If you have a Shih Tzu at home and notice that they are quiet and sad, it’s a clear sign that something might be amiss. Typically, your Shih Tzu is full of energy, wagging their tail when you come home, excited about walks, and eager for their meals. So, any change in their behavior can be a cause for concern.
But what could be the reason when your dog is unusually quiet? In this post, we’ll explore the possible reasons why dogs become apathetic and low on energy and what you can do to take care of them.
When your Shih Tzu is quiet and sad, what could it be?
Indeed, if your Shih Tzu appears to be sad and quieter than usual, it’s likely a sign of some physical or even mental illness, such as depression, or simply that something is bothering them, like changes in their routine.
Consider what might have happened in your home that could have affected their mood, such as:
1. Changes in the home environment: Shih Tzus are creatures of habit, and if you and your family recently moved, your dog might be struggling to adjust to the new home. It’s normal for them to take a few days or weeks to adapt and feel comfortable in the new space.
2. Changes in the family: Shih Tzus are part of the family too, and they sense when there are sudden changes. A couple’s separation, a child leaving home, an extended trip, or the arrival of a new family member – whether it’s another pet, a baby, or an elderly relative moving in – can all impact your dog’s mood.
3. Reprimands or aggressiveness: If you scolded your Shih Tzu aggressively for something they did, it might have made them sad.
4. Being alone for extended periods: Many Shih Tzu puppies receive a lot of attention, but as they grow older, they may be left alone for extended periods when their owners go to work. This loneliness can affect their spirits.
5. Canine depression: Dogs can suffer from psychological issues, including depression. Serious situations such as abandonment, aggression, or the death of their owner can lead to depression. However, experts suggest that with increased care, affection, and dedication, Shih Tzus can recover in a matter of days, weeks, or months.
How to know if your Shih Tzu is sick?
If your Shih Tzu appears sad, isn’t eating, or shows other signs, it could indicate an illness. What are the symptoms of a sick Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzu looking sad with a fever.
Vomiting and diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Itching or hair loss
Nasal and eye discharge
Rapid breathing
Excessive thirst
Red eyes, among others.
What to do when your dog is feeling down?
Pay close attention to your Shih Tzu’s daily behavior. If a change in their behavior isn’t accompanied by other symptoms or lasts only a day or a few days, provide them with more love, ensure they have a balanced diet, engage them with toys, and take them for walks to help improve their mood.
Learning to recognize these signs is crucial not only for your Shih Tzu’s well-being but also because most diseases respond better to treatment when identified and diagnosed promptly.
How to care for your Shih Tzu? Seek professional guidance.
If you notice any symptoms, seek immediate help from a veterinarian. The specialist will conduct necessary tests to check for potential illnesses.
Vaccination is also crucial to ensure your pet is properly immunized against various diseases. Make sure you adhere to the vaccination schedule.
To ensure that your Shih Tzu receives proper care with regular veterinary check-ups and is covered in case of emergencies, consider getting a dog health insurance plan. This provides peace of mind and allows you to take your Shih Tzu to the vet periodically and in emergencies at a lower cost, with monthly payments that fit your budget.