonings, contact your vet immediately, even if you only suspect a poisoning has occurred. It takes 24 to 72 hours for clinical signs of a poisoning to manifest. In your first aid kit and nearby your phone keep the National Animal Poison Control Center number, which is 1-800-548-2423.

The treatment for heat stroke is to soak your Shih Tzu in cool or lukewarm water. Provide water, but do not force feed water. Take your Shih Tzu's temperature. Normal temperature is 101 F and 102.5F. Contact your local veterinarian for further instructions and treatment.

In all cases of emergency with your Shih Tzu keep your veterinarian informed. He or she will know best as to how to treat your pet once you have administered emergency first aid treatment.

Author: Connie Limon, Breeder of pet and show prospect Shih Tzu in a variety of colors. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletters. Our website provides a wealth of information. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Congestive Heart Failure Common in Older Small Breeds Such as the Shih Tzu

2007-02-08T16:53:00.001-08:00

Congestive heart failure is a serious condition that does affect older small breeds such as our beloved Shih Tzu. Congestive heart failure is defined as the heart's inability to function normally, which leads to excessive retention of water and salt causing fluid build-up in the lungs. The major underlying cause is degeneration of the heart valves. Dogs and the Shih Tzu with this condition often develop a heart murmur, however, it is important to know and remember that not all dogs who have heart murmurs will develop congestive heart failure.

The three main signs to look out for congestive heart failure in your Shih Tzu or older Shih Tzu are:

1. Exercise intolerance; 2. Labored breathing; 3. And coughing.

Always provide your Shih Tzu with a yearly vet check-up and allow your vet to follow-up on any abnormal findings.

Treatment for congestive heart failure includes:

* Diet low in sodium * Diuretics * Dilator drugs * Digoxin (Digitalis)

A Shih Tzu or dog that has been diagnosed with heart failure usually has a life expectancy of between six months and several years. Treated Shih Tzu and dogs will live longer than those left untreated.

You need to also remember that a degeneration of heart valves is a common aging change in small breed dogs like our beloved Shih Tzu. Also remember that even if your Shih Tzu puppy is diagnosed with a heart murmur, this does not mean he or she will ever develop heart failure.

Many times new owners think a heart problem is the result of in-breeding or line breeding or breeding Shih Tzu that are smaller in the size than the standard show dog AKC calls for as 9 to 16 pounds.

Would be Shih Tzu owners need to realize that the size of any living creature does not dictate the health of that creature, and that most of the statements made in this regard are purely by those who do not have the smaller sizes and are fearful their sales will be damaged by breeders who do have the smaller size Shih Tzu.

It is all about money for most of those who talk the most and loudest against smaller size Shih Tzu. Few of those people are actually worried that you the consumer is going to get burned or that the Shih Tzu breed will be ruined forever by these smaller Shih Tzu gene pools. They are worried it takes dollars from their pockets.

I think if these people are sincerely worried about the Shih Tzu breed being ruined, they need to start donating most of their income derived from their puppy sales and/or Show Dog winnings to research of genetic problems in the Shih Tzu in general. It is my opinion this would benefit the breed much more than "bad-mouthing" people who raise and adore the smaller size Shih Tzu in the hopes that consumers will not purchase them and have to resort to purchasing only the size they promote.

As always please consult with a professional vet of your choice about any kind of health problem related to your pets. This article is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any kind of a pet health problem. It is offered as information only.

Author: Connie Limon, Breeder of pet and show prospect Shih Tzu in a variety of colors. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our newsletters. Our website provides a wealth of information. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Parvovirus is Most Deadly to Very Young Shih Tzu Puppies

2007-02-07T18:40:00.000-08:00

Parvovirus is most deadly to Very Young Shih Tzu Puppies
by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)
Parvovirus is most deadly to Very Young Shih Tzu Puppies

I am so surprised at how many pet owners and would be pet/Shih Tzu owners do not know which vaccinations are mandatory for Shih Tzu puppies. In this article I will address only the importance of "extra" protection against the deadly canine disease of "parvovirus."

Canine parvovirus is everywhere in the environment. Puppies and this does include Shih Tzu puppies are extra susceptible to parvovirus. The disease usually hits puppies the hardest, although adults can contract the parvovirus disease the same, your Shih Tzu puppy is most vulnerable. It is wise to protect your Shih Tzu puppy against this debilitating, sometimes deadly canine disease.

Parvovirus is shed in the feces of an infected Shih Tzu or any canine species. If another Shih Tzu or any other canine species comes into oral contact with the infected feces, they become inoculated with the virus. The degree to which your Shih Tzu puppy is affected will depend upon its own individual immunity to the disease. If your Shih Tzu puppy's mother was properly vaccinated, she will transfer immunity to parvovirus in the colostrums or first milk. I always vaccinate all my adult Shih Tzu each year.

The maternal antibodies transferred through the Shih Tzu mother's milk to the Shih Tzu puppies may be present in the Shih Tzu puppy for up to 20 - 22 weeks. This does not mean the Shih Tzu puppy will be absolute immune to the parvovirus this entire time.

Most of the Shih Tzu puppy's maternal antibodies to other viruses commonly vaccinated against have disappeared by about 12 weeks, however, the maternal parvovirus antibodies do persist longer.

It is wise to ensure your Shih Tzu puppy is adequately protected against parvovirus no matter when its mother's antibodies begin to wear off. Your Shih Tzu puppy needs to be vaccinated every three weeks starting at about 8 weeks, until it is 20 - 22 weeks old. Keep your older Shih Tzu up-to-date on vaccines as well. As the Shih Tzu ages, or any canine species, their immune system may become impaired and this may leave them more susceptible to diseases.

In addition to proper vaccination of your Shih Tzu puppy, you also need to keep young Shih Tzu puppies isolated from other dogs and out of parks where they may come in contact with infected feces, until they have completed their series of vaccinations. This decreases their chances of being exposed to parvovirus.

Parvovirus Signs:

* Loss of appetite * Lack of energy * Vomiting or diarrhea (the vomitus or diarrhea may be bloody).

Since these signs can indicate many diseases, you will need to see your vet if your Shih Tzu puppy shows any of these. Young Shih Tzu puppies, less than three months of age, can become dehydrated quickly, and die easily if not treated promptly. There is a special test your vet can perform for the parvovirus.

As of this date, there is no drug available that kills parvovirus once the animal is infected. The Shih Tzu or any other canine animal will have to rid itself of the virus. In other words, once a Shih Tzu puppy has contracted parvovirus, the virus will need to runs it course through the Shih Tzu puppy's system. Supportive care is the main treatment of parvovirus infections.

Sick Shih Tzu puppies need to be given fluids if they are dehydrated. Secondary bacterial infections may also result. If an infection develops, antibiotics need to be administered to fight it. Sometimes it is necessary to be kept in a vet hospital setting throughout the course of the disease. Other times, the disease can be managed at home. It depends upon the severity and the recommendations of your vet.

Treatment for parvovirus may take a couple days up to several weeks. This also depends upon the individual animal's immune system, its age and the severity of the case.

It is highly important to clean up the living quarters of a Shih Tzu who has had parvovirus. Parvovirus can exist in the environment for long periods of time. Washing the Shih Tzu's area with bleach and water in a 1:30 dilution will kill the virus. Throw away all feeding and drinking bowls, and all toys that came in contact with the sick Shih Tzu. Bedding can be saved if you will wash it in the bleach solution, but better to just throw it all away to prevent further spread of the infection. Your Shih Tzu can be re-infected as well.

Discard all feces promptly, wear gloves and rinse your own hands with the bleach solution. Humans can spread the disease on their hands if they touch the feces. Very small amounts of fecal material on the Shih Tzu's coat can contain large numbers of viral organisms and can easily be transmitted to other dogs.

Although there are a number of diseases Shih Tzu puppies and other canine breeds are susceptible to acquiring, the parvovirus is the most deadly to very young Shih Tzu puppies. Take all precautions necessary to keep your Shih Tzu puppy safe from this disease.

Author: Connie Limon, Breeder of pet and show Shih Tzu prospects in a variety of colors. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletters. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines. Also visit our collection of Shih Tzu articles at http://shihtzuarticles.com

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Controlling Brucellosis in Your Shih Tzu Breeding Kennel

2007-02-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

Controlling Brucellosis in Your Shih Tzu Breeding Kennel
by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

Are you thinking about breeding your Shih Tzu or you are already an established Shih Tzu kennel? You might think about having your Shih Tzu tested for Brucellosis on a regular basis.

Brucellosis is a bacterial disease known very well by food animal producers. Brucellosis can cause a number of breeding problems such as abortions, infertility and decreased milk yield in cattle.

Not only does Brucellosis affect cattle, but it can also affect dogs, including the Shih Tzu, sheep, goats, pigs and even humans.

How is Brucellosis passed in these different species of animals including the Shih Tzu? The major way Brucellosis is transmitted is through direct contact of an infected aborted fetus, or uterine discharge. Brucellosis is also spread when animals eat contaminated feces, and through sexual contact.

Signs of a Brucellosis infection in dogs and the Shih Tzu may include:

* Abortion * Infertility * Infected reproductive organs * Arthritis * Disc disease * Fever * Hind limb weakness * Lethargy * General lymph node swelling

These are signs of many diseases; therefore, it is important to take your Shih Tzu to the veterinarian if it shows any of them. The veterinarian will draw a blood sample to make a definitive diagnosis of Brucellosis in your Shih Tzu.

If your Shih Tzu is diagnosed with Brucellosis be aware that it is difficult to treat. It often takes a long period of antibiotic therapy to get rid of Brucellosis fully. Blood samples are required to monitor the progress of the drug treatment. These blood samples can get expensive.

It is possible for humans to become infected with canine Brucellosis. You could possibly contract the disease of Brucellosis from your Shih Tzu; however, transmission from dogs to people seems to be uncommon.

Since Brucellosis is sexually transmitted, it is important for Shih Tzu breeders to be sure all of the Shih Tzu in their kennel test negative for the bacteria. If your Shih Tzu test positive for Brucellosis, do not breed them. Your Shih Tzu may in fact show no clinical signs of Brucellosis, but still be able to transmit the disease in semen or vaginal fluid. Therefore testing is vital.

When is the best time to test your Shih Tzu for Brucellosis?

* Female Shih Tzu should be tested a few weeks before they come into heat. * Male Shih Tzu should be tested twice a year. * Any new Shih Tzu brought into the kennel should be isolated until tests prove negative results twice. The second test should be done one month after the first one.

Many disinfectants prepared especially for kennel use easily kills the bacteria. The bacteria are also relatively easy to kill with a diluted bleach/water solution.

At the present time in vet science there are no vaccines available for canine brucellosis. Ways to help control Brucellosis in your Shih Tzu kennel include:

* Eliminating positive animals from breeding stock * Proper disposal of waste and wearing gloves to handle any fetal membranes or aborted Shih Tzu fetuses, followed by thorough disinfection of the area.

Questions regarding canine Brucellosis should be directed toward your veterinarian.

Author: Connie Limon, breeder of pet and show prospect Shih Tzu in a variety of colors. Visit http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletters. Our website offers a wealth of information. Puppies are sold with health guarantee and are bred from champion bloodlines. Also visit our collection of Shih Tzu articles at http://shihtzuarticles.com

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Pancreatitis in the Shih Tzu

2007-01-31T03:01:00.000-08:00

Pancreatitis in the Shih Tzu
by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

It is very important to feed your Shih Tzu a well-balanced diet of pet food and not table scraps. Pancreatitis is a severe inflammation of the pancreas that can result from feeding your Shih Tzu table scraps.

A Shih Tzu with pancreatitis may suddenly vomit, become dehydrated, be lethargic and have diarrhea. These symptoms are common to a lot of different canine diseases; therefore, the diagnosis of pancreatitis is very difficult for a vet to make. He will depend a lot upon a good history from the Shih Tzu owner.

Please read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com
http://shihtzuarticles.com

Differences and Similarities of Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso

2007-01-28T20:27:00.000-08:00

The Shih Tzu is one of the breeds of dogs that have their hair parted in the middle. This is called “parted-coat” breeds. Another important distinguishing grooming pattern of the Shih Tzu is the topknot tied up with ribbons or bows.

A pin brush is used on The Shih Tzu for regular grooming sessions. For a Shih Tzu coat that has not been groomed regularly or neglected a soft wire slicker brush is used.

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Basics of a Shih Tzu Dog Show

2007-01-25T19:34:00.000-08:00

Basics of a Shih Tzu Dog Show

2007-01-23T16:21:00.000-08:00

Basics of a Shih Tzu Dog Show
by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

Photo: Olive Oil, Teacup Shih Tzu, of Stain Glass Shih Tzu. Olive was born to our Danny Boy and Gidget. She is soooo adorable. She will turn to a solid silver with black mask and some white accents. She is mine!

If you have never gone to a Shih Tzu or any breed dog show you might wonder exactly what the judge will be doing.

The judge will look into the mouth of the Shih Tzu or other dog breed to check for the correct number of teeth and the bite. I mean after all, do you ever see a winning Miss America with no front teeth? The same holds true for Shih Tzu and other dog breeds in the show ring. Missing teeth is a disqualification in many of the breeds.

He will also check a male to be sure he has two testicles. A missing testicle is a disqualification.

During this inspection the judge will feel various parts of the Shih Tzu or other breed of dog, searching out the angles of the shoulders and hips, the head and ribs. This is especially true with the heavily-coated breeds like the Shih Tzu. You can't tell exactly what the structure of a heavily-coated Shih Tzu is without hands-on examinations. Some of the smaller breeds are examined on a raised table. If you see a handler lift the Shih Tzu or other dog breed from the table to the ground with one hand under the chin and the other hand using the tail, they do this to avoid messing up the Shih Tzu's hairstyle. It is not uncomfortable for the dog at all.

The hands-on examination tells the judge a lot about the Shih Tzu or other dog breed, however, seeing the Shih Tzu move tells him even more. This is called "gaiting." The judge will determine how the Shih Tzu move around the ring, whether it be all together or one at a time, up and down or around and around. There are a lot of variations in how the judge performs the gaiting. The judge wants to see the Shih Tzu move from the rear, from the front and from the side. The judge has an experienced eye and seeing different views of the Shih Tzu in motion reveals different things.

In the AKC and UKC rings, all Shih Tzu or dog breeds are shown at a trot. In England and some other countries dogs and the Shih Tzu are often walked around the ring. There are many different handler "styles" when gaiting a Shih Tzu show dog.

After examining and moving all the Shih Tzu, the judge might just point to the winners, or he might place the winning Shih Tzu at the front of the line and have them all go around the ring one more time before pointing to the winning Shih Tzu.

How does the judge make a decision? He considers how closely each Shih Tzu comes to its own breed standard. There are many, many aspects to the Shih Tzu breed standard in which the Shih Tzu must pass in order to win in the show ring.

When you first start going to shows try to consider them as an exploration of new activities. Think more about how you feel about the sport in general. Notate the sport's good and bad aspects and not so much about your hopes to win once you get into the ring. The absolute best part about Shih Tzu dog shows is doing something with your Shih Tzu.

Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our newsletters. I raise Shih Tzu puppies for pets or show prospects. Puppies are sold with a health guarantee.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Breeding to the AKC Shih Tzu Standard

2007-01-08T18:01:00.000-08:00

There is more than one area of the Shih Tzu that is considered in terms of "breeding to the AKC Shih Tzu Standard. I have been on Shih Tzu Puppies for sale websites in which they will state: "We breed to the AKC standard." We do not breed "imperial or teacup" Shih Tzu. Our Shih Tzu weighs 9 to 16 pounds. They do not weigh below the AKC standard of 9 pounds. And they will go on to say: "My goodness, why in this world would anyone want to steer away from the AKC Shih Tzu standard." If you take a quick look at the pictures of some of the Shih Tzu they are breeding from you will see rather quickly that most of them have excessive eye white (which shows very plainly in the picture). Excessive eye white is not breeding Shih Tzu to the AKC standards. There should be very little if almost no eye white at all showing on a perfect example of an AKC standard Shih Tzu. You might have the right weight there, but if the rest of the standard is missing, "you are not breeding Shih Tzu to the AKC standard."

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Be a Shih Tzu Show Dog Spectator First

2007-01-07T16:36:00.000-08:00

Photo: Ginger of Stain Glass Shih Tzu

If you are planning to show your Shih Tzu, your first experiences with conformation should be as a spectator. You need to do some studying and practicing before actually going into a show with your Shih Tzu. Leave the Shih Tzu behind.

The first thing you will want to purchase at the show is a show catalog. Don't miss out. Clubs often run out of these early in the day. The show catalog is like a scorecard. They are usually for sale on the superintendent's table.

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Tips on How to Become a Successful Shih Tzu Show Dog Breeder

2007-01-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

If you decide to enter the show ring with your Shih Tzu one of the greatest benefits will mostly likely be an enhanced appreciation for the sheer beauty of the Shih Tzu. Just think about it, even if you only own one Shih Tzu yourself, at the shows you will see dozens and hundreds of Shih Tzu. Most of these Shih Tzu will be in prime health and perfectly groomed. By observing, and asking questions when the opportunity arises, you will begin to see some of the differences in the Shih Tzu that you may not have noticed without going to the shows. You may be surprised at how much you learn about the Shih Tzu and maybe even your own Shih Tzu during these events.

Shih Tzu showing should also teach you some facts about yourself. You might think you will be a nervous wreck on stage in front of all those people, but then find yourself not at all that nervous, but full of pride and poise that your Shih Tzu shares in some of the qualities of the other Shih Tzu. Or you might feel like you will never lose it at a Shih Tzu dog show no matter what happens, and then the first time, someone else says a slightly less than kind remark about your very own beloved Shih Tzu, that you just fall to pieces and tear out in a rage at that person

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu Belongs to the Toy Group

2007-01-05T17:00:00.000-08:00

Photo: Ginger of Stain Glass Shih Tzu

How did our different dog breeds come into existence? People created each breed by choosing dogs with the desired qualities and breeding them to each other. People designed some dogs to hunt, others to herd, some to guard and some for companions. Our Shih Tzu is in the companion group of dog breeds.

According to the American Kennel Club a breed is defined as: "A relatively homogeneous group of animals within a species developed and maintained by man."

Show Dog Requirements for the Shih Tzu and Other Purebred Dogs

2007-01-02T08:16:00.000-08:00

Photo: Juliet of Stain Glass Shih Tzu

There are rules and regulations you must follow if you want to show your Shih Tzu or any breed of dog. Among those rules are:

* To compete in conformation, your Shih Tzu or other breed of dog must be a purebred registered with a kennel club. * Purebred Shih Tzu or other purebred dogs adopted from shelters or rescue groups can get a special listing which allows them to compete in performance events, but not in conformation. * Registration papers must accompany the Shih Tzu or other breed of purebred dog to participate in dog shows. * The UKC welcomes mixed-breed dogs to compete in performance competitions. * Shih Tzu and other purebred dogs must be intact to compete in much of conformation. * The Canadian Kennel Club has a class for spayed and neutered dogs to show in conformation. * The Australian Shepherd Club of America is also trying out the idea of a class for spayed and neutered dogs to show in conformation. * You do not have to own the Shih Tzu or other breed of dog. You can show someone else's dog. There are professional handlers also.

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The Biggest Event in the Dog Kingdom

2007-01-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

Photo: Ginger of Stain Glass Shih Tzu (Just look at that face, looks almost human.....

What is the biggest event in the dog kingdom? A dog show is the answer to this question. It is also called the "breed ring" or "the fancy." Thousands of dog shows takes place in the United States every year. Thousands of Shih Tzu are entered into these dog shows. There are only a few countries in this world that are not involved in the dog show sport. So you can imagine just how many dogs and owners are traveling to a show on any given weekend. The number has to got be absolutely astronomical!

