Shih Tzu Aging Signs-8 Every Owner Needs To Look For

It is inevitable that your pet Shih Tzu will get old. As an owner, you need to look out for these tell-tale signs, in order to take better care of your pet. In old age, your pet requires extra care and attention, to make their lives as comfortable as possible.

However, most owners fail to notice the signs and as a result, fail to address the ailments that trouble these little balls of fur. Are you curious about these eight signs that would help you to identify it better? Well, take a look below.

Here are 8 aging signs that you should notice in your Shih Tzu

1. Hazy eyes

Shih Tzu owners have to be careful about the cloudy haze over the eyes that come into being when they become old. While the blue haze over the eyes is harmless and indicates that your dog is aging, however, a white haze may be a symptom of cataract that may lead to loss of vision. It is important that you take them to the vet immediately and address the issue.

2. Unresponsive to your commands

It is not that your old Shih friend is not willing to listen, rather they cannot hear you properly. Most of the times due to old age, their hearing gets impaired and that makes them unresponsive. So, if you see this is happening, make sure you be polite and patient while ordering your canine friend.

Also, they might bark without any stimuli at times.

3. Weight gain/loss

Is your Shih Tzu becoming fatter? Well, that might be because they are becoming old. As a dog's age, their metabolism slows down and are less prone to exercise. Hence, they put on weight. Also, they might lose weight as well because of oral problems. As they grow old, Shih Tzu’s develop a dental problem which makes them reluctant to eat.

4. Slowing down

As the dog's age, they tend to slow down, just like humans. They develop thyroid and arthritis which are the main reasons for the slowing down. They might experience pain in their joints while moving around, climbing the stairs, running uphill, or running, in general.

5. Increased urination

The Shih Tzu will ask for more bathroom breaks as they age. You will need to walk them a bit more often. They might even have some accidents. However, be careful not to scold them too harshly. Moreover, you can buy pee pads to help out their situation or talk to the vet about it.

6. Difficulty while moving around

Just like other dogs, Shih Tzu’s too will face difficulty in moving around. This is again attributed to joint diseases like dysplasia and so on. They will face difficulty getting up when they sit down or moving around in general. Talk to the vet about it and discuss whether you need to implement any dietary changes. You can install ramps in your house to allow them to walk up to the other level, instead of climbing stairs.

7. Change in the texture of the coat

Hair loss and change in the texture of coat are common aging signs in a Shih Tzu. They lose a lot of their fur and the shine as well. To preserve the texture and shine of the coat, you need to groom them properly. However, if you see that their skin is drying up or is dark, then go to the vet immediately.

8. Sleeping heavily

Your Shih Tzu will be sleeping more often and will be less active. As they age, they become tired easily and require sleep. However, do remember to walk him regularly.

So, look for these signs and address any ailments that trouble them. Good luck!