Preparing For A Shih Tzu Puppy

New puppies are always lots of fun. They are adorable, no matter what the breed. Little Shih Tzu puppies are like little balls of fur with personality. They’re lively and energetic, loving and curious.
Planning for your Shih Tzu should begin long before you bring him home. One of the first things to consider is how you will help him adapt to his new environment. Keep in mind that he is used to being with his momma and littermates. Ready or not, you should be willing to spend lots of time with your new baby. That will give him a sense of security and keep him safe.
A visit to your veterinarian is critical. This can be arranged prior to bringing your puppy home. Most breeders guarantee the health of their puppies but they may require that you take your new baby in for a vet visit within 48 – 72 hours of purchase.
Many people use a crate for training purposes. Although I do not suggest that I do suggest that a dog/puppy have a crate or other small space available to call his home. This can be a safe place with comfortable bedding, a toy or two, and even a treat.
Having a few toys on hand for your puppy is important. Talk with the breeder about feeding routines and the appropriate food. Find out if your puppy has been pad trained or has been going outdoors. You may want to continue with whatever he has been learning.
Most breeders will supply a “New Puppy” package. This will usually include a sample of food, instructions, and even a blanket or toy scented with the momma and littermates. That can help make the puppy feel secure in his new home.
Your puppy will need a soft and comfortable place to sleep. Puppies take lots of naps so you may want to have more than one bed; that will allow you to always be close by your new baby. Many owners use a doggie play pen to confine their Shih Tzu puppy. These are available online. They are flexible and are large enough to include room for a bed, a play area, and even a feeding area.
Doggie play pens are wonderful for keeping your puppy safe. Remember that puppies like to chew on things and they usually do not discriminate when it comes to choosing a chew toy. That can get them in a lot of trouble. As a Shih Tzu parent you will want to insure that your puppy is in a place free of electrical cords, poisonous plants, and anything else that could cause him harm.
Shih Tzu are special little dogs and require unique care in a lot of ways. If you own or are planning to add a Shih Tzu to your family you will want to learn the details of how to properly care for your little Fur-baby. You can find all the information you need right here: Just Shih Tzu
http://www.JustShihTzus.com

How To Help An Adopted Shih Tzu With An Abusive History

This ‘story’ illustrates how one family worked with their pet to help him overcome an abusive past. You can easily learn from their story and find tactics that you can use with your any Shih Tzu that you decide to adopt.

Danica and her husband Sam decided to adopt Justin, a 2 year old gold and white Shih Tzu that had been turned over to a shelter. Danica and Sam could see Justin’s inner beauty at first glance and they knew in their hearts that he was the right dog for them.

It was obvious from the start that Justin would need to be taught some basic commands, he did not seem to understand the concept of housetraining nor did he come when he was called. Additionally, it soon became apparent that Justin did not know how to play or interact well with his dog parents or anyone else. Determined to make this adoption a success, Danica and Sam immediately began working with Justin on a daily basis. They sat aside time each day to play with him and to teach him some basic commands. Danica and Sam used positive reinforcement that included treats and lots of love and praise.

After only a few weeks things were going much better, Justin was becoming a real family member. Justin was doing well with his training and he seemed to like everyone now. That is, until Sam’s brother Joe came for a visit, it was apparent that Justin was not comfortable with him.

Justin hid behind the couch when Joe walked in and had to be coaxed out by Danica to eat. Danica called her friend that happened to be an animal behavior consultant. Her friend said that Joe apparently reminded the Shih Tzu of someone from his past that was abusive in some way. Danica’s friend asked if Joe would be willing to work at easing the dog’s discomfort. Joe agreed wholeheartedly and began working with Justin as the animal behaviorist suggested.

To start, Joe attempted to give the dog treats. He also made a real effort to keep his voice even and friendly. Danica and Sam actually made a point of allowing the dog see them interact with Joe. This was an attempt to allow their pet see that Joe was accepted by his dog parents which would indicate that he must be safe.

The first day did not go so well, Justin continued avoiding Joe and the treats he offered. But the next morning Joe offered the dog his left-over eggs. Joe sat his plate on the floor next to him and within a moment or two Justin came over and ate the eggs. The dog then sat next to Joe waiting for more. Well, that was the beginning of a friendship for the two of them.

Because Justin’s fears were acknowledged, and his dog parents, as well as Joe, took the time to work with him, he is now a well-adjusted family pet. Many times dogs have an abusive past that has an impact on their behavior for years to come. When adopting an older pet the new owner may notice ‘quirky’ personality traits that should be addressed. Given enough time, patience and understanding most of these issues can be resolved, and the result is a loyal and loving pet.

