How to Care for Your Shih Tzu Puppy

The shih tzu, or the "little lion dog of China" comes from a long line of regal dogs. Considered one of the toy breeds, the average shih tzu stands about 11 inches tall and weighs about 15 pounds. But when you take a shih tzu puppy home, it will weigh only a few pounds, so great care must be taken to protect your puppy from being stepped on or dropped. Setting a healthy routine for your shih tzu puppy in the beginning will prepare it for a long, happy life with you.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy food
  • Crate
  • Blanket
  • Toys
  • Water
  • Brush
  • Soft cloth
  • Scissors
  • Dog shampoo
  • Dog hair conditioner
  • Finger-tip toothbrush
  • Dog toothpaste
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a healthy, frisky shih tzu puppy for a pet and see the veterinarian within the first 24 hours after taking it home. Determine what vaccinations or shots are needed as well as any medication. Discuss with the veterinarian the type and amount of food that should be fed to the puppy.

    • 2

      Begin crate training the shih tzu puppy. Purchase a crate large enough for the puppy to stand, sit, turn around and lay down. Add a blanket and toys that can be chewed but can't fragment and be swallowed. Introduce the puppy to the crate as its room or sanctuary. Place the crate in a central room with the family. Use the crate whenever the puppy cannot be watched closely, must be left alone or has to travel.

    • 3

      Start housebreaking the puppy, but remember that the bladder and bowels of puppies that are less than 6 months old are not fully developed. Keep the puppy in its crate if it can be watched closely. Anticipate the puppy's need to relieve itself after it wakes up, eats, drinks or plays.

    • 4

      Carry the puppy to the area designated as the "potty" spot. Do not allow your puppy to play or run around. Take the puppy inside and place it in the crate if it has not relieved itself within a reasonable time. Do not put the puppy on the floor, or it may become confused about where the potty spot is located. Show consistency and patience when taking your puppy to the potty spot.

    • 5

      Have fresh water available for the shih tzu puppy throughout the day. Curtail drinking water 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Take the puppy to the potty spot before placing it in the crate for the night.

    • 6

      Brush your shih tzu puppy daily to prevent tangles and mats from developing in the fur. Wash its face daily with a soft cloth and water. Remove any food residue or eye drainage. Trim hair near eyes as needed. Bathe once a month with a gentle shampoo and conditioner made for long-haired dogs. Clean the puppy's ears, as there is a lot of hair growing in the ear and shih tzus are prone to developing ear mites and infections.

    • 7

      Introduce teeth brushing to the puppy. Choose a finger-tip style toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for puppies.

    • 8

      Trim the puppy's nails once a month. Teach the puppy to cooperate with nail clipping by playing with its feet from the time it is very young.

    • 9

      Take the shih tzu puppy to a professional groomer every 2 to 3 months for hair clipping, anal gland maintenance and ear cleaning.

    • 10

      Exercise the puppy daily by actively playing with it. Do not go for long walks, as shih tzu's have short legs and do not require much exercise to maintain good health.

    • 11

      Have the shih tzu puppy spayed or neutered to avoid the mess associated with menses and problems with unwanted litters, and also to reduce the risk of cancer.

    • 12

      Schedule annual check-ups with the veterinarian to ensure a healthy, happy shih tzu.