11 Shih Tzu Health Problems Symptoms

Dogs are incredible creatures that devote their loyalty, love, and life to one human. They love humans with all their heart and be by your side through thick or thin. Just like them, it is your duty to ensure that you stay by their side at all times and looks after their health. Health concerns are a major concern when you have a pet like Shih Tzu. You need to keep an eye out for any symptoms that project that they might be ill or provide medical attention immediately.

Wondering what they are? Listed below are ten Shih Tzu health problems symptoms you should never ignore:

1. Lethargy in activities

Have you ever seen a dog laze around as much as a cat does? No! Because that’s not normal. While occasional breaks in between plays or activities might be fine, but a constant lack of energy is not. Dogs are born to be active, and if they are otherwise, then your Shih Tzu might be ill.

2 Frequent coughing

If your dog is coughing but doesn’t have a wet nose, then you need to consult the vet. Coughing at times is fine; they might suffer from cold which is indicated by the wet nose. However, if they do not have a wet nose it indicates that they might be suffering from problems like a respiratory problem, heartworm disease and so on.

3. Change in appetite

Is your dog disinterested in eating? Is your Shih Tzu losing weight? While it is common that dogs might not eat for a few days or fuss over it, however, continuous lack of appetite is of concern. Moreover, check to see if your pet is losing weight as these two might indicate that your dog is ill and require the attention of a vet.

4. Fever

A fever is a common symptom that is looked over while caring for a dog. Fevers indicate a lot of things, like the presence of an infection and so on. Use a thermometer to check the temperature of your Shih Tzu. If it exceeds 102.5, then it could be one of the Shih Tzu health problems symptoms thus you have to take them to the vet.

5. Presence of blood in vomit, urine, and stool

Another sign of illness is the presence of blood in your pet’s stool, vomit or urine. While the presence of blood in stool indicates an infection of the rectum or colon, the presence of blood in urine and vomit indicates a bacterial infection. Take them to the vet immediately and address the problem.

6. Discomfort while urinating

An appointment with the vet is required immediately if your dog cries out in pain while urinating or when trying to urinate. There might be an increase in the licking after urination, which is a clear indication that you have to take them to a vet.

7. Trouble breathing

If your Shih Tzu is constantly wheezing or having trouble breathing, then consult the vet immediately. This is a clear sign that your dog is unable to breathe because of a lack of oxygen.

8. Loss of consciousness

If your dog collapses and becomes unconscious, then take them to the vet ASAP. It might be an indication of some severe illness in Shih Tzu or might be just because of overheating.

9. Restlessness

If your Shih Tzu is restless or agitated, it might indicate that they are in pain of some sort. It might be an indication of Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, or commonly known as GDV and needs the immediate attention of a vet.

10. Presence of red eyes

Inflammation of the eyes is a common sign of glaucoma in dogs. If you notice any redness of the eye area, then take them to the vet immediately. It's one of the Shih Tzu health problems symptoms you should be careful of.

11. Odd behaviour

If your dog starts behaving oddly, then pay attention to his needs. There are times when they might be irritable, lose interest in activities or just go ahead and urinate around the house. That’s a sign of trouble. Take them to the vet.

So be responsible and treat your dogs the right way.