There are few things in life more exciting than adding a puppy to your family. A Shih Tzu can be a good choice of pet for many reasons, but it is important to know what you are getting into before you bring your Shih Tzu puppy home from the breeder. There are many Shih Tzu health problems that are unique to this breed, and by educating yourself to what those problems are you can find a breeder who offers a line of dogs without a family history of them. It also helps you to know what to look for in your Shih Tzu, so that you can address any potential health problems early on.
Another factor in preparing for your Shih Tzu puppy is to select a veterinarian that you and your dog will both be comfortable with. It is a good idea to find a doctor that is experienced working with the Shih Tzu breed, since this person will be well versed in Shih Tzu health problems. It is also important to educate yourself about basic first aid for your Shih Tzu, so that you will be ready for any issues that might arise.
There are two Shih Tzu health problems that affect the eyes and are seen somewhat frequently. The first is keratoconjunctivitis sicca, which is also known as dry eye. This condition occurs when there is not a sufficient production of the aqueous portion of tears in the eye, which can lead to cornea damage and even blindness if no treatment is offered. A brachiocephalic skull can also lead to eye problems for the Shih Tzu, since the skull is structured in a way that the eyes of the dog protrude more than with other breeds. This additional exposure of the eye can lead to a variety of eye problems that will need to be addressed and treated.
Renal dysplasia is the name for a potentially serious Shih Tzu health problem that affects the kidneys. Unfortunately, severe cases of this condition can lead to the death of a very young dog. It is also difficult for a breeder to know if his lines of dogs might carry this disorder, since it can go undetected for generations.
Once you have learned about the potential Shih Tzu health problems that you will need to keep an eye out for, you can begin the selection process of a qualified veterinarian that will care for you dog. Choosing a vet is an important step in good Shih Tzu care, so take your time and do your research so that you find a doctor that you are completely comfortable working with.
Responsible pet owners also understand the importance of preparing for possible emergencies that might arise with a sick or inured pet. You will want to have a few supplies at home that will come in handy for treating your dog in the event of an emergency, such as bandages, antibiotic ointment or hydrogen peroxide and a rectal thermometer. Some dog owners also keep a muzzle handy so that they can safely treat their pet when it is injured. Doing your homework in regards to Shih Tzu care will mean a happy healthy relationship between you and your pet.
The first step in quality Shih Tzu care is to educate yourself about the breed and the potential health problems that might arise. Learning important basics like health problems facing this breed, where to find a quality vet and how to prepare for emergency care for you Shih Tzu will be helpful in owning in healthy, happy dog.
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