Shih Tzu Health Problems

Common Shih Tzu Problems

Shih Tzu health problems are not very common, in fact in general they are very healthy dogs.  But there are some conditions that show up more frequently in certain breeds.  Here are some health problems that show up more frequently in Shih Tzu.

Respiratory Problems/Infections

Shih Tzu have stenotic nares and often times soft palate problems leading to trouble breathing.  It is a common condition among brachycephalic dogs, or dogs with short noses, like pugs and bulldogs.  Due to this fact the are more prone to respiratory tract infections as well, or pneumonia.

Shih Tzu Back Problems

Due to the fact that Shih Tzu have short legs and a long back they tend to put more stress on the their back leading to back problems. 

The specific problem they get is interverterbal disc disease.  Spinal discs are shaped like donuts and sit between each bony vertebrae for cushion. 

Sometimes these disc can becomes dislodged after jumps off couches or trucks.  This can result in the disc pinching a nerve or worse the spinal cord which can result in permanent paralysis if not immediately corrected.

Shih Tzu Eye Problems

Common Shih Tzu health problems also include eye problems.  Because they have large eyes and a short nose, it is easier for them to get something poked in their eye.

They love to smell things and in order for them to get close enough to smell they put their face right on the object.

Another common Shih Tzu eye problem is irritation from hair getting in the eyes.  This can leading chronic irritation and infection.

Shih Tzu are also prone to cataracts which is a whitening of the lens which results in decreased vision especially in older dogs.

One other Shih Tzu eye problem is Cherry eye.  This is where the gland of the third eye lid (Harderian gland) prolapses out of the eye lid.

While this is not a painful condition it should be corrected by the veterinarian.  This condition can lead to dry eye eventually.

Shih Tzu Patellar Luxation

The patella or kneecap sometimes comes out of place resulting in pain and limping on one of the hind legs.  It is though to be an inherited condition.

Treatment is usually conservative in mild to moderate cases.  In severe cases of patellar luxation surgery is required to make sure the kneecap stays in place.

As you can see, these are just some of the health problems Shih Tzu can have.  But in general they are very healthy dogs and your dog should live a long healthy life. 

Shih Tzu Skin Problems