Addressing 5 Physical Comfort Concernswith Shih Tzu Dogs
Overview
While dogs can experience various forms of physical discomfort, certain issues are notably common among the Shih Tzu breed. Addressing these concerns can significantly enhance their happiness and well-being.
This article covers the top 5 common physical discomforts experienced by Shih Tzu puppies and adult dogs: Sensitive skin, sensitive tummies, cold intolerance, breathing discomfort and mobility issues (with seniors). We delve into their causes, and offer real solutions, helpful tips, and indicators that a vet visit may be necessary. Let’s dive in, so that your sweet Shih Tzu can start to feel better today.
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#1 Soothing Sensitive Skin: Gentle Care for Your Shih Tzu
For the Shih Tzu breed, skin sensitivity is a notable concern. Unlike other breeds with a thick fur coat for protection, the Shih Tzu's beautiful, soft hair offers less defense against environmental irritants, making them susceptible to reactions from both outdoor elements and routine care products like shampoos.
This sensitivity can lead to discomfort, with a Shih Tzu suffering from dry skin that stings or feels tight, itchy rashes, or tender sore spots. Such issues not only affect their ability to relax and enjoy grooming but can also escalate to more serious conditions like cracked skin and infections.
Top Solutions:
While skin sensitivities with Shih Tzu dogs are common, thankfully there are some great remedies that can quickly get your little guy or gal feeling better.
#1 Use a Shampoo and Conditioner That is Soothing and Restorative: Choose products with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and avoid soap detergents, which often cause irritation. Opt for plant-based cleansers like coconut, enriched with natural soothers like oatmeal, aloe or almond oil.
Always use a wash-out conditioner post-shampoo; massage a generous amount into the coat, reaching down to the skin and allowing it to penetrate for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. For quality, soothing shampoos and conditioners for a Shih Tzu, we love Earthbath’s Oatmeal & Aloe (dry skin) or Tea Tree Oil (sensitive hot spots and more). They have a great spray too (see below).
#2 Use a Topical Spray for Targeted Relief: Topical sprays can be incredibly helpful, as you can directly focus relief on areas that are sensitive on a Shih Tzu without having to touch them. And a spray is often quickly absorbed by the skin for fast alleviation. Ingredients like oatmeal can help with itching, tea tree oil can be healing for a number of irritations and aloe vera can help with cracked, dry skin, improve skin integrity and work as an anti-inflammatory.
One that we like a lot is Earthbath Hot Spot Relief Spray, which has tea tree oil, colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe and works great not only for hot spots, but also for itching, dryness, effects of sun exposure and more.
#3 Use a Cream at Night: Creams or lotions offer both advantages and drawbacks. On the plus side, they contain beneficial ingredients not suited for sprays, and their thicker consistency can deeply soothe sensitive skin areas. However, a downside is that application timing can be tricky; depending on the affected area, it might be best to apply creams at night, allowing them to absorb fully as your Shih Tzu rests.
One restorative cream that we really like is the ResQ Organic Skin Treatment for Pets. It contains Manuka honey, which is exceptional at preventing and healing tight dry skin, as well as working as an anti-inflammatory, aloe vera as a restorative, cooling treatment, and coconut oil to soothe.
Extra Tips:
There are additional steps you can take to help your Shih Tzu have fewer skin reactions. This includes being careful about what you feed them (steer clear of artificial additives), using a gentle brush for grooming (a soft boar bristle brush is great for Shih Tzu dogs with short coats) and using a humidifier in the winter (near your Shih Tzu’s sleeping area, if not the whole house).
Signs to Seek Vet Care:
If your Shih Tzu's skin sensitivity does not improve with these measures, or if there are severe issues including cracked skin with blood or pus, it's essential to consult the veterinarian.
#2 Tummy Troubles: Resolving Sensitive Stomachs
Due to their compact size and specific dietary needs, Shih Tzu puppies and dogs are especially susceptible to stomach problems. Their delicate digestive systems can react adversely to dietary changes, inappropriate foods, or stress, manifesting in symptoms that can disrupt their daily lives and affect their well-being.
Signs of discomfort linked to sensitive stomachs can include abdominal pain, bloating, gas (and associated gurgling or rumbling sounds), diarrhea or loose stools, constipation, or even vomiting or regurgitation, which can leave your little guy or gal feeling miserable.
Top Solutions:
While every dog's needs can vary, there are some tried-and-true remedies that can help soothe a Shih Tzu's sensitive digestive system:
#1 Probiotic Supplements for Dogs: These beneficial bacteria can help balance your Shih Tzu's gut flora, improving digestion and nutrient absorption. This can also help with gas and bloating. One that we recommend is Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs, which contains Bacillus subtilis (clinically studied to help restore gut health), with a total of six strains in all. It's also an all-natural product with no artificial preservatives or additives. And it's options of flavors (pumpkin, bison or chicken) is a big plus.
