8 Signs That Your Shih Tzu Is Not Well
Published 13 March 2020. Updated 26 March 2026
Signs That Your Shih Tzu Is Not Well
“Before things get worse, see the signs!” – This is such a true saying. Before your pet gets sick, it is important that you see the signs and symptoms properly before it is too late. When you have a Shih Tzu, you are more like a parent to the baby as unlike other breeds; they need much more attention and care. Here are symptoms that can work as the red flag for you to take your canine love immediately to the vet!
8 Signs That Your Shih Tzu Is Not Well
Be observant to provide with proper attention –
1. Sunken eyes and dry mouth

Imagine those glaring, beady, lively eyes losing the charm. This is painful! The only reason this happens is when they are unwell.
Dry mouth happens when they start feeling dehydrated, and you will notice that their tongue is also turning pale. All these are signs that your loving Shih Tzu is sick.
2. Loss of appetite

Guess what interests Shih Tzu the most? Food and treats! But when they say no to it, that indicates something is absolutely wrong, and they are not feeling well. If you see this happening, take them to the doctor immediately.
3. Unhealthy Stool

Any sort of discharge from stool is bad. When they are sick, they often get constipated; have blood in their stool, hookworms can be present. The worst cases are of diarrhea. This can cause a lot of harm to them. If all these are happening, you just know that your Shih Tzu is unwell.
4. Vomiting

Vomiting is a sign that they need medical attention. You just cannot avoid that with any other excuse. Immediately take your sick Shih Tzu to a vet and get the required treatment done.
5. Fever

Fever is not a very usual thing. Their temperature will increase, and you can see that there is a constant uneasiness. You need to take prompt action and give proper attention to your loving Shih Tzu.
6. Lathery

Even if they are not as active as the big breeds, but Shih Tzu is quite playful. If you see them sleeping too much, trying to hide or avoiding to react, you should know that they are not very well and need medical attention.
7. Lesions of Skin

If you see there are some unknown lesions without any injury, then you must know that your Shih Tzu is unwell. This can be a sign of some serious health problem; taking proper medical attention from the vet is the only good decision.
8. Swollen belly

Another major sign of sickness! Their belly swells when they have some severe issues going on. Even when they don’t eat, there is a bloated belly indicating some forthcoming sickness.
These are the signs that indicate your Shih Tzu is unwell and it calls for medical attention. Now, you must know what the usual health problems they face.
Some common health issues faced by Shih Tzu

- Infection
- Dental disease
- Obesity
- Heart failure
- Breathing problem
- Depression
- Anemia
- Dehydration
- Cancer
All these are some of the terrifying health concerns that call for prior prevention. You can only do it once you know the signs well. Take care of your Shih Tzu!