Top 10 Reasons : Why Shih Tzu Are The Worst Dog
Are you considering getting a Shih Tzu? While they’re undeniably cute, it’s important to understand that this breed is not for everyone. There are many reasons why there may be better choices for your household. This article explores the top 10 reasons why Shih Tzus are the worst.
Read on to find out if a Shih Tzu is the right dog for you!
Why Shih Tzus Are The Worst Dog
Shih Tzus are small, fluffy dogs that can bring much joy and companionship into a home. Unfortunately, they are also considered one of the worst dog breeds to own.
Here are 10 reasons why Shih Tzu’s are the worst, from health issues to dental problems, that all potential owners should be aware of before deciding on owning a Shih Tzu.
1. Overly Attached
You’ll find that Shih Tzus are very attached to their owners and may require a lot of attention. The breed is known for being companion dogs, and they tend to be more attached than most other small dog breeds. This could be a great trait if you are looking for a loyal pup, but it also means that owning a Shih Tzu is only sometimes the best choice for those who aren’t looking for an overly-attached pet.
As with any canine, there are pros and cons to consider before committing to owning a Shih Tzu, which should be one of the top reasons why not adopting this breed.
When considering dog ownership, it’s important to understand the possibility of violent behavior.
2. Possibility Of Violent Behavior
Shih Tzus’ intense devotion to their owners can sometimes lead to potentially violent behavior. Their loyalty and affection often make them too possessive, leading to aggression towards strangers and other dogs. Dog training is essential for a Shih Tzu otherwise, it may become aggressive when it feels threatened or jealous.
For these reasons, a Shih Tzu may not be the best choice for those looking for an easygoing pet, as they require a consistent commitment to manage their behavior.
3. Due To Its Size, Not Child-friendly.
Shih Tzu is a small dog breed, and because of its size, it is not the best choice for families with children. These dogs are fragile and don’t have the strength of more giant breeds, so they’re easy to hurt if you don’t know what you’re doing. Children might not know how to handle them correctly, which could hurt them.
Also, Shih Tzus may be afraid of children, especially those with loud or active personalities. This could make them act aggressively or defensively.
4. Housebreaking This Dog Will Not Be Easy.
Housebreaking a Shih Tzu won’t be a walk in the park; it’ll require patience and dedication. The regular schedule of potty breaks needed will not make them an easy choice for busy households. On top of that, Shih Tzus can be stubborn, making it hard to achieve desired results quickly.
Their lack of understanding of commands makes training them even more difficult.
5. High Maintenance
Shih Tzus are famous for their stunning, flowing hair coats, but caring for their luscious locks can be daunting. These adorable dogs need regular grooming to keep their hair from getting tangled, matted, or causing any other hair-related troubles. If their long hair gets all tangled up, it can make them uncomfortable and even give them some pain.
Caring for all these grooming needs can be quite time-consuming and require a lot of effort from the owner, making Shih Tzu the worst dog.
6. Health Concerns
There are some health concerns to consider. They have poor heat tolerance, so there may be better choices if you live in an area with a warm climate.
Their physical structure makes them unable to swim well, so keeping them away from pools and other bodies of water is important.
Also, they are prone to dental issues and eye problems due to their short snouts and protruding eyes.
Considering all these things will help you decide whether a Shih Tzu is right for you.
6.1. Poor Heat Tolerance
Shih Tzus don’t tolerate heat well, so they’re not ideal for hot climates. Being a little dog, these companion dogs can get easily overheated, and their stubborn nature can make it challenging to convince them to stay in the shade. Consider thinking twice before you get a Shih Tzu if your climate is significantly warmer than average.
Poor heat tolerance makes them a wrong choice if you live in an area with excessively high temperatures. Despite their cuteness, their inability to handle extreme temperatures must be taken into account before you decide to adopt this breed.
Onwards from here, we’ll discuss why they are also not capable of swimming well.
6.2. Not Capable Of Swimming Well.
Unfortunately, Shih Tzu’s inability to swim well means they’re not suited for extended periods in water. Shih Tzus are known for having short legs and a barrel-like chest, which makes them poor swimmers. While these traits make Shih Tzus lovable, they may be why Shih Tzus are not the best choice for those who want a canine companion that can safely enjoy swimming activities.