Just what is the reason for all these people/dogs/Shih Tzu teams to leave their warm and snug homes to go to a dog show that might be held in rain, sleet or snow? Well, if you think about it, why do people go to baseball games, and basketball games and foot ball games? Probably very much the same reason people travel far and near through all kinds of weather to a dog/Shih Tzu show. There has to be more in it than just a tiny piece of silk ribbon or a trophy. And there is more to it for those who enjoy this type of sport. Many people just love the breathtaking beauty of the Shih Tzu show dogs. Others enjoy the adrenal surge when they step out into the ring for a chance to prove their Shih Tzu is the very best Shih Tzu. A person has to have a competitive side to their personality to be a part of the Shih Tzu Show Dog World.

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The First Shih Tzu Imported from the British Isles

2006-12-21T02:06:00.000-08:00

It is one opinion in Shih Tzu History documentations that the Scandinavian imports were nearer to the direct imperial line, although those who brought the first Imperial Shih Tzu to the British Isles did so at about the same time. These early English and Irish fanciers acted according to the best knowledge available to them and went to very great trouble to secure the finest possible specimens of the breed. However, noted throughout shih tzu history, is the fact that a Danish couple were able to bring home a "palace-born" Imperial Shih Tzu.

A Shih Tzu named Lung-Fu-Ssu was one of the first three Shih Tzu to have been brought to Europe from Peking. A woman by the name of Miss Hutchins brought the black and white dog to Ireland in 1930 and exhibited him at the Cheltenham Show in 1933

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Shih Tzu Grooming Tips - Coat Handling Basics

2006-12-15T09:02:00.000-08:00

Use gentle action. When bathing, thoroughly wet the coat with warm water, apply shampoo and gently squeeze the suds through the coat to cleanse rather than scrubbing the hair back and forth. Use a gentle, all natural shampoo such as HealthyPetNet Herbal Blend shampoo, which is a unique blend of herbs and other ingredients to soothe dry, itchy and irritated skin as well as to condition dull, brittle or normal coats. It gently cleans away dirt without drying and leaves the skin and coat fresh, clean and healthy. The shampoo has a fresh, peppermint smell. Always follow a shampoo with a creme rinse.

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Dog Bows

2006-12-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

Purchase Professional Topknot Bows and Everyday dog bows at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu Receive a FREE gift with every bow order.

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Fleece t-shirts

2006-12-15T08:43:00.000-08:00

Purchase Fleece T-shirts at Stain Glass Shih Tzu.

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Measurements of garment:
Neck: 8 inches
Chest: 13 inches
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My Shih Tzu Puppy Chews a lot - Especially on Me

2006-12-12T17:19:00.000-08:00

Photo: Stain Glass Shih Tzu "Jitterbug"

Puppies who chew are normal. Chewing is a natural and necessary puppy behavior. Puppies at about four months of age are more prone to chewing because this is when they usually start teething. Other dogs that chew, especially when you are not at home, may be suffering from separation anxiety. Separation anxiety requires an entire new behavior treatment plan. In this newsletter, I want to give you a few tips for your typical, normal-behaving puppy chewer!

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Purchase Fleece T-shirts at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Purchase Professional Topknot Bows and Everyday Dog Bows at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu Receive a FREE gift with every bow order.

Stain Glass Shih Tzu Available Puppies

Hypoglycemia: A Common Problem in Toy Breed Puppies

2006-12-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

One of the main things a new owner needs to take precautions against is a new puppy developing hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia can occur without much warning and within hours of a puppy going to a new home, missing a meal, or does not eat full meals, gets chilled, overtired or exhausted from too much handling or playing. It occurs more in the toy breeds, but can also occur in larger breeds. Signs are a depressed affect or mood, weakness, wobbly gait, jerky, lethargic. The neck may get stiff. The head may appear to be tilted to either the left or right and teeth may be clamped tightly together. These are all signs this puppy is having a drop in their sugar level and if left untreated will progress to convulsions, seizures or coma and can then be fatal.

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Purchase warm and cozy handmade Fleece t shirts at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

I raise Shih Tzu puppies for sale bred from champion bloodlines in a variety of colors. We have the AKC small standard, imperial and teacups. We also provide dog books, warm and cozy fleece t-shirts and topknot bows (professional and everyday bows). Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our helpful newsletters to keep up-to-date on our available puppies plus valuable information all about the Shih Tzu.

Let's Talk About Vaccines

2006-12-09T09:20:00.000-08:00

There is no universal protocol for canine vaccination schedules. Many vets recommend more vaccinations than most dogs require to be protected from contagious diseases. A lot of vets use the vaccination schedule they receive with the vaccinations they buy from drug companies. Vets are now realizing to trust vaccine makers may not be the best thing to do. Vaccine makers are in the business of selling vaccines.

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Purchase warm and cozy hand-made fleece t-shirts at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Most Influential Breeder in Early Days Shih Tzu

2006-12-08T17:27:00.000-08:00

The most influential breeder in the early days of the Shih Tzu in North America was Swedish-born Ingrid Colwell. Noone has equaled her contribution to the breed. She was the daughter of Ingrid Engstrom.

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Life With the Shih Tzu Part II

2006-11-21T23:20:00.000-08:00

In part I of this series of articles about life with the Shih Tzu I discussed the beginning steps of daily grooming of your Shih Tzu. In this article I will continue that discussion.

Once you have the hair on the tummy and legs all brushed out, flick all the body hair up and over the back before brushing it downwards again, a layer at a time, using the nylon and bristle brush. You might like to spray each layer lightly with water or a crème rinse and water mixture before brushing. You now have the Shih Tzu still lying on its side. You reason you want to work in layers like this is that you are able to brush right to the skin and remove all traces of hair that would start to mat and tangle. If the Shih Tzu is standing you can brush all day and only reach the top layer of the coat. It is really necessary to brush to the skin on a Shih Tzu. Use the comb only when it is necessary to take out a tangle you encounter.

When the first side is finished, turn the Shih Tzu over so he lies on his other side and repeat the process. If you are lucky enough to have a Shih Tzu that will relax and go to sleep this is such a blessing for the both of you. If you are gentle enough and teach the Shih Tzu that this is a time of "relaxation and pleasure" you might just have one that does sleep during brushing sessions. If you have a regular daily brushing routine you will be sure to find skin problems or parasites before they become very serious. When you have both sides of the Shih Tzu's coat thoroughly groomed and free of knots, stand the Shih Tzu up, facing away from you. Straighten the parting down the center of the back, using a comb or the tip of a blunt knitting-needle. Position the Shih Tzu to face you and groom the hair on the chest and neck. There is usually a knot or two behind and under the ears. Take particular care to clear these out.

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Life with the Shih Tzu Part I

2006-11-21T00:44:00.000-08:00

If you want that perfect show dog look in your Shih Tzu you might as well relax to the fact that it involved brushing, brushing, brushing, and daily brushing. A thorough head-to-tail groom is often needed at least every other day if not "daily." However, Shih Tzu coat textures are very different. You might get by with once weekly brushing if the Shih Tzu's coat is the type of texture that does not mat and tangle easily. If you have only one Shih Tzu, grooming should not be a problem. It can be quite pleasurable for you and your Shih Tzu. It can be an excellent time to bond with each other, and have nice close little chats with each other. Where do you start? A good place to start grooming your Shih Tzu is on the tummy, the chest and inside the legs.......perhaps......there are other opinions of course, but in this article I will direct you to start with the tummy, the chest and inside the legs. You will need to have your Shih Tzu lie on his side on the table (be sure you have a nice, sturdy table to groom your Shih Tzu). There is nothing worse than a grooming table that wobbles around, except of course a grooming area that is not organized. You also need to have all your equipment organized and ready to use.

Read on at: Stain Glass Shih Tzu

Preserving the Show Dog Shih Tzu's Coat

2006-11-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

Preserving the Show Dog Shih Tzu’s Coat

by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) The Shih Tzu's coat for the show rings requires extra care. Some show people actually keep their Shih Tzu confined and caged to preserve the coat, or they wrap the coat or oil it. Those who do keep their show Shih Tzu confined and caged pay a price in loss of muscle tone in their dogs. Not all show people practice these methods for preserving their Shih Tzu's long show dog coats. It is also a myth that all show people do not allow their show Shih Tzu to go for long walks, to play and just in general to lead a normal life. For those who do allow their show Shih Tzu do lead a normal life keeping the coat glamorous requires a lot of extra effort, and much more grooming than for the pet Shih Tzu. Coconut oil is considered helpful as a means of preserving the coat of a show dog Shih Tzu. If you do oil the show dog Shih Tzu coat you must remove the oil completely before each show. If you do not remove all the oil the coat appear limp and feel wrong. It can also be uncomfortable to be around a Shih Tzu that has been oiled. There are good oils on the market, however, that do not have this effect on the coat and it may be worth trying them if the Shih Tzu's coat seems to need it. Wrapping the coat in tissue paper protects the Shih Tzu's coat, but you lose some of the pleasure of seeing your dog in full coat with his hair flowing as he moves. I do think this is a beautiful, beautiful sight of the show dog Shih Tzu. The tissue wrapping sort of reminds me of the days when women ran around the house for house with their hair in curlers. Probably the best thing to do if you are just starting out taking care of your Shih Tzu show dog's coat is to experiment with different methods of preserving the coat until you find what works best for your dog. Much the same type of procedures a pet owner must go through, although a lot more intense and time consuming as the Shih Tzu show do requires so much more in the way of grooming. One thing is for certain if you start out with "bad hair" it is virtually impossible to make it good enough for the show ring. When purchasing your show potential Shih Tzu it is wise to study the lines to find out which have good hair in their genes. This way you can just continue to keep it looking good. The topknot and whiskers also need very special attention on the show dog Shih Tzu. The white whiskers on a parti-coloured Shih Tzu must be really, really white to look good. It seems this is especially true for the black and white Shih Tzu. Some older methods of keeping the whiskers white was to wash them at least once a day with a solution of boracic powder, a teaspoon to a pint of water. This mixture is wiped into the whiskers, being careful to get none in the eyes and then rinsed away. One of the keys to keeping whiskers white is above all to dry them immediately and keep them dry. An older method of drying them was to work in some fuller's earth or talcum powder, brushing this out and repeating until the hair was absolutely dry. If you allow the Shih Tzu to dry his own whiskers he will rub and rub until dry doing nothing but harm to the length of the coat. Another problem you run into with all this washing is that the hair becomes dry and brittle. You will need to dress the whiskers with a little coat conditioner from time to time. A method of preserving the hair of the topknot is to use several bands along the length of the hair to hold it to the back of the head. You can also plait the hair to achieve the same purpose. Use neither of these methods just before a show as both methods will cause kinks in the coat of which you do not want. It is always wise to review the rules of the American Kennel Club about the use of oils and conditioners on the coat of a show dog. Any substance used to alter the natural color, texture or body of the coat is usually prohibited.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu Puppies for Sale. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our newsletters. We have the Shih Tzu in a variety of colors, the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

2006-11-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

Life with the Shih Tzu Part Iby Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) If you want that perfect show dog look in your Shih Tzu you might as well relax to the fact that it involved brushing, brushing, brushing, and daily brushing. A thorough head-to-tail groom is often needed at least every other day if not "daily." However, Shih Tzu coat textures are very different. You might get by with once weekly brushing if the Shih Tzu's coat is the type of texture that does not mat and tangle easily. If you have only one Shih Tzu, grooming should not be a problem. It can be quite pleasurable for you and your Shih Tzu. It can be an excellent time to bond with each other, and have nice close little chats with each other. Where do you start? A good place to start grooming your Shih Tzu is on the tummy, the chest and inside the legs.......perhaps......there are other opinions of course, but in this article I will direct you to start with the tummy, the chest and inside the legs. You will need to have your Shih Tzu lie on his side on the table (be sure you have a nice, sturdy table to groom your Shih Tzu). There is nothing worse than a grooming table that wobbles around, except of course a grooming area that is not organized. You also need to have all your equipment organized and ready to use. So now that you have your Shih Tzu lying on its side on the table, with his legs towards you (this can be an accomplishment in itself that may take several short training sessions to get done). If the Shih Tzu just will not cooperate with you, you can start trying to train him by having him lay tummy upwards in your lap with his head facing your chest. Do this exercise first for a few days if he absolutely refuses to lie this way on the grooming table. If the above fails, you might try to groom the chest and tummy while the Shih Tzu sits on the table facing you, holding him up into a begging position by the front paws; this is not easy, since both hands are needed for some parts of the grooming, but you might have to try this as a last resort. If your Shih Tzu mats the tummy will be a prime target for matting. The tummy side of a Shih Tzu is sensitive also, so be gentle in this area. Check where the legs meet the body, this is a prime target area for severe matting as well. Something you don't want to deal with is severe mats in these areas. These are extra sensitive areas on your Shih Tzu. The best rule to follow is pay close attention to these areas on a daily basis and never allows the mats to occur. The hair around the male penis can also be a very sensitive trouble spot. It is best to keep this area clean and shaved off. Your male Shih Tzu will give you a sigh of relief when you remove the hair in this area. How do you remove knots and mats? If you come across a mat or knot first try to tease it apart with your fingers. Then take a comb and use the end with coarse teeth to tease out the tangle slowly, working from the outside inwards and holding the hair between the knot and the body between your fingers so that you don't pull too hard and hurt the Shih Tzu. If all else fails, a knot may have to be cut out. Cut into the knotted hair away from the dog several times before gently using the comb to clear away the knot. Never cut across the coat. This will leave an obvious hole. If you will cut down through the length of the coat you will cause much less damage. Note: The hair on the legs is more likely to tangle than anywhere else. So.....pay particular attention to these areas as well to avoid those awful and painful mats. This article continues in Part II of "Life with the Shih Tzu." Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies in a variety of colors especially the silver blues, reds and solid blacks. We have the AKC small standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Our website provides you with an educational experience all about the Shih Tzu. Please visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our newsletters. This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

2006-10-31T05:20:00.000-08:00

Is Your Shih Tzu Too Thin?by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) I write more about obesity in the Shih Tzu than I do about a Shih Tzu that could be "too thin." In general, the Shih Tzu breed is a hearty breed. My Shih Tzus have been hearty and healthy. This is true even for my Teacup and Imperial sizes. They tend more toward wanting to eat too much. Yet there is always another side to every story or an opposite position. A Shih Tzu too thin is quite apparently the opposite of a Shih Tzu being obese. This type of Shih Tzu might also be nicknamed "a poor doer." It is often, however, that a concerned Shih Tzu owner will think their Shih Tzu is one of these "poor doers," when in fact the vet may tell you the dog is in excellent condition. A healthy Shih Tzu is not a plump Shih Tzu, although some in the show dog world continues to confuse "well-bodied" with "fat." The standard for the Shih Tzu calls for it to be "compact," which I suppose can also mean "well-bodied." A compact Shih Tzu is one that is just that - Compact - not fat and flabby. One of the first things to check when dealing with a Shih Tzu that is actually underweight despite eating normally is that has the Shih Tzu been wormed regularly? There is nothing worse than the presence of worms for keeping a Shih Tzu or any dog "thin." So of very much importance is keeping your Shih Tzu wormed properly. If this has been done regularly and your Shih Tzu is still thin, you really need to consult with your vet. There could be an underlying health problem such as diabetes. When all health problems have been ruled out by your vet oftentimes just the increase of quality food intake is sufficient to put some meat on the bones of a Shih Tzu and help to accomplish that neat compact look called for in the standard. You will probably want to go with a diet that is high in calories. Offer nutritional and high calorie treats as well. You might even treat your underweight Shih Tzu to some homemade deserts, treats and food in addition to his high quality commercially prepared food. It is very difficult to deal with the reluctant eater. Sometimes this could be a behavior issue. For that, one must consult with a dog psychiatrist I suppose. And to be perfectly honest with you, I am not sure these actually exist. That is only my first thought. My next thought would be to surf the internet and my new website in particular About Toy Dogs. At About Toy Dogs I am searching and surfing the internet for you. I have a collection of dog training books from Dogwise you might be interested in looking at on the site. On the site you will also find a collection of other internet dog trainers programs. At any rate, regardless of the problem, and because of the human's keen interest in dogs these days I know for certain someone has come up with a solution to your problem if it is determined "behavior." Shih Tzu is extremely intelligent and clever. They will challenge you in intelligence. I continue to believe they understand much more of what is really going on in their environment than people realize. If they get a hint you are going to "pamper" them about eating, they may hold it over on you and try to see just exactly what you will offer them in the way of "different foods" for them to try. I suppose how I would like to conclude this article is if you think your Shih Tzu is too thin, first rule out worms and health problems. Then proceed slowly at finding ways to add extra calories to your Shih Tzu's diet. Don't panic about the situation and don't ever let your Shih Tzu know you are "worried" about its thin condition. I do not breed Shih Tzu specifically for the show ring or even specifically to sell puppies to others. I live with the Shih Tzu as a keen interest in exactly who the Shih Tzu truly is. I am fascinated by their personalities and behaviors, and I am learning firsthand just how clever the Shih Tzu can be about all situations in a household. If I did not know it impossible, I would say for sure the Shih Tzu is actually another form of a highly intelligent perhaps genius "human being." Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies for sale in a variety of colors. All puppies are sold with a health guarantee. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups. Our website provides you with an educational experience much unlike any other private or personal Shih Tzu website on the World Wide Web. Visit us online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter. This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

When Should You Socialize and Start Training your Shih Tzu Puppy

2006-10-29T05:13:00.000-08:00

This is the first puppy from our Simon Says. I am keeping her. She is so much like her daddy, Simon. I have her named Miss Sheba! She is a tiny teacup size and very "frisky." I had the hardest time getting this t-shirt on her.