For details and advice from dog behaviorists and other Shih Tzu experts be sure to join the membership at: Just Shih Tzu Each and every week for a period of six months you will receive great information that will help you create the relationship you desire with your Shih Tzu. Information will be delivered straight to your inbox. Pay monthly or pre-pay and get one month free! Check it out at: http://www.JustShihTzus.com

Think Carefully Before Deciding To Breed Shih Tzu

If you already own a Shih Tzu you know what a wonderful dog they are. Although they are lively and alert they are also content to be by your side, they are the perfect companion.

Shih Tzu are beautiful and their long flowing hair comes in all colors. It’s no wonder that so many of us consider breeding Shih Tzu. After all, having Shih Tzu puppies around is fun, right?

While puppies are fun they are work and a huge responsibility. But we need to back up a little bit. Let’s talk about before the puppies arrive. First of all you will need to find a good match for your Shih Tzu. Size and color must be considered as well as the health of the babies.

Once you believe your female is pregnant you will need to visit your veterinarian for confirmation and a check up. Gestation is 63 days. During that time you will need to properly feed and care for your female. Her diet must be of the highest quality.

Preparation for the puppies before they arrive is essential. You will need to prepare a whelping box. Plastic sweater boxes work well for this. Line the bottom with newspaper and then place a clean blanket (that has been rinsed well with no fabric softener) over the box. You will want to snug this blanket in and tape it on the bottom of the box.

The idea is to have a comfortable spot for momma and babies but to eliminate the possibility of babies getting lost under the blanket. You will need to have a heating pad to keep under one end of the box. The puppies must be kept warm but the momma may want to get away from the heat at times.

You will need to purchase a baby scale for weighing the puppies. Careful documentation of their weight and growth in general is important. Don’t forget about the vaccinations and de-worming of the babies. And keep in mind that you will need to have food available for them when they reach that stage. Another expense is that of puppy pads. Some people use newspaper but the pads are more absorbent and less messy.

I know that sounds like a lot, and it is, but it is all necessary. In fact, there’s more to do. Your puppies will need socialization. That means you will need to spend some quality time with each of them every day. This includes playing with them, stroking them, rubbing their face and feet, and introducing them to new surfaces. You will also want to insure that they are using the puppy pad.

Of course you will have the added task of finding good homes for the babies. This can mean advertisement costs and probably some stressful moments in seeing your babies leave.

Does breeding your Shih Tzu still sound like something you would enjoy? If so then you will need to learn the details of whelping and caring for momma and babies. You can find out that and much more at Just Shih Tzu. Check it out:
http://www.JustShihTzus.com

Is A Shih Tzu The Right Dog For You?

Many times people will decide they want a new pet based upon the way a dog looks or some story they have heard about the breed. There is no denying that Shih Tzus (often misspelled as Shitzu, Shihzoo, Shihsue, etc.) are adorable. They are small and the perfect lap dog.
If you like small dogs then you are sure to like this dog breed. Shih Tzu are non-shedding, making them a good choice for persons with allergies. They are intelligent and lively and as happy to be with a single person as they are to be with a large family. Because they are small they do not require a lot of space - they are even content living in an apartment.

But there are many things to consider before adding a new Shih Tzu dog to your family. Perhaps the most important matter is that Shih Tzu are a huge responsibility. You must be committed to providing proper care for them for their lifespan.
You will need to consider your lifestyle and how a Shih Tzu will fit in. Shih Tzus prefer not to be alone. They are the ultimate companion dog. If you are away from home several hours a day your Fur-baby will be lonely. Loneliness in a dog can result in unfortunate consequences. He/she may bark or whine non-stop or your little baby may look for a way to entertain himself -often this is chewing on things that you would prefer he didn't.
Ideally you will be able to spend most of your waking hours with your pet by your side. But if that is not possible you will need to find ways to keep him safe and out of trouble while you are away. Many dog parents have found that the use of a doggie play pen works well for this. They are large enough to allow plenty of play area, a bed, and a puppy pad space.
Although the doggie play pen will prevent any destruction of your items it does not help to keep your Shih Tzu company. A great solution to that is adding another Fur-baby. This is especially true of puppies. You will then have the fun and entertainment of watching the two of them play and grow together.
Shih Tzu are special dogs and require unique care in a lot of ways. If you own or are considering adding a Shih Tzu to your family you will want to learn the details of how to properly care for your little Fur-baby. You can find all the information you need right here:
Just Shih Tzu
http://www.JustShihTzus.com