When we talk about the most adorable and affectionate breeds of dog, the Shih Tzus are always top of the list. Shih Tzus are well-known for their small size, cute appearance, and friendly behaviour. They are also known as great companions from ancient times in China, like back over a thousand years. Since then they are excellent family pets especially for apartment living because of their small size and they require moderate exercise.
Today we will talk about the most demanding dog breed Shih Tzu puppies. If you are thinking about adopting one into your home, it’s important to know everything about them. Usually, Shih Tzus are friendly, calm, and they need their owner’s attention most of the time. However, today’s guide will help you become a well-prepared parent of Shih Tzu.
What to Know About Shih Tzu Puppies?
First of all you should know about your Shih Tzu’s history so that you can get a clear idea about their nature. Shih Tzus are originally bred to be royal lapdogs in China. A thousand years ago Chinese emperors loved to keep Shih Tzus as their companion. They are known for their loyal and loving personalities. Also, their long, flowing coats attract people easily. These small breed dogs typically weigh between 9 to 16 pounds when they are adults.
Usually, Shih Tzus live for 10 to 16 years. Most Shih Tzu owners believe that these cute little pups are great for their families, especially for kids. Their gentle nature proves that they are totally safe for newborns or toddlers. Because Shih Tzus can socialise easily with every member of the family. However, Shih Tzus need regular grooming and relatively low activities. Like your apartment space is enough for their regular walk or exercise.
Growth and Development
What Do Shih Tzu Puppies Look Like?
When it comes to their appearance, Shih Tzu puppies are especially cute because they’re tiny, fluffy, and full of affection. The most interesting part is their long thick coat, which comes in various colors as white, black, gold and brindle.
Usually, Shih Tzu puppies aren’t born with thick fur but as they grow their baby fur become a more luxurious adult coat. Their long hair needs regular grooming at that time otherwise they can get tangled and matted.
When Do Shih Tzu Puppies Open Their Eyes?
When a Shih Tzu puppy is born their eyelids stay closed for the first couple of weeks. Usually, they open their eyes when they’re about 10 to 14 days old. At the beginning, their eyes look a bit cloudy and bluish. Normally, it takes some time for their blurry vision to fully develop. That’s the reason their eyes remain closed during this time.
Slowly Shih Tzu puppies open their eyes over the next few weeks. Afterwards their eyesight gradually improves as they start to explore the world around them. It’s good for them not to force their eyes open. Because nature knows when the time is right. All you need to do is keep them warm, cozy, and close to their mom during those early days.
How Big Do Shih Tzu Puppies Get?
At the time when Shih Tzu puppies are born they are tiny in size. As they are small breed dogs so there is no doubt their puppies are smaller in size. But they grow pretty quickly from their cute little toy size. Most of them end up weighing around 9 to 16 pounds. And when they fully grow up their height might be 9 to 10.5 inches tall.
Usually, they reach their adult size at the age of 10 to 12 months. Also, you have to keep in mind that every pup is different according to their genes and health. That’s why some puppies may be smaller or a bit chunkier, which is totally normal.
When Do Shih Tzu Puppies Stop Growing?
As we mentioned earlier, Shih Tzu puppies grow up so fast and it takes only a few weeks to reach their adult size. Usually, Shih Tzu puppies stop growing at the age of 10 months. Sometimes, it takes years to fully grow them up and that is completely okay. If you are a Shih Tzu owner you don’t have to worry about it because every puppy has their own growing process. It’s totally fine that they take a couple more months to stop growing their size.
But when they are about 10 months old their growth typically slows down. Some puppies are healthy and chunky, gaining a bit of weight or muscle because of their good appetite. That doesn’t mean the tiny size puppies remain unhealthy. As long as they are active and playful they are healthy and normal.
When Do Shih Tzu Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth?
Puppies start losing their baby teeth when they are about 3 to 4 months. This is a natural part of the teething process. Their baby teeth fall out and make room for their adult teeth. Most Shih Tzus will have their full set of adult teeth when they are about 6 to 8 months old. During this phase, they may chew more than usual to relieve discomfort. Sometimes, they may bleed a little bit and have swollen gums.
Cost and Value of Shih Tzu Puppies
How Much Are Shih Tzu Puppies?