When Should You Socialize and Start Training Your Shih Tzu Puppy?by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) Shih Tzu puppies get plenty of exercise with their littermates before leaving all behind for new homes. Once a Shih Tzu puppy is in his new home, has reached the age of four months and is fully vaccinated he should be taken for walks. Start out slow with your walks. This is the time you want to start lead training your new Shih Tzu puppy. A lot of his exercise should still come freely around his new home and in the backyard so he has the opportunity to rest at will. Allow him to wear a collar most of the time (never in a cage or crate). Add a leash as he exercises around his new home to get him use to the new gear. From time to time casually pick up the leash and allow your puppy to follow behind you. Eventually, you will be able to walk with the Shih Tzu puppy by your side on official walks through the woods or any favorite place you have to walk. A bond of love will develop from these little walks with your new Shih Tzu puppy as he and you exercise together. A young Shih Tzu puppy can make a good start toward socialization when he has learned to play with his new owner. He should also be handled by all the members of his new family as well as visitors. He should now begin to relax and learn to tolerate grooming. Before he has received all vaccinations you really need to limit his contact with other animals and humans. By the time the Shih Tzu puppy is four months old, however, he should be fully vaccinated and ready to acquire socialization skills. It is in the best interest of the Shih Tzu puppy for the breeder to follow these same rules - to limit exposure to other animals and other people until the Shih Tzu puppy is fully vaccinated. Therefore, many Shih Tzu puppies sold at the young age of eight and nine weeks should have only had contact with their littermates, their mother and the breeder. If you are lucky enough to live in an area where puppy classes are held, please take advantage. These classes can do a world of good for a young Shih Tzu puppy. In the final phase of puppy hood at six months to a year of age a Shih Tzu puppy will complete most of his physical growth. By now his second teeth should be through. Be aware that Shih Tzu puppies are a bit slow at acquiring their teeth. The assessment for the show ring is actually best done at about one year of age. I am not sure how some show dog breeders claim they know a show quality Shih Tzu puppy and thus mark the price up because of these so called show qualities. However, many show dog breeders claim they have this insight to be able to tell a show prospect at the young age of eight weeks. From all I have read, this is quite impossible. The true age to tell whether or not a Shih Tzu is show dog material is at about one year. When show dog breeders are anxious to sell their stock at eight to twelve weeks of age based upon the claims of "show dog prospect," with a higher price tag, be leery of this type of sale. You are probably not actually getting the show dog prospect that is being advertised to you. It is best to wait and shop around with other show dog breeders who have kept their Shih Tzu to one year and over in order to truly find a true "show dog prospect." Beginning at the age of six months a Shih Tzu puppy can be taken to shows if this is your interest. Please allow your Shih Tzu puppy to enjoy puppy hood before rushing him into the show ring. Don't make Shirley Temples out of your six month old Shih Tzu if he is still quite babyish. Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies in a variety of colors. All puppies are sold with a health guarantee. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Our website provides visitors with an educational experience all about the Shih Tzu. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ and sign up for our FREE newsletter. This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

The Shih Tzu is an Ideal Companion and House Pet

2006-10-26T22:46:00.000-07:00

by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

The Shih Tzu is a lively and alert Toy dog. The standard type of coat is a long flowing double coat. The Shih Tzu was a highly valued companion of its noble Chinese ancestors. It was favored as the palace pet. The Shih Tzu has a distinct arrogant carriage with the head well up and tail curved over the back. There has always been considerable size variation in the Shih Tzu breed. However, it is agreed and is the American Kennel Club standard that the Shih Tzu must be compact, solid and carry good weight and substance. According to the American Kennel Club standard a Shih Tzu's height should be 9 to 10 inches, not less than 8 inches or more than 11 inches. The Shih Tzu should never appear leggy or dumpy and squatty. Regardless of the size a Shih Tzu should always be compact, solid and carry good weight and substance. The head of a Shih Tzu is stated as "perfect" according to the American Kennel Club standard when it is round, broad, wide between eyes. The size of the head should be in balance with the overall size of the Shih Tzu, neither too large nor too small. A fault of the Shih Tzu head would be narrow head, close-set eyes. The _expression of a Shih Tzu should be warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting. A Shih Tzu's eyes should be large, round, not prominent, placed well apart, looking straight ahead. The eye color should be very dark. However, liver and blue colored Shih Tzu will be a lighter color. Ideally there should be no eye white showing. Fault would be small, close-set eyes. The ears of an American Kennel Club ideal Shih Tzu are large, set slightly below crown of skull and heavily coated with hair. The pigmentation of nose, lips, and eye rims should be black except on livers and blues. Fault would be pink on nose, lips or eye rims. The bite of a Shih Tzu is ideally undershot with a broad and wide jaw. A missing tooth or slightly misaligned teeth are not too severely penalized, however, the teeth and tongue should not show when the mouth is closed. Fault would be an overshot bite. All colors are acceptable. The Shih Tzu is one of very few breeds that seem to have a never ending list of colors and color combinations. A Shih Tzu should move smoothly and effortlessly having good front reach and equally strong rear drive, level top line, natural high head carriage and tail carried in a gentle curve over the back. Since the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is that of a companion and house pet, it is essential that the Shih Tzu's temperament be outgoing, happy, affectionate and friendly. Many Shih Tzu also make very good watch dogs for a household. The Shih Tzu in general is a lively and alert Toy Dog and is one of the top ten of America's favorite breeds.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies in a variety of colors. We have the AKC small standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Our website provides you with an educational experience all about the Shih Tzu. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Stain Glass Shih Tzu Danny B

2006-10-25T06:02:00.000-07:00

Tips On How to Help Your Shih Tzu Live a Long and Health Life

2006-10-22T19:22:00.000-07:00

Tips on How to Help Your Shih Tzu Live a Long and Healthy Life
by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

Like people, Shih Tzu needs to be healthy to enjoy life. Our Shih Tzu is our friend, companion and often our guardian, but since they are also totally dependent on us for their well-being, it is our responsibility to look after them properly. One of the most prevalent 'diseases' in dogs, which includes the Shih Tzu, these days, is one that also affects humans. This condition is obesity. A fat Shih Tzu is an unhealthy Shih Tzu and is likely to suffer from arthritis and heart failure. Try to keep in mind that in the wild dogs eat fresh meat that they have killed themselves. They also eat certain types of grass and may eat wild fruits like berries if these grow in their natural habitat. This is not to say, however, that you should begin feeding your Shih Tzu these same things to avoid obesity. The best diet for a Shih Tzu is a commercially prepared diet especially for dogs with treats of vegetables, fruits and cooked chicken. Milk, custard and cake are the worst things you can give your grown Shih Tzu and, though a Shih Tzu puppy may benefit from the calcium in milk, there are commercial milk products available that are especially formulated for a Shih Tzu puppy's needs. On occasion, you may treat your Shih Tzu with the same goodies you eat, but do not ever make it a daily habit. And, of course, always stay away from chocolate treat. Dry dog food, or kibble as it is sometimes called, is said to have all the nutrients that your dog will need for health, but the dearer brands are often better. Shih Tzu fed on cheaper brands may constantly chew grass to supplement whatever is missing from their diet. Canned food can be given as a treat only. We often say that the most expensive things in life are not the best, however, these days with dog food; it does seem to prove out that the most expensive brands are the better. The more expensive brands of dog food use methods that are "quick" in order to turn out thousands and thousands of bags of dog food. They carefully test and retest their formulas among other reasons of why their brands are more expensive. A healthy dog should have a smooth, shining coat, clear eyes and a moist nose. Its breath should not smell foul. It should be slender, though not thin enough to see its ribs sticking out. If your dog's breath is disgusting, it could be due to the tartar on its teeth. Chewing on a big bone will help to clean your dog's teeth. Don't be fooled by the Shih Tzu that begs and begs for more food. Feed your Shih Tzu just what the bag recommends and no more. Shih Tzu should not be able to "instruct" their owners of how much food they need. If this is the case, they will eat you out of house and home and end up one of those "fat" Shih Tzu with all kinds of health problems this article is telling you about. A Shih Tzu is charming and can charm their way into just about anything they want. Just don't let this happen with their food intake if you want them to stay healthy. Regular worming will also help to keep your pet in top condition. Shots for distemper, heartworm, parvovirus and kennel cough are a must. Kennel cough is not likely to be a problem unless the Shih Tzu is kept on cement, or you bring in another Shih Tzu with kennel cough. I prefer giving Pyrantel as a dewormer to my Shih Tzu. I don't like using tablets. Pyrantel is a liquid and is much easier to administer. Parvovirus breaks down the digestive system and eventually affects the heart. Vaccinations against parvovirus and cleaning with Clorox bleach is the best method of keeping this out of your Shih Tzu kennel or home. Symptoms include bloody stool and the animal is quickly unable to move and in obvious pain. Puppies almost always die with parvovirus. However, each Shih Tzu puppy's immune system is different. All depends upon the Shih Tzu puppy's immune system, how many vaccinations they have already received and the cleaning away of the virus using Clorox bleach as to whether or not your particular Shih Tzu will survive the virus. Luckily, it is not transmitted to humans. Symptoms of distemper include runny eyes and a dry nose. It is rather like flu in humans. A Shih Tzu with worms may have a poor appetite, and will often - though not always - look to be in poor health with a dry coat that is harsh to the touch. If your Shih Tzu drags itself along the ground in a sitting position, suspect worms immediately. Worms can sometimes be seen hanging from the anal passage. The problem needs to be addressed as soon as possible, because worms are easily transmitted to humans. Fleas, which will happily jump from dogs to humans, can be another problem. These bloodsuckers can actually kill a tiny puppy, simply through blood loss. Shih Tzu puppies too young to wear a flea collar may be washed in a suitable preparation from the vet. Pat it dry afterwards, or keep it in a warm place so it doesn't get cold. Always be sure to keep kennels and yard clean to reduce the flea problem. If they get out of hand, you may need to spray all bedding and surrounding areas to kill the fleas and their eggs. If you live in a tick prone area, be sure to keep a tick collar on your Shih Tzu at all times. Mark the renewal date on the calendar so you don't forget to renew it. Your Shih Tzu's life may depend on it! Grass ticks cause itchy lumps that can become infected when scratched. If not removed quickly, the paralysis tick can cause death in three to five days. If the Shih Tzu seems to suddenly have weak back legs and falls over often, inspect it immediately for a tick and get it to the vet as soon as possible. Luckily, the tick vaccine works well and quickly and can save a dog that looks like it is gasping its last breath. With attention to these few details, your Shih Tzu should live a long and happy life, rewarding you with years of fun and companionship.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies in a variety of colors. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Visit us online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ , our website provides you with an educational experience all about the Shih Tzu. Purchase Shih Tzu puppies and sign up for our FREE newsletter.

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Tips on How To Keep Your Shih Tzu Safe During the Holidays

2006-10-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

Tips on How To Keep Your Shih Tzu Safe During the Holidays

The "end of the year" holidays can present some particular hazards to the health of your Shih Tzu, and consequently to your peace of mind. Here are some ideas that have worked for many people to make this time a happy one for all.

Make sure you check your vet's holiday hours and emergency contacts and have the information easily accessible.

Think before you decorate with plants. Shih Tzu will all nibble household plants. Many household plants including mistletoe and some poinsettias can make your Shih Tzu very ill. Make sure your holiday plants are out of your Shih Tzu’s reach.

If you have a Christmas tree, you should put only unbreakable decorations at the bottom of your tree, so there is no danger of your Shih Tzu batting a glass ball and breaking it, or the Shih Tzu chewing your grandmother's antique bubble lights.
If you have a live tree in water, wrap the base so your Shih Tzu can't decide to take a drink of the water. Many modern live trees have been sprayed with chemicals that may be toxic to your Shih Tzu.

Be very, very careful about candles. Your Shih Tzu may be enticed by the flicker of the flame, and may singe his whiskers or worse. Place glass "hurricane lanterns" or other attractive covers over candles to protect your home and your Shih Tzu.
Think ahead to New Years Eve, and plan how to keep your Shih Tzu from becoming frightened by the traditional firecrackers and other noisy merriment. Some Shih Tzu may be severely traumatized by fireworks, be sure to leave them inside if you go out to celebrate.

Shih Tzu may be stressed by the changes in household routine during the holidays, especially if you are stressed yourself. Some cats and dogs respond to stress by becoming hyper or hysterical, and some simply retreat. Plan to spend some special time with your Shih Tzu to calm yourself and reassure them during this period, and if your Shih Tzu is especially upset with strangers visiting, prepare a "refuge" he can go to and escape the "maddening crowd."

Have yourself a very Merry Christmas and New Year with your Shih Tzu by your side.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in a variety of colors. Puppies are sold with a health guarantee. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Our site provides you with educational material, dog bows, dog books and supplies. Visit us at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter.

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Shih Tzu essentials

2006-10-19T03:04:00.000-07:00

Category: Animal Care)Shih Tzu Essentials

by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

People use accessories to accentuate the beauty of a certain thing. There are also times that they buy accessories in order to protect the product against harmful elements in the environment. These concepts are also true when applied to taking care of their Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu owners tend to pamper their Shih Tzu and many Shih Tzu lovers even contend that buying dog accessories gives the same satisfaction as shopping for loved ones. Today, there are many dog accessories available on the market and choosing the best dog accessories can be challenging. Here are some tips on what to look for when buying accessories for your Shih Tzu: 1. Dog/Shih Tzu collars There are varieties of dog collars available in the market today, ranging from plain to fancy. Whatever type or design one may prefer, the most important thing to consider is that it should properly fit the Shih Tzu. It should never be too loose or too tight. Experts say that the ideal space between the Shih Tzu's neck and the collar should be two fingers wide. 2. Dog/Shih Tzu leash It is always best to buy a good leash and not scrimp on the price. There are many types available. The most important factor to keep in mind is the size of the leash. Depending on the size of your Shih Tzu, you want to make certain you buy one strong enough to hold him. If your Shih Tzu is smaller, you don't want to buy a leash that is too large. 3. Food and water bowls It's important to purchase food and water bowls that are not easily tipped over. Also, some people purchase those large watering systems that are similar to what some humans have bottled water delivered in. They are large and are supposed to keep your pet in drinking water for a longer period of time. Depending on the size of your Shih Tzu, make certain that the water will be consumed fairly quickly. Water for your Shih Tzu should be fresh and clean. Water that has been left standing isn't a good idea to feed your Shih Tzu. 4. Dog/Shih Tzu toys Most Shih Tzu are fond of playing, so, it's best to give them toys to gnash, chew, or bite with. Having his own things will make him more behaved instead of chewing slippers or shoes. Again, make certain that the toys are appropriate for the size of the Shih Tzu. Too small, and just like a child, they could choke. If the toy is too large for a smaller animal they won't be able to lift it. 5. Doghouses/Shih Tzu Houses When placed outside, Shih Tzu should have a place for shelter. This is to keep them away from direct sunlight or from the rain or snow. If your Shih Tzu is left alone for long periods of time, make certain that his "home" is the right size and will protect him from the elements. One last thought . . . never, never leave your Shih Tzu in a locked vehicle. It can be a death sentence.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in a variety of colors. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. Puppies are sold with a Health Guarantee. We provide you with educational material, dog bows; fleece t-shirts, dog supplies and dog books. Visit us online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE Shih Tzu newsletter.

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Get a Shih Tzu Puppy and Improve Your Health

2006-10-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

Get a Shih Tzu Puppy and Improve Your Health

by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) Shih Tzu can be your very best friend. But did you know that having a dog and/or Shih Tzu puppy gives you several heath benefits? In studies done by medical professionals, dog and/or Shih Tzu owners benefit from their pet's presence in several ways: 1) Improved cardiovascular health - Shih Tzu and dog owners have been proven to have blood pressure and cholesterol lower than ordinary people. These factors reduce the chance for cardiovascular diseases. Stroking a pet has long been known to reduce blood pressure. A study from the New York State University found that these benefits continue even without the pet available. The study tested a group of stockbrokers with hypertension. They concluded that just being a pet-owner and/or Shih Tzu owner can lower blood pressure. Dog owners and/or Shih Tzu owners also have blood cholesterol levels lower than normal. Five thousand four hundred people were tested by the Baker Medical Research Institute of Australia and with the results showing pet owners having not just lower blood pressure but also lower levels of blood triglycerides and cholesterol compared to people who didn't own any pets. 2) Faster recovery time and higher survival rates - Hospital studies have found that seniors and recently operated on patients responded better to treatment and got better quickly while they were in contact with dogs and/or Shih Tzu and other therapy animals. Just petting a dog and/or Shih Tzu can be relaxing and therapeutic for recovering patients. Also, dog and/or Shih Tzu owners have a greater chance to survive after suffering from a serious illness. Several studies have discovered that pet owners who suffered from a heart attack were more likely to be alive a year after they were discharged from the hospital than those who did not own pets. Another New York study found that pet's affected their survival rate more even more than the presence or company of family members or friends. 3) Fewer visits to the doctor - Studies conducted at Cambridge and UCLA have found that owning a pet corresponds to overall improved health and less need for hospital visits. A Medicare study of its elderly patients also discovered that those who own dogs and/or Shih Tzu visit the doctor less than those who don't have a pet. 4) Mental Wellness - Patients who have dogs and/or Shih Tzu have also been known to have better emotional health than their counterparts. They offer unconditional love and affection; their presence alone helps reduce loneliness for sick people who have otherwise been isolated. Several studies of people with major illnesses have shown that the stress of fighting the disease is significantly reduced when they had a dog and/or Shih Tzu as company. As you can see, having a dog and/or Shih Tzu is a great investment, for the joy that you get from owning one and the health benefits that you can receive. So go out and get a dog, preferably a Shih Tzu! I am partial to Shih Tzu..........

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu Puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. We offer you educational material, dog bows, Fleece T-shirts and other dog supplies. Visit us online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter.

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Proper Nutrition for Your Shih Tzu

2006-10-12T13:13:00.000-07:00

Proper Nutrition for Your Shih Tzu by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

The dietary regimen is an important aspect of survival. The objective of dietary management is to meet the basic nutritional requirements of the individual with proper proportions of protein, carbohydrates, and fat in a well-balanced diet that will promote optimal body weight. Generally, these dietary regimens are employed to human beings. However, with the growing fondness to dogs, most Shih Tzu owners and veterinarians recommend that dietary regimen should likewise be implemented on dogs. Like humans, Shih Tzu needs the right combination of the basic food groups in order to have a healthy life span. Shih Tzu also need to be regulated on the kinds of food that they eat or else they could end up being obese as well. Included in the Shih Tzu's dietary regimen are the proper minerals and vitamins. These essential health items should be well incorporated into the Shih Tzu's daily needs in order to have a healthy body. With proper minerals and vitamins, Shih Tzu will be able to maintain shiny, healthy-looking coat. So, for people who want to know how to prepare the right diet for their Shih Tzu, here are some tips to guide them through: 1. Meat should not be the only food incorporated in the Shih Tzu's diet. In reality, dogs are carnivorous. The Shih Tzu's body is especially designed to generate growth and energy from meat products. However, dogs need fiber too to help them digest their foods properly and carbohydrates to provide them the added energy that they need. So, it would be better if Shih Tzu owners will feed their Shih Tzu every day with the usual dog foods available in the market and give them occasionally real foods where meat, fibers, and carbohydrates are present. 2. Dogs need minerals and vitamins. Like humans, Shih Tzu needs complex combinations of minerals and vitamins. These are needed to maintain the luster and shine in their coats and to provide them with healthy gums and teeth. Lack of minerals and vitamins supplement will result to deficiencies of certain types that could be really difficult to deal with, such as extra dry or super oily skin, tummy problems, frail bones, low-weight, and worst cases are death. Like humans, these dietary supplements are needed to give the Shih Tzu the extra needed nutrients in order to keep them healthy. 3. Real meal treats Contrary to most popular beliefs, Shih Tzu loves the real food more than their typical dog foods. Hence, whenever their owners give them real food, they would consider them as treats. 4. Mixed foods Most people tend to think that deciding whether to give Shih Tzu moist or dry foods is a matter of preference. In reality, it is not. This is because mixing different kinds of foods is actually the best diet owners could give to their Shih Tzu. Giving Shih Tzu a variety of foods, nutritional value, and texture is the real diet your dog really needs. 5. Dogs need greens. A well-balanced diet for the Shih Tzu includes green leafy vegetables. Even if dogs are carnivorous by nature, they also need the right amount of greens to provide them with additional nutrients that are only available in green leafy foods. No wonder why you occasionally see a dog chew on grass. This goes to show that dogs really need some greens to provide their body with a well balanced diet. There are no hard or fast rules when it comes to balanced diets for Shih Tzu. However, it is still important to note the needed food groups that should be incorporated in the Shih Tzu's diet. Shih Tzu owners should always consult their dog's veterinarians especially on things like health and diet supplements for their Shih Tzu. The veterinarian knows what foods should be included in the Shih Tzu's meal and what foods should be avoided. Shih Tzu, like humans, should not be fed with junk foods like sugary sweet sodas. These will only make them fat without the needed nutrients. Whenever something about your Shih Tzu seems abnormal, consult your veterinarian. As they say, veterinarians know best when it comes to the Shih Tzu's care.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. We offer you educational material, dog bows and dog clothes. Visit us online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter. This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

2006-10-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

(Category: Animal Care)Does Your Shih Tzu Require Professional Obedience Training?by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com)

We've all encountered them at some point, ill-mannered Shih Tzu. We've even seen their owners yelling at them, tugging at their leashes trying to make them behave. What is sad is that you can't blame the Shih Tzu for the owner's irresponsibility. This type of behavior could have been avoided with obedience training.

Obedience training is a platform for the Shih Tzu and the owner to learn how to effectively communicate with one another. Can you conduct obedience training on your own? This is a question that has long been debated by the experts. One school of thought is that it would be better if a professional does the training, while others feel the owner can do it if they feel competent. The truth is that a combination of trainer and owner is probably the most effective.

