All Shih Tzu lovers will agree: that owning a Shih Tzu puppy is a unique experience! They provide us with unforgettable moments and are companions and good listeners, even though they don’t always follow all the rules we set for them.
If we look closely, the nickname “man’s best friend” fits these beings perfectly, doesn’t it? They are the only beings in the world that we can reciprocate love by rubbing their bellies and giving them treats. They are amazing!
Since Shih Tzu dogs do not express themselves through speech like humans, they have developed various ways to say “I love you.”
1: Puppy dog eyes
They are not called “puppy dog eyes” for no reason!
If your Shih Tzu stares at you with those adorable eyes that melt our hearts, then know that this is one of their expressions of tender feelings for you! According to PetHelpful, puppies and humans are among the only mammals that make eye contact in this way, and it is a huge sign of trust and adoration.
2: Leaning on you
Shih Tzus loves affection, perhaps even more than we do!
If your Shih Tzu leans on you, they are likely just saying they would like more hugs and kisses. According to VetStreet, “This is a simple affection-seeking behavior.”
3: Following you everywhere
Does your Shih Tzu follow you?
They can be annoying, especially when you just want peace and quiet in the bathroom. However, there is 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 are my best friend, let’s do everything together.”
4: Staying in your room
When you leave for work, it can be heartbreaking to leave your beloved furry friend at home, right? Don’t worry! There’s a good chance your canine companion will crawl onto your side of the bed and take a nap. According to the Wall Street Journal, it’s one of the ways they keep us close until we return 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 on the part of 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 no wonder they can tell when we’re not feeling well.
7: Kissing your face or feet
Our best friends love to shower us with kisses, whether we want them or not! According to My Dog House, licking feet repeatedly can reduce a Shih Tzu’s stress because it’s a submissive behavior that reinforces the idea that you are the leader!
8: Seeking your approval
Does Shih Tzus know how important they are to their owners?
Their opinion matters and it’s essential for them to know how much they are loved. In fact, some studies show that Shih Tzu’s delight in compliments 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 out to take out the trash?
Gizmodo states that Shih Tzus feel happiness in the same way humans do; 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 very protective when it comes to food. They fear someone might steal their food. That’s why the person they choose to snuggle with after a meal is extremely important! It’s their way of saying they feel relaxed with that person.
In the end, Shih Tzus loves us and expresses that feeling every day in various ways!