Shih Tzu Pregnancy & Birth Tips

A Shih Tzu's gestation period ranges from 58 to 70 days. Since this breed only weighs 9 to 16 pounds, you need to be cautious with your female during this delicate period. Pregnancy and birth pose more health risks for smaller breeds. Your Shih Tzu needs to see her veterinarian often. It is important for her health and well being that she is closely monitored and properly cared for to ensure a safe pregnancy and birth.

  1. Veterinarian

    • As soon as you suspect your Shih Tzu is pregnant, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your Shih Tzu will need weekly appointments to monitor the pregnancy. At about the fourth week, your vet will be able to feel how many puppies your dog is carrying. An ultrasound may be performed at about nine weeks to confirm that number. Your veterinarian also will have an important discussion with you. Depending on how many puppies your Shih Tzu is carrying and how big her hips are, you will need to decide on a birth plan. If the vet thinks the dog is too small for a natural birth, you will need to schedule a Cesarean section.

    Increase Food Intake

    • Extra calories are important for your Shih Tzu during pregnancy. Consider switching to a dog food that is formulated for puppies. This food is richer in fat and vitamins, which is ideal during pregnancy. If your dog isn't interested in switching foods, provide an extra scoop of her regular food, and ask your veterinarian to recommend a full vitamin supplement to promote and support health. Continue giving your dog healthy snacks.

    Exercise

    • Your Shih Tzu will need some extra rest. During the first few weeks of pregnancy, there shouldn't be a change in activity. After the third week, you will need to be careful when playing with your dog. Avoid having her jump, and absolutely no rough playing. Play gently with your dog, and take her for daily walks so she can release some of her energy. Be cautious about exercising your Shih Tzu in hot weather as this breed becomes overheated quickly. Offer your Shih Tzu an ice cube. This breed enjoys playing with the slippery ice, chasing it and sliding it around the house.

    Birth

    • If your veterinarian thinks it is best to have a C-section, then your Shih Tzu must give birth at the animal hospital. If she is able to have a natural birth at home, there are a few things that must be done to prepare for the big day. Designate an area for your Shih Tzu during pregnancy. Make it cozy, comfortable and safe by placing her comfy blankets or soft toys there. Let her feel comfortable there prior to labor. As labor comes closer, place a cardboard box in the room. When she goes into labor, put her in the box. The enclosed space will make her feel safe and help you manage the mess. There are a few supplies that will make the birthing process easier: clean sheets and towels, plastic sheets, a thermometer, plastic syringe, puppy formula, heating pads, a small dropper.

    What You Need to Do

    • Your Shih Tzu's temperature will drop by two degrees when she is in labor. Place her in her box. Her water will break or a puppy sac will be pushed out. As the puppy comes out, your Shih Tzu should tear open the sac wrapped around it and begin licking the puppy. If she doesn't do this, you need to step in, gently rub the puppy's body and use the plastic syringe to clean its mouth and nose. Ensure that it breathing. If your Shih Tzu seems to be rejecting the puppies, you need to place them on sheets on top of the heating pad and begin feeding them formula with the dropper. If your Shih Tzu begins licking them, guide the puppies to her, and they should begin nursing on their own.