Find an obedience school in your area. You will probably be told that they recommend a series of lessons that include both the Shih Tzu AND the owner. Sometimes the classes can be arranged where trainer comes to your home. Some trainers feel that training where the surroundings are familiar is helpful where some prefer their own location. However, whether the obedience training is done at home, by a professional trainer, or in an obedience school, there are things that must be considered when incorporating this kind of training. Here is a list of the things that should be taken into account.

1. Fun Obedience training does not necessarily mean that strict rules should be imposed. This is because the Shih Tzu is not aware of the reasons why he should be trained. Therefore, for him to respond to the commands, the training must be done in such a way that the Shih Tzu sees the activity as something that is fun. The Shih Tzu should be praised when he exhibits proper behavior. Some trainers also recommend treats and some do not. That should be discussed with your trainer.

2. Consistency During the course of obedience training, it is very important to have consistency in the training. For example, if a Shih Tzu was allowed to sit on the rug the other day and when the Shih Tzu tried to sit on the rug today, he was scolded. Things like this should not be taken for granted. It is extremely important to teach the Shih Tzu what he should and should not do and stick to it. Confusion will only make the matters worst.

3. Obedience training instructor/trainer When people choose to enroll their Shih Tzu in an obedience class, it is important to analyze the trainer before the owner leaves his Shih Tzu. The character and personality of the trainer is extremely important. They should be professional enough to know how to handle the Shih Tzu's behavior and how to train them properly. Again, you might want to find a trainer that works with both you AND your Shih Tzu.

4. Referrals It is best not to try new and unfamiliar obedience training schools. This could be really risky both for you and for your Shih Tzu. It would be better if Shih Tzu owners will ask for some referrals from their veterinarians, Shih Tzu dog breeders, or other people who can give their honest opinions.

5. Charges Not all obedience training schools are created equal. They vary depending on the kind of services they offer. It is best to consider their fees and what services they offer at that rate. This is one area where you don't want to scrimp so cheapest isn't always the best. Also, make certain you are dealing with a trainer that will work with both you AND your Shih Tzu.

6. Methods used in the training It is highly recommended that Shih Tzu owners ask about the methods being used in the training. Make sure the terms are spelled out clearly. Shop for the best training you can find for the money. Don't make a decision quickly. If you don't feel comfortable with one individual, by all means keep looking. There is some Shih Tzu that just seems to follow directions with little or no effort with never a session of profession training. Unfortunately, these examples are few and far between. Invest in obedience training and you can look at a long and healthy relationship with a loving companion. With obedience training, Shih Tzu will surely be on their way to happier and more enjoyable stay with their masters and the people around them.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. We offer you educational material, dog bows and dog clothes. Visit us online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter.
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Commitment and Routine are the Keys to Housebreaking Your Shih Tzu Puppy

2006-10-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Commitment and Routine are the Keys to Housebreaking Your Shih Tzu Puppyby Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) Housebreaking is the most indispensable thing your Shih Tzu puppy must learn. Common sense should tell you why. Do you want your house to stay spic and span? Handle your Shih Tzu puppy's housebreaking well. Aside from the maintenance of your household hygiene, trained Shih Tzu is happy Shih Tzu. As creatures of habit, it's in their nature to keep schedules as pack animals. Here is how you should housebreak your Shih Tzu puppy: Ideal Housebreaking Age When your Shih Tzu puppy reaches the age of 8 to 12 weeks old, it's high time to begin housebreaking. Remember that adage that old dogs can't learn new tricks? It is true so why take chances? Crate Help Dog trainers suggest using a crate in housebreaking your Shih Tzu puppy. A crate is like a cage, with see-through bars and a locking door. Its size should accommodate well the Shih Tzu's size for it to move around in. It should be used like a Shih Tzu's bedroom. It is advised to not confine your Shih Tzu puppy in his crate for more than two hours at a time. The reasoning behind using a crate in housebreaking your Shih Tzu puppy is that dogs will not dirty their sleeping areas. However, he may do so if you lock him in somewhere for longer than he can hold it in. Never use a crate to punish your Shih Tzu, it will backfire. Generally, Shih Tzu pups that are three-months old must eliminate every 3 hours, so you should lead him to a special outdoor comfort place more often. Make Your Shih Tzu Puppy Learn Routines Another tip is to leave the house through one door only. This door should be the one that you want the Shih Tzu to scratch to warn you about his being called by the nature. Taking your Shih Tzu pup out at around the same times every day will be very beneficial for the both of you. This will help in establishing a routine, and will make him learn to hold it in until you become available to take him out. Look For Clues If the un-housebroken Shih Tzu is accustomed to roaming freely around the house, search for signs that show you he needs to do it. Be really observant enough of his behavior, i.e., heavy sniffing, circling an area, staring at the door with an intense look on his face, etc. If you catch him WHILE doing it, stop him with a quick grab of his collar and pull it up while saying "No" using your deep, stern tone (don't forget to use a deep, gruff voice when stating commands). Then, take him outside and let him finish what he is doing. Lastly, pat him on his head while saying "Good (his name)!" It is a must to make your Shih Tzu get used to being praised whenever he does anything that makes you proud. Giving him food as a reward when he does his business in the appropriate spot can help, too. Patience is a Big Virtue Like any training endeavor, housebreaking requires a lot of patience. If you definitely despise cleaning your Shih Tzu waste off your Persian carpets on an hourly basis and having your whole house smell like a public bathroom, you want the housebreaking to be successful in a wink of an eye, if not sooner. Common Sense Makes a Lot of Sense The use of common sense will aid you big time in dealing with your Shih Tzu puppy's housebreaking. Logical thinking should inform you to not give your Shih Tzu water before bedtime if his tendency is to pee often at night time. Catering to his schedule first will prove to be very helpful in making it gradually change into yours. Aside from patience and common sense, consistency is also one of the important factors of this dog training activity. If you suddenly forget about the routines yourself, don't blame the Shih Tzu if he starts committing accidents more often. Remember that the stakes are high (dirty and malodorous house). If you would like success in this housebreaking feat or just about in any other training drills, don't treat it as a game. Allot enough time and commitment on your part. Best of luck! Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. We offer you educational material, dog bows, fleece t-shirts and other dog clothes. Visit us online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter. We are the largest privately-owned Shih Tzu site on the World Wide Web. This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Fight Fleas in Your Home and on Your Shih Tzu

2006-10-05T13:19:00.000-07:00

Fight Flees Out of Your Home and Off Your Shih Tzu

The natural way:

• Vacuum your home frequently and seal vacuum bags before disposing.

• Wash the bedding of your Shih Tzu weekly in warm soapy water. This is where fleas usually breed.

• Bathing your Shih Tzu weekly with a mild dog shampoo prevents flea invasion.

• Use cedar shampoo for your Shih Tzu, and put cedar oil in their sleeping mats. Cedar will repel fleas and other insects.

• Fleas are attracted to dry skin, so to avoid it, give your Shih Tzu Linatone oil mixed with its food. Excessive shampooing should be avoided.

• A mixture of brewer’s yeast and garlic, available in powder or tablet form can be given in small doses to your Shih Tzu. This creates a certain odor in pets, and fleas are surely to avoid them.

• Fresh or dried pennyroyal leaves is a natural flea repellent. Use this in carpets to avoid the abundance of fleas in the home. Do not use it if you have small children around, as this could be toxic.

• A mixture of 60 ml of lavender oil with 2.8 liters of rock salt can also be placed in areas where dogs usually come in contact with and this solution could also be used to wash your Shih Tzu.

• Planting marigolds in the yard is helpful too; it repels certain types of bugs as well as fleas.

• Boiled lemon or orange peel in water can be used as a dip for Shih Tzu and can be used too to soak in Shih Tzu bedding for a few hours, then washed with warm soapy water.

• Lukewarm water with little shampoo and detergent is a good way to prevent fleas. A Shih Tzu’s body may be dipped into the solution for fifteen minutes and then rinsed. This only works if flea infestation is light.

The natural way of treating fleas is effective only if the level of flea infestation is average to very few. This method usually is recommended for prevention only.

Different commercially available products with chemical contents:

• Advantage. Active ingredient is imidacloprid. This is a flea poison, from Bayer. It is in a liquid form and applied to the skin, at the back of the dog, and works for about a month. This works by upsetting the nervous system of fleas when they come in contact with the liquid. This product is fast acting and is not absorbed into the internal organs and bloodstream of the Shih Tzu.

Studies indicate that this product is highly toxic to fleas and other insects as well. A Shih Tzu will be free from fleas in just a couple of days.

Ingredients are: imidacloprid -- a chloronicotinyl nitroguanidine integrated from the nitromethylene class of a compound. This joins the nicotinyl receptor sites of insects, thus upsetting normal nerve transmission which causes death.

A set of two vials costs 15-20 dollars.

• Frontline. This product is very similar to Advantage, but is not water soluble, so alcohol is needed to wash it off. This can safely be used in Shih Tzu pups, dogs, cats and kittens.

Efficiency in repelling lasts up to four months.

Active ingredients include: Fipronil 5-amino -1- (2, 6-dichloro-4 [trifluoromethyl] phenyl) -4- (1, R, S) - (trifluoromethyl0sulfinyl) -1H-pryazole-3-carbonitrile 0.29% inert ingredients 99.71%.

Fipronil works as a nervous transmission interruptor, which causes quick death to fleas and ticks. It is proven to kills 96% of fleas for the first two hours and 100% within 24 hours. Ticks die sooner than they attach themselves to the host. Fipronil is from the new phenylpyrazole class.

Very effective and can be considered safe, so long as Shih Tzu are not allergic to fipronil.

• Knockout. Performs like Frontline and is as effective, but can only be used in dogs. Active ingredients: Pyriproxyfen: 21[1-methyl-2-(phenoxyphenoxy)ethyoxy] pyridine....0.05% cyclopropanecarboxylate 2.00% inert ingredients 97.95% Also has NYLAR, which is flea growth regulator.

• Biospot. This is for topical application and kills up to 75 percent of fleas, eggs, and ticks. It also is a good repellant of mosquitoes and works for about a month. Temporarily, at times, it turns white hair to yellow. This can not be used in cats and contains permethrins and IGR.

• Proban (cythioate) and Prospot (Fenthion). While not to be used in cats, they are widely used in dogs. This is absorbed by the bloodstream and fleas die due to the poison that is present in the blood. For it to work, it requires the bitting of fleas. There are certain conditions to be considered though. You are injecting a small dose of poison into your dog’s body and side effects are not known. Then this does not help if a dog has flea allergy, and can not risk to be bitten.

Generally fleas abound during the summer months, when it is their breeding season. These commercial products can greatly help in fighting heavy flea infestation and needed where severe invasion occurs. However, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian as the choice of flea control will greatly depend on your life style.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. We offer you educational material, dog bows and dog clothes. Visit us online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ and sign up for our FREE newsletter. We are the largest Shih Tzu website on the World Wide Web.

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Does Your Shih Tzu Have Allergies?

2006-10-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

Category: Animal Care)Does Your Shih Tzu Have Allergies?

by Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) There are many things that both the Shih Tzu and the Shih Tzu owners could have in common. For example, both Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu owners could be prone to obesity if not regulating food intake and by not exercising. In addition, Shih Tzu and humans may also acquire diseases that results from improper dietary regimen like diabetes, heart diseases, etc. Moreover, the most amusing thing that both Shih Tzu and humans share is the fact that they are both vulnerable to allergies. Sounds impossible? Think again. Veterinary experts assert that Shih Tzu have allergies too. One of the primary signs of allergies is the itching of their skin. Their respiratory tract system can also be affected with allergies. Normally, Shih Tzu will manifest symptoms of respiratory tract allergies like sneezing, wheezing, and coughing. Their nose and their eyes may also manifest a discharge just like humans do whenever they have colds or flu. There are also allergies that may have an effect on their digestive system; hence, it may result as watery stools, diarrhea, or vomiting. Experts say that almost 20% of the Shih Tzu in the United States suffer from several types of allergy. So, for people who want to know more about the different allergies that Shih Tzu acquire, here is a list of the most common allergies: 1. Allergies with fleas It is a well-known fact that Shih Tzu are usually infected with fleas. However, what most people do not know is that they can get allergies through these fleas, too. Well, it is not the fleas that actually cause the allergic reactions in Shih Tzu but the flea's saliva. Hence, it is important for the Shih Tzu to undergo a skin allergy examination so as to determine if a particular dog is sensitive to flea saliva. In the event that the Shih Tzu is allergic to flea saliva, it would be better for the owner to implement a rigorous flea control or flea eradication treatment in order to lessen the allergic reactions. Though, it must be kept in mind that solutions that are used in flea control should be safe for the Shih Tzu. 2. Allergies pertaining to foods Like humans, Shih Tzu gets allergies from food as well. There are instances wherein Shih Tzu gets allergies from foods that their system cannot tolerate, such as wheat, soy products, pork, beef, whey, fish, eggs, milk, corn, artificial sweeteners, and chemical preservatives that are placed in their food. Moreover, Shih Tzu can get allergies in food that they have not tried before. The best way to combat this particular allergy problem is to feed the dog commercial dog foods more often instead of homemade products. Some signs of allergic reactions to food in Shih Tzu are shaking of the head, scratching the ears, irritated skin, biting and licking at the rear feet, inflammations in the ear, sneezing, behavioral changes, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. 3. Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis is a known allergic skin disease in dogs. This is usually caused by the hypersensitivity of the dog's immune system to ordinary substances that can be found in the environment like molds or dust mites. Usually, a Shih Tzu is said to be suffering from atopic dermatitis when the Shih Tzu begins to excessively lick and chew its paws, licking the abdomen and its rear feet. Atopic dermatitis can be seen as a saliva staining found in the armpits, between the toes of the paws, and in the groin. In light-colored canines, atopic dermatitis can be seen as a red-brown stain found on the same parts that were mentioned. 4. Allergies resulting from bacteria This is the most common cause of serious allergies in Shih Tzu. Generally, there are certain bacteria that thrive in the dog's skin. This is known as the species of Staphylococcus bacteria. In most cases, this does not cause allergies in Shih Tzu. However, there are certain types of dogs that develop an allergy to it. The most common symptom of this kind of allergy is hair loss along with the development of ringworm like marks in the Shih Tzu skin. The areas where these marks appear usually get infected, hence, it is important to treat them with antibiotics. Indeed, allergies are not for humans only. Allergies greatly affect almost 20% of the total population of dogs in the United States, and that is a pretty alarming number. Therefore, it is extremely important for dog owners to know these dog allergies in order to prevent them from further exposure.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups at reasonable prices. We offer you educational material, dog bows and dog clothes. Visit us online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ and sign up for our FREE newsletter. We are the largest privately-owned Shih Tzu site on the World Wide Web.

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Adopting A Shih Tzu - Adult or Puppy?

2006-10-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

Everyone is surely going to get excited when trying to adopt a Shih Tzu. Truly a man's best friend, you can rely on your pet Shih Tzu in giving you company, cuddling up together and some can even guard your house. You need to review your personal lifestyle and needs when adopting a Shih Tzu. It is a major decision whether or not you would choose to have a puppy or an adult as a pet. Before deciding on which Shih Tzu to adopt, here is some useful information that might help you decide. Read on at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Going Places with Your Shih Tzu

2006-09-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu normally likes to travel. In addition, they usually travel well. Adventurous by nature, Shih Tzu want to check out new sights and sounds. They like to meet and see new people. This does not mean that traveling with a Shih Tzu is as easy as traveling with your clutch bag. Here are some tips on how to have a worry-free travel experience with your pet dog.

Hiring a pet sitter

If you are traveling far away from home without your Shih Tzu, you might want to hire a pet sitter who could take care of your Shih Tzu full-time. A pet sitter could be a member of your family or a friend who could stay over in your house and watch over your Shih Tzu. You could also ask your veterinarian who could recommend someone to do the pet-sitting.

Leaving the Shih Tzu in a kennel

If you choose to leave your Shih Tzu in a kennel, shop around for recommendations for a good one from friends that own Shih Tzu or your vet. Go to the kennel before taking your Shih Tzu and check if animals look well-cared for and the facilities comfortable and clean. Chat with the staff to make sure that your Shih Tzu will be cared for properly.

Traveling with your Shih Tzu

Should you decide that you’re bringing the Shih Tzu along in your travel, ask the vet some tips on how to best travel with a dog, including problems on the transportation method. Ask if he or she could give your Shih Tzu a certificate of clean health.

If you are flying via airplane, you should have a sturdy carrier for your Shih Tzu. If not, the airline could ask you to buy a carrier from them. Some airlines allow your pet in the passenger compartment with you. Some put all the animals in the luggage compartment.

If you are riding in a car, the air conditioning should be kept on. Do not leave your Shih Tzu unattended in a car that is parked. Do not park in direct sunlight even for a brief period of time, as it could drastically raise the heat temperature inside your car that might result in dehydration, heat stroke, or worse.

Foreign travel

Traveling with a Shih Tzu or any other pet in foreign countries can prove to be difficult. Check with your vet for some tips. You might also want to ask the local consulate of the country you are visiting what are their requirements for you to bring your pet along.

Going places with your Shih Tzu may be a pleasant experience. But you should remember taking a Shih Tzu, or any pet with you, anywhere could be a bit difficult.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines in many different colors of blues, reds, chocolates, blacks. We have the small AKC standards, imperials and teacups. We offer you educational material, dog bows and dog clothes. Visit us online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com and sign up for our FREE newsletter to receive valuable discounts.

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Does Your Shih Tzu Have an Ear Infection?

2006-09-30T01:29:00.000-07:00

Does Your Shih Tzu Have an Ear Infection?
Shih Tzu ear infections are also commonly called Otitis Externa. It is an infection of the outer ear canal. There are three parts to the ear; the outer, the middle, and the inner ear. Ninety percent of infections occur in the outer ear, the part of the ear that you can see. Shih Tzu are prone to ear infections because of the anatomy of their ears. They have a horizontal and a vertical component to them, so it is hard for anything in there to drain out, like water or debris. They are also more prone to ear infections because of the long hair over their ears.Signs of an ear infection include excessive head shaking, yellow to brown exudates in the ears, or a yeast like smell. Additional signs of ear infections include redness and swelling. There are several causes of ear infections. The most common cause of ear infections are due to allergies. Some dogs are more prone to allergies than others; therefore they get more ear infections. Some ear infections are due to ear mites. It is very important to keep the hair pulled out of a Shih Tzu’s ears.Another common cause is sporting dogs that swim. They get water inside their ears, and provided their difficult anatomy; the water in the ears cannot drain out. Therefore, this provides the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. It is recommenced that if you let your Shih Tzu play in the water you dry your dog's ears thoroughly afterwards. If your Shih Tzu does have an ear infection it is important to properly clean your dog's ears before applying any medication. To clean your Shih Tzu’s ears, start by placing a few drops of an ear cleanser into the ear and massage the ear to help loosen any debris that is in the ear. Then use a cloth or cotton gauze to whip the dirt out. After your dog's ears are thoroughly clean, then you can apply your medication. Follow your veterinarian's advice about how much medication to apply to the ear, usually a few drops. The treatment your veterinarian will prescribe will vary depending on the cause of the ear infection. For yeast infections they prescribe anti-fun gals, for bacterial infections they will prescribe antibiotics. Normally treatment is applied directly into the ears, but in severe cases systemic treatment may be needed. This usually means have to give your dog pills orally. In some Shih Tzu with severe ear problems, the veterinarian will usually clip the hair around the ear to help let more air into the ear. In extreme cases your veterinarian may recommend surgery to reconstruct the ear canal to let it drain easier. Breeds of dogs that are prone to ear infections include all breeds with large ears that flap over the ear canal, and breeds of dogs that have a very small canal. By knowing what to look for, you can detect ear infections early.
Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Purchase online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Sign up for our newsletters.This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Teacup/Imperial Shih Tzu

2006-09-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

I did not create the "labels" Imperial or "Teacup." These words were already set in stone before I ever came on board. I picked up the terms only because potential customers were asking me for "Imperial Size" or "Teacup Size." I RARELY get a request for a "Standard" size shih tzu as defined by the American Kennel Club. Since these words of Imperial Shih Tzu and Teacup Shih Tzu were so common to describe a particular size of shih tzu and I was seeing these are the terms people place in search engines boxes looking for the size THEY WANT in a shih tzu, I began using the terms as well mainly to be able to communicate with potential customers in their own language.

