Major Health Problems For Shih Tzus

Before bringing a Shih Tzu home, make sure you are aware of the health issues it may encounter in its life. Obtain all information from the breeder you approach regarding the symptoms you should be aware of and the medical help you should seek.

Here are some of the most common and important health complications a Shih Tzu may encounter:

Canine Hip Dysplasia

This is a health condition resulting due to improper formation of a dog’s hip socket, leading to lameness and pain. While dogs suffering from this issue can lead normal lives, they are not bred further as canine hip dysplasia is hereditary.

Allergies

Shih Tzus are often prone to multiple allergies, making it important for their owners to keep an eye out for the right symptoms. In the case of food allergies, it is advisable to identify the items causing the allergy and eliminate them from your pet’s diet. Shih Tzus are also susceptible to contact allergies which are caused due to topical substances like flea powders, bedding, dog shampoos, etc. In the case of inhalant allergies, your Shih Tzu will be allergic to airborne allergens like pollen, mildew, or dust.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar Luxation refers to a health condition involving the dislocation of your pet’s kneecap. This will make its knee joint slip in and out of its place, leading to painful lameness. While your pet can lead a normal life despite the condition, Patellar Luxation can be crippling and needs medical attention.

Juvenile Renal Dysplasia

Juvenile Renal Dysplasia (JRD) is a congenital defect found in young puppies. Common JRD symptoms include frequent urination and excessive thirst. Your Shih Tzu may also lose weight, experience a lack of energy, and vomit frequently. The treatment procedure for this health issue is critical and it is important to seek advice from a vet to tackle JRD in the best way.

Bladder Stones And Infections

Your Shih Tzu can fall prey to bladder stones and infections due to many different factors like excessive consumption of magnesium, potassium, or phosphorus in its diet. These conditions are also caused due to long intervals between urination. Bladder infections in Shih Tzus can result from viruses and bacteria in their bodies. Make sure you consult a vet if you notice your pet urinating frequently, find blood in its urine, or see it struggle to urinate.

Eye Conditions

It is not common for Shih Tzus to suffer from eye-related conditions due to their bulging eyes. These conditions include keratitis (inflamed cornea leading to ulcer and eventual blindness), proptosis (a dislodged eyeball and eyelids getting clamped behind the eyeball), distichiasis (eyelashes growing abnormally on the margin of the eyes), progressive retinal atrophy (degradation of retinal cells), and many more.

Ear Infections

Shih Tzus are also prone to ear infections as their drop ears create a dark and warm ear canal. Make sure you clean your pet’s ears every time you bathe them to keep such infections at bay.