Common Shih Tzu Health Issues and Early Warning Signs
- John Helmuth
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
Many families worry about Shih Tzu health issues, and that is understandable. This breed is generally sturdy, affectionate, and long-lived, but like all small companion dogs, they have a few conditions worth watching for. The good news is simple. When puppies come from ethical breeders who perform full genetic testing on AKC-registered adults, many of the most common Shih Tzu health issues become far less likely. At Champaign Shih Tzu, responsible breeding and early socialization give our puppies a healthier, more confident start that lasts a lifetime.
Why Ethical Breeding Reduces Risk
Shih Tzu health issues often have genetic or structural components. Ethical breeders screen parents well before planning a litter, ensuring only healthy, well-structured adults contribute to the next generation.
Genetic testing
Reputable breeders test for inherited concerns, allowing them to avoid pairings that could pass on issues such as eye disorders or certain metabolic conditions.
Responsible programs evaluate hips, patellas, and hearts to confirm sound structure and reduce the chance of orthopedic or cardiac problems.
Generational knowledge
Breeders who raise puppies in a family home and stay connected with previous adopters gain long-term insight into their bloodlines. This helps them refine their program with each generation.
Eye Conditions in Shih Tzus
Because of their expressive faces, Shih Tzus are naturally more prone to certain eye concerns. Ethical breeding significantly reduces severity, but awareness remains important.
Dry eye
This occurs when tear production drops and the eyes become irritated. Watch for redness, squinting, or thick discharge.
Their prominent eyes can be bumped easily during rough play or outdoor adventures. If you notice excessive tearing or pawing, it may indicate irritation.
Early breeder advantage
Puppies raised in a clean, well-maintained home like ours avoid environmental irritants that can worsen early eye sensitivity.
Breathing and Comfort Issues
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short muzzles. Ethical breeders choose parents with wide nostrils, correct palate length, and good breathing capacity, which dramatically reduces risk.
Stuffy breathing
Mild snorting is normal, but loud, labored breathing or difficulty during exercise is not.
Heat sensitivity
All flat-faced breeds struggle with high heat. Keep outings short and watch for heavy panting.
Preventive care
Use a harness instead of a collar to protect airway, and avoid strenuous activity in warm weather.
Skin and Allergy Concerns
Some Shih Tzu health issues show up through the skin or coat. While genetics play a part, environment and grooming matter just as much.
Itchiness, redness, or ear irritation often show up with food sensitivities or seasonal allergens.
Hot spots
Moist, irritated patches can form if the coat matts or remains damp.
Breeder contribution
Ethical breeders reduce risk by choosing adults with healthy skin, correct coat texture, and strong immune profiles. Our puppies also grow up used to grooming, making coat care easier for families.
Orthopedic Health
Small dogs can develop joint issues, but proper breeding and careful growth minimize problems.
This is a common issue in small breeds where the kneecap moves out of place. Ethical breeders screen parents to prevent the trait from being passed on.
Hip concerns
While less common in Shih Tzus, hip structure still matters. Programs like ours evaluate adults to ensure strong, comfortable movement.
Early management
Keeping your puppy at a healthy weight and preventing high jumping reduces stress on young joints.
Dental Health
Shih Tzus often have crowded teeth due to their small muzzles. Dental concerns are manageable with awareness.
Tartar buildup
Regular brushing and dental treats reduce plaque and help prevent gum issues.
Retained baby teeth
Some puppies do not lose certain teeth naturally. Your vet may recommend removal during spay or neuter surgery.
Breeder influence
Good jaw structure and proper alignment begin with selecting the right parent, which ethical breeders prioritize.
Early Warning Signs Families Should Watch For
Early detection of Shih Tzu health issues makes treatment easier and outcomes better. Pay attention to these subtle changes.
Behavioral shifts
Sudden clinginess, hiding, restlessness, or irritability can signal discomfort.
Appetite changes
Skipping meals, chewing slowly, or dropping food may indicate dental or stomach issues.
Eye or ear discharge
Anything beyond normal tear staining deserves a closer look.
Mobility hesitation
If your dog avoids stairs or jumps, or sits differently, it may be a joint or muscle issue.
Skin and coat changes
Flaking, redness, or chewing on the paws should prompt a check-in.
Why Puppies From Champaign Shih Tzu Have a Healthier Start
Our program focuses on raising genetically sound, temperamentally stable puppies with the strongest foundation possible.
We breed only genetically tested AKC adults
This eliminates many preventable Shih Tzu health issues before puppies are even born.
Puppies are raised in our home
Daily handling, socialization, and high-quality nutrition support strong immune development.
We support families for life
When questions come up, we help our owners understand whether a concern is normal puppy development or something to investigate further.
Final Thoughts: Shih Tzu Health Issues
Shih Tzu health issues are real, but choosing an ethical breeder makes an enormous difference. When genetics, structure, and early care are prioritized, puppies start life at a significant advantage. With routine veterinary care and attention to early warning signs, your Shih Tzu can enjoy a long, healthy, joyful life by your side.
If you are dreaming of bringing home a healthy, well-loved companion raised inside a real family home, we invite you to check out our puppies or contact us anytime. We are always here to help you choose the perfect Shih Tzu for your family.
FAQ
What are the most common Shih Tzu health issues? Eye irritation, mild allergies, breathing sensitivity, dental concerns, and occasional joint issues are the most common.
How does ethical breeding reduce these problems? Genetic testing, OFA certifications, and careful parent selection prevent many conditions from being passed to puppies.
What early warning signs should I watch for? Changes in appetite, energy, coat condition, breathing patterns, or behavior can all indicate developing issues.
Are Shih Tzus prone to allergies? Some are, but proper diet, grooming, and responsible breeding greatly reduce severity.
Do Shih Tzus live long lives? Yes, when bred ethically and cared for well, many enjoy long, healthy lifespans.