The smaller size shih tzu are NOT smaller just because they are UNHEALTHY. This is a downright myth or lie being spread by those who are in favor of only one size shih tzu, which they say, is the only size shih tzu that should be on the market. And the ill-will I have heard from this group of people against these little guys is almost unreal, as if these smaller size shih tzus should not have the same rights as the "standard" size, maybe not even the "right to live" if this side of the poll had its ultimate way about things. And......as if people who have these little guys for sale command a higher price, that this is proof the breeder is doing something outrageously WRONG. Well........like I said.......RARELY does anyone ask me for a "standard" size shih tzu. There is a huge market of individuals and families who prefer these smaller sizes including me. I like all the sizes, but the smaller ones are my favorite. They are like little tiny treasures, almost always sweeter than the bigger guys. To me, they are like a rare exquisite jewel in the midst of all kinds of other jewels. They do require more work on the part of the breeder. Often, to keep them going at first because they are so small they have to be hand-fed and fed extra supplements like Nutri-cal daily. For these reasons of being that tiny treasured, exquisite jewel, rare and unique from all the rest, and because of the all extra labor involved in raising them, they command a higher price.

And.......I still say, from all I have read.......the smaller size shih tzu.......most likely the under 6 pounds, the 7 and 8 pounders were the very first shih tzu to ever be brought into this world by the Chinese Emporess Dowager in the Imperial Palace of China. The bigger sizes were rejected by these early day breedings conducted in the Palace. They were often sold to the peasants in the streets. The smaller ones were kept under careful guard, were the ones actually very much pampered that slept on satin pillows in the palace, that were owned by the elite and wealthy of that period of time, were given as gifts to the diplomats that visited the Imperial Palace as the most ultimate gift of all to ever receive from the Princess. They were the shih tzu that was highly reverened and cherished. These little under the table dogs were sometimes so small the Chinese could carry them in their sleeves. Try getting a 9 to 16 lb. dog in your sleeve? Won't work no matter how big that sleeve is. We owe all our bloodlines to these early breeders. The Princess was mean and ruthless and was known to have little regard for anyone else but her shih tzu. She was burned out several times and eventually I suppose when all the chips were down, she felt beaten, and was found to have committed suicide with all her little shih tzu around her. So the legends of the shih tzu are steeped in mysterious myths and stories that it is no wonder there is still so much controversy about them and......it is about these little guys the most it seems. They seem to be the most mysterious of all - another reason why they command a higher price tag. They are EXQUISITE LITTLE CREATURES.

They actually do belong recognized in a class all their own. I hope to see The American Kennel Club someday do just that. New breeds are being created everyday. I don't know why this group of people against the little guys try to make such a fuss over them not being appropriate to be anything but a PET and they imply any breeder having them are doing something outrageously wrong to the breed. I wonder do people carry on the same about Teacup Poodles? These little under 6 pounders would be so cute in the showring and in fact, I have a picture of one who was 6 pounds who won a championship (one of my shih tzu books). They belong in a class all their own. Name them Imperials. Name them Teacups. Do away with the Teacup name. Don't matter to me on that.

At first very few people got hold of these little guys. Why? Because they were one of a kind - like a very precious jewel in the midst of all kinds of other jewels.
I also think that because so many other people were able to get hold of the bigger sizes in those days is where these bigger sizes now came from. They went out all over to other countries - but not the tiny treasures of the Imperial Palace. They were the secret of that period of time. They are still fairly rare, fairly scarce. Anything that can be produced in vast numbers is always "cheaper." I remember when VCR's and Microwaves first came out, they were so expensive I thought I could never own one. But then......they started being manufactured by the millions, which brought the prices down, and many other people could afford them.

Right now, these little guys are still fairly scarce, which makes their value go up also. And they are many times just as healthy as the bigger guys.

I wonder don't these people who are against the little guys know that even humans come in all sizes and shapes......what if suddenly there was some kind of a stamp put on humans and if every person was not the weight of 170 pounds and 6 foot tall, they were deemed INAPPROPRIATE to be alive.......There are big people and little people and I am so grateful because I am one of the little people standing about 5 feet 2 inches tall. My weight has gone up through the years, so I might qualify as a person based on weight.......

I cherish the smaller sizes. All of mine have been extra joy to have around!!!! I don't in-breed them or have some kind of special formula to create them. Size is created by genes of the bloodlines. And yes, you could call the smallest in the crew a runt just the same. Personally though, I like the word "teacup" better. I think it more closely describes them and is a cuter term. If I were breeding Police Dogs, or Alaskan Working Dogs, I would call the smallest one in the crew, the runt. But I choose to call the smallest shih tzu - teacups and imperials. In my mind, that simply means a certain size. Rather than saying, I want a dog 6 pounds or under. A person can say I want a Teacup, and I know the size they are asking me for.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Purchase online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Sign up for our newsletter.

Train Your Shih Tzu Puppy to Heel and Sit

2006-09-24T00:24:00.000-07:00

It is never too soon to start training a Shih Tzu puppy. Give your Shih Tzu puppy as much freedom as possible until he is about 4 to 6 months of age. Keep a lead and collar on your Shih Tzu puppy in public places. In many countries it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful if that applies to your country.

Be careful in parks if there are other dogs loose as they may attack a Shih Tzu puppy they think is infringing in their territory.

Plenty of exercise and fresh air is essential for a fast growing young Shih Tzu puppy. Shih Tzu puppies need exercise to strengthen bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs.

Being in public places also allows your Shih Tzu puppy to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general. He should be exercised daily if possible. Daily exercise will help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Starting Basic Shih Tzu Puppy Training

You can start training a Shih Tzu puppy at about 4 to 6 months of age. Ten minutes a day is adequate time for Shih Tzu puppy training. Establish a regular routine for Shih Tzu puppy training. Take your Shih Tzu puppy out at about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session. The Shih Tzu puppy will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.

Teaching a Shih Tzu Puppy to Heel

· Walk at a steady pace with your Shih Tzu puppy on a firm fitting collar and lead. Have him on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL.

· Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg. If your Shih Tzu puppy pulls away or gets distracted, continue walking. Your Shih Tzu puppy will soon get the message and follow along. If you don't stop, he'll have to follow.

· As he follows you after a distraction, pat him saying GOOD DOG or GOOD BOY or GIRL.

· If he tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When he obeys, give him a pat and praise him. Provide him with a special treat of food, preferably a food he likes very much.

Teaching a Shih Tzu Puppy to Sit

Once your Shih Tzu puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach him to sit. With him walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on his back end with your left hand. Your Shih Tzu puppy will have no choice but to sit.
While lifting with the collar takes weight off his front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing him down. Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising him each time he sits. Give your Shih Tzu puppy a favorite treat.
Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times in a 10 minute walk.
End all training sessions with lots of praise and a favorite treat.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Purchase Shih Tzu puppies online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Please sign up for our newsletter.

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Vaccinating Your Shih Tzu

2006-09-23T00:08:00.000-07:00

Active immunization is the introduction into the body of killed or satisfied microorganisms or their products for the purpose of stimulating the Shih Tzu’s defense mechanism. This is the same concept that is applicable to the human species.

Historically the area of veterinary medicine had not yet realized the potential benefits of vaccinations. It hasn't been until recently, those veterinary experts formulated solutions to combat the alarming increased of death in dogs and the Shih Tzu as well. Most of the causes are viral infection.

With the inception of vaccinations, many dogs and Shih Tzu were saved from probable death brought about by many diseases like leptospirosis, hepatitis, upper respiratory infections and parvovirus.

Like humans, dogs need vaccinations even at an early age. That is why it is important to immunize Shih Tzu puppies so that they will survive until they are fully grown.
Basically, Shih Tzu puppies get their immunity from their Shih Tzu mother’s milk, which is also the same as that of human beings. However, these immunities tend to lose their effects by the time the Shih Tzu puppies are already 6 to 20 weeks old. It is during this time they need to be immunized.

In order to protect the Shih Tzu puppies against infectious diseases, it is best to give them their shots. Shih Tzu puppies should be re-immunized after 3 to 4 weeks for 4 rounds. Thereafter, the Shih Tzu dog should receive a booster yearly. If you follow this regimen, Shih Tzu puppies should be able to endure any infectious disease that may come their way.

Rabies and Immunization
Rabies is an acute and almost invariably fatal disease communicated to man through the saliva of a rabid animal, usually dogs, foxes, squirrels, and bats.
Dogs, fortunately, always present evidence of the disease before becoming infective. The etiologic agent is an ultramicroscopic virus present in the saliva and the central nervous system.
The course of rabies in dogs and Shih Tzu is characterized by an incubation period of 20 to 30 days. This is followed by a period of excitement, when the animal becomes vicious. The excitement stage may be evident or may be entirely absent. Paralysis develops which first involves the Shih Tzu’s hind legs and thereafter becomes generalized. Death occurs within 10 days following the first symptom.

Alternatively, the effects of rabies in human beings can be fatal as it is with dogs and Shih Tzu. Hence, in order to avoid these problems, it is best to have your Shih Tzu and all dogs vaccinated with anti-rabies shots.

Rabies vaccines can be given during the 16th to the 26th week of the life of a Shih Tzu puppy. This requires a follow up shot once yearly in most areas for total protection.
On the other hand, dog and Shih Tzu owners should take note that vaccinations can generate adverse effects on their dogs and Shih Tzu. So, it is best to always observe your dog or Shih Tzu after vaccination. When reactions such as vomiting, facial swelling or trembling occur, it is best to consult with your veterinarian immediately.

Vaccination Tips:
• Consider the age of the Shih Tzu puppy before subjecting them to their shots.

• First shots for a Shih Tzu puppy should be between the age of 6 and 8 weeks. Two to four weeks later another shot can be given until you have completed four rounds.

• Rabies vaccinations should be given between the ages of 16 to 26 weeks, and then once yearly.

• Booster shots for the common diseases in dogs and Shih Tzu should be given yearly to the adult Shih Tzu.

In conclusion, vaccinations are extremely important to your Shih Tzu’s life. Vaccines are needed in order to protect the Shih Tzu from imminent risk of acquiring diseases brought about by viruses.

Once you have vaccinated your Shih Tzu properly you can rest assured that he or she will be at its peak of health for a longer period of time. Indeed, vaccines are essential to the long life of your Shih Tzu. Do not omit this part of your health program for the Shih Tzu.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Please visit us, sign up for our newsletter and purchase puppies online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/
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Grooming and Beautifying Your Shih Tzu

2006-09-12T22:59:00.000-07:00

Grooming and Beautifying Your Shih Tzu

Although the day-to-day care of the show dog exceeds the grooming required for a pet dog, the groomer has a responsibility to perform a work of art in both cases.

Training and experience helps a groomer to look at a photograph of any Shih Tzu and to know instantly which bits of hair are clipped or scissor.

Expert brushing is an art. You might be shocked to find out your carefully brushed Shih Tzu still has tangles when a more experienced person gets a bin full of hair when complete brushing takes place. There is more to brushing your Shih Tzu than you probably realize.

Brushing Steps:

Put the Shih Tzu on the table.
Start on the bottom of the fore left leg. Lift the hair above the section you are working on, and brush the section below.
Comb through the coat. Use a grooming spray if necessary. Continue up the leg.
Continue the brushing and combing across the Shih Tzu’s quarters, along the back and neck. Pay special attention to behind the ears and underneath the legs. Matting is often more likely to occur in these areas.
Brush the head, ears and whiskers. Use a small comb on the Shih Tzu’s whiskers. The hair at the base of the Shih Tzu’s ears will need to be combed to remove tangles.
Lay the Shih Tzu on its side. Pay particular attention to the armpits where hair often mats.
Brush the hair on the hindquarters where the coat often grows thick and mats.
Brush the tail.

Mat breaking:

A mat-breaker or slicing the mat with scissors may be required.
Splitting the hair with your fingers will also help to break apart the tangles.
Always hold the Shih Tzu’s skin or the base of the mat when pulling; otherwise, you will pull at the Shih Tzu’s skin and cause great pain.

The finished result is called turning out a dog or in our case, turning out a Shih Tzu.

A professional groomer will have to know before the groom whether they are working on a show Shih Tzu or a pet Shih Tzu. There are many aids and coat-enhancing properties that are great for a pet Shih Tzu, but may be illegal substances in the show ring. In North America, Shih Tzu and other breeds are prepared for the show ring by clipping and coat aids like hair spray. This same technique may be seen as breaking the rules according to the British Kennel Club. Most handlers prepare the show Shih Tzu themselves. They do not often fall into the hands of the average groomer. But, do ask the owner if the dog is likely to be shown. Better to be safe than sorry.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Purchase puppies and sign up for our FREE newsletter at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Shih Tzu Kennel Housing Ideas

2006-09-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Kennel Housing Ideas

For the home Shih Tzu kennel owner a scoop designed for the purpose of scooping dog waste and a garbage can double-lined with heavy-duty trash sacks is all that is needed. If you wish to go to the expense of installing a septic system, concrete-surfaced runs emptying into a sloped trough perpendicular to and beyond the run’s length is common. The costs can be considerable. You might try surrounding the run pad with a bed of gravel several inches deep into which urine and cleaning solutions can be hosed and drained away.

You will need to provide adequate security for your Shih Tzu against escape or intrusion. A secure fence around the kennel area provides security.

The most common forms of canine housing are a doghouse or attaching the run to a house or a heated garage and installing an access door.

If you place the doghouse in the run itself you offer more security as the Shih Tzu is always behind a gate that can be locked. If you use doghouses avoid those made of metal.

If you build your own, consider having the door face away from prevailing winds. A windbreak made of plywood should extend from floor to ceiling and reach slightly more than halfway across the house’s depth. The purpose of a windbreak is to create a secure, dry, wind-free area for your pet. Chewing can be discouraged by attaching heavy metal sheathing to the windbreak’s exposed edge and the exposed edges of the doorway. A light to provide heat of minimal but adequate wattage should be installed near the ceiling. All wiring should be covered with metal conduit. A vent can be installed near the ceiling to repel moisture and promote drying.

The entire structure, walls, ceiling and floor, should be insulated and should be raised slightly above the ground to promote drying and avoid floor rotting. The overall size of your doghouses should allow for only slightly more space than the dog is large. Shih Tzu like small, tight, secure nests.

The roof of your Shih Tzu dog houses should be sloped to promote water runoff. Make the angle slight if the Shih Tzu dog house is inside the run or behind a secure fence. The Shih Tzu can then climb on top and sun himself.

For your Shih Tzu’s comfort you may want to cover the floor by installing a wall-to-wall section of indoor-outdoor carpeting. Surround the carpeting with quarter-section wood molding to discourage your Shih Tzu from chewing on an edge.

Or……you can be like me and build your Shih Tzu a 12 X 20 building equipped with air conditioning, heat, hot and cold running water and separate quarters for male Shih Tzu and female Shih Tzu.

I am thinking of adding some of these doghouses in various places where my own Shih Tzu roam and romp and play for times they do not want to use their cottage. Shih Tzu likes cozy places, but more than anything they prefer to dwell just as close to humans as they most possibly can. However, this is not always feasible in a Shih Tzu kennel. There are times when Shih Tzu and their human caretakers just have to go their separate ways. In those times, you will need adequate housing and shelter for your Shih Tzu.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Purchase online and sign up for our newsletter at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Getting a New Shih Tzu Puppy to Tolerate Grooming

2006-09-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

Getting a New Shih Tzu Puppy to Tolerate Groomingby Connie Limon (Email: connielimon@yahoo.com) All Shih Tzu puppies need to learn to tolerate grooming at an early age. Grooming your Shih Tzu is more than cosmetic. A matted Shih Tzu is uncomfortable and subject to skin irritations and infections. Unclipped toenails will grow and curve, distorting the Shih Tzu's foot to the point of crippling. Dirty ears can become infected and induce pain-related aggression and/or hearing loss. Lack of grooming can cause a Shih Tzu serious discomfort. Shih Tzu is not born with warm feelings toward being groomed. A Shih Tzu needs to learn to enjoy grooming. This is easiest if started sooner, rather than later. In time, your Shih Tzu will learn to love the extra attention it receives while being groomed. Allow your new Shih Tzu puppy a couple of days to settle in to his new home and family routine. Take the first few days to familiarize all family members with the new Shih Tzu puppy's housetraining, feeding and crating routines, and to establish basic house rules. During this time start preparing your new Shih Tzu puppy for grooming by practicing positive association touching exercises. You will need a container of treats. You can do the touching exercises in any order, several times a day, and repeat each one a half-dozen times before moving on to the next one. Try the following exercises in five- to 10-minute sessions. 10 Positive Association Touching Exercises: 1. Scratch your Shih Tzu puppy under the chin, and then feed it a tiny treat from your other hand. 2. Touch each paw, and then feed the Shih Tzu puppy a treat from your other hand. 3. Rub each ear. Feed your Shih Tzu puppy a treat after each rub. 4. Stroke your Shih Tzu puppy's back, then offer a treat. 5. Run your hand down your Shih Tzu puppy's tail, squeezing softly, then feed your pup a treat. 6. Slip one hand under the Shih Tzu puppy's chest and lift gently, and then feed your Shih Tzu puppy a treat. 7. Lift each paw, and feed a treat after each lift. 8. Massage each hind leg from hip to knee, and feed a treat after each leg. 9. Slide your hand from each shoulder to the ankle, and feed a treat after each. 10. Run your fingers over your Shih Tzu puppy's face, cheeks and muzzle, and feed your Shih Tzu puppy a treat. Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Early Shih Tzu Puppy Stimulation

2006-09-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

Picture features a happy pair of Opie and Taffy. They will have a litter of Shih Tzu puppies in November.

The first sense of a Shih Tzu puppy is “scent.” The newborn Shih Tzu puppy will be able to smell the scent of the breeder immediately after the sac is broken. The Shih Tzu breeder is familiar with litters of Shih Tzu puppies before their eyes open. Up until the Shih Tzu puppy opens its eyes they became familiar with their breeder’s scent through their dam’s coat. Shih Tzu puppies learn where there is and is not a place of milk and nourishment on their mother through scent.

It is advisable that only the Shih Tzu breeder handle puppies during their first two weeks. This does limit the Shih Tzu puppy’s reality of the world around them; however, it is practicing sound early responsible care practices. As Shih Tzu puppies begin to open their eyes they become aware of differences in people. Because of this awareness, a very young Shih Tzu puppy may act violently the first time handled by anyone other than their breeder. The Shih Tzu puppy may begin to struggle or scream to be free. It really is not necessary for other people besides the breeder to handle Shih Tzu puppies during this very early period of their lives. If a Shih Tzu puppy is frightening by early interactions with other people it could set the stage for later mistrust toward all humans. It is therefore extremely important that all early contacts with a Shih Tzu puppy be positive. Once a barrier of distrust is instilled in a newborn Shih Tzu puppy, the puppy can become hard to work with and sometimes even unmanageable as adults. Limiting contact with humans also aids in the spreading of germs to newborn Shih Tzu puppies.

