Understanding Separation Anxiety in Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus, being companion dogs, thrives on human interaction and companionship. When they are separated from their owners or left alone for extended periods, they can experience anxiety and stress. Some common signs of separation anxiety in Shih Tzus include excessive barking, destructive chewing, house soiling, pacing, and attempts to escape. We also have Shih Tzu puppies available for sale. Check out our Ken & Kenny Breeders available page to see our new litter.

Causes of Separation Anxiety

Several factors can contribute to the development of separation anxiety in Shih Tzus. These may include:

1. Early Life Experiences: Dogs that have experienced early life trauma, such as being abandoned or separated from their mothers too early, may be more prone to developing separation anxiety.
2. Change in Routine: Dogs are creatures of habit, and significant changes in their daily routine or environment, such as a move to a new home or a change in the owner’s schedule, can trigger anxiety.
3. Lack of Socialization: Insufficient exposure to different environments, people, and other animals during their critical socialization period can increase the likelihood of separation anxiety.

Managing Separation Anxiety in Shih Tzus

While separation anxiety in Shih Tzus can be challenging, it is a condition that can be managed with patience and the following strategies:

1. Gradual Departures: Start by leaving your Shih Tzu alone for short periods and gradually increase the duration over time. This helps them get accustomed to your absence and builds their confidence.
2. Create a Safe Space:Provide a designated area, such as a crate or a specific room. Where your Shih Tzu can feel secure and comfortable when left alone. Make it a positive and enjoyable space by including toys, bedding, and treats.
3. Mental and Physical Stimulation: Engage your Shih Tzu in regular mental and physical exercise to help alleviate anxiety. Interactive toys, puzzle toys, and obedience training can provide mental stimulation and distract them from their anxious thoughts.
4. Establish a Routine: Stick to a consistent daily routine for feeding, exercise, and playtime. Predictability can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security for your Shih Tzu.
5. Calming Techniques: Explore calming techniques such as playing soft music, leaving the TV on, or using pheromone diffusers to create a soothing environment. Leaving an item with your scent, such as a worn t-shirt, can also provide comfort to your Shih Tzu.
6. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your Shih Tzu for calm behavior and gradually reinforce their independence. Use treats, praise, and toys to positively reinforce their ability to stay calm and relaxed when alone.
7. Seek Professional Help: If your Shih Tzu’s separation anxiety persists or worsens despite your efforts. Consult with a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian. They can provide additional guidance, and behavior modification techniques, or suggest medication if necessary.

There are several common signs that may indicate separation anxiety in Shih Tzus.

These signs can vary in intensity and may not occur in all dogs. But they often manifest when the dog is left alone or separated from their owner. Here are some of the typical signs to look out for: Are you interested in buying a Shih Tzu puppy? Read this post before you begin your search.

Excessive Barking or Howling

Shih Tzus with separation anxiety may bark or howl excessively when left alone. This vocalization is often persistent and may continue throughout the duration of the owner’s absence.

Destructive Behavior

Dogs with separation anxiety may engage in destructive behaviors as a way to cope with their anxiety. This can include chewing furniture, shoes, or other household items. The destruction is typically focused on items that have the owner’s scent or those that are associated with their presence.

House Soiling

Shih Tzus with separation anxiety may have accidents indoors, even if they are typically housetrained. This can include urinating or defecating in inappropriate places, such as on carpets or furniture.

Pacing or Restlessness

Dogs with separation anxiety often exhibit restlessness and may pace back and forth when left alone. They may also exhibit signs of agitation, such as panting or trembling.

Attempts to Escape

Some Shih Tzus with separation anxiety may attempt to escape from their confinement or the house itself. They may scratch at doors or windows, dig at carpets or furniture near exits, or even injure themselves in their attempts to get out.

Excessive Salivation or Drooling

Separation anxiety can trigger excessive salivation or drooling in Shih Tzus. You may notice wet spots on the floor or furniture when you return home.

Loss of Appetite

Some dogs with separation anxiety may experience a loss of appetite when left alone. They may refuse to eat or show a significant decrease in their food intake.

It’s important to note that these signs can also be indicative of other issues, so it’s essential to rule out any underlying medical conditions through a consultation with a veterinarian. Additionally, if you suspect your Shih Tzu has separation anxiety, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can provide tailored strategies to address the specific needs of your dog. You can watch this video on how to fix separation anxiety in your Shih Tzu.

Conclusion

So, Do Shih Tzu dogs have separation anxiety? Separation anxiety is a real concern for Shih Tzu owners, but with understanding, patience, and consistent training, it can be managed effectively. By gradually acclimating your Shih Tzu to being alone, providing mental and physical stimulation, and creating a safe and comforting environment, you can help alleviate their anxiety and strengthen their independence. Remember, each dog is unique, so tailor your approach to suit your Shih Tzu’s specific needs. With time and dedication, you can help your beloved Shih Tzu overcome separation anxiety and lead a happier, more balanced life. Thank you for reading this post on kenkennybreeders.com be sure to check out our blog for more interesting blog posts.

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Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale near me, Click here to see available.

Intelligence can vary from one Shih Tzu to another. Some may easily learn new commands while others may require a little more effort. It is important to note that, intelligence in dogs can manifest in different ways. Shih Tzus excels in social intelligence, with a remarkable ability to read human emotions. This explains why Shih Tzus are great companions.

If they sense that you are sad, they would try to provide you with comfort, and if you are upset or mad at them. They will get so worried. Most Shih Tzu owners have gone online to express how smart their Shih Tzu dogs are.

Tips On Training Your Shih Tzu

These are some training techniques you can use to easily train your Shih Tzu puppy.

Positive Reinforcement

Shih Tzus just like most dogs respond well to positive reinforcement. Personally, I believe it is one of the best methods of training your dog. Positive reinforcement simply means rewarding desired behavior with playtime or treats. When your Shih Tzu responds to a command, reward them with a treat. By so doing, they will associate that command with treats.

