Any Shih Tzu people here? (question about body type) (poodle, miniature, bones)

[atina33]

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.

Does this sound about right for a Shih Tzu?

[HtownLove]

Shih tzu dogs have dense bones.

They are heavier than they look. Mine is 18lbs

[atina33]

Originally Posted by HtownLove

Shih tzu dogs have dense bones.

They are heavier than they look. Mine is 18lbs

Ah, makes sense because he weighs a lot more than one would guess. Thanks.

[HtownLove]

Originally Posted by atina33

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.

[Dollydo]

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.

[atina33]

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.

[HtownLove]

Originally Posted by atina33

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

[oregonwoodsmoke]

If the dog feels squishy, he is too fat.

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.

[dogluvr2013]

Originally Posted by oregonwoodsmoke

If the dog feels squishy, he is too fat.

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.