Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
So I'm petsitting my parents' male Shih Tzu. I've always considered him to be a bit overweight (he's 15 lbs.) but after checking online, it appears he's in the normal range (albeit on the high end).
Maybe part of it is just the way he feels to me---like a squishy sausage. More flab than muscle.
Ah, makes sense because he weighs a lot more than one would guess. Thanks.
Yeah they are so close to the ground you would think that they are as light as a miniature poodle or a Maltese or something, but no. They are quite heavy.
Take a look at their legs and see how thick they are compared to other dogs their size.
They really have dense big bones. They are a really sturdy breed. They are rather slow moving because of it.
I've owned 6 of them, they averaged 10-16#'s. I have two now, one weighs 12#'s the other 7, he is a special needs boy, has a hole in his pallet, so he has difficultly eating, he will always be a lightweight.
Another question---are they all slow walkers who sort of lumber/waddle along?
I'm a pretty fast walker so we're not a good match as far as that goes. He's perfect for my mom though.
I call mine Eeyore ( nickname, not his given name) because he is so slow. He reminds me of an old grey donkey. They are really loving dogs but not too exciting. It's even worse when the fur gets floor length. Mine doesn't like getting his dirty so he walks like he is walking on eggshells trying his best to avoid puddles and mid. He even sticks his butt over the grass while standing on the concrete to go potty.
They are companion dogs for sure. Makes a great pal for someone who just likes to sit out in a rocking chair and just relax.
If you are a fast walker something else you should consider. Smooched face dogs have breathing problems, over exertion may result in a stroke. Mine has gotten two in the last year, but mine is an older guy
Dogs should have a waist and you should be able to feel ribs. You don't want any hollows between the rib bones, but you should be able to feel ribs as you run your hands over the dog's sides.
Dogs should have a waist and you should be able to feel ribs. You don't want any hollows between the rib bones, but you should be able to feel ribs as you run your hands over the dog's sides.
I agree, the dog shouldn't feel squishy. I have one and he's sturdy, not squishy at all. Shih Tzus can be prone to being overweight, so maybe he needs less food and more exercise. I think it's easy to overfeed a small dog.
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.