Click here to read this post on the best immune-boosting food for dogs.

Training Sessions, Are Shih Tzu Dogs Smart?

Due to the short attention span of Shih Tzus. It is advisable to keep training sessions short and simple. Anything from 5 to 10 minutes is considered ideal. If you make a training session too long. The puppy will lose interest and this will only leave you frustrated. Some people are not very patient. Such people are more likely to become aggressive when their dog does not perform certain tasks or respond to commands as they expect them to. I hope so far, we have answered your question Are Shih Tzu dogs smart?

Read this post before you buy your puppy

Consistency and Repetition,

This is one of the main points to emphasize on. You must be consistent when training your Shih Tzu. Using the same word command or signal for each assigned behavior you want your dog to learn is key. Repetition helps a great deal to reinforce the association of the word command and the desired behavior or action you want your dog to perform. Try different environments and gradually increase distractions.

Top 10 mistakes new dog owners make, Click here.

High-Value Treats

Using high-value treats that your Shih Tzu would love makes training easy. Much like if you want someone to do something, the right motivation they are promised will determine the commitment they put in. It’s exactly the same thing that applies here. Be careful not to give your Shih Tzu treats that are too sweet and in large quantities. This may affect the general well-being of your dog. Exercise moderation in the treats. Click here to check out this post on top 5 foods to never feed your dog.

Clicker Training, Are Shih Tzu Dogs Smart

Shih Tzu dogs are smart which makes training them a whole lot easier. A clicker is a small handheld device that can make distinct sounds associated to a particular behavior. Read this post on how to use a Clicker. You can buy one on Amazon.

Socialization

Socialization helps prevent fear or aggression. Early socialization of your Shih Tzu puppy is extremely important. Exposing them to different environments, people, and other animals too. As a breeder, this is one of the things I focus on. I always ensure that my puppies are well-socialized. This generally makes adapting into their new homes very easy. Click here to see the Shih Tzu puppies for sale available now,

Are Shih Tzu Dogs Smart? Conclusion.

The training progress for each dog may vary since every dog is unique. Some Shih Tzus may be quick learners while others may require a lot more time, patience, and repetition. Having a training technique that is best suitable for your Shih Tzus personality is important. Also, always remember that the key to successful training includes consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. If you ever wondered, Are Shih Tzu dogs smart? After reading up until this point, you can clearly see how intelligent Shih Tzu dogs are. Training them is relatively easier since they are smart. Thank you for reading this post, Click here to return to fullmoonshihtus.com.

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Not Choosing The Right Breeder

This is the one mistake that new dog owners make. By simply choosing the right breeder. They automatically avoid or fix every other mistake mentioned in the following paragraphs. Firstly, a good breeder would make sure that you are ready to welcome a new puppy home. One who is not profit-driven. That is, wanting to make a sale and just move on. If you buy your dog from the right breeder. They would inform you of the key points you must note. Some of which have been mentioned in this post. I for instance take rehoming my puppies very seriously. I do not just sell to anyone. Those who want to buy a Shih Tzu puppy must fill out the puppy match form and then a pet purchase application form. Which I will then review and then give them my response. This helps me to understand the buyer more and know where they are lacking which I can easily adjust. You can fill out the puppy match form here. I also upload nice posts on my website for dog owners. Such as this post on Shih Tzu puppies for sale. Before you buy a new dog. Make sure you take the time to choose the right breeder.

Rushing To Their Decision

This is the first and most common mistake most first time dog owners make. They hastily make a decision to buy a puppy without doing any research. Before committing to any dog. Firstly, you must make sure the breed you are committing to matches your lifestyle and needs. For instance, some dogs are more affectionate than others. Some instead make great guard dogs. Such as Rottweilers. While others require a lot of training. For someone who wants a guard dog, it would be unethical to buy a breed such as a golden retriever or teacup Yorkie. Just as it would not make sense for someone looking for an emotional support dog to buy a pitbull and ignore the toy breeds. Like, shih tzus or Pomeranians.

So, doing your research is very important. Some breeders, such as myself. Are very informative when it comes to interaction with interested buyers. I do my best to ensure that whoever is taking home one of my puppies is well-informed, fully ready, and capable of handling the responsibility.

Ignoring Pet Care Cost

This is another common error new dog owners make. Even if you are able to afford the full down payment for a puppy. An essential fact you must not neglect is, you need to set aside a monthly budget for your new dog. Dogs can’t eat every food humans do. Check out this post on foods harmful to dogs. You will realize that they are just regular foods yet can be poisonous or even deadly to your dogs. Our little fur friends require a special diet. Some breeds such as shih tzus, are inexpensive to care for. While other breeds might be very costly. Not forgetting vet bills and pet insurance if you want one. The breeder you are dealing with is in the best position to give you an estimate on how much you might spend monthly on your dog.

Neglecting Proper Training

Unlike cats who can just figure everything out for themselves if you provide them with what they need. Dogs are big babies and require you to train them. Potty training, crate training, and lots more. This is one of the mistakes new dog owners make which will only get worse. Thinking that your dog would automatically potty train itself is not something you should do. Right from when you welcome your puppy home. The training should begin. Potty training a dog for instance is not fun at all for first time dog owners. It takes time and patience. You can easily potty train your dog by watching a few videos on YouTube or seeking help from the breeder. A puppy who has already received potty training will find it relatively easy to adapt to its new environment.

Overlooking Socialization

Some dog breeds are very social. This means that they require a lot of your time and attention. Buying a sociable dog breed would mean that you are willing to create time to socialize with the dog. If not, it will easily get bored which can over time lead to depression. A quick solution to this is getting a pair. So they will be playmates. The drawback to getting two is that it would require twice as much effort training them and pet care costs.

