How to Adopt a Shih Tzu in New York

Known for their large, expressive eyes and luxurious double coats, shih tzu dogs have gained considerable popularity in the pet market. The shih tzu breed has Chinese origins and is believed to have come from Tibet. “Shih tzu” is a Mandarin term that translates to “Lion Dog.”

Shih tzu dogs have a rich history. Centuries ago, they were regarded as symbols of grace and elegance. Even today, the shih tzu remains associated with charm and refinement, making it a popular choice for many new dog parents. Can this royal breed adapt to life in a New York home? There are several factors to consider, including the climate, temperament, and grooming needs of a shih tzu.

In this guide, we explain how to adopt a shih tzu in New York and what you need to know to care for the breed. Let’s take a look at what to expect.

What Are Shih Tzus Like?

Shih tzus are affectionate, gentle dogs that make wonderful family pets. They enjoy being around people and generally get along well with children and other animals when socialized from an early age. Known for their cheerful and playful nature, they often bring joy to households and are also suitable as therapy dogs due to their calm and comforting presence.

Shih tzus are companion dogs at heart. They prefer staying close to their owners and may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. While they are not overly energetic, they do enjoy short walks and indoor playtime. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living, and their personalities are often described as charming, friendly, and affectionate.

What Is a Shih Tzu’s Temperament? Shih tzus naturally have a sweet disposition, which makes them a delightful option to adopt. Over the years, breeders have focused on developing them as companion dogs, so they love staying close to people. They particularly enjoy cuddle time and snuggling in their owner’s lap. They rarely show aggression unless they feel threatened and are generally welcoming to children. Proper socialization from a young age helps them become well-adjusted and friendly toward other pets and people.

How Active Are Shih Tzu’s? Shih tzus have a moderate to low activity requirement. While they are playful and goofy, they do not have the high energy demands that larger dogs often require. This makes them a great fit for apartment dwellers in New York. A 15 to 30-minute walk each day usually meets a shih tzu’s activity needs. You can also mix things up by adding indoor games like fetch, chase, and tug of war to help boost their stamina, but it’s important to be cautious and ensure they don’t get hurt. Keeping your shih tzu mentally stimulated is equally important. Teach them tricks or provide basic training to engage their minds. When you keep your pooch entertained, they tend to respond better to commands and are less likely to develop destructive behaviours out of boredom. Dog Training with Dog Academy

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What Size Are Shih Tzus?

Shih tzus are generally classified as small breeds. Both male and female adult shih tzus stand 9 to 10.5 inches (23–26 cm) tall. Their weight ranges from 9 to 16 pounds (4–7 kg), though it can vary from one dog to another.

What Are a Shih Tzu’s Grooming Needs?

One of the most distinctive features a shih tzu has is its gorgeous double coat. Available in a wide range of colors, the undercoat feels soft and feathery with shorter hair, while the topcoat consists of longer, finer hair that feels silky to the touch. Fortunately, shih tzus shed very little.

Daily brushing and combing help maintain a shih tzu’s coat. You can either brush at home or hire a professional groomer. When brushing, make sure to go all the way down to the skin to remove tangles and knots completely. For bathing, once a week usually works well.

Trim your shih tzu’s nails once a month and check their ears weekly for dirt, redness, or any unpleasant odor. The face also needs special attention. Their coats can get messy after meals, and their eyes often tear up and collect gunk, so wiping the face regularly with a soft, damp cloth helps keep it clean. A shih tzu is also prone to dental issues because of its small snout, so take good care of your puppy’s teeth. Using a dog toothbrush and toothpaste helps keep their gums and teeth healthy.

What Are Common Shih Tzu Health Issues?

A shih tzu is generally healthy, but their small facial structure makes them more prone to certain conditions and health issues:

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Dog breeds with short noses and flat faces often develop Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS). This respiratory condition causes breathing difficulties and usually results from narrowed airways.
• Bladder Stones and Bladder Infections: The symptoms of bladder infections include bloody urine, frequent urination, or difficulty urinating. Many small dog breeds develop bacterial or viral infections as a result of diets high in protein, magnesium, and potassium.
• Eye Problems: Since a shih tzu’s eyes tear up easily, they often face several eye problems such as keratitis, which is inflammation of the cornea that can lead to ulcers and vision loss, proptosis, which is a dislodged eyeball, and abnormal eyelash growth.
• Persistent Deciduous Teeth: Many shih tzus tend to retain their baby teeth, which means the puppy teeth (deciduous teeth) do not fall out naturally as they should. When the adult teeth (permanent teeth) grow in, crowding occurs. This can cause difficulty eating, gum inflammation, and an increased risk of periodontal disease.

