Shih Tzu FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Shih Tzus are not completely hypoallergenic dogs. They shed very little and are safe for people who suffer from allergy problems. Consistent brushing and grooming will minimize the shedding rate and keep the coat clean and shiny.

Shih Tzu dogs reach adulthood at around 10 months of age compared to many dog breeds. Toy dog breeds become adults more quickly than other dog breeds. With regular healthy diet, they put on weight as adults until two years of age.

Shih Tzu dogs are not very smart. They exhibit some kind of stubbornness and disobedient nature. However, they have the appreciable character of understanding human emotions quickly and with positive consistent training, you can make Shih Tzus show smartness.

Shih Tzu means “Little lion” in Mandarin language and is pronounced as “sheet+zoo”.

The average price of a Shih Tzu puppy could be between $750 to $3000. The price may vary from breeder to breeder. Location and reputation of the breeder play an important role in determining the price of a Shih Tzu puppy.

Yes, Shih Tzus can safely eat bananas as they are a super good low-calorie treat. Bananas are rich in potassium, biotin, fiber, and vitamins and help boost the immunity level, and are good for healthy bone growth. However, these fruits should not be the main food as Shih Tzu needs a well-balanced diet for a healthy life.

Shih Tzu is an Asian toy breed that originated in China. There are still debates with a viewpoint of their origin as Tibet. They are called Chrysanthemum dogs with hair on their face growing in all angles.

While its origins are not fully clear, Shih Tzus had a royal history of association with Empress Tzu Hsi, who ruled in China from 1861 through 1908.

The average life expectancy of a Shih Tzu dog is 13 years. With balanced healthy diet, sound environment, and regular health checkups, Shih Tzus can live up to 16 years.

Shih Tzus like to eat all and everything available but be strict in not feeding harmful food to Shih Tzus.

Shih Tzus need a balanced quantity of protein for a healthy life. You can feed chicken, turkey, and eggs which are the key sources of protein to your dog. You can give fish, which is a good source of protein and healthy fats.

Shih Tzus require carbohydrates for energy that could be supplied by oats, rice, and sweet potatoes. Feed them safe vegetables like green beans, sweet peas, baby carrots to meet the needs of vitamins and minerals.

Shih Tzus generally have a nipping problem. By nature, they are not aggressive dogs but they like to scare small kids and other smaller animals and birds.

During their puppy stage, while teething, they have a biting problem. Though their bite is not painful and harmful, they should be trained from early-stage for the misbehavior of biting.

Yes, Shih Tzus can eat strawberries. Strawberries are full of healthy fiber and antioxidants and are a healthy source of potassium and vitamin C.

However, feeding too many strawberries can cause an upset stomach and can elevate sugar levels. Cut strawberries into small pieces and feed your dog as treats. You can feed 2 to 3 strawberries for medium-sized dogs and 4 to 5 strawberries for large dogs.

Yes. Bananas are healthy treats for Shih Tzu dogs. Bananas are full of fiber, biotin, copper, potassium, vitamins, and, one of the B-Complex vitamins. Banana improves better digestion, boosts immunity, and prevents gastric infections.

However, too much can cause stomach upset and increase sugar levels. Feed your dog only a few chunks of banana at a time.