Shih Tzu puppies are a little bit pricey as they are the most demanding dog breeds. However, their price can vary depending on where you are buying from and what you are looking for. On average, Shih Tzu cost between $500 to $1800. If you want to buy puppies from a well-reputed breeder or looking for a specific bloodline then the price range may be higher. But there is a low price option available if you adopt them from a rescue team or adoption center. Sometimes you have to spend just a few hundred dollars to cover vet care and adoption fees. The other necessary costs are for supplies, vet visits, grooming, and food.
How Much Are Shih Tzu Poodles and Maltese Shih Tzu Puppies?
Shih Tzu mixes are also in high demand among pup lovers. Shih Poo which is mixes of a Shih Tzu and Poodle, and the Malsi that is a mix of a Maltese and Shih Tzu are also popular. Both breed’s costs vary depending on location, breeder, and the puppy’s lineage. Usually, a Shih Tzu Poo costs between $2,200 to $4,500 on average. On the other hand, a Malsi costs between $800 to $1000.
However, these breeds are trendy all the time and you get only a few breeders who sell them. On the top of that, these two breeds are often marketed as hypoallergenic or low-shedding. Sometimes their prices are a little bit higher than purebred Shih Tzus. But it’s safer to buy them from a responsible breeder who prioritizes the puppies’ health and proper care over profits.
Behavior and Training
When Do Shih Tzu Puppies Calm Down?
Puppies are used to being full of energy, playfulness, and curiosity, so as Shih Tzus. They carry their puppy-like behavior up to 8 to 10 months. But don’t worry, they do calm down with time. Most Shih Tzus start to be calm between 1 to 2 years old as they grow out of the puppy stage.
As we know, every dog is different, but some may settle sooner. But it’s also normal that others stay playful well into adulthood. That’s why they need regular exercise, training, and a consistent routine. Also, if you train them patiently then it will help to encourage them to behave calmly.
When Do Shih Tzu Puppies Stop Biting?
Like other puppies, Shih Tzu puppies also go through their biting phase. They act like human babies when they are teething, sounds so funny right? Usually, a Shih Tzu puppy teething is between 8 weeks and 6 months old. During this time, they bite everything in front of them like toys, pillows, or anything they can find to soothe their gums.
However, if you give them proper training and correct them gently they start to grow out of the biting habit by around 6 to 8 months. Also, you can teach them what’s okay to chew and make sure that they will obey your command. Every time when they want to bite something, try to divert their attention to toys. That will help you to speed things up.
When Do Shih Tzu Puppies Start Walking?
Shih Tzu puppies usually start trying to walk around 2 to 3 weeks old. At first, it’s more like wobbly crawling than actual walking. But the good thing is that they learn to walk very quickly. When they are 3 to 4 weeks old, most puppies are walking more steadily. They are more playful and active at that time and they begin to explore their surroundings a little more each day.
Honestly, it’s a super cute phase, so if you’re lucky enough to witness it. If you are a Shih Tzu parent, enjoy those tiny, unsteady steps because they grow fast.
Health and Nutrition
Are Shih Tzu Puppies Hypoallergenic?
It’s true that no dog is 100% allergy-proof and Shih Tzu puppies are often considered hypoallergenic. Shih Tzus have long thick hair instead of fur, which means they shed less and produce less dander. However, these two things can help reduce their allergic reactions.
Moreover, people with dog allergies may still react to saliva or skin flakes. If allergies are a concern, it’s a good idea to spend time around a Shih Tzu before bringing one home. That will help you to know how your body responds.
What Do Shih Tzu Puppies Eat?
It’s very important to know a puppy’s food habit especially when you are a Shih Tzu parent. Shih Tzu puppies need good food to grow up healthy and strong. The best option is purchase high-quality puppy food which are made for small breeds. The good thing is they get all the nutrients that they need in the right portions. At the beginning, they’ll need to eat 3 to 4 small meals a day. Because their little tummies can’t hold much at once. Once they’re about 6 months old, you can switch to 2 meals a day.
Also, you can give them home made food and healthy treats alongside puppy foods. But make sure they always have fresh water. It’s better not to give them human food like processed food. Because they are salty and unhealthy for your little puppy’s stomach.
When Can Shih Tzu Puppies Eat Solid Food?
Shih Tzu puppies usually start eating solid food around 3 to 4 weeks old. At first, they’ll eat a soft mixture of puppy food and warm water or you can give them puppy formula. But remember the food should be mushy and easy to have. As they get used to it, you can slowly make the food thicker and more solid.
