The Shih Tzu is not only one of the cutest dog breeds but also one of the least demanding. They are fantastic, fascinating, and fun pets to have. These dogs are known for their playful and silly nature, making them a great choice for people of all ages, including the elderly.
Keeping You Happy:
One of the incredible benefits of owning a Shih Tzu is the sheer joy they bring. Their cheerful and lively presence is bound to make you happy. Interacting with these dogs releases serotonin and dopamine, helping you relax and reduce stress and anxiety.
Lowering Your Blood Pressure:
With a Shih Tzu in your life, you’re less likely to experience depression or sadness, as these feelings are closely linked to hypertension. Having a Shih Tzu can be very beneficial for relaxation and reducing unwanted emotions.
Enjoying Some Physical Activity:
While Shih Tzus don’t require extensive exercise, they love outdoor playtime. This is not only great for them but also for you, encouraging outdoor activity and helping break a sedentary lifestyle.
A Great Companion:
Shih Tzus are affectionate, gentle, loyal, and undeniably cute, making them wonderful companions for people of all ages. Their adorable nature makes socializing with others easier, as everyone wants to pet them.
Friendly with Strangers:
When you own a pet, you’re never quite sure if they’ll be friendly with strangers. However, Shih Tzus are universally loved for being small and adorable, and they tend to be friendly with newcomers, making them excellent social companions.
A Perfect First Pet:
For those considering their first pet, Shih Tzus are an excellent choice. They are social, have minimal maintenance requirements, and are suitable for inexperienced pet owners.
Good Temperament:
Unlike some other small dog breeds, Shih Tzus are not overly temperamental. They are alert, outgoing, adorable, and friendly. This makes them perfect for the elderly, women, and anyone looking for a small and charming dog.
Long Lifespan:
When you adopt a pet, you hope they’ll be with you for many years. Shih Tzus have a great advantage here, as they typically live for 10 to 18 years. Of course, the care and attention you provide can influence their lifespan.
Detecting Cancer:
Surprisingly, Shih Tzus can easily detect various forms of cancer due to their highly developed sense of smell. Their keen olfactory system can detect alkanes and chemicals related to cancerous tumors. While you can train them for this purpose, they might even identify it on their own.
In conclusion, Shih Tzus make incredible pets for people of all ages. They have minimal maintenance requirements and are known for their friendliness. That’s why many people recommend them, especially as a first-time pet!