Poor Feeding Habits

Large and small dog breeds have different dietary requirements. A smaller dog breed might not need to eat as much as larger dog breeds. Just like there are some branded dog foods that are made for some specific dog breeds. Buying just anything you find on the shelf would really affect your dog’s health negatively. Not only will their immune system be compromised, but they become more susceptible to health issues. Dogs can also be obese, and suffer from diabetes and cancer. Making sure your dog has the right diet is essential to your puppy living a healthy long and beautiful life. Read this post on the top 5 immune-boosting foods for dogs.

Not Following Up With The Dog’s Vaccines

Dogs need their shots. Not only to keep them healthy but to also ensure our safety. Dogs carry diseases that can be easily transferrable to humans. Rabies for instance is not deadly to dogs but if an infected dog bites you. You contract the disease and it is very deadly. The first thing you must do after buying a new dog is take it to the vet to ensure that it gets all its required shots and then do a follow-up.

We post helpful content on our website for not just shih tzu owners but all dog owners.

Overlook Grooming

This is by far the most common mistake first time dog owners make. If your dog is not well groomed, it fur will get tangled and overgrown. Plus insects and fleas can easily make a home in your dog’s fur. Also, dogs that are not well groomed tend to smell really bad. There are special dog shampoos for different dog breeds. You can find so many different brands at your local pet shop. Some dogs shed more than others, so regularly brushing their hair would fix this problem. The fur on your dog’s face easily traps dirt and food particles. That’s room for bacteria to grow which is harmful to both you and your dog. You can either groom your dog by yourself at home or take it to a professional groomer. The second option is best for first time dog owners.

Grooming a dog for the first time without prior experience can be very traumatizing to both you and your dog. After a couple of visits to the groomer. You can learn over time through observation and gradual practice.

Not Choosing The Right Vet

Do you know how some people build a nice relationship with their doctors? The same thing applies here. Before choosing a vet, you need to be sure they actually love animals and then you can proceed with building a good relationship with them. Some vet clinics offer special care to animals and make each vet visit a calm and stress-free experience instead of a horrifying one for the dog. Before you even welcome your dog home. You must have done your research on vets in your local area. Your vet is in the best position to give you the best tips on proper care for your dog’s health. Also, regular vet visits, maybe once every 3 months really put your dog in the safe zone. Don’t assume you know what is wrong, seek medical advice from your vet.

These are the top 10 mistakes new dog owners make. I hope you had a good read.

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Sweet Potatoes

This delicious vegetable is packed with vitamins and nutrients essential for your dog’s health. They are packed with Vitamin C which is well known for its immune-boosting capabilities. Sweet potatoes are one of the sweetest natural beta-carotene. Sweet potatoes are also good for your dog’s heart and it improves digestion. NOTE: You should only feed your dog cooked sweet potatoes. They should never be fed raw sweet potatoes.

A great way to feed your dog this nutritious meal is by dicing it up and boiling it. You can also mash the potatoes. Your dog would definitely enjoy this meal. A taste of healthy sweetness!

Like the read so far? Ken & Kenny Breeders is a safe space not only for shih tzu owners but all dog owners.

Pumpkin

Your dog would enjoy this tasty vegetable/fruit. Not only is it easy to find and not very costly. But it is so easy to cook as well. Pumpkins are packed with vitamins A and C. These are two vitamins well known to boost the immune system. What makes it even more amazing is that pumpkins are low in calories. So, it is the ideal fruit for your dog if you are watching its weight. Also, pumpkin is a natural source of dietary fiber. So, it will help prevent diarrhea and constipation.

Check out our new shih tzu litter.

Red Bell Peppers

As tasty as it is, Red bell peppers are even healthier. They contain up to 3 times the amount of vitamin C found in an orange. So, it is a great substitute for dogs suffering from digestive discomfort caused by citrus fruits. You want to ensure that your dog gets enough vitamin C because it helps in the production of white blood cells. Which fight infections. What better way to increase your dog’s vitamin C intake than by simply incorporating this delicious vegetable into its diet?

Turmeric

Turmeric is a common spice which can be easily found in your kitchen. Did you know that dogs can also benefit from the many wonders this spice has to offer? Tumeric increases antibodies to a particular antigen. This is a spice you do not want to miss out on when making your dog’s food.

Bananas

Are you looking for a healthy treat? Search no more. Bananas are one of the healthiest treats you can feed your dog. They are not only sweet and tasty but also very rich in essential nutrients and vitamins. They are a natural source of fiber, potassium, copper, manganese, and vitamins B and C. These compounds will boost your dog’s immune system and regulate bowel movements

There are more immune-boosting ingredients for your dog. But, these are my top 5 picks. You can read more on immune boosting foods for your dog here. Thank you for reading, Remember we encourage guest posts. So, if you have something you would like to share with our website visitors. Send us an email. Check out this post on Shih Tzu puppies for sale. It has all you need to know before buying your shih tzu.

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Step 1 Preparation

Items That You Need

Before you groom your dog, you need to have the right tools required. Here is the list of items which you would need. You can easily find them at your local pet shop or online. I added links to my top picks for each of the items on amazon.

• Dog brush
• Dog nail trimmer, I prefer this electric dog nail trimmer. Go for what works best for you.
• Dog Shampoo, There are so many different brands you can go for. But this is my favorite. Also, some shampoos are made specifically for puppies.

Choosing The Right Space

Grooming is sometimes scary to dogs. It might seem to be a fun and enjoyable experience for you but is actually frightening to dogs. So choosing the right space for this is very important. You want to use an enclosed space where the dog cannot escape from. I use my bathroom and I’ve never had any problems. However, I recommend doing the grooming outside. It’s not much of a mess and hassle to clean up afterward. It is important to know that you should avoid grooming outside when it is too hot or too cold.

We post helpful information on our website about Shih Tzu

Mentally Prepare Your Dog

Since grooming is scary to dogs, especially for newbies. Firstly, You want to take time to calm your Shih Tzu. Petting it and making feel like it is in a safe space.

