Shih Tzu
A longhaired palace companion whose flat face brings airway and eye problems β coat care is the daily routine. Generally calm and apartment-suited, but summer heat is a serious hazard.
Temperament: Gentle and cuddly, affectionate, polite with strangers
π©Ί Common diseases & risks
Brachycephalic airway issues (mild-moderate)
Noisy breathing, poor heat tolerance β strict summer cooling
Eye problems (corneal ulcers / dry eye)
Prominent eyes injure easily β squinting needs a prompt visit
Periodontal disease
Crowded small-dog teeth β brush daily
Luxating patella
Sudden three-legged skipping β check the knee
Skin fold / ear infections
Long hair blocks ear canals β clean regularly
π Recommended screening & frequency
- #1Airway evaluation (age 1)
- #2Eye exam (annual)
- #3Dental check (twice yearly)
- #4Knee check (annual)
π Nutrition
Small-bite small-breed formula; keep weight strictly down to spare the airway.
π Daily care
Brush the long coat daily or clip short; wipe tear stains daily; keep cool in summer.
π Related symptom pages
Tags link to the symptom pages most characteristic of each disease
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