When they are 8 weeks old, they can eat solid food on their own. Besides, they are fully weaned from their mother’s milk at that time. All you have to do is make sure to give them high-quality food which is made for small breed puppies, and always keep fresh water nearby.
What Food Is Good for Shih Tzu Puppies?
It’s very important to make sure that your puppy needs to meet their daily nutrition. Shih Tzu puppies need food that’s packed with the right nutrients with protein, fat, and vitamins. A right balance of nutrients help them grow healthy and strong. For protein you can give them real meat like chicken, turkey, or lamb. Also, try to include things like brown rice, sweet potatoes, and omega-3s for skin and coat health. You can start with high-quality puppy food made for small breeds.
One more thing is that it is very important to avoid foods with too many fillers, artificial colors, or added sugars. Choose brands like Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness. These brands have small breed puppy options that work well for Shih Tzus.
Mother and Litter Details
How Many Puppies Can a Shih Tzu Have for the First Time?
Most Shih Tzu moms have smaller litters when they have their puppies for the first time. So, they usually can have 2 to 5 puppies but it is not unusual for them to have up to 6 to 8 puppies at once. It especially happens when they are healthy and come from a line of larger litters. However, the number of puppies a Shih Tzu can have varies on some factors like her age, size, and genetics. When a Shih Tzu goes through her first labor it may go longer than 63 days.
How Big Do Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix Puppies Get?
Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix puppies are pretty small, just like their parent breeds. This mixed breed of dogs is also known as ShihChi. When they are fully grown, most of them weigh between 5 to 12 pounds and stand around 8 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder.
Usually, ShihChi’s exact size can vary depending on whether they take more after the Shih Tzu or the Chihuahua side. Some puppies may be a little sturdier, while others stay tiny. But they all are cute and have friendly personalities.
When Can Shih Tzu Puppies Leave Mom?
After a Shih Tzu puppy is born they stay with their mom and littermates for several weeks. According to The American Shih Tzu Club Code of Ethics puppies shouldn’t leave their mom until they are 12 weeks old. It’s very important to stay with their mother during this time to learn several things like social skills, bite control, and how to be part of a pack. If you give your Shih Tzu puppy a new home early and are forced to leave their mom that can lead to behavioral problems later on.
When they turn to 10 to 12 weeks, they are usually weaned, eating solid food, and better prepared to adjust to a new home. So, when you decide to bring a puppy home at least give them a little extra time with their mom. That will help them grow into happier and more confident dogs.
How Many Shih Tzu Puppies to a Litter?
A Shih Tzu mom usually gives birth to around 3 to 5 puppies in one litter. But if it’s not their first time then it can be 6 to 8 puppies. Because, at their first time they may have just 1 or 2 and even more. Anyway, it also depends on the mom’s age, health, and genetics in how many puppies she’ll have. First-time moms usually have smaller litters than experienced ones. Litter size gets bigger over time so a Shih Tzu mom can have more puppies.
Buying and Finding a Puppy
Where to Buy Shih Tzu Puppies?
The best option is to buy Shih Tzu puppies from a responsible breeder. Because, they truly care about the health and happiness of their dogs. A good breeder will let you meet the puppies and their mom. For their reputation purpose, they will show you where the puppies live. Also, they will provide health records and answers to all your questions.
The other option is you can check out rescue groups or local animal shelters. However, it may take a little more time but sometimes Shih Tzus or Shih Tzu mixes are available for adoption. But it’s better to avoid the random ads or pet stores, especially online.
Final Words
So, are you ready to bring shih tzu puppies in your home? If it’s your first time having Shih Tzus then it will definitely be an exciting and heartwarming experience for you. These little dogs can melt your heart with their cute appearance and excellent personality. They are mainly toy dogs that can easily get used to your apartment or wherever you live.
Shih Tzus and other Shih Tzu mixed breeds are great as companions. They are so friendly and calm so your family members also love to have these beautiful puppies. Also, knowing these details that we added to our guide will help you feel more prepared for the journey ahead.
Remember, every puppy is unique. Some might be a little more playful, and others may calm cuddle-bugs. With love, patience, and proper care, your Shih Tzu will grow into a loyal and loving companion. Give your time and patience to train them, and make them a good little furry friend so that you don’t have to feel lonely anytime.