There is a proper way to hold a very young Shih Tzu puppy. You should not “swoop” a Shih Tzu puppy quickly into your arms, or hold it at arm’s length. Do not ever pick up a Shih Tzu puppy by its legs, ears, tail or scruff. Severe and even irreparable damage can result.

Use the following steps to pick up and hold a newborn and very young Shih Tzu puppy:

Place your hands firmly around the Shih Tzu puppy’s body making it feel secure before it is lifted from the whelping box.
Immediately begin to snuggle the Shih Tzu puppy closely to your neck, chest or face area, letting the Shih Tzu puppy smell your familiar scent. Here is where the Shih Tzu puppy will feel the reassuring rhythm of your breathing and your heartbeat. The Shih Tzu puppy will remain relaxed. The Shih Tzu puppy will have less tendency to struggle against others first holding them if you will practice these steps from the beginning.

In general, you should not place very young Shih Tzu puppies in your lap, at least until after they begin to walk. They do not feel secure in a lap position at a very young age.

When handling newborn Shih Tzu puppies it is helpful to make “kissing” sounds near their ears. The sound is similar to puppies nursing. Therefore, repetitious kissing offers the same sense of security and comfort for the Shih Tzu puppy.

One of the earliest conditionings a Shih Tzu puppy encounters is being nestled in secure comfort by its dam while being fed warm milk. When you emit the same type of sounds with repetitious kissing the Shih Tzu puppy responds immediately to your stimulation and will feel secure. The Shih Tzu puppy will snuggle rather than struggle and learn to trust humans from a very early period of their lives. This type of conditioning is important for proper development as an adult Shih Tzu and instills a “trusting” of humans rather than a “fear” of humans.

Shih Tzu puppy conditioning beyond diet is a highly important part of a professional Shih Tzu breeder’s job, and will often separate the professional breeder from the “backyard” or puppy mill breeders.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines. Purchase and sign up for our newsletter online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/

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Differences in Professional Breeders and backyard Breeders

2006-08-27T23:20:00.000-07:00

Differences in Professional Breeders and “backyard” Breeders

Early in the lives of the Shih Tzu puppies, the very best of care is crucial to well-rounded Shih Tzu puppy development. Dams and their litters do not survive alone. There is more to raising Shih Tzu and the Toy breed puppies in general than truly meets the eye.

Not only does one need to carefully consider the pedigrees and health histories of each mating, but one must continue to study to become an expertise in general puppy care. Yes, there is much, much more to breeding than just putting two dogs together and allowing nature to take its course. Dog breeding is a science. It is a discipline. It is a profession.

Shih Tzu breeding must be carefully thought out and is most definitely a profession that does require specialized knowledge. Regardless of the location of your breeding establishment, whether it is in your backyard, your garage, basement or an establishment that is especially built for breeding purposes, you the breeder is who makes your establishment professional or non-professional. The breeder is who determines what type of establishment, professional or non-professional, the breeding establishment is. Location, such as the backyard, basement or buildings especially designed for breeding purposes does not determine whether or not the establishment is professional.

If a breeder fails in their responsibilities to the early lives of Shih Tzu puppies, it is either through ignorance or lack of commitment. Ignorance, lack of knowledge and lack of commitment more closely defines the “backyard” breeder, and or those raising puppies in puppy mills. The committed and professional breeder realizes there is no real profit in rearing a litter of Shih Tzu puppies other than the satisfaction of doing the best job possible.

Once Shih Tzu puppies open their eyes the real work and expense of rearing a litter begins. Shih Tzu puppies begin to display individual character traits. It is at this time that Shih Tzu puppies rely more heavily upon the breeder and less with the dam. The professional breeder recognizes and readily assumes the responsibilities of caring for a Shih Tzu litter and does not abandon them to their dam’s care alone.

A large Shih Tzu litter may require supplementary feeding while continuing to allow the dam and offspring full access to each other. Smaller or premature Shih Tzu puppies often require supplementary feeding around the clock. The healthy brood matron should be vibrant, should not carry excess weight nor appear undernourished. An emotionally and physically healthy dam consistently maintains an active and lively interest in her puppies and environment. The professional breeder must be observant enough to care for the captain (the brood matron) just as well as to care for the Shih Tzu litter providing her with adequate food, water and emotional support.

There are very distinctive differences between the “backyard” unprofessional breeder and the professional breeder, some of which are detailed here in this article. There are many other differences, far too many to mention in one article.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion bloodlines. Visit us, sign up for our newsletter and purchase online at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Newborn Shih Tzu Puppies and Early Surroundings

2006-08-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

Newborn Shih Tzu Puppies and Early Surroundings

Shih Tzu puppies begin to make noises shortly after their eyes open. They will also begin to try and get up and waddle around the whelping box at this time. Between 3 and 4 weeks you might want to provide new Shih Tzu puppies with a new safe daytime area for extra stimulation. A new larger area physically stimulates and mentally challenges newborn Shih Tzu puppies. Be sure the new area has good footing. Before this time the Shih Tzu dam may protest about moving her offspring. At about 3 or 4 weeks, however, usually the Shih Tzu dam will agree to a new spot. The dog’s earliest ancestors that were related to the wolf actually utilized several den sites. The first den was used for whelping. The second den was always larger to provide the offspring with safe areas of exploration. Once Shih Tzu puppies are large enough to clamber out of the whelping box, they need an area large enough to clearly define sleeping, eating, playing and toilet areas.

If you are using your garage or basement to raise Shih Tzu puppies please check for conditions that can be dangerous or lethal. Stairwells can cause fatality if Shih Tzu puppies explore them and fall. Trapped ammonia fumes from urine are toxic. Heating systems, electrical panels and appliances require thorough checking before placing a litter nearby. A garage should be thoroughly cleaned. Physical objects, cleaning abrasives, stored gasoline, motor oil or paint must be removed.

A safe play area can be created by using a garage’s side door to the yard. Block the areas under and around the door from cold and dam drafts. Flooring should have a firm, no slippery surface.

Line your whelping box with clean soft blankets or towels in the beginning. If carpeting is used, it should be washable. Do not use indoor/outdoor carpeting. Manufacturing chemicals can react with urine. Use of these materials can cause burns to the bodies of Shih Tzu puppies. Do not use newspapers in the whelping box. Newspapers are slick and contain chemicals used in the ink. Do not use wood shavings in the whelping box. Wood shavings can be inhaled or ingested which also can cause fatalities.

When Shih Tzu puppies begin to move around inside the box, house-training can be stimulated by separating the whelping box into two areas, sleeping and eliminating. Even very young Shih Tzu puppies do not like to eliminate where they sleep, eat and play. Within a few days, puppies learn to move away from their sleeping area to eliminate. Use removable sides in the whelping box to encourage them to sleep in the whelping box and eliminating away from it. If you use a heat lamp, use it only in the sleeping and playing areas.

The Shih Tzu dam will require an area to close to her Shih Tzu puppies but a place where she can relax away from them.

Healthy Shih Tzu puppies will sleep on top of each other. Once out of the whelping box an small airline crate with the door removed makes an effective dog house for Shih Tzu puppies to rest and sleep with each other. This early use of an airline crate provides the new owner with several advantages. The newly arrived Shih Tzu puppy readily accepts the familiar airline crate as sleeping quarters, making the adjustment to a new home less traumatic.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies from top champion lines for pet owners and to approved homes for show and/or breeding. Purchase online and sign up for our newsletter at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Bottle Feeding Orphan Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-08-15T22:33:00.000-07:00

Bottle Feeding Orphan Shih Tzu Puppies

Nursing bottles for orphaned Shih Tzu puppies can be obtained through the veterinarian, pet supplier, wholesale catalogs or the internet. You should purchase several nipple styles to see which works best for you and your Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzu puppies can become colicky just like human newborn babies. Be careful about allowing a Shih Tzu puppy to ingest air when either tube or bottle feeding. Always turn the bottle and nipple end down, before offering it to the Shih Tzu puppy. All the air in the bottle will rise to the solid end. When the Shih Tzu puppy is nursing freely bubbles rise in the bottle. The bubble flow should be fairly rapid, small and uniform in size, rising in even response to the Shih Tzu puppy’s nursing. If the bubbles are large the Shih Tzu puppy may also be ingesting air. Check the nipple cap.

Occasionally remove the bottle from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth to allow a return passage of air back into the bottle. A return passage of air occurs either through turning the bottle upright or by momentarily loosening the cap. Do not abruptly pull the bottle from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth. Place a finger in the corner of the Shih Tzu puppy’s lip to break the nursing hold.

Some Shih Tzu puppies may instinctively resist the unnatural feel of a manufactured nipple.
If the dam is available, rub the bottle and nipple and a towel over her mammaries.
Drape this towel across your stomach and lap.
Hold the puppy on your lap against your abdomen.
Express a small amount of formula from the bottle and wipe it over the nipple.
As you introduce the bottle’s nipple to the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth, move your legs slightly, jiggling your lap.
Also jiggle the bottle up and down in the puppy’s mouth using tiny motions. The movements re-create the dam’s breathing and Shih Tzu puppy’s nursing position on the dam that should cause the Shih Tzu puppy to instinctively and reflexively latch onto the nipple.
Have lots of patience.

You will need to burp the bottle fed Shih Tzu puppy after each feeding. Do not allow the Shih Tzu puppy to nurse the bottle dry to avoid a colicky baby. You can burp your Shih Tzu puppy the same as you would a newborn human baby on your shoulder with gentle pats and rubs between the shoulder blades.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer pet clothing is available on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Shih Tzu Mammary Gland Care After Whelping

2006-08-14T23:24:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Mammary Gland Care after Whelping

It is necessary to examine your Shih Tzu matron’s mammary glands daily, directly before whelping and throughout nursing and weaning periods. A secretion of moderately thick liquid clear or brown with streaks of white milk is normal. If this discharge is bloody or yellowish in color you need to consult with your vet. The first secretion, known as colostrums, is normal and present in every new mother. Colostrums contain the mother’s antibodies and are necessary to newborn Shih Tzu puppies, particularly in the first 24 hours of life. If you are tube or bottle feeding, and the Shih Tzu dam has colostrums, express some into the formula. Keep your Shih Tzu dam updated on immunizations prior to mating time. Never vaccinate a pregnant Shih Tzu. The antibodies in the colostrums protect the newborn Shih Tzu puppies against infectious diseases to which the mother is immune.

Shih Tzu matrons will shed hair along the abdomen prior and after whelping. However, since the Shih Tzu has so much hair, it is likely you will need to trim close also. The best is to shave down the entire abdomen and genitalia area just prior to whelping. Shih Tzu puppies can ingest air while nursing if hair remains around the mammaries. The presence of hair also collects milk and promotes rapid bacterial growth and can cause illness in the Shih Tzu puppies, which can lead rapidly to death.

Heavy mammary glands require daily washing and thorough drying of the entire abdominal area until the Shih Tzu puppies are weaned. The Shih Tzu dam’s milk glands should always feel pliable, being moderately soft although heavy and full feeling to your examination. Your Shih Tzu matron is in trouble should there be any hardness in an entire individual gland or row, visible redness and/or red streaks or yellowish or bloody discharge expressed. Placing a bandage over the nipple of the affected teat is usually sufficient to stop very young Shih Tzu puppies from nursing. Use a small amount of camphorated oil of Vicks VapoRub to stop older Shih Tzu puppies from nursing at an infected site. Seek veterinarian care for your Shih Tzu matron. Nursing from infected mammary glands could cause serious illness and diarrhea in the Shih Tzu puppies.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer pet clothing is available on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Saving Orphaned Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-08-14T00:21:00.000-07:00

Saving Orphaned Shih Tzu Puppies

If you want to save your orphaned Shih Tzu puppies you must be totally dedicated to them on a 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week basis for the first few weeks of life. Raising orphaned Shih Tzu puppies is the most challenging and taxing task any Shih Tzu breeder could undertake. Success is gratifying.

Maintain the Shih Tzu puppies in an incubator environment with a temperature of at least 90 degrees Fahrenheit to start out. Reduce the temperature to 85 degrees after three or four successful days and you see the Shih Tzu puppies are stable. Slowly decline the temperature by small increments. After a week the temperature can be slowly declined to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintain this temperature until the Shih Tzu puppies are three to four weeks of age. After four weeks the temperature may be reduced to 75 degrees.

Orphaned Shih Tzu puppies are prime candidates for failure-to-thrive syndrome. Under normal conditions, the Shih Tzu puppy is bumped and shoved instinctively with littermates. These natural instincts insure that the Shih Tzu puppies use their body, pushing toward the dam for nursing, pushing in rivalry against littermates. The dam vigorously washes her offspring, cleaning the Shih Tzu puppies and bringing about elimination. This tactile stimulation is crucial to the development of a strong healthy puppy.

You must effect stimulation by gentle periodic stroking with one or two fingers, awakening the Shih Tzu puppies directly prior to feeding. During feeding periods it is necessary to snuggle the Shih Tzu puppies to simulate the same type of nurturing the dam would have provided. You become a surrogate dam to orphaned Shih Tzu puppies.

Shih Tzu puppies are born with sealed eyes. The Shih Tzu puppy is unable to hear at birth. You as the surrogate dam will need to artificially stimulate the orphaned Shih Tzu puppy to defecate and urinate. You can do this easily by using a cotton swab dipped in baby oil. Gently swab the genitalia and anus area until the Shih Tzu puppy urinates and defecates. The surrogate dam must stimulate Shih Tzu puppies to elimination on the same regular basis as feeding intervals. The orphaned Shih Tzu puppy must be stimulated to urinate and defecate at each feeding interval until able to independently perform these functions.

Consult with your vet as to which puppy milk formula you should use, and the type of feeding method.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer dog clothes are offered on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Learning to Tube Feed Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-08-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

Learning to Tube Feed Shih Tzu Puppies

It is not difficult to learn the correct tube feeding procedure. Purchase the tube feeder through your veterinarian, who will be able to equip you with the correct diameter catheter and syringe size for your Shih Tzu. Sterilize both catheter and syringe between early feedings. The syringe will have graduated markings on the side to record accurate intake. You will need a bowl or large measuring cup for warm water, a candy thermometer and a nontoxic indelible pen or dull knife.

Place water heated to 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the bowl or measuring cup.
Heat the formula separately (also to 100 degrees Fahrenheit) using the candy thermometer to regulate the temperatures of both liquids.
Put the thermometer, syringe, catheter and warmed formula into the bowl of water for transport to the Shih Tzu puppy.

Each puppy should be measured for gavage feeding. Correct measurement is crucial to the Shih Tzu puppy’s well-being.

Lay each puppy flat on it side on a towel.
Measure the catheter from the rounded tip held at a point just behind the Shih Tzu puppy’s last rib, along the side of the chest and throat, to just in front of the Shih Tzu puppy’s muzzle.
Mark the spot of the Shih Tzu puppy’s muzzle on the catheter with the pen or dull knife.

If you get the catheter too short, the formula may be aspirated by the Shih Tzu puppy. If you introduce a catheter too long it can puncture through the newborn Shih Tzu’s delicate stomach wall. Have your vet walk you through the procedure.

If the end of the catheter is too wide to allow attachment to the syringe, sever the catheter directly behind the beginning of the flute to allow secure attachment to the syringe. Now that you have the syringe attached, place the catheter end into the warmed formula and withdraw the syringe from the plunger. Fill the syringe a few milliliters over the amount directed by your vet. Keep the catheter tip pointed downward, preventing air from getting in.

Place the Shih Tzu puppy on a towel in your lap, head elevated in a slightly inclined position. Wrap one hand around the back of the Shih Tzu puppy’s head, palm against the back of the skull.
Stroke the Shih Tzu puppy with your thumb and opposing fingers on each side of the muzzle by the lip corners. The Shih Tzu puppy should respond by opening its mouth.
Always keep the syringe elevated and the catheter end pointing downward.
You want very small amounts of formula to slowly drip from the catheter’s tip, preventing air from getting in.
Directly and gently introduce the tube through the front of the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth. Never force a catheter down a Shih Tzu puppy’s throat. Never insert at an angle.
The Shih Tzu puppy may at first struggle at the catheter’s introduction. Do not push if the catheter does not slip easily down the esophagus. Withdraw the catheter and try again. If the Shih Tzu puppy struggles against the introduction of the catheter, gently apply a small amount of steady pressure to the catheter against the Shih Tzu puppy’s resistance; the Shih Tzu puppy should reflexively swallow. The passage should suddenly open and the tube should slide down easily.
The catheter is in correct position when the mark you made is just slightly beyond the tip of the Shih Tzu puppy’s muzzle.
Slowly depress the syringe plunger to begin feeding.
Never feed a Shih Tzu puppy until its abdomen is distended and hard. If the Shih Tzu puppy’s stomach remains flaccid, you have not fed enough. Feed half the formula, and then burp the Shih Tzu puppy.
Be sure to have your vet walk you through the correct procedure for tube feeding before you try this yourself.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer Pet Clothing is offered on the website. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Banana Drop Spoonful Treats

2006-08-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

Banana Drop Spoonful Treats
Makes about 20

1 ½ cups ripe mashed bananas
½ teaspoon vanilla
3 cups oats
½ cup chopped peanuts
¼ cup applesauce

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all ingredients together thoroughly.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto an ungreased baking sheet, and press flat with a fork.
Bake for approximately 15 minutes, and then cool on a rack before serving. Store in an airtight container.

Learning To Recognize Aggressive Behaviors in Your Shih Tzu

2006-08-07T23:18:00.000-07:00

Learning to Recognize Aggressive Behaviors in Your Shih Tzu

Generally speaking Shih Tzu should not be aggressive at all. However, with any breed of dog aggressive behaviors can and do occur. Do you understand what it means if a Shih Tzu bares its teeth at you? Is your Shih Tzu warning you to back off or is your Shih Tzu simply smiling? If your Shih Tzu suddenly snaps at you – is this a failed bite or a warning that a bite might be coming next? The truth is these are typically aggressive behaviors that can range from visual warnings to postural or symbolic threats. Every dog owner needs to learn these subtle or not so subtle warnings of aggression, whether it be with a Shih Tzu or a Pit Bull. Any dog breed can exhibit aggression.

Dog aggression is often meant primarily not to harm so much as to alter the behavior of another creature, human or animal. Dogs and Shih Tzu included communicate their aggressive intentions through changes in expression, posturing, and maneuvering, some so subtle as to be easily missed or misunderstood by a passerby or even the owner. A dog’s communication system is quite different from a human’s communication system. It is important that every dog owner, whether it be a Shih Tzu or a Pit Bull, or a tiny teacup poodle, learn the dog’s basic communication system expressing aggression.

The actual bite is often preceded by several aggressive responses and warnings. These might include staring, growling, tensing up, and walking stiffly. No one, however, would misinterpret the savage attack of a child by a Pit Bull, as anything other than pure aggression and most people would also interpret the attack as the dog being absolutely uncontrollably vicious. In a breed such as the Shih Tzu, one does not normally see such types of viciousness, however, as with all canines, it is possible. All canines are related to the wolf and even though humans have domesticated them extremely well they can still from time to time exhibit those wolf like behaviors.

Aggression may develop gradually in a pup as it matures. Play growling and nipping by puppies and Shih Tzu puppies as well may seem harmless, but they often represent warning signals of what can be possible later on. Growling and nipping in Shih Tzu puppies needs to be handled immediately and eradicated. The mouth of a Shih Tzu puppy should never be allowed on human skin regardless of the activity. One possible way of handling a mouthing Shih Tzu puppy on human skin is to immediately close the mouth of the Shih Tzu puppy and hold it tight while saying sternly to the Shih Tzu puppy – NO BITE.

All Shih Tzu puppies are prone to want to chew. They are teething and this is a very normal behavior, however, when it is transferred to human skin, it is not normal and not acceptable. It can be solved if caught in the early stages assuming there are no other emotional problems occurring with the Shih Tzu puppy. You can also quickly put a chewable object in the mouth of the mouthing Shih Tzu puppy.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Designer Dog Clothes are offered on the website.