What Is a Shih Tzu’s Lifespan?

A shih tzu’s life expectancy ranges from 10 to 16 years, with the average being around 13 years.

Are Shih Tzus Good With Other Animals or Kids?

Shih tzus are known for being affectionate and playful dogs. They usually get along well with children, but their behavior can vary depending on the child’s interactions and the temperament of other animals. They often follow children around and enjoy playing in many different ways, but it is important to keep the activity gentle. If a shih tzu is mishandled or falls, it can easily get injured.

If you raise your shih tzu with other pets from the time of adoption, they tend to get along easily. They can also adapt later if a new animal is introduced into the household, but they may need some time to get used to the change.

Are Shih Tzus Good for First-Time Dog Parents?

Shih tzus are an excellent choice for first-time dog parents. Caring for a shih tzu requires relatively low effort, which suits people in New York who have busy lives and work full time. They are not hyperactive and can be easily managed indoors. They are less likely to show aggression toward strangers and children, making them great for highly social people or parents with small children.

As mentioned, shih tzus need only a small amount of physical activity. Taking them out for short walks usually meets their exercise needs, but you must be careful to prevent them from getting too hot. New York’s summer heat can exhaust your pooch, so keep walks brief when it is hot and provide a cool indoor environment.

In contrast, during New York’s cold winter months, shih tzus need sweaters or jackets since their fur does not protect them well against the cold.

Regarding barking, shih tzus make good watchdogs. They bark to alert you of strangers but do not take extreme measures. This behavior makes them well suited for quiet neighborhoods or homes with older residents.

How Do You Adopt a Shih Tzu in New York?

New York has several rescue and rehabilitation shelters that provide homes for dogs in need. Before deciding to adopt, think about what type of adoption suits you best.

One of the best choices is to explore rescues and local shelters, as they follow reputable standards and do not participate in unethical breeding practices.

The adoption process is generally similar across different facilities:

• First, you fill out an online form to determine if you qualify to adopt a shih tzu in New York. The form asks for your personal details, including where you live, your experience with dogs, your lifestyle, and your work schedule. You may also need to provide references from your veterinarian or landlord if you rent your home.
• Once you submit your details, the rescue team will review your profile and may contact your references for an interview. You might also get a chance to spend some time with the puppy to see how well you connect with each other.
• Sometimes, a volunteer may visit your home to check if the environment is suitable for the dog. After everything is completed and your application is approved, you will need to sign a contract promising to care for the shih tzu for its entire life. Under no circumstances should you abandon your shih tzu.
• Check with the facility to find out what health checks are included. Most centers provide initial vaccinations, deworming, and health screenings. Some also microchip the dogs while they are at the facility. Ask about what is covered so you know which checks you will need to handle later.

Finally, you’ll have your own shih tzu that you can name. Make sure you give it plenty of time to adjust to its new surroundings. This adjustment period usually takes a couple of weeks.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shih Tzu in New York?

In general, adopting a shih tzu in New York can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the organization and the dog’s age and health. Reputable breeders or private rescues usually charge more, while public shelters and adoption centers tend to have lower fees.

How Should I Train a Shih Tzu?

Shih tzus are generally easy-going dogs that usually respond well to training. However, they can be stubborn, which might make training a bit challenging. These dogs react best to positive reinforcement and do not respond well to yelling or punishment.

Even if you follow a guide, training a dog for the first time can still be tough. That’s why taking a training course like Dog Academy’s online program can really help. Working one-on-one with a registered trainer lets you address your dog’s behavior and fix problems as they happen. Plus, you can schedule the training around your busy life without needing to take time off work.

Find the Right Shih Tzu in New York for You

Finding a shih tzu in New York takes research and commitment. Start by checking out local rescues and shelters in your area to see what dogs they have available. Make sure these shelters are trustworthy by looking up their reputation online.

Before you finalize the adoption, take some time to think about whether a shih tzu will fit into your life. Keep in mind their health needs and sometimes stubborn nature. Shih tzus can handle the busy New York lifestyle if you take the right steps to care for them. Be patient throughout the process because finding the right shih tzu can take time.