Why Shih Tzu Are the Worst Dog? If you’ve been considering adding a small dog to your home, you may have come across Shih Tzus. These adorable little dogs are known for their friendly personalities and compact size, making them popular among dog lovers.
Highlights:
- Shih Tzus require daily grooming and have sensitive stomachs, increasing their maintenance costs.
- Their stubbornness can be a challenge without early training.
- Health issues specific to the breed need attention.
- They are not suitable for highly active owners.
- Shih Tzus are known for barking, which may be an issue in close neighborhoods.
However, like all dog breeds, Shih Tzus come with their unique set of needs and characteristics that may not be the best fit for every household.
Why shih tzu are the worst dog? What are bad things about Shih Tzus?
With their extensive grooming needs, sensitive stomachs, and stubbornness, Shih Tzus may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Potential owners should carefully consider these factors before bringing one into their home.
Here, we’ll discuss eight reasons why Shih Tzus might not be the ideal dog breed for you.
1. Extensive Grooming Needs
Shih Tzus are famous for their beautiful, silky, and long coats. While they are low shedders, their fur requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Regular bathing, nail trimming, and dental care are essential to keep them healthy and odor-free. If you need more preparation for the commitment of grooming, there may be better choices than Shih Tzus.
2. Sensitive Stomachs
These dogs have delicate stomachs, which means you’ll need to provide them with a high-quality, balanced diet. Quality dog food can be more expensive, so be prepared for the added cost of maintaining your health through proper nutrition.
3. Stubborn Nature
Shih Tzus, like many small dog breeds, can be surprisingly stubborn. Without early house training and obedience training, they may develop undesirable behaviors. Their charming looks can lead to manipulation if you’re not consistent with training, so be prepared to assert yourself as the leader.
4. Health Concerns
While Shih Tzus are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to certain breed-specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and patellar luxation. Their sensitivity to heat and respiratory issues also means you’ll need to be cautious in hot weather and around smokers.
5. Moderate Exercise Needs
If you’re an active person looking for a dog to join you in extreme outdoor activities, a Shih Tzu may not be the best fit. These dogs are companion animals and require only short walks and indoor playtime to stay happy and healthy.
6. Shedding
Despite their long coats, Shih Tzus are not hypoallergenic, and they do shed. Regular brushing is essential to manage their shedding and prevent mats and tangles. Shaving their fur entirely is not recommended, as it exposes their skin to extreme weather conditions.
7. House Training Challenges
House training a Shih Tzu can be a bit tricky, as their small size allows them to relieve themselves anywhere in the house. Patience, persistence, and consistency are key to successfully housetraining them.
8. Barking Issues
Shih Tzus are known for being vocal, which can be a good trait for watchdogs but may be problematic in noise-restricted areas or close neighborhoods. Proper training to control their barking is necessary.
Video: 5 Things You Must Never Do to Your Shih Tzu Dog
FAQ
Are Shih Tzus aggressive?
Shih Tzus are not typically aggressive, but they may exhibit growling or unwanted behavior that should be addressed early.
Will a Shih Tzu protect me?
Shih Tzus are alert dogs and will bark to alert you to new arrivals, but they are not good guard dogs due to their sweet disposition.
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
Yes, Shih Tzus are prone to barking, especially at people and dogs passing by or distant noises.
Does Shih Tzu need AC?
Yes, it’s better to keep them cool, especially since Shih Tzus and other brachycephalic breeds may struggle to breathe in hot or stuffy environments.
Do Shih Tzus hate loud noises?
Shih Tzus can be scared by loud noises like fireworks or thunder, which may cause fear or anxiety in them.
Can Shih Tzus get jealous?
Shih Tzus can exhibit jealousy, particularly in the presence of other pets or children, requiring attention and management to avoid jealousy-related issues.
Conclusion
Shih Tzus can make wonderful companions for the right owners who are willing to meet their unique needs. If you can provide the time, attention, grooming, and training they require, they can be loving and playful pets. However, if you lead a busy lifestyle or cannot commit to their specific care requirements, it might be best to consider a different dog breed that suits your lifestyle and preferences better.