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Shih Tzu - Difficult Deliveries

2006-08-07T01:42:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu – Difficult Deliveries

Most Shih Tzu puppies present themselves normally at birth. There are times, very few times, of which I have experienced with the Shih Tzu that required assistance. Usually the most difficult Shih Tzu puppy birth is the first one. Delivery of a dry Shih Tzu puppy or overly large Shih Tzu puppy can take longer than normal and may affect the next Shih Tzu puppy birth. This next Shih Tzu puppy may be stillborn or have more fluid in the trachea and lungs. Oftentimes, subsequent Shih Tzu siblings are born normally.

Not every stillborn Shih Tzu puppy or difficult delivery is the result of a Shih Tzu matron suffering inertia. The problem of inertia, however, will cause a higher percentage of stillborn Shih Tzu puppies. Shih Tzu puppies are normally vigorous while attached to the uterine wall. Once freed from the uterine wall, a Shih Tzu puppy has limited time in which to arrive.

Once the Shih Tzu puppy has arrived, time is crucial. If the matron does not immediately tear the sac from around the puppy. You must quickly tear the sac from the Shih Tzu puppy’s face, nose and mouth and then proceed to remove the sac from the rest of the Shih Tzu puppy’s body. Rub the Shih Tzu puppy briskly while it is in a head-down position. Use a pediatric bulb syringe to suction the Shih Tzu puppy’s oral cavity. Clear the trachea and lungs by shaking the Shih Tzu puppy down. Each direction of the arc’s swing should take about 3 seconds. Repeat the procedures several times until the Shih Tzu puppy’s oral and tracheal passages are cleared as much as possible.

Dry Delivery:
A dry delivery is when the Shih Tzu puppy’s protective sac breaks inside the birth canal. A dry Shih Tzu puppy delivery can either a head-first or breech (rear quarters first). A Shih Tzu puppy breech birth is a normal canine birth position; however, a dry breech delivery can be dangerous to a Shih Tzu puppy. The Shih Tzu puppy is presented entirely or partially free of a sac. If the Shih Tzu puppy’s legs get stuck delivery progress is impeded. The Shih Tzu puppy’s head may turn back blocking passage or even its body turned sideways in the birth canal. Under these circumstances the Shih Tzu dam cannot deliver without assistance. Cooking oil may be substituted in an emergency to use as a lubricant.

While it is most important to get a Shih Tzu puppy breathing on its own as quickly as possible, the Shih Tzu puppy must never be pulled indiscriminately. You need to work with the Shih Tzu dam’s contractions. Place one hand in the dam’s inguinal area directly behind the Shih Tzu puppy’s position in the birth canal and exert a slight pressure to help prevent backward slipping. Grip the Shih Tzu puppy firmly with a towel in the other hand to prevent the Shih Tzu puppy from being withdrawn. Wait for the next contraction and exert a slight, steady pulling pressure downward toward the Shih Tzu dam’s feet. One or two contractions are usually enough to deliver the Shih Tzu puppy.

Your hands must be scrubbed, your nails trimmed and filed smooth in case adjusting the Shih Tzu puppy’s position is necessary. Use sterile surgical gloves or dip your hands in surgical antiseptic. Using a small amount of lubricant, gently insert one or two fingers into the Shih Tzu matron’s vagina. The Shih Tzu puppy should be palpable presenting facing the dam’s feet. You can feel if the Shih Tzu puppy is still confined or if the sac has been broken. If the Shih Tzu puppy is still in the sac, additional lubricant will not be needed.

If the Shih Tzu puppy’s head is foremost, gently ease the legs into the correct birth position. Gently push the Shih Tzu puppy a few millimeters back into the birth canal. Reposition the Shih Tzu puppy with the forelegs extended first. The Shih Tzu dam should then have little difficulty expressing the Shih Tzu puppy with one or two more contractions. Firmly hold the Shih Tzu puppy as it is presented and withdrawn back inside the birth canal at the end of contractions. If the Shih Tzu puppy presents itself head-first, keep the puppy’s face down toward the dam’s feet. If it is a breech delivery, hold the Shih Tzu puppy’s hind feet “facing” the dam’s paws.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Teaching Bite Inhibition to Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-08-06T01:07:00.000-07:00

Teaching Bite Inhibition to Shih Tzu Puppies

Shih Tzu puppies, like children, will never be perfect in behaviors. A certain amount of tolerance is expected, but it is well to understand a Shih Tzu puppy’s messages so you can react to reshape unwanted behaviors when limits are exceeded.

All puppies are “mouthy” during the teething process, however, there are exceptions in that you will encounter Shih Tzu puppies that just won’t take no for an answer and keeps chomping on people’s hands instead of those objects given him to chew on.

First try to understand what nipping means to a Shih Tzu puppy. Put yourself in the shoes of a Shih Tzu puppy. A six to eight week old Shih Tzu puppy finds itself a reasonably confident navigator of its environment. The Shih Tzu puppy may try to explore everything it can and uses one tool with which to investigate its environment – its mouth, not much unlike a small human toddler. To a Shih Tzu puppy, its mouth is like a hand used for exploration of its environment. Generally speaking at this time, the Shih Tzu puppy is not at all vicious or mentally disturbed because they display mouthing behaviors. In fact, this is a very normal behavior in which Shih Tzu puppies use to discover and explore their surroundings.

Shih Tzu puppies direct their first oral attentions to their mother’s soft underbelly where they find nourishment. If a Shih Tzu puppy bites its mom too hard during nursing she will rebuke the puppy. This is the Shih Tzu puppy’s first lessons in inappropriate “nipping or biting.” He learns to listen to mommy. As the Shih Tzu puppy matures mouthing behaviors are directed toward littermates during play. When one puppy becomes too rough during this type of play the others usually complain loudly and withdraw. The biting Shih Tzu puppy learns to be a little easier on littermate if the fun and games are to continue. The puppy begins to learn bite inhibition. The puppies that are bitten learn to avoid the circumstances that lead to the painful consequence and that withdrawing are a good defense strategy.

Almost every Shih Tzu puppy finds itself in a new home without a disciplinary “mom,” and former littermates. Instead the Shih Tzu puppy has doting human owners who must serve as parents and siblings rolled into one unit. What happens when the Shih Tzu puppy wants to play, can’t find its littermates and nips a human?

A person knowledgeable about puppy matters might react like the mother dog or a littermate with a sharp rebuke, maybe with words like “Stop it” or “Ouch” or a light tap on the nose with a finger, and/or immediate withdrawal of attention. You might even respond by closing the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth tightly and saying sharply “NO BITE” then place an object that is acceptable for biting into the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Designer Dog Clothes are offered on the website.

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Danny Boy Birthday Bones

2006-08-04T21:53:00.000-07:00

DANNY BOY BIRTHDAY BONES
Makes 30 large bones

2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup natural peanut butter
1 cup skim milk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a bowl, combine flour and baking powder. In another bowl, mix peanut butter and milk.
Add wet mixture to dry, and mix well.
Turn out dough on a lightly floured surface and knead. Roll out to ¼-inch thick and cut out shapes.
Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until lightly brown. Cool on a rack then store in an airtight container.

Why Do Dogs Bark?

2006-08-03T22:24:00.000-07:00

Why Do Dogs Bark?

Barking is probably one of the most negative qualities attributed to dogs and/or Shih Tzu. Incessant barking is always irritating to owners and anyone surrounding the incessant barking dog or Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzu barks for a variety of reasons. Owners need to find out what is causing the barking before the problem can be successfully addressed.

Some twelve thousand years ago primitive man and the domestic dog’s ancestors coexisted rather than shared intimate relationships we enjoy today with their descendants. As dogs begin to show friendliness, playfulness and alarm barking humans began to domesticate them. As humans began to appreciate the dog’s presence a bond was woven between humans and dog companions over time.

Barking due to territoriality most likely served as an alarm function in days when it was even more important that it is today to know when someone or something was encroaching upon human territory.

Another characteristic “some” dogs, and definitely includes our Shih Tzu is its appearance to the human eye. Dogs that are cute with infantile facial features which stimulate human parenting instincts provide additional bonding.

All domestic dogs bark, including the Shih Tzu. Once a chorus starts every dog within hearing distance will join in. Soon you have a “barking” orchestra, and if you are lucky enough to be hard of hearing at that time wearing your hearing aids, just simply pull them out until the concert is over……..

Barking is one way dogs and Shih Tzu communicates with each other and with their human companions. I have heard some of my Shih Tzu actually say words during their barking sessions. Duke will say: “I’m Mad.” “I’m Mad,” and at that time I am certain his barking is most definitely because he is mad about something. His word was toward one of his buddies. When Duke wants to be where I am and he is in a spot in which he feels “trapped,” cannot get to me, his bark is much different. It is more like a “scream.” He has not put words together yet, but I feel fairly certain he probably is saying to me: “let me come in there, I can’t wait any longer, I want in there now!” Once I allow him his wishes, his barking stops.

Owners need to find out the cause of their Shih Tzu’s barking and then proceed with steps to solve the problem. There is no way around it. All dogs, including Shih Tzu, bark from time to time. Some are more vocal than others, just as humans, some humans talk more than others. I have Shih Tzu that rarely if ever bark for any reason.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Shih Tzu - Difficult Deliveries

2006-08-01T23:03:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Postpartum Care

2006-07-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Postpartum Care

Whelping a litter of Shih Tzu puppies can sometimes be physically and emotionally exhausting for both you and the Shih Tzu matron. Before you take your well deserved rest, be certain the Shih Tzu matron and Shih Tzu puppies are comfortable, each Shih Tzu puppy has nursed well, the heat lamp is not too close, and the heating pad is not turned up too high. At this time it is crucial to maintain proper environmental temperatures. Newborn Shih Tzu puppies are incapable of controlling their own body temperatures. Chilling to any degree leaves newborn Shih Tzu puppies susceptible to infectious disease. Room temperature should be maintained at about 85 degrees Fahrenheit for at least their first few days.

Initially offer your Shih Tzu dam only soft, messy-type foods and supplements of a high quality milk replacement added to her food. I like using Pedigree Lamb and Rice canned formula with Just Born milk replacement powder sprinkled on top or mixed within.

Most Shih Tzu dams are ready for a good meal once whelping is over and the puppies are all settled in nursing well. However, do not worry if she refuses one or two feedings during her first 24 hours of motherhood. Do not expect her to leave her newborn Shih Tzu puppies. If she is too exhausted to eat right after whelping, she will be ready by the next day most usually.

To prevent serious cleanup problems, place four interlocking layers of open newspaper on the floor over heavy plastic film such as that used by painters. Plastic sheeting covered by newspaper saves all flooring, is nonporous, makes any cleanup easy and is inexpensive to purchase.

Use Clorox bleach, ¾ cup to a gallon of water to disinfect the Shih Tzu whelping box and immediate area. You will need to disinfect daily.

Two days following whelping, offer your Shih Tzu matron soft food mixed with a high quality dog food. I use HealthyPetNet Life’s Abundance and have found it to be the absolute best food for my Shih Tzu.

Your Shih Tzu dam should be seen by a veterinarian for a postpartum examination within 24 hours of whelping. It is not uncommon for a Shih Tzu dam to retain one or more placentas, large amounts of blood and other body fluids in the uterus. It is also possible that she retained one or two Shih Tzu puppies as well. All of these need to be expelled immediately. Retention will predispose the Shih Tzu dam to infection. Many veterinarians will give the oxytocin shot within the first 24 hours of whelping to help her expel any retained fluids, placental material and/or puppies.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Pet clothing is offered on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Cookies

2006-07-18T23:39:00.000-07:00

PEANUT BUTTER AND BANANA DOG COOKIES

2 cups whole-wheat flour
¼ cup wheat germ
1 cup water
¼ cup all-natural peanut butter (no sugar or salt added)
1 egg
1 banana, mashed

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients; mix well.
On a floured surface, knead the dough until it is firm.
Roll the dough to a ¼-inch thickness. Cut with the cookie cutter of your choice. Transfer dog cookies to a baking sheet.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the dog cookies are dry and firm to touch. Turn off the heat; let the dog cookies stand in the oven until hard, 1 to 2 hours.

Purchase the e-book of homemade dog treats and meals at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Why Do Dogs Bark?

2006-07-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

Teaching Bite Inhibition to Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-07-12T00:05:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Difficult Wet Delivery

2006-07-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Difficult Wet Delivery

While your Shih Tzu is doing her part with the delivery, you can gently but firmly grip the Shih Tzu puppy’s sac with the aid of a towel or diaper. Hold the Shih Tzu puppy in a position of presentation to prevent it from being withdrawn back into the birth canal. Each time your Shih Tzu matron has a contraction the Shih Tzu puppy is closer to birth. You, as a Shih Tzu mid-wife need only to the hold the Shih Tzu puppy to prevent withdrawal and allow Nature to work.

Sometimes it may be difficult to grip the Shih Tzu puppy’s sac. If the head is definitely presented first, break open the sac from around the Shih Tzu puppy’s head. Immediately use a pediatric bulb syringe to suction amniotic fluid from the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth.

A difficult or large Shih Tzu puppy may require more than two or three contractions. In general, there should be no more than four contractions. If more than four contractures there may be a problem if the Shih Tzu puppy has not been whelped. You may need a professional vet’s assistance at this point.

A breech delivery Shih Tzu puppy is presented rear-foremost. The hind legs are tucked against the Shih Tzu puppy’s abdomen in the direction of the head. This presentation normally does not present a problem for the Shih Tzu puppy or the Shih Tzu matron because the head of a Shih Tzu puppy is larger in circumference than the body. Shih Tzu are generally whelp freely and do not require professional assistance.

A breech delivery can be difficult to assist when a Shih Tzu puppy is confined in the slippery sac. Surgical gloves are helpful for securely holding the slippery sac. Gauze pads make a second good choice. A thin towel is adequate as a third choice. If none of these items are available and you must work with your bare hands, use your fingers. Gently secure a grip on each side of the Shih Tzu puppy without applying undue pressures. As each contraction occurs, apply a steady, firm pressure, preventing the Shih Tzu puppy from slipping back inside the birth canal. Never pull!

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Shih Tzu e-books are available. Designer pet clothing is available. Sign up at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Shih Tzu Postpartum Care

2006-07-09T21:47:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Mannary Gland Care After Whelping

2006-07-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

Chicken and Sweet Potato Drop Cookies

2006-07-08T03:36:00.000-07:00

Chicken and Sweet Potato Drop Cookies
Makes 40 to 50 bite size treats

1 ¼ cups of ½-inch pieces of cooked chicken
½ cup of ½-inch pieces of cooked sweet potato
2 cups all-purpose whole wheat flour
1 cup evaporated low fat milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
2 large eggs

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Mix all the ingredients together well, making sure the pieces of chicken and sweet potato are thoroughly coated.
Drop cookies by rounded teaspoon onto greased cookie sheets.
Bake 14 to 18 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove from oven, let cool thoroughly, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Peanut Butter Treats

2006-07-07T01:02:00.000-07:00

Biscuits, Cookies and other Treats

PEANUT BUTTER TREATS

4 cups whole-wheat flour
2 cups quick-cooking oats
2 ½ cups warm water
½ cup all-natural peanut butter (no sugar or salt added)
¼ cup carob chips (available at health food stores)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients; mix well.
On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until it is firm. If the dough is too sticky, add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, while continuing to knead.
Roll the dough to a ¼-inch thickness. Cut with the cookie cutter of your choice. Transfer treats to a baking sheet.
Bake the treats for 40 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the biscuits stand in the oven until hard, 1 to 2 hours.

Shih Tzu - Difficult Deliveries

2006-07-06T00:39:00.000-07:00

Why Do Dogs Bark?

2006-07-03T23:40:00.000-07:00

Routine Hygiene After Shih Tzu Whelping

2006-07-01T22:03:00.000-07:00

Routine Hygiene after Shih Tzu Whelping

Your Shih Tzu matron will keep her whelping box clean the first few weeks. She will stimulate her Shih Tzu puppies to eliminate and ingest their wastes. Newborn Shih Tzu puppies are born incompletely developed. The Shih Tzu matron must stimulate them to urinate and defecate or the puppies become toxic and die.

The whelping box still needs to be cleaned and disinfected daily. Use ¾ cup Clorox bleach to one gallon of water. Clorox bleach is highly effective against Parvo virus. Your Shih Tzu dam’s discharge must never be profuse, overly bright red, greenish or odorous. Should any of these conditions occur, call your veterinarian for advice.

Change the Shih Tzu whelping box linens daily the first week and twice daily thereafter. Do not allow the bedding to become damp. Chilling is fatal to newborn Shih Tzu puppies. Bedding in the whelping box should be completely flat. Shih Tzu puppies can become lost under wrinkled bedding.

Newborn Shih Tzu puppy stools should be checked as they eliminate. A bright or strangely colored stool, yellowish streaked, foamy or mucoid of consistency are signs of trouble. Hard stools accompanied by straining and crying or loose stools of a diarrheic condition are indicative of life-threatening conditions. Normal Shih Tzu puppy stool has form, is not overly hard, runny or mucoid. It is brown and holds together in a soft but formed “rope.”

The only time a Shih Tzu matron should wear a collar is when you take her out the yard or to the vet. Remove the collar prior to whelping and throughout the time Shih Tzu puppies are near their dam. Do not use flea collars when the dam is with her Shih Tzu puppies.

Four interlocking layers of opened newspaper on the floor over heavy plastic film such as that used by painters are helpful in preventing serious cleanup problems. It is not necessary to discard plastic sheeting after each use. Clean with a solution of ¾ cup Clorox bleach and 1 gallon of water.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer pet clothing is available on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Caring For Unthrifty and Premature Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-06-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

Caring for Unthrifty and Premature Shih Tzu Puppies

If this is your Shih Tzu matron’s first litter she may become nervous or even terrified. Your attitude at this time is very important. The manner in which a Shih Tzu matron accepts or rejects her offspring is often in direct response to your attitude or even the whelping box site.

Normal Shih Tzu puppies are plump and firm at birth. They have good muscle and skin tones. The skin on the abdomen, feet and mouth is pink. If Shih Tzu puppies cry continuously or constantly squirm and crawl, these are signs of infant distress. Well-nourished, healthy Shih Tzu puppies are warm, quiet and sleep most of the time. They yawn at awakening. Do not excessively handle newborn Shih Tzu puppies. Do not allow others to handle newborn Shih Tzu puppies. Only the breeder or caretaker should handle newborn Shih Tzu puppies. Excessive handling of more than one person increases the chance of transmission of infections to the newborns.

Unthrifty Puppies

Unthrifty Shih Tzu puppies have poor muscle tone. Obvious signs of discomfort are constant crying and initially high levels of activity. Unthrifty Shih Tzu puppies appear thinner than siblings and are limp to touch because of poor muscle and skin tones. Unthrifty Shih Tzu puppies may feel cold to your touch or cooler than their siblings. The skin over the abdomen, feet and mouth interiors may appear reddish purple or paled when compared to other siblings.

An unthrifty Shih Tzu puppy is usually incapable of sustained nursing and readily loses nipple contact with the dam. They become easily chilled. Such unthrifty Shih Tzu puppies may respond positively to a few milliliters of raw liver juice fed daily for their first few weeks. Supplementary tube or bottle feeding for three or four days every four hours around the clock may be necessary. If you notice a weak, unthrifty Shih Tzu puppy, remove it from the litter and maintain it in the puppy box. You can place the Shih Tzu puppy back on the dam at regular intervals under your close supervision. This way the dam is able to stay in touch with the weak unthrifty Shih Tzu puppy. She will stimulate elimination, clean and nurture them at this time. This regular periodic tactile time helps avoid failure-to-thrive syndrome. Many weak and unthrifty Shih Tzu puppies can be successfully saved.