Brushing Your Shih Tzu

Gently brush your dog from its skin to the edges of its hair. You also want to work out the tangles. You can easily do so by brushing from the bottom of the matted hair. Do so gradually till you can run the brush smoothly. Brush your Shih Tzu’s face focusing on the muzzle as food particles tend to get stuck there when it eats. Also, the best option would be to prevent tangles entirely. This can be done by brushing your Shih Tzu regularly. It is advisable to brush your Shih Tzu a minimum of 3 times throughout the week.

Step 2 Washing Your Dog – Groom Your Shih Tzu At Home

Start by wetting your dog. Make sure you use Lukewarm water. Ensure that the water is not too hot or too cold. Placing a nonslip mat which will prevent your dog from slipping in the bathtub. If you do not have a bathtub, you can buy this pet bathtub from amazon. it even has a drain and you would not need to worry about danger of the dog slipping. Use the dog shampoo to wash your dog until it is clean.

Work into a lather gently massaging the shampoo into the dogs fur. After you have rinsed out the all the foam. Use clean water to rinse out the mucus from the dogs eyes. Do not let shampoo get into your dog’s eyes. This will hurt the dog, which is why when washing your dogs face, you must stay clear from it’s eyes.

Once all that is done, to dry your dog, take it out of its bath tub and wrap it with a thick cotton towel to absorb all the excess water. You can air dry or use a hairdryer. Keep in mind that the sound sometimes scares dogs. So, it is advisable to introduce the sound gradually. Also, make sure to use the lowest setting and not to take the hairdryer too close to the dog. It will burn your dog’s skin.

Fill out the puppy match form to be matched with the perfect shih tzu puppy for you. We accept pickup and do deliveries.

Step 3, Grooming

This is the part most of you have been waiting for. I am pretty sure you now understand that there are more steps involved in grooming a dog than you would expect. Now that you have properly prepared your dog for grooming. Let’s talk on how to groom your dog. If you don’t feel well prepared to groom your shih tzu at home. I would recommend taking your dog to a professional and watch every step they take keenly. Learn by observation.

Firstly, you want to properly comb your dog’s hair. This is especially important as it helps prevent tangles. Once its fur is about to dry, use a soft brush to comb its hair. if there was any matted fur that wasn’t properly attended to in the preparation phase. Now is the best time to fix that. The ideal way to comb your dog’s hair would be to start at the base of the hair and comb all the way up the edges.

Trimming your dog’s nails

This is pretty basic but it is important to follow these safety rules.

• Only trim the white part of your dog’s nails. the pink part has live tissue and your dog will bleed if you trim too deep.
• If you accidentally make your dog bleed. Applying corn starch would help clot blood and stop the bleeding.

It is best to stay as far away from the danger zone (pink part) as possible. Don’t try to get too close. Most dogs hate nail clipping and would give you a hard time. If after a few tries you are unable to clip your dog’s nails. Simply skip this part and get help from the vet.

Cutting Your Dog’s Hair

It is advisable to use a number 10 blade to cut your dogs hair. The number 10 blade is long enough to prevent you from hurting your dog. Cut the hair on your dog’s body and face. You can purchase the number 10 blade from Amazon.

Clean your dog’s ears using alcohol-based solution intended to be used specifically on dog’s ears. Simply add a few drops to a cotton ball and rub it on the skin and fur in the dog’s ears. Then, fold the dog’s ear and gently massage it all the way to ensure an even spread. After that, use a clean cotton ball to wipe off all remaining moisture. Ensure that you do not take the cotton balls too deep into the dog’s ear cavity. Furthermore, check your dog’s ears right after a walk to ensure no grass or twigs got stuck in your dog’s ears. If not removed can make its way deep into your dog’s ears. If you feel this is too complex for you. Leave it for the professionals.

Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

You can use a double-sided dog toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your dog’s teeth. This can be done daily to maintain good oral hygiene.

I hope this information was helpful. Check out this post on shih Tzu puppies for sale. It has everything you need to know regarding buying a Shih Tzu. These are the 3 simple steps to groom your shih tzu at home. Thank you for reading.

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Signs of Depression In Dogs

The following paragraphs talk about the common signs to look out for depression in dogs.

Loss of Appetite

Loss of appetite is a common sign of depression. Dogs who generally have a huge appetite tend to lose their appetite when depressed. Sometimes, the loss of appetite might be due to medications or underlying health issues. So, if you notice that your dog won’t eat its food. It is best to seek medical attention immediately. ” Fill out the puppy match form to find a Shih Tzu puppy”

Lack of Interest In Activities

If your dog all of a sudden lacks interest in going out with you on walks or playing fetch. It is a clear sign your little friend is mentally disturbed. One might wonder, what goes on in the minds of gods that they are even able to express some human emotions. Well, it is just the way they are. You can only love them and care for them to the best of your ability.

Destructive Behaviour

Sometimes, dogs do not know how to process their emotions. While some portray signs of depression by withdrawing or becoming more inactive. Others tend to be destructive, chewing things they shouldn’t and generally being very headstrong and hard to deal with. When you notice this, it is a call for attention.

Extra Needy

Generally, most dogs love attention. But, if your dog becomes extra needy and craves so much of your attention. Couples with some other signs. Your dog is most likely suffering from depression. Your dog might lay next to you inactive. But, when you wake up to step out of the room. They follow you, trying to stay as close to you as possible. They are just being extra needy and need more of your attention.

Loss of Potty Training

Although this is a very strange way for a well-trained dog, it actually does happen. Sometimes, depressed dogs just get so overwhelmed with their emotions that they lose their potty training. This can be especially difficult to deal with if it is your first time dealing with a depressed dog or have never had to personally potty train a dog.

Common Causes of Depression In Dogs

These are the common causes of depression in dogs. We have discussed the signs that a dog might be going through depression. So, in the following paragraphs, we will discuss the common causes and how to fix them.

Life Changes

Some major changes in a dog’s life such as environmental changes can in some cases lead to depression. So, if you own a dog, whenever you move, it is important to remember that upon settling. You should take time to help your dog adapt to its new environment.