#2 Easily Digestible Dog Foods: If your Shih Tzu is not already on it, look for kibble that contains simple, high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest. This includes lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and/or white fish, along with easily digestible carbohydrates like white rice, sweet potatoes and/or oatmeal, which can provide necessary nutrients while being gentle on a sensitive tummy. This type of blend is found in most quality foods for Shih Tzu dogs. It can also be beneficial to incorporate probiotic foods, such as plain yogurt, and gentle fiber sources like cooked carrots and pumpkin.
#3 Digestive Enzymes: Digestive enzymes are produced naturally by the body, but some Shih Tzu dogs may lack sufficient enzyme production, leading to gastrointestinal sensitivity. An enzyme supplement can help address these concerns, by helping to break down food into absorbable molecules, crucial for proper digestion. While probiotics (above) promote gut health, both enzymes and probiotics may be necessary for effective treatment in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
One that we recommend is Enzyme Miracle by Nusentia, which has 11 types of plant-based systemic and digestive enzymes. This is 100% all-natural with no by-products or fillers and is made in the USA.
Extra Tips:
Feeding your Shih Tzu smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can be easier on their stomach. If gas is an issue (where probiotics may assist; see above), gentle belly rubs can stimulate digestion and offer relief. Encouraging your little guy or gal to drink more water aids digestion and helps prevent dehydration (crucial if experiencing diarrhea). Keeping their water bowl clean and fresh, and bringing water along on walks, ensures they stay well-hydrated.
Signs to Seek Vet Care:
While many digestive issues can be managed at home, there are certain signs that warrant immediate veterinary attention. This includes persistent vomiting or diarrhea, sudden loss of appetite or visible pain or distress.
#3 Cold Intolerance: Keeping Warm and Comfortable
Shih Tzu dogs, known for their distinctive coat of hair, can be sensitive to cold temperatures, leading to discomfort and potential health risks when exposed to the chill. Young puppies and senior dogs are especially vulnerable, with some finding it challenging to retain heat even indoors, where humans may feel comfortable. A Shih Tzu that is always cold can show signs such as shivering, lethargy, and reluctance to go outside for regular activities, affecting their overall well-being.
Top Solutions:
#1 Keep Beds Away from Drafts: Position your Shih Tzu’s bed in a warm area, away from doors and windows, to avoid drafts. Do not overlook electrical outlets on exterior walls; quite a bit of cold air can come from these.
#2 Warm Bedding: Use extra blankets to create a cozy sleeping space.
#3 A Cold-Weather Jacket or Vest: A quality jacket or vest designed and sized for small breeds can provide the extra warmth a Shih Tzu needs during outdoor excursions on cold days. The Vest Coat with Harness by Sceneral is one to consider. It starts at x-small so there are sizes to fit both Shih Tzu puppies and adults, the inner lining is warm double-sided shaker fleece and the filling is high quality cotton. It has a sturdy D-ring, that you use to attach the leash (there's no need for a harness) and it's has a zippered back for very easy on and off.
#4 Warm Shirts for Indoors: For days when the house may be chilly or for particularly cold-sensitive pups, a snug, warm shirt can offer additional comfort and prevent chilling. These typically do not have D-rings, buckles or integrated harnesses as these are lighter, clothing-only items. If your Shih Tzu has one on, their harness will usually slip on right over it.
Extra Tips:
Other things you can do to help your Shih Tzu are to offer warm meals (just heated a bit or drizzled with warm low-sodium broth), use safe, pet-friendly portable heaters in the rooms your Shih Tzu frequents and/or open curtains during the day to let in natural sunlight and create warm sunbathing spots for your Shih Tzu to enjoy.
Signs to Seek Vet Care:
Reasons to seek vet care include persistent shivering despite making changes and unusual lethargy or reluctance to move which can indicate discomfort or potential hypothermia.
#4 Breathing Discomfort: Alleviating Respiratory Challenges in Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu dogs, being brachycephalic, often face breathing challenges due to compressed airways, including narrow nostrils and elongated soft palate. This can lead to wheezing, heavy panting, and in some cases, respiratory distress, especially during heavy exercise or extreme temperatures. There may be snoring at night that can interfere with getting enough sleep. Careful management and precautions can help prevent exacerbating these difficulties, ensuring a comfortable and active lifestyle for your Shih Tzu.
Top Solutions:
#1 Use a Harness Instead of a Collar: This breed should not be walked with a collar on. A harness is crucial for walks or any time a Shih Tzu is on a leash, as it distributes pressure more evenly around the body, avoiding stress on the throat and neck, which could further compromise breathing. A harness that we love is the EcoBark Step-in Harness that is super-easy to put on, padded and breathable. It starts at size triple-small and goes up from there, to fit any Shih Tzu.