Premature Puppies

The first 24 hours are critical to premature Shih Tzu puppies. They must be maintained on an hourly schedule. The next 48 hours requires an every 2 hour schedule around the clock. The following 48 hours can be stretched to a 3-hour schedule around the clock. By the fifth day, premature Shih Tzu puppies, can be changed to 4-hour intervals. At one week, the night feedings only can be set to a 6-hour schedule, resuming 4-hour intervals during the day. This is a highly intense schedule for a breeder or Shih Tzu puppy mid-wife. It must be maintained until the premature Shih Tzu puppies are ready for their first semisolid foods at about 13 days of age and after their eyes have opened. Many premature Shih Tzu puppies can be saved on this routine.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer pet clothing is offered on the website. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

Getting Shih Tzu Puppies Started

2006-06-30T00:49:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu – Getting Shih Tzu Puppies Started

It the absolute best that Shih Tzu puppies nurse from their mother right away.

Shih Tzu puppies are born incompletely developed their ears and eyes sealed. Shih Tzu puppies can smell at the time of birth. Newborn Shih Tzu puppies are somewhat aware of their siblings. Shih Tzu puppies will vie with each other, seeking heat and life-giving colostrums and milk from their mother. Early Shih Tzu nursing is highly important because colostrums antibodies are absorbed only the first two days of life. The Shih Tzu dam also receives benefit from the first Shih Tzu puppies’ nursing. The Shih Tzu puppy nursing action aids uterine contractions that help her deliver the rest of her Shih Tzu puppies.

Because of the Shih Tzu dam’s abdominal distention, the first one or two Shih Tzu puppies may not be able to nurse right away. A Shih Tzu dam’s breasts are often taut during the whelping process. Shih Tzu puppy nursing can be difficult until pressure impeding the Shih Tzu dam’s flow eases and the glands become relatively flaccid. Usually by the third Shih Tzu puppy delivery, enough pressure has been relieved in the dam that sufficient Shih Tzu puppy nursing may begin, aiding her uterine contractions. If the Shih Tzu litter is small, the dam may not encounter this problem.

If a Shih Tzu puppy fails to nurse right away, but continues to nose around, you will need to help the Shih Tzu puppy along. Put the Shih Tzu puppy to one of the dam’s teats and express a small amount of colostrum. If the Shih Tzu puppy continues to nose aimlessly, open the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth to initiate sucking. Express some colostrums from one of the Shih Tzu dam’s mammaries and rub a small amount on and around her nipple area to help entice the puppy in the correct direction. Gently insert her nipple into the Shih Tzu puppy’s mouth while expressing additional colostrum/milk. Do not worry if the Shih Tzu puppy, being one of the first born, still refuses to nurse. Shih Tzu puppies can go one or two hours without nursing and remain healthy.

Not every Shih Tzu puppy is born vigorous toward nursing. Sometimes Shih Tzu puppy sibling rivalry stimulates a newborn Shih Tzu puppy. If a Shih Tzu puppy is reluctant to nurse two hours after birth, one or two tube feedings may be necessary to prevent dehydration.

Any instinctive Shih Tzu puppy behavioral aberrations from the norm should be reported to your vet. The Shih Tzu puppy could have an unnoticeable birth defect preventing an ability to nurse properly. Such Shih Tzu puppies should be mercifully and humanely put to sleep as soon as possible.

Shih Tzu birth defects are not necessarily either congenital or hereditary. In some cases, they can be caused by an insufficiency or surplus in diet. Two beautiful and health Shih Tzu dogs can be brought to a union that looks good, genetically speaking, on paper. Genetics is a science. It is not exact. Because both desirable and undesirable Shih Tzu genes are passed from one generation to the next, one can never be certain what will be presented in a Shih Tzu litter. There is always some risk in Shih Tzu breeding. Shih Tzu breeding is not for the fainthearted or for those not willing to devote a lot of time, money and energy.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Bottle Feeding Orphan Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-06-29T00:56:00.000-07:00

Early Beginnings of The Shih Tzu

2006-06-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu – Early Beginnings Of Our Beloved Shih Tzu And “White” Shih Tzu

In the Pavillion of Green Ripples in the Imperial Garden, Forbidden City, Beijing (formerly Peking), China, ShihTzu romped with each other, the enunchs, and the Empress and her attendants. Shih Tzu was a highly valued companion of the Palace.

The Summer Palace, Peking (now called Beijing), was where the Dowager Empress ruled her Empire during the summer months. Her Shih Tzu and favorite attendants resided in the Summer Palace throughout her annual stay.

An American was actually among the very first to receive a Shih Tzu as a gift from the Dowager Empress. Sarah Conger, wife of American Minister to China Edwin H. Conger, received the Shih Tzu from the Dowager Empress in 1903.

Centuries ago when East met West on the Ancient Silk Trade Route various Maltese type dogs were mated with Oriental type dogs. The white Shih Tzu is a “throwback” result from the genetic influence of infusion of Maltese bloodlines. I have one Shih Tzu who resembles a Maltese and is solid white. Her name is Blondie. Blondie’s pedigree states all Shih Tzu. I have had people to ask me if Blondie was Maltese.

There is only one known photo of the Dowager Empress with any of Shih Tzu. The photo was taken in a Courtyard scene in 1903 with her ladies in waiting. Various eunuchs are on either side of the Princess. Chief Eunuch Li Lein-Yang helped guide the Shih Tzu breeding program and is pictured with the Dowager Empress. At the Empress’ feet is Hai Ling (Sea Otter), a solid black Shih Tzu, the Empress favorite, who sired many Shih Tzu of various colors within the Palace. This black Shih Tzu reminds me very much of my own solid black Shih Tzu, Duke. Duke has also sired many of the Stain Glass Shih Tzu puppies and of various colors. I also have to admit my Duke is “one” of my favorites of all time.

There is strong indication that the ShihTzu developed in China from ancient lines of dogs of Tibet. One theory is that these ancestors of the modern Shih Tzu were presented by Tibetan Lamas to royal visitors from Chinese courts and taken by them back to Peking, where they were nurtured and cherished as prized possessions of the emperors, and members of the court. Another theory is that the Shih Tzu were exchanged by royal travelers and merchants who were of many cultures and societies traveling along that segment of the ancient “Silk Trade Route” that runs in a generally west to east route from Lhasa, Tibet, to Peking (now known as Beijing), China.

All Oriental dogs, which would include the Shih Tzu, had forms which were quite similar, and was a direct result of the influence of Buddhism. The Lion was said to have been Buddha’s constant companion and on several occasions saved him from death or capture by his enemies. Because the Chinese considered the lion symbolic of Buddha, they used “the King of the Beasts” as a model for breeding their dogs. Among the Oriental dogs produced are the Shih Tzu, the Pekingese, the Chow Chow, the Lhasa Apso, the Spitz, and the Pug.

The lion, as a model for our Shih Tzu, was not native to China, so early Chinese had little concept as to what the lion looked like. It is most likely early Chinese sculptors carved lions from descriptions received about the beasts, and that the Chinese dogs, including our Shih Tzu, were bred to look like the statues rather than like lions themselves.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Shih Tzu Kennel Exercise Areas

2006-06-26T22:51:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu Kennel Exercise Areas

Many types of surfaces can be used in exercise yards. They all have problems to one degree or another. A very common surface covering for a Shih Tzu exercise yard is crushed gravel. It keeps the Shih Tzu out of the mud and is relatively easy to scoop up droppings from the stone. Urine runs through easily, keeping it off the Shih Tzu’s feet. One effective treatment for Shih Tzu gravel exercise yards is applying dry lime. Sprinkle the lime lightly over the entire yard and then wash through the gravel with a hose. Use enough water to ensure that the top surface is free of any residue, and also to ensure that the lime solution reaches the dirt underneath where the parasites are.

Concrete patio blocks can be used as a substitute for crushed gravel in a Shih Tzu exercise yard. They can even be used in addition to the gravel as a base in which the blocks rest. It is more difficult to pick up droppings from the patio blocks than from the bare gravel, but it can be done.

Another treatment for Shih Tzu exercise yards is to pave the entire surface with concrete. Polish the surface of the concrete while it is drying to have a finish that will be easy to keep clean. However, a polished surface will be too smooth for the Shih Tzu to run on efficiently. A brushed concrete finish is best for the Shih Tzu to run on, but is much more difficult to keep sterilized. A concrete surface can easily be scrubbed down with hot water and soap on a daily basis to help prevent build-up that could cause problems for your Shih Tzu.

One problem with concrete runs for a Shih Tzu exercise yard is that urine does not disappear rapidly enough, which makes it possible for the Shih Tzu to run through it. This quickly accumulates and forms a sticky substance on the Shih Tzu’s feet and the tips of the hair.

Many Shih Tzu kennels maintain a large fenced running area adjacent to the regular individual kennel runs that are covered with grass. The Shih Tzu is able to exercise on a softer material. The grassy areas, however, cannot be used in rainy weather, especially if you keep your Shih Tzu in full coat. Romping Shih Tzu can turn wet grassy areas into a mud field very rapidly. There is also the serious problem of keeping a grass covered area sterilized. Any chemical strong enough to destroy parasites and their eggs would also destroy the grass. In northern areas where there is severe ground freezing during several weeks of the year, the problem is less serious.

Large exercise areas are of great importance for the overall development of the Shih Tzu. For any dog to develop and to maintain the p0roper musculature, he must have a large area in which he can run, play and romp freely.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Designer dog clothes are offered on the website. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com

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Types of Dog/Shih Tzu Aggression

2006-06-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Types of Dog/Shih Tzu Aggression

By nature, Shih Tzu is generally not an aggressive type of dog. However, there are exceptions and in this article I will discuss 4 types of dog aggression that could be a warning sign to the owner that his Shih Tzu is in need of professional help.

Four types of dog and possibly Shih Tzu aggression are:

Dominance Aggression Toward People
Interdog Dominance Aggression
Fear Aggression
Territorial Aggression

Dominance aggression toward people: Dominance is the driving force behind all canine aggression. Without dominance dogs and Shih Tzu also would not be able to stand up for themselves. Even a Shih Tzu with a submissive type temperament will have a small amount of dominance behaviors, enough to warn intruders off a favorite food, toy or circumstance. Protection of the Shih Tzu’s valued assets can be virtually the only sign of dominance. An aggressive response by a dominant Shih Tzu may also occur when the Shih Tzu is prevented from doing something it wants to do, in response to manipulations around the head and neck or when the Shih Tzu is disciplined. Different dogs and different Shih Tzu have different priorities with regards to what will “tick them off.” Dominance aggression is also dependent upon the time, place and circumstance. Dominant Shih Tzu is not likely to become aggressive toward the person he perceives as his leader. Dominance aggression is the primary way dogs and Shih Tzu establishes their hierarchical structure and relationships with each other. Therefore, some dominance aggression in dogs and Shih Tzu is to be expected.

Interdog dominance aggression: This is a dog or Shih Tzu that constantly picks fights with other dogs. The subordinate dog defers to a dominant dog by averting his eyes; holding the head low, body hunkered down, tail tucked or held low, which is the canine equivalent of waving a white flag. Treatment of aggression between dogs is not easy. You can, however, keep your interdog dominant Shih Tzu on lead when he is likely to be confronted with other dogs. Seek professional help if your Shih Tzu continually exhibits this type of aggression.

Fear aggression: Fearful and insecure dogs or Shih Tzu may exhibit aggression whenever they feel threatened. Often there has been a point in these dogs’ lives when they were exposed to some unpleasant experience involving a person or another dog. Many Shih Tzu from rescues, pet shops or puppy mills may acquire fear aggression. A Shih Tzu purchased from a reputable breeder and then mistreated by new owners can also acquire fear aggression. Fear aggression involving people are often men and children, and almost always strangers. Professional help is often needed for this type of Shih Tzu and most often the cause for the fear aggression can be ascertained.

Territorial aggression: Some Shih Tzu aggressiveness to strangers and other dogs occurs when they are approached within their own space or territory. The territory can be the owner’s home and property. They will bark and otherwise attempt to intimidate intruders until such time as it is clear that the visitor is welcome by the owners.

One very positive side of dog aggression is that a good guard dog is better than any alarm system. A house with a dog is far less likely to get burglarized. Many times the house with the dog or dogs remains unmolested. Just having a dog with you as you walk is a deterrent for many would-be attackers.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Designer Dog Clothes are offered on the website.

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Bottle Feeding Orphan Shih Tzu Puppies

2006-06-24T23:36:00.000-07:00

Dog Aggression

2006-06-24T02:14:00.000-07:00

Types of Dog/Shih Tzu Aggression

By nature, Shih Tzu is generally not an aggressive type of dog. However, there are exceptions and in this article I will discuss 4 types of dog aggression that could be a warning sign to the owner that his Shih Tzu is in need of professional help.

Four types of dog and possibly Shih Tzu aggression are:

Dominance Aggression Toward People
Interdog Dominance Aggression
Fear Aggression
Territorial Aggression

Dominance aggression toward people: Dominance is the driving force behind all canine aggression. Without dominance dogs and Shih Tzu also would not be able to stand up for themselves. Even a Shih Tzu with a submissive type temperament will have a small amount of dominance behaviors, enough to warn intruders off a favorite food, toy or circumstance. Protection of the Shih Tzu’s valued assets can be virtually the only sign of dominance. An aggressive response by a dominant Shih Tzu may also occur when the Shih Tzu is prevented from doing something it wants to do, in response to manipulations around the head and neck or when the Shih Tzu is disciplined. Different dogs and different Shih Tzu have different priorities with regards to what will “tick them off.” Dominance aggression is also dependent upon the time, place and circumstance. Dominant Shih Tzu is not likely to become aggressive toward the person he perceives as his leader. Dominance aggression is the primary way dogs and Shih Tzu establishes their hierarchical structure and relationships with each other. Therefore, some dominance aggression in dogs and Shih Tzu is to be expected.

Interdog dominance aggression: This is a dog or Shih Tzu that constantly picks fights with other dogs. The subordinate dog defers to a dominant dog by averting his eyes; holding the head low, body hunkered down, tail tucked or held low, which is the canine equivalent of waving a white flag. Treatment of aggression between dogs is not easy. You can, however, keep your interdog dominant Shih Tzu on lead when he is likely to be confronted with other dogs. Seek professional help if your Shih Tzu continually exhibits this type of aggression.

Fear aggression: Fearful and insecure dogs or Shih Tzu may exhibit aggression whenever they feel threatened. Often there has been a point in these dogs’ lives when they were exposed to some unpleasant experience involving a person or another dog. Many Shih Tzu from rescues, pet shops or puppy mills may acquire fear aggression. A Shih Tzu purchased from a reputable breeder and then mistreated by new owners can also acquire fear aggression. Fear aggression involving people are often men and children, and almost always strangers. Professional help is often needed for this type of Shih Tzu and most often the cause for the fear aggression can be ascertained.

Territorial aggression: Some Shih Tzu aggressiveness to strangers and other dogs occurs when they are approached within their own space or territory. The territory can be the owner’s home and property. They will bark and otherwise attempt to intimidate intruders until such time as it is clear that the visitor is welcome by the owners.

One very positive side of dog aggression is that a good guard dog is better than any alarm system. A house with a dog is far less likely to get burglarized. Many times the house with the dog or dogs remains unmolested. Just having a dog with you as you walk is a deterrent for many would-be attackers.

Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. Sign up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com/ Designer Dog Clothes are offered on the website.

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Shih Tzu Legends

2006-06-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

Shih Tzu History and Legends/Cross Breeding with Pekingese and Lhasa Terrier/Shih Tzu Management
There has been a strong opinion in shih tzu history that the Tibetan Lion Dog is the result of a cross between the Lhasa Terrier and the Pekingese, which occurred out of the mixing of the two breeds in Tibet and China.
The dogs of each country had been taken to the other from time to time by tribute envoys and officials. The cross in Tibet, that had been taken out of that country by way of India, has been called the Apso, while the cross in Peking has been called the Tibetan Poodle or Lion Dog. The Tibetan cross probably had more of the Lhassa Terrier in it, while the Chinese cross has more of the Pekingese.
Shih Tzu Management:
Be cautious about the dangers of dampness and violent temperature changes when it comes to the living quarters for your shih tzu. With a heritage of luxurious living in the palaces of the Orient, the domesticated dogs of today for the most part share the lovely homes of their owners in our affluent society but still must be protected against sudden change in temperature or weather conditions, particularly true with puppies.
The Shih Tzu is a rugged little dog, it is sheer folly for a dog to sleep indoors by the stove, fireplace, or beneath a comforter on his master's bed one night, and then be expected to spend the next night outdoors in a dog house or in a drafty garage. Shih Tzu do have a way of choosing their own beds, and it will probably be the same as yours!
Probably about the most important of all aspects in the care and health of your Shih Tzu is diet! My Shih Tzu have thrived better on HealthyPetNet Life's Abundance. Fresh water available at all times is also a diet essential. Be careful about the extras you choose to feed your dog. Try to be certain that everything he eats is safe and nutritious. Again, I recommend using HealthyPetNet treats, the dental cookies, the skin and coat bar, the Porky Puffs, etc. As a breeder, I recommend and prescribe the diet I prefer using for my own dogs and that has worked best for me. I cannot say enough "good" about HealthyPetNet Products. I can't imagine anyone not liking them after once trying them. Yet.....I do realize other breeders will have their own recommendations. And, as always, your own personal vet should be included in your final decision about your shih tzu's diet.
The capacity and size of the individual shih tzu determines the amount of food he/she should consume each day. Labels on the food itself give good guidelines to follow. For my puppies before they leave home, I keep food out at all times. This can change, according to the new owner's preferences. A healthy dog should eat the approximate same amount every day, and will be in good flesh without going to fat. Table scraps are out of the question. Never feed your shih tzu table scraps. Shih Tzu are acustomed to the best and it seems this part of their heritage never fades away. Feed your Shih Tzu the very best of Premium Dog Food. HealthyPetNet Life's Abundance is my choice.
A Legend of Shih Tzu Management:
The Chinese tell a story of Ch'en, of the town of Chiang Chou as an illustration of the perfectly brought up household. Ch'en not only preserved harmony among the 700 members of his family but also had the family dogs so well trained that, if one was late for dinner, the other 99 waited for him!
No explanation was given of how this was accomplished and the stories are legend, of course, but another Chinese sage, Chang Kung-i of Shantung, provided a clue........questioned by a T'ang Emperor how he kept nine branches of the family together, Chang gave an answer often quoted in China, by writing one word a hundred times - - "jen-mai," meaning "patience" or "forbearance."
The stories being legend, there is nothing to prove that the Ch'en family dogs, if they even existed, were Shih Tzu Kou. Such tales do draw attention to the fact that the Shih Tzu can be trained in obedience since they are highly intelligent, remarkably responsive, and unusually quick to learn.
Training a Shih Tzu does call for patience, however, since a common trait of the Shih Tzu is a "strong self- willed streak." This fact has been noted down through history by many Shih Tzu Fanciers. One leading dog trainer in the United States spoke of the breed with extreme admiration, but emphasized, with a smile......."that they could occasionally be very stubborn."
So....keep that in mind when training your Shih Tzu, and remember, none of us are without downfalls. The Shih Tzu with all its other wonderful qualities far outweighs this one aspect of their personalities. Try praising your shih tzu during training with HealthyPetNet Porky Puffs (a favorite treat of my shih tzu). They go CRAZY for HealthyPetNet Porky Puffs.
Connie Limon publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Weekly discounts on shih tzu puppies and other products to subscribers. Up-to-date Stain Glass Shih Tzu Available Puppies with a hotlink to the website Available Puppies Page. Sign-up at: http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com