Loss Of Owner or Companion

It is common for people to grieve when they lose a loved one. Especially if they had a very close relationship with them. Did you know dogs also go through a grieving phase if they lose their owner or pet companion? If your dog expresses some of the signs mentioned above right after the passing of their owner or pet companion. They are most likely depressed. You might want to consider getting them a new playmate or showing them extra care and attention.

Underlying Health Condition

When a dog is in chronic pain, it may show signs of depression. So, whenever you notice an abnormal behavior in your before rushing to the assumption your dog is depressed. It is first of all important to rule out any underlying health condition.

Isolation

Just like humans, dogs might get depressed if they are isolated. The feeling of not being wanted really gets to them. So, it is essential to create time for your dog so they do not feel lonely. Cats on the other hand don’t mind being isolated. As long as they have food, water, and a clean litter box. They are doing just fine. It all adds up to one of the reasons why dogs make great pets. Especially for people looking for a more social connection with their pets.

Check out this post on shih tzu puppies for sale

Inadequate Physical and Mental Stimulation

You should not buy a dog if you plan on just letting It by itself all day without interaction. You need to do more than give your dog food or take it out to potty. They need physical and mental stimulation such as playtime, going on walks, or any outdoor or indoor activities that get them moving. This is very true, especially for dog breeds that are genetically wired to be active dogs or working dogs. “Searching for shih tzu puppies for sale? Click here to check out this post.”

Treating Depression In Dogs

If there is a significant event that recently occurred such as environmental changes, or loss of owner or companion. You can simply give your dog more attention and spend extra time with them. It should help them go through that state and regain their normal mental state.

However, if you are unsure about the cause of depression, seek advice from your vet. You can read more about depression in dogs from the official AKC website. I also find that this post from Sandy Eckstein about depression in dogs is an amazing read.

Thank you for reading, and remember we are always glad to welcome guest posts. Send us an email with your content and it will be edited and posted on our website.

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Chocolate

Although enjoying a bar of chocolate can be satisfying for you. It may cause minor to severe health issues to your dog especially if fed regularly. In most cultures around the world, Chocolate is often associated with signs of love. Well of course it does! Chocolate bar sales go way up during valentines. Do you love chocolate? what is your favorite brand?

As tasty as chocolates are to you they can be deadly to your dogs. This is because chocolate contains a toxic substance called methylxanthines. Even in small amounts can be very harmful as it can stop a dog’s metabolic process, and cause vomiting and diarrhea. When fed in large amounts may even lead to seizures, irregular heart function, and sometimes death. So, with that in mind, you want to keep the chocolate pack as far away from your Shih Tzu as possible. I have a diet plan for my dogs I can share with you for free.

Salt

What you need to understand is, that not everything you eat is okay for your dog too. This is why it is important to have a strict no-feeding policy for your shih tzu dog when guests come over. Some people are fond of packing leftover chicken wings for their dogs or adding too much salt when making their dog’s food. You need to know that even if something isn’t healthy for your dog, that won’t stop them from eating it if you feed it to them.

A little bit of salt is fine but too much salt can lead to dehydration and even cause sodium ion poisoning. So you want to be watchful of how much salt you feed your dog. Maintaining a healthy diet enables your dog to live a happy and healthy lifestyle. It’s ironic because goats on the other hand love salt! can’t get enough of it. They crave salt found in human sweat and urine. So you do not want to be tied up in a hot room next to a goat!

Onions and Garlic

The sweet aroma of chopped or minced garlic in the oven marinating into chicken or shrimp can be savory. However, these veggies are very harmful to dogs and you should never incorporate it into their recipe. It is known to cause anemia in your dog by killing its red blood cells. This brings us back to letting guests feed your dog or just letting your dog eat randomly. Tasty grilled or baked chicken marinated with garlic or onions might be enjoyable to you. But you do not want to let your dog have this.

Refined Sugar and Drinks

When humans consume too much sugar regularly, it leads to diabetes, obesity/weight gain, and tooth decay. Things like cookies, cake, biscuits, and sodas. The same thing will happen to your dog if you let it consume so much sugar. With a proper diet, you lessen the chances of your dog falling sick. It’s very important to take the time to properly plan your dog’s diet so your beloved friend can also enjoy a long beautiful and healthy life.

Avocados

To humans, avocado is a super fruit. Packed with vitamins and nutrients essential for the proper functioning of the body. You do not want to let your dog eat this. Reason being, it contains a strain of fatty acid called persin which is toxic to your dog in large quantities.

Here are more foods that are harmful to your dog. Thank you for reading. Fill out the puppy match form if you are looking for shih tzu puppies for sale. These are the top 5 foods to never feed your Shih Tzu dog with. It applies to every other dog.

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Firstly, let’s talk about shih tzus. The Shih Tzu dog breed originated from Tibet and is believed to be bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. They make really great pets. With low maintenance cost, easygoing temperament, smart and easy to train. Shih Tzus are also recommended by therapists as emotional support or amazing therapy dogs.

For first-time dog owners, the Shih Tzu dog breed would be the most ideal option. As exciting as it is, when buying your first pet. You must be cautious too. Ensuring that you follow the right procedure and stay safe. Even if you only want one within a close proximity. The points mentioned would be helpful. Without further ado, let’s dive into it.

The Cost, Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale

The cost of the Shih Tzu puppy differs from one Ken & Kenny Breeders to another. Ken & Kenny Breederss charge different prices for various reasons. Does it mean that the more you pay for your Shih Tzu puppy the better quality you get? Or the less you pay for your shih tzu dog the less quality you end up with? Absolutely not! Although most Ken & Kenny Breederss who charge very high often take really good care of their puppies. It is about an 80% guarantee that you will end up with a Shih Tzu dog you would love. You must consider this when on the hunt for a new companion.

Top 5 foods to never feed your dog

However, you need not worry. We will cover everything on choosing the right Ken & Kenny Breeders. Whether you are paying high or low. If you follow these guidelines. You have a 100% guarantee of ending up with the perfect Shih Tzu dog. Shih Tzus costs up to $3,500 or even $4,000 and as low as $500 or $650.

