Those who wish to have their Shih Tzu around for the maximum amount of time must know what factors can cause them to depart before their time. Just like us, humans, there are aspects that not only provide quality of life to Shih Tzu but also increase their life expectancy.
Therefore, it’s important to know the worst and most important enemies of Shih Tzu and the most appropriate way to combat each of them.
1 – Sugar
It’s not uncommon to see Shih Tzu owners offering them sweet foods, as many of them seem to enjoy treats. However, just like for humans, excess sugar is also harmful to Shih Tzu’s health.
The sweets that can be most harmful are those with large amounts of sugar and that are processed, including those with artificial sweeteners in their formula.
Even honey and brown sugar can be harmful over time. Even the sweetest fruits, such as bananas and mangoes, are not advisable.
Chocolates are forbidden because of caffeine, and for the same reason, Shih Tzu cannot drink tea, guarana, or coffee, which are toxic to them.
These foods contain theobromine, which acts as poison to Shih Tzu, as it accumulates in the body, harming the nervous and circulatory systems.
2 – Obesity
As cute as a chubby Shih Tzu may be, obesity in dogs is a serious problem that diminishes their quality and life expectancy.
Although some Shih Tzu may be more prone to becoming obese, some factors increase the chances of this happening.
This includes sugar in the dog’s diet, as well as giving him more food than is indicated as sufficient for him per day.
Additionally, Shih Tzu can become obese when they don’t get enough exercise, so it’s extremely important for the animal to have moments in large areas where they can run freely.
Walking them every day or frequently also prevents weight gain.
If the Shih Tzu is already overweight, it’s important to seek the guidance of a veterinarian to change their diet and even the type of food, as there are specific products for animals with excess weight.
3 – Not neutering the Shih Tzu
Neutering your Shih Tzu can be a way to make them live longer. This is because after neutering, their levels of sex hormones are reduced, which according to research, are associated with many common diseases in dogs.
Among them, cancer, both in the prostate and in the uterus and breasts.
Female Shih Tzu have even more benefits with neutering, as this reduces the chances of developing pyometra, an inflammation that affects the uterus and is linked to hormonal changes and bacterial infections.
Not to mention that after being neutered, Shih Tzu become calmer and, consequently, fight less with other dogs.
This way, they may not get into trouble or end up injured or even run over.
4 – Low-quality food for Shih Tzu
Research indicates that processed foods for Shih Tzu may contain substances that are highly harmful to their health.
As a result, their life expectancy decreases, as some companies use products that would otherwise be discarded as raw materials.
Therefore, experts guarantee that Shih Tzu with a natural diet live longer. For them, Shih Tzu’s diet should follow that of a wild wolf, which feeds on prey, including rats, rabbits, and deer.
In addition, cooking food destroys its enzymes, which are essential for the metabolism of Shih Tzu.
However, since it’s not possible to let Shih Tzu roam around chasing prey, it’s recommended to look for high-quality food. Professionals can help find the best brands available on the market.
Another tip is to prepare Shih Tzu’s food at home, but it’s also important to research the quantities and the best options.
5 – Poor hygiene of Shih Tzu
As Shih Tzu age, it’s important to pay even more attention to their hygiene, as with old age, they commonly develop problems with their teeth and skin.
However, as their immune system also weakens, baths cannot be given on days or at times when it’s colder, as this will hinder the complete drying of their fur, which can cause respiratory diseases.
Since old age also brings urinary incontinence, caregivers are advised to be attentive to where the Shih Tzu stays, so that it’s always clean.
Ear cleaning is also necessary to prevent otitis problems due to the buildup of wax.
Similarly, teeth deserve more attention, with annual dental cleaning recommended to prevent tartar buildup, which can lead to tooth loss.