#2 Maintain a Healthy Weight: This is one of the few toy breeds that is prone to excess weight due to their sturdy body structure. Additional pounds exert added pressure on the respiratory system, underscoring the importance of helping your adult Shih Tzu lose weight, if they have been deemed overweight by the veterinarian.
#3 Climate Control: Keep your Shih Tzu in a cool, air-conditioned environment on very hot or humid weather during the summertime to prevent overheating and respiratory struggles. Take walks in the early morn or later evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Use cooling mats to help your little guy or gal stay comfortable even when the sun is blazing.
#4 Elevated Sleeping Position: Consider a bolstered dog bed; this allows a Shih Tzu to rest their head on the raised sides, which elongates breathing passages for a better night’s rest.
Extra Tips:
If your Shih Tzu seems to be congested, offer some steam therapy; this can be done by running a hot shower in a closed bathroom. The steam can help open nasal passages. Also, having a humidifier in your home, especially during dry months, can help maintain optimal humidity levels, making breathing easier for your Shih Tzu.
Signs to Seek Vet Care:
Some signs that breathing issues need to be addressed by the vet include persistent wheezing or coughing, excessive panting with little exercise, intense snoring, or clear signs of breathing distress.
#5 Mobility Troubles: Senior Shih Tzu Walking and Movement Tips
As a Shih Tzu ages, they are prone to health issues that can impede their ability to move freely, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. Early identification and intervention are crucial.
Mobility troubles can lead to difficulty in maintaining regular exercise, which in turn can lead to a cascade of health issues, such as weight gain and muscle weakness, further exacerbating mobility problems and potentially compromising heart health over time. Additionally, mobility issues can disrupt a Shih Tzu's sleep patterns, with the pain and discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis causing restlessness and poor sleep quality.
For a breed known for its lively disposition, this potential decline in mobility emphasizes the importance of proactive care and adjustments to daily routines.
Top Solutions:
#1 Joint Supplements: It's advisable for most Shih Tzu dogs to begin a regimen of glucosamine HCI and chondroitin joint supplements by the age of 6 years old (some veterinarians recommend starting as young as the 1 year mark, as soon as a small breed puppy is done growing).
These supplements are pivotal in supporting joint health and alleviating discomfort by maintaining cartilage integrity and ensuring the lubrication of joints. Regular use can lead to noticeable improvements in a Shih Tzu’s mobility and comfort levels, making it easier for them to engage in daily activities with less pain.
One that we really love is Zesty Paws Mobility Bites Joint Supplement for Dogs; This has both glucosamine HCI and chondroitin, along with OptiMSM (a premium form of methylsulfonylmethane) that provides excellent muscle support. As with all their products, this is 100% all-natural with no artificial additives or preservatives.
#2 Fish Oil: Fish oil, abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for dogs with arthritis or joint inflammation. Omega-3s help reduce joint inflammation, preserving joint function and mobility. Regular supplementation supports joint health, promoting cartilage health and overall well-being in aging dogs. A fish oil we like a lot is Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Fish Oil, which has the most beneficial type of Omega: EPA and DHA. It comes in a handy pump, making it easy to dispense onto meals and it’s pure with no artificial additives.
#3 A Supportive Bed: A proper orthopedic dog bed with memory foam (at least two inches thick) can provide essential support for aging joints and muscles, ensuring your Shih Tzu has a comfortable place to rest and recover from the day.
#4 A Pet Ramp: For older Shih Tzu seniors that like to lie on sofas, chairs, your bed or other furniture but have trouble getting up or down, consider a pet ramp or pet stairs. These can be a great way to allow an older dog access to favorite resting spots.
Extra Tips:
Other tips to help with mobility problems includes massage which can stimulate blood flow, reduce discomfort, and improve overall well-being. Focus on areas around the joints to alleviate stiffness. Warming therapy can also help to provide relief and reduce discomfort, via a warm towel or a specially designed pet-safe heating pad placed on sore joints. And do be sure to keep your Shih Tzu moving, even if it’s slow-paced; regular, gentle walks can help keep joints flexible and muscles strong.
Signs to Seek Vet Care:
Signs that physical discomfort related to mobility needs to be treated by the vet includes limping or reluctance to move, visible pain during movement or significant changes in behavior such as decreased interest in play or a noticeable decrease in activity level.
A Final Note
If your Shih Tzu experiences any of these issues, it's crucial to address them promptly for optimal well-being. Additionally, as your Shih Tzu grows older, it's important to continually assess their comfort and health needs. By staying attentive and proactive, you can ensure that your little guy or gal enjoys a happy, comfortable life throughout their golden years.
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