Why Some Shih Tzu Dogs Are Expensive

Let’s dive into some of the factors that may cause the price of Shih Tzu dogs to be higher than others. When searching for Shih Tzu puppies for sale. It is very important that you note down all these points. So as to guide you in your search and help you make the right decision. Remember, buying a Shih Tzu puppy is a lifelong commitment. Therefore, you must be willing to put in that extra effort. So as to ensure that the day you pick up your puppy or welcome your puppy home. Would be one you will always look back to and smile.

Breeder Reputation

This point just had to come in first. A Ken & Kenny Breeders who has successfully built a very good reputation will obviously charge more. The reason is that they have so many people on their waiting list and they get lots of inquiries about their shih tzu dogs. Therefore, it is normal that the Ken & Kenny Breeders does not only set a high price for their Shih Tzu puppies but is also picky. This means, you may be able to afford the puppy but the Ken & Kenny Breeders might not see you as a good fit. Click here or on the image below to view our Shih Tzu puppies for sale ready to go.

The Pedigree Of The Shih Tzu Dog

This simply means that the dog, parents, grandparents, great grand parents etc were purebred. Not only that but you can also trace their lineage going back up to several generations. So, a breeder who has a good reputation and an outstanding pedigree will definitely charge you high for their puppies.

Coat Color and Pattern Of The Puppy

The coat color of the Shih Tzu puppy greatly influences the price. Some coat colors are more expensive than others. For instance, the Liver Shih Tzu can cost up to $3,500, Red, up to $1,500, Silver, $1,000, and white $750. Do you see how something very little can have a great effect on the price? So the total cost of the Shih Tzu puppy is not dependent on only one factor but multiple. The white Shih Tzu which generally costs $750, if sold by a reputable breeder with a great pedigree. Will definitely not cost $750. Chances are, it will be more expensive. Maybe up to $2,500.

Age and Training

The age and training of the Shih Tzu puppy can also influence the price. For instance, if the puppy has been potty and crate-trained trained, understands a few words or actions. Such as performing an action to inform you when they want to potty or go for a walk. If a puppy is able to do these very basic things, then the breeder will ask for a high price. Potty training a dog is not an easy task and not every Ken & Kenny Breeders puts in that dedication. Generally, puppies are more expensive than full-grown dogs. Most people would prefer to buy a puppy so they can start creating beautiful and loving memories right from when their little paws are not yet firm on the ground. So, the age and training really affect the asking price of the puppy. Although not always, however in most cases. Breeders who put in more time in raising their puppies tend to charge high.

Where To Find Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale

You can easily find a puppy by doing a Google search, on Instagram, or Facebook. Also, it could be through a referral. You can make inquiries from friends and family if they can refer you to a Ken & Kenny Breeders. So let’s look at and analyze the various methods of searching for shih tzu puppies.

Search Engines

A quick search on search engines such as google.com and Bing will land you on some Ken & Kenny Breederss. You can then get in contact with them and either visit the breeder or have the puppy delivered to you. It is important to do your research and contact as many breeders as you can till you find one you feel a bond with.

Social Media

Social media is a place that has been recently used for more than just interacting with friends and family. On Facebook, for instance, there are so many groups you can join. Just by doing a random search on Facebook. You would be able to find some Ken & Kenny Breederss. Be careful though, as Facebook has very untrustworthy breeders since basically anyone can put up fake posts. The same goes for Instagram, you can easily find shih tzus for sale on Instagram by doing a quick search or using hashtags.

Classifieds

There are a number of classified websites you can go to when searching for a puppy. The most popular and yet most risky is Craigslist lol. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend someone who is looking for a pet to do so on Craigslist. It is well known for so many fake breeders and generally, people you can’t really trust. All you have to do is search for Shih Tzu puppies for sale on Craigslist. You will get results based on your location. A classified website I’ll recommend is hoobly. There are so many classifieds. You just need to do a quick search on Google and you will stumble on tons of them!

Referrals

After Google, this is by far the absolute best option for you. Try asking friends and family if they know of any Ken & Kenny Breederss they can refer you to. Firstly, you have assurance since the person referring you must have probably bought a Shih Tzu puppy from them before or knows someone who did. You would want to ask about their overall experience with the breeder.

Who To Buy A Shih Tzu Puppy From

Now that you know where to go when searching for a Shih Tzu puppy. Let’s look at who you should or can buy from. There are three options when searching for shih tzu puppy. You either buy the shih tzu dog from a Ken & Kenny Breeders, a shelter/rescue, or a shih tzu owner looking to rehome their new litter. We will analyze each of these options and then I will give you my opinion on the best option.

A Ken & Kenny Breeders

Finding a good Ken & Kenny Breeders is usually not an easy task. There are so many points you must check before making that final decision. Such as, how interactive the breeder is, their temperament, relationship with their dogs, and policy on visits. All of these will be elaborated upon in the following paragraphs.

How Interactive Is The Ken & Kenny Breeders?

A Ken & Kenny Breeders who is very interactive is definitely one you should buy your shih tzu puppy from. Such as responding to all your questions, and asking more about you and your lifestyle. The basic things to ensure that their shih tzu dog will be going into a great home. A breeder who asks many questions and is very concerned about the new home of their puppies is a breeder you should buy your shih tzu puppy from.

The Ken & Kenny Breeders’s Temperament

A Ken & Kenny Breeders who is very evasive to your questions, easily gets upset, is rude, or maybe blunt. Is one you should avoid. Buying a new puppy is a fun and amazing experience not only for the buyer but also for the breeder. As a breeder, trust me! I know exactly what I mean. When I have a new litter that is ready to go. I’m always very excited and look forward to meeting their new owners. Just from communicating with someone, I can easily tell if they would be a great fit or not.

