You can adopt or buy a Shih Tzu puppy after weaning is complete. This will occur between 45-60 days after birth. Weaning a Shih Tzu puppy should be started between 30 and 45 days.
A common question is how to choose the Shih Tzu puppy to adopt. When it comes to purebred, you can know some characteristics of the Shih Tzu, but when it’s a mixed breed, it’s harder to tell. But not impossible.
The first thing to consider is the size of the Shih Tzu puppy. Remember that when they are small, they are all cute, but as they grow up… they can become a problem. So, pay attention to the environment you live in: a house or an apartment?
Another characteristic is the type of coat: Shih Tzu has long fur and requires daily care like brushing or periodic grooming. You can choose to have a Shih Tzu with a short haircut, which is practical to maintain.
Do you want a male or female Shih Tzu? This is a very personal decision. Nowadays, with training, it is possible to have a male Shih Tzu as hygienic as a female Shih Tzu.
Now that you have chosen your Shih Tzu puppy, let’s see what to do:
Take them to a trusted veterinarian to evaluate the Shih Tzu’s health and administer the first vaccine dose and prescribe deworming.
The first vaccine dose should be given at 45-60 days of age. Three doses of the octuple vaccine will be administered in a schedule of (0-30-90 days), along with the third dose of the octuple vaccine, the rabies vaccine will be given.
Deworming usually accompanies the first vaccine dose and should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for reinforcement. We recommend deworming every 3 months.
The flu vaccine can be administered after all doses of the octuple vaccine and rabies vaccine. This should be given in two doses (0-30 days).
Microchipping is very important to be able to identify your new friend in case of loss or theft or for international travel.
They will have a unique number in the world stored in an international database. Wherever they are found in the world, their true owner can be located.
The puppy needs a quality meal. How to choose?
There are various types of dog food for Shih Tzu, but we recommend:
Super Premium: These are high-quality foods. Their nutrients are well-balanced, and the levels of fat, salt, and dyes are well controlled. Some brands have made super premium food for each dog breed, which is a great advantage because it contains nutrients that each breed needs more.
Premium Food: Lower quality than super premium, but also lower cost. An excellent option for people who have many animals and want to provide good quality food at a reduced cost.
As for homemade food, it is also an option for feeding dogs. The major disadvantage is that the nutrients are not balanced and can contain a high amount of salt and fat.
An important tip is that the Shih Tzu is not a carnivore but an omnivore. Therefore, it is not correct to feed them only with meat.
It’s correct to balance with all the necessary nutrients (carbohydrate 40%, protein 40%, fiber 20%).
Food should be offered to the Shih Tzu puppy four times a day.
Avoid leaving food out, as other animals (rats, birds, insects) can take advantage and share the food with our little friends. Another disadvantage of leaving food out is that it dries out in the air and loses some nutrients.
Always remember to provide clean and fresh water for your little dog.
The first walk:
It is recommended to wait for the administration of the third dose of the octuple vaccine + rabies vaccine before starting outdoor activities.
Avoid contact with other animals whose origin is unknown because they may not be vaccinated and may have some incubated disease that can be transmitted to our little friend.
When taking your Shih Tzu for a walk, bring water for them to refresh, and always pick up their waste.
Hygiene
Remember that the rule that the Shih Tzu should not leave the house before completing vaccinations also applies to going to the pet shop!!!
Baths during this phase when the Shih Tzu has not finished vaccinations can be given, but following some rules:
Bath at home;
Choose a very warm day;
In the morning;
Use lukewarm/cold water;
Use neutral shampoo;
Dry the Shih Tzu well with towels and, if possible, with a dryer.
To clean the ears, never use cotton swabs! Cleaning can be done with cotton/gauze “rolled” on the finger. Specific cleaning agents can also be used for this.