Shih Tzu lovers will agree: owning a Shih Tzu puppy is a unique experience! They provide unforgettable moments, are great companions and listeners, even if they don’t always follow all our rules.If we look closely, the nickname “man’s best friend” fits them perfectly, right? They’re the only beings in this world we can show love by rubbing their bellies and giving treats. They’re simply amazing!
Since Shih Tzus don’t express themselves through speech like us, they have found various ways to say “I love you.”Most people are unaware of why our furry friends do certain things. In fact, Shih Tzus have secret signs they share with the people they love.
1: Puppy dog eyes
They’re not called “puppy eyes” for no reason!If your Shih Tzu stares at you with those lovely eyes that melt our hearts, know that this is one of their expressions of affection for you! According to PetHelpful, dogs and humans are among the only mammals to make eye contact this way, which shows a huge sign of trust and adoration.
2: Leaning on you
Shih Tzus love cuddles, maybe even more than us!If your Shih Tzu leans against you, they’re likely just saying they want more hugs and kisses. According to VetStreet, “This is a simple behavior seeking affection.”
3: Following you everywhere
Does your Shih Tzu follow you?It might be a bit annoying, especially when you just want peace and quiet in the bathroom. However, there’s a reason behind this behavior.Shih Tzus are very loving and dependent on affection, so they take on the role of doing everything with their family. When they follow you to the bathroom, it’s just their way of saying, “You’re my best friend, let’s do everything together.”
4: Staying in your room
When you leave for work, it breaks your heart to leave your beloved pet at home, right? Don’t worry! There’s a good chance your dog will crawl onto your side of the bed and take a nap. According to the Wall Street Journal, this is one of the ways they keep us close until we get home.
5: Bringing you gifts
Dogs often bring us gifts, but we don’t always notice. That favorite toy of theirs? They only lend it to very special people, just like the critters they hunt.Expert Jennifer Hammond says, “These behaviors demonstrate a distinct desire from our Shih Tzus to share affection and happiness.”
6: Sensing when you’re sad
Humans and dogs have been living together for 15,000 years. It’s pretty cool, isn’t it? It’s no wonder they can tell when we’re feeling down.
7: Kissing your face or feet
Our best friends love to give us baths with their tongues, whether we like it or not! According to My Dog House, repeatedly licking your feet can relieve a Shih Tzu’s stress because it’s a submissive behavior that reinforces the idea that you’re the leader!
8: Seeking your approval
Do Shih Tzus know how important they are to their owners?Your opinion matters, and it’s crucial that they know how much you love them. In fact, some studies show that Shih Tzus delight in praise from loved ones.
9: Going crazy when you come home
Does your Shih Tzu act like they haven’t seen you in two years every time you come home, even if you just went to take out the trash?Gizmodo says Shih Tzus feel happiness exactly like humans; they just have a different language. Instead of saying, “I missed you and I’m so happy now—let’s go for a walk,” they start running around the house and barking.
10: Snuggling after a meal
Shih Tzus are super defensive when it comes to eating. They fear someone will steal their food. So, the person they choose to cuddle with after a meal is extremely important! It’s their way of saying they feel relaxed with that person.After all, Shih Tzus love us and express that feeling every day in various ways!