Their Relationship With Their Dogs

I love my dogs, I love my dogs so much! I never stop talking about them. You want to go for a breeder who has a great relationship with their dogs. They see them as their pets too and not just business or money-making creatures. Such breeders are absolutely cruel and usually do anything to get their hands on your money as fast as they can. When you do something out of love, you go for what is best. When you just want the money, you go for what is cost-effective. Some Ken & Kenny Breederss have a very poor diet plan for their dogs. This greatly affects their health as they grow. They are unwilling to take out time and make a nice homemade recipe that is healthy and rich in nutrients. So, just because the breeder has Shih Tzu puppies for sale does not mean they are the best option. Look out for their relationship with their dogs!

I’ll use a very practical example. Some farmers use very toxic fertilizers and pesticides on their crops. It increases output but all of those toxic chemicals are bad for you. This farmer is profit-driven and cares less about the consumer or the crops they are growing.

On the other hand, there is another farmer who loves plants so much. He grows his crops mainly for home consumption and sometimes shares with friends and family. He may also take some to the farmer’s market to sell. Such a farmer will only use organic fertilizer and pesticides. Well, because he consumes his crops and actually cares about his plants. The exact same thing applies here. For instance, I only breed once a year.

Do They Offer A Health Guarantee,

A Ken & Kenny Breeders who is confident of their breeding program would not be opposed to selling their puppies with a health guarantee. For instance, all of my puppies come with a lifetime health guarantee against congenital defects. They also come with all health records. I do this because I am very confident in my breeding program. You can always check my available page to find out if I have Shih Tzu puppies for sale ready to go.

If the breeder in question does not offer a health guarantee, you can simply ask for it and then see what their response would be. You would want to take the puppy for a vet check to ensure that the puppy is in great health. I personally recommend this. Anyone who buys a Shih Tzu puppy from me must take the puppy for a vet check within the duration of 1 week. This is to verify the health records I provided and show that the puppy was in great health at the time of purchase.

Their Policy On Visits

A Ken & Kenny Breeders who accepts visits is definitely one you should consider. Most often, some breeders raise their puppies in horrible conditions. Which makes their puppies pick up some infections due to their poor sanitary conditions. A breeder who refuses to let you come over for pickup is one you should be wary of. However, it is advisable not to jump to conclusions. Some breeders raise their puppies in their homes. So, they might not feel very comfortable welcoming so many random strangers into their homes.

Just like me for instance, when I had a litter of Shih Tzu puppies for sale. At first, I used to permit visits. But, each time I had a new litter I’ll have so many people coming over most of who are not even ready to buy. This exposed my family a lot and it was not very healthy for the puppies. As their immune system are not fully developed yet. So, I only permit visits for those who have made a deposit or put down a deposit to be added to the waiting list. Even then, you are allowed to meet just your puppy.

Should You Depend Solely On This?

Although it is a good option to work with. You should, however, not be very dependent on this alone. A breeder might accept that you come over for pick up and have a look at their Shih Tzu puppies for sale. But, they only clean up on the day of pickup. So, upon arriving you might think they raise the puppies in such great conditions. But in reality, they do not. This is why you must use all key points to help you out in picking the right Ken & Kenny Breeders

Advantages Of Buying From A Ken & Kenny Breeders

These are some of the advantages of buying your Shih Tzu puppy from a Ken & Kenny Breeders when on the hunt for a Shih Tzu for sale. You can either go for a local Ken & Kenny Breeders or go for a breeder or an out-of-state breeder. Both of these have pros and cons. We’ll analyze them and then get to a conclusion on which would be the best option for you.

Buying A Shih Tzu Puppy From A Local Breeder

When looking for a Shih Tzu puppy. Some people prefer to limit their search locally. This has its ups and downsides. For starters, if you only want a puppy from a breeder in your local area. The chances of finding one becomes very slim. Even if you do find a Ken & Kenny Breeders near you. What if he does not have the best shih tzus for sale or his asking price is too high? Let us dive into the pros and cons of limiting your search to shih tzu puppies for sale near me.

Advantages

• When you buy a Shih Tzu puppy in your local area, you can easily pick up the puppy. This allows you to bond and interact with the puppy before making your decision.
• If the Ken & Kenny Breeders is near you. You get to save money on gas as compared to if you had to pay for a shipping fee or personally drive for hours to pick up the puppy.
• Meeting the Ken & Kenny Breeders near you gives you the opportunity to tell if they are a good choice or not. You are able to interact with them and observe them. Also, you get to find out the conditions under which they raise their puppies.

Disadvantages

• Limiting your search to breeders near you limits your chances of finding the ideal Ken & Kenny Breeders. What if the only good breeders are out of state? Does that mean you would rather settle for less when you could actually get the best?
• You may find a breeder near you but their asking price is more than you can afford. Therefore your entire search would have been in vain
• It is not every breeder you come across who will want you to have their shih tzu puppies. Some might for personal reasons not find you as the best option for them.

From the points above, we can observe that limiting your search to shih tzus for sale near me will not be the best option for you. If you are searching for one close to you, it would be best for you to keep an open mind. I have come across some people who only wanted a puppy in their local area. But after communicating with me. They just realized I was the best option. I’ve had people come over from out of state and others whom I shipped my puppy to them.

Buying A Shih Tzu Puppy From An Owner

Buying a shih tzu puppy from a shih tzu owner is by far one of the cheapest yet most risky routes to take. Most especially if you do not know the owner. Most people who are looking to rehome their new litter will often charge you a small rehoming fee. You could spend about $300. Keep in mind that, they are not licensed breeders so the experience might be a little different. Let us analyze the pros and cons.

Advantages

• You can end up with an inexpensive Shih Tzu puppy for sale. Spending as little as $300.
• You stand the chance of creating a new friend. Who knows, after buying the puppy you just might end up making a new friend. Maybe even a life partner, many beautiful love stories started this way.
• If your hunt for a Shih Tzu puppy is limited to an owner only. There is a high probability you might find a Shih Tzu owner in your local area.