Despite their small size and fluffy coat, they are surprisingly challenging to teach swimming. They are prone to certain dangers in the water. If you’re looking for a pup that loves the water, there may be better choices than this breed.
6.3. Problems With The Teeth
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic dogs. Due to their small, flat faces, Shih Tzus often have trouble with their teeth and require regular dental care.
The breed is also prone to gum disease and cavities compared to other dogs, making it even more vital that they receive regular dental check-ups from a veterinarian. Proper attention to their teeth can protect your shih tzu’s health quickly.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a pet requiring minimal dental care effort, there might be better options than a Shih Tzu.
6.4. Problems With The Eyes
Eye problems are common in Shih Tzu dogs, so keeping an eye on their vision is essential. Shih Tzus may be prone to certain eye issues, such as cataracts and entropion. These can cause complicated problems for the dog, which is one of the reasons why a Shih Tzu may not be the best choice for you.
7. A Lot Of Barking
Shih Tzu can be pretty vocal, so this may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a quiet breed. Shih Tzu dogs have stubborn personalities and will often bark at anything that seems out of the ordinary or off-putting. Dogs need stimulation and variety, which Shih Tzus don’t always get enough of, leading to excessive barking in some cases.
If you don’t provide your Shih Tzu with enough activities or exercise, they may bark too much for your liking.
To move on, it’s worth noting that another issue with Shih Tzus is their need for adaptability.
8. Not Very Adaptable
If you’re looking for a breed that can adjust to different environments, there are better fits than a Shih Tzu. Shih Tzus are often seen as suitable for any situation. Still, there are several reasons why Shih tzus are among the least adaptable dog breeds.
Shih Tzus are known for being quite timid, which makes them vulnerable in unfamiliar places. They are also prone to separation anxiety and may require more reassurance than other breeds to settle into new environments.
If you’re looking for an adaptable dog breed, looking elsewhere is best than a Shih Tzu.
With this in mind, consider if too much exercise is required before bringing home a Shih Tzu.
9. Too Much Exercise Is Required
Given their lack of adaptability, Shih Tzu owners must put extra effort into ensuring their pet gets the right amount of exercise. Adopting a Shih Tzu means understanding that this dog breed is not a low-maintenance one when it comes to physical activity. Whether you are bringing a Shih Tzu home or already own one, it is important to explore why these dogs require so much exercise and what care your pet needs to stay healthy.
There are many reasons why Shih Tzus need more exercise than other breeds, and understanding those will help you make the best decisions for your pup’s health and well-being. As such, any potential or current owner of a Shih Tzu must consider this factor before caring for this type of companion animal.
Too much exercise may be required from a Shih Tzu, which can become overwhelming for some potential owners.
Let us explore why a Shih Tzu may be too lazy for someone looking to adopt.
10. Very Lazy
Shih Tzus are more suited to life indoors. They enjoy walking and mingling with others but aren’t the best companion breed for more strenuous outdoor activities like hiking or running.
Those who prefer to take things slow and spend most of their time indoors may get along well with shih tzu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does Shih Tzu Smell So Bad?
Shih Tzu puppies and adults tend to have long fur that can trap dirt, sweat, and other unpleasant odors. Poor hygiene may cause them to emit an even more pungent smell. Their thick coat makes them prone to certain health problems, which can also have a strong odor.
What Makes Shih Tzus Happy?
To make your Shih Tzu happy, provide plenty of playtime, mental stimulation, and regular exercise.
Can Shih Tzus Be Left Alone In The House?
Shih Tzus are considered companion animals because they need lots of human attention. They are known to suffer from separation anxiety and can become destructive or bark excessively when left alone.
Are Shih Tzus Going Extinct?
No, Shih Tzus are not going extinct. They are a popular breed of small dog that is cute and cuddly, making them an attractive choice for families.
However, adapting to regular, low-maintenance care may be better. This makes it difficult for those who want to avoid the extra responsibility.
Despite their popularity, they are only sometimes the best option and may not suit everyone’s lifestyle.
To Sum Up
Adopting a Shih Tzu may not be the best choice for everyone. These dogs can require more work than some pet owners are willing to put in.
However, with proper care and training, Shih Tzus can be fun-loving and loyal companions who offer plenty of joy and entertainment.
