experience with shih tzus?

Question

see...i might get a shih tzu...i really need to know what theyr temper is like...nice, cuddly so anybody who had shih tzus or have shih tzus r they the perfect dog??

Answer 1

Boy, we have a lot of them come into the clinic where I work, mostly for grooming. I wouldn't even know where to begin. We have only ever had one that I remember being dangerously aggressive. They're pretty sweet-natured dogs and long as you discipline from the beginning of the relationship. They tend to be difficult to potty-train and can gain weight easily. And they tend to be a little yippy. Regular grooming is required. But if you get it as a puppy, you can raise it up into a well-behaved adult. Or even better: find one at a shelter that has already grown into an awesome little dog.

Answer 2

I Used To Have A Shih Tzu. They Are Wonderful Dogs. They Are Very Playful, And Love Their Family. But You Do Have To Brush Them Daily And Keep Their Hair Out Of Their Eyes With A Bow.

Answer 3

My first dog is a Shih-Tzu. I was as inexperienced with dogs as anyone can get and having him was a blessing! He's very affectionate as he gives me kisses every day. We also got a lab for him to have a friend. He definitely shares his toys with our lab and helps out as if he were an "older brother". He is very smart and is easily trained. He rarely barks -- unless he's in "guard" mode. The kids adore him and just like to cuddle with him.

What people are saying about grooming, the skin problems are true -- if you don't want to deal with the long hair, you can get them groomed every few weeks or so. Also, since Shih-Tzus snouts are short, they tend to have breathing issues. Also, they are very stubborn so some days are more difficult than others.

I'd like to reiterate what others are saying in that the benefits outweigh the negative and I would never trade my Shih-Tzu.

Answer 4

I have a shih tzu, no doubt one of the greatest companions ever. My little dog has no temper except when you're playing with his toys BUT he shares his toys with other puppies. He ALWAYS is excited for the person coming through the door , whether you've been out for the day or just out for 5 minutes. Great dog if you don't mind grooming.

Answer 5

i used to breed shih tzu's and have owned 2 for 6 years. they are wonderful dogs. they have lots of personality, and yes, most of them tend to be quite cuddly and lovey. they are the perfect dog as far as all that goes. as far as caring for they are not the perfect dog. they are a lot of work. shih tzus hair grows long, and tangles very easy. they require frequent haircutsif they are to be kept short-and even then, they need to be brushed every day. their hair mats up very easily. also, most shih tzus have sensitive/dry skin. they should be bathed in a shampoo for sensitive skin that has oatmeal. last but not least, they CANNOT be in extreme heat, or left outside in hot weather. they are prone to heat stroke. But the benefits really do outweigh the downsides. for some reasons, the males tend to be easier to train and house break. they are great dogs!

Answer 6

I love shih tzus. I have one and a have a few friends that have shih tzus. They're such affection, outgoing, hyper little dogs! :) They love to cuddle but also love to play. Sometimes my dog runs back and forth really really fast hehe and I think this is pretty common in them. Like I said they're really outgoing and get along with anyone! They are not shy at all. My little dog throws herself all over anybody. She became great friends with our older dog too (and our older dog is mean). So I like to think that shih tzus can melt the heart of anyone. Ours was very easy to train in my opinion. But thats because we worked hard at training her. They're indoor dogs by the way. They shouldn't be kept outside in the heat for long either. They get exercise real easy cause they're so hyper and playful. But be sure to take it for walks too! every dog needs to go for a walk. They need to be brushed every day if you don't want their hair to get knotty. Or you can get them a short cut if you really want.
In my opinion they're the perfect dog.

and heres a link with some facts http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/shihtzu.htm
take everything into consideration.
good luck!

Answer 7

Shi Tzus are adorable animals! They aren't for everyone, though, sadly to say. They are very devoted to its family. It will learn to get attached to one person.
Shi Tzu Facts:
They live up to 10-18 if well cared for
They are diffucult to train
Stubborn and clever
Very loving and devoted.
Alert watch-dog
Can get snappish if pest
Tiny
Cannot be trusted around children due to size
Are prone to ear, eye, and other respiratory problems.
Spinal Disc disease
Teeth fall out easily (need to see vet at least every 2 months)
Gain weight fast and cannot be overfed.
Good for apartment life
High Grooming needs (if you cannot handle grooming, then this isn't your dog)
....Please make the right decision
If you need help finding a dog breed
contact me

Answer 8

Well, I owe 6 of them, and don't have a problem with any of them. I have also had a few that came through my house in rescue and I only ran across one "snappy" one out of them. The breed itself was bred as a companion dog. However, since it has become popular, many puppy mills and BYB's have been over breeding them. Poor breeding is the main cause for "territorial and snappy" dogs. If you go to a dog show, where there are many excellent examples of the breed, you will see a major difference in the personalities.

Answer 9

I absolutely adore my shih tzu! He is so rotten and crazy,but he is cute and cuddly and very good natured.

Answer 10

If you don't mind the hair grooming part of it they are the prefect dog, Mine is a family dog, a lap dog and a guard dog all in one, i wouldn't trade her for anything.