Disadvantages

• You might not get a health guarantee. This is very important. It is possible to ask, but they can just tell you no and sell their Shih Tzu puppy to someone else.
• Since the owner is not a breeder. There is a high chance they did not put in as much effort or dedication in raising the litter. So, you might spend less for the puppy but in the long run, spend more on vet bills. You definitely do not want that.
• You can easily find a Shih Tzu owner on classified websites such as Craigslist or social media offering Shih Tzu puppies for sale. I am sure you know the reputation Craigslist has when it comes to puppies for sale.
• Most owners would not want you to come to their home. Therefore, you do not get to see where the puppies were raised.

Shih Tzus For Sale From Shelter/Rescue

If you are looking to save a dog. Then this would be your best option. When searching for a puppy. Some people are really just hoping to save a dog out there. If that’s you, by all means, go for it. You are doing a very good thing because those dogs are just lost. I sometimes volunteer at my local shelter. However, if you want a Shih Tzu pup and you think this would be the cheaper option for you. Then what awaits you is doom. Let’s get into the upsides and downsides.

Pros

• You get to find a puppy which you wouldn’t need to break the bank to afford the puppy.
• Those rescue dogs are sometimes in pretty bad condition and just need love and care. So, you are doing a good thing by saving one.

Cons

• If your aim was to spend less when searching for Shih Tzu puppies for sale. You might instead end up spending more on vet bills.
• Not everyone has the guts to look after a needy dog. You might just end up sad or depressed constantly seeing your new dog in a bad condition. It builds resentment over time in some people they end up taking the dogs back. Truly heartbreaking.
• If you want a Puppy and you absolutely believe this is a good call. You might end up with a shih tzu dog that has an underlying health issue. Which might infect your other dog at home. That is if you have one. Also, dogs carry some diseases which are transferable to humans. So this is not a cost-effective option. Only go for this if you have a big heart and you are ready to go all in.

Tips On Building A Solid Search When Looking For A Shih Tzu Puppy

We have discussed the key points to implement when looking for a Shih Tzu puppy. It is a rational thing, to desire the best quality at the best price. So, you might want to follow these few bonus tips and guidelines.

Write Down How Much You Want To Spend On The Puppy

Having a fixed budget or budget limit really narrows down your search on shih tzu puppies for sale and makes it easier. By so doing, you know where to go to and who to go to. An average budget would range from about $700 to $1,300. With this budget, there is a very high probability that you will find a good breeder and end up with an amazing Shih Tzu puppy.

Just like if you want to buy a house or car. Setting a fixed amount on how much you are willing to spend narrows down where you will search. You won’t go for a brand-new car if your budget is $3,000. You won’t go for a mansion if your budget is $100,000. So, knowing how much you are willing to spend on the puppy really gives you a kickstart.

Is Your Search For Shih Tzu Puppy Restricted To Local Or Not?

Setting a radius you hope to find a puppy makes your search easy. Taking the points we previously mentioned, that is, the advantages and disadvantages of wanting to buy a shih tzu puppy locally only. So, use that and then decide on what to go for. My best advice would be to keep an open mind and not restrict your search to a small radius.

Tips On Being A Good Buyer While Looking For Shih Tzus For Sale

Did you know that most great breeders do not have a problem with, people showing interest in their puppies? They instead have more people interested they end up having a problem of choice. That is, who should take home their shih tzus for sale? If you want the breeder to choose you. There are some key things the breeder would like to see that you can implement. Such as your commitment, and temperament. They will be discussed in the following paragraphs. We will also discuss how to get the best price from any breeder.

Your Commitment To The Shih Tzu Puppies

It is highly essential that the breeder sees your commitment and dedication to the puppy. When breeders put up their puppies for sale. They usually get so many inquiries. So, the question you should ask yourself is, what makes me different? There are a few ways by which you can show the breeder that you are committed.

• Share as much relevant information about yourself. Things like, if you have previous experience with Shih Tzu or know someone who owns a Shih Tzu. Your current lifestyle and how getting a Shih Tzu puppy would make it better.
• Although most Ken & Kenny Breederss would provide you with information on feeding and basic care. You want to however make them know that you have done some extensive research yourself. Ask the breeder as many questions as you can too.
• Every breeder wants to ensure that their shih tzu puppies will be properly cared for. If you have previously owned or currently own a Shih Tzu puppy or any other dog. Sharing the vet records with the breeder gives them a clear picture. As for those who have never owned a dog before. You can simply search for vets in your local area. Informing the breeder that you already have a vet who will look after your shih tzu puppy if there is a need for medical attention. As you look for Shih Tzu puppies for sale. You want to be fully committed.

Your Temperament

Just like you would observe the breeder’s temperament, they too will observe yours. This is not something you can fake. But it is possible that on a bad day, you may be a little on the edge. The breeder will pass their judgment based on your attitude on that specific day. Whereas, normally, that is just not you. So, it is really important to give off that positive energy

Before Looking For A Puppy, Prepare Your Home

When expecting a baby, what do most people do? They baby-proof their home, get a new crib, paint the baby’s room, and lots more. The same thing applies in this situation. Before you begin your search. Ensure that your home is well prepared. Buy some basic items such as puppy chew toys, a bed, a blanket, and some puppy clothes. Imagine contacting a breeder and not just telling them but showing them all the items you have bought for a puppy you do not even have yet. This shows how committed you are and how much you will spoil the Shih Tzu puppy once the purchase is complete.

These are the basic things you need to know when looking for a Shih Tzu puppy. Check out our available Shih Tzu puppies page to find out if we have puppies ready to go. We also have an amazing Shih Tzu community you would enjoy. It’s just Shih Tzu owners being proud Shih Tzu owners. Sharing tips among each other, playing games, and celebrating holidays.

Thank you for reading and even if you do not end up buying your shih tzu puppy from me. I wish you the best in your search. Thanks for reading!

The post Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale, All You Must Know appeared first on Ken & Kenny Breeders.