Despite their small size, Shih Tzus needs exercise. Exercising your Shih Tzu is very important to its overall health and longevity. They need outdoor romps just as much as larger dogs do. Exercise will keep their muscles strong and their hearts healthy. Shih Tzus are so cute and cuddly that many owners shower them with too many treats without giving them adequate exercise. It doesn’t take too many extra-calorie meals to make an 8-pound (3.63 kilograms) animal tip the scale toward the overweight.
Being overweight can harm your Shih Tzu’s health because their little bodies do not handle extra weight well. Excess weight puts a lot of pressure on their joints and internal organs, which can threaten their natural health.
If you currently own an overweight Shih Tzu and want to put him or her on an exercise program, remember that Shih Tzu should never be exercised in hot weather.
These little dogs are not built for heat; prolonged heat exposure can cause serious harm. Shih Tzus do not do well in the heat because of their short noses and heavy coats.
If you are going to exercise your Shih Tzu, make sure you do it when it is cool. Morning walks or evening strolls are best. In addition to exercising your Shih Tzu, limit the snacks and the extra calories your dog consumes throughout the day. Adult Shih Tzus only needs two to three meals daily.
Here Are Some Tips for Exercising Your Shih Tzu
Your Shih Tzu can get much of his daily exercise requirements by playing indoor fetch games with a favorite toy. However, this is not an invitation for the dog and owner to pull back on a daily walk. A daily walk is an excellent way for the dog and owner to do some much-required bonding.
Going on walks also helps alleviate behavioral issues. All Shih Tzu owners must adopt a daily activity routine to ensure the dog’s physical and mental health.
Shih Tzu’s grow and develop fast, which can cause muscle and joint problems. As a result, the dog’s activity levels can vary throughout his lifetime. However, do not let this keep you from walking your Shih Tzu. This breed is happiest when given a variety of tasks to complete.
All dog owners know that a well-behaved dog is an exhausted one. If you want to keep your Shih Tzu properly exercised, then a minimum of one hour of daily activity, 3-5 days a week, is the requirement. Exercise ensures that your dog gets to burn any excess energy constructively.
Do not let your Shih Tzu’s size fool you! Even though it is small, a Shih Tzu left alone without any way to release excess energy constructively is known to cause massive damage to a house or yard. Sometimes, something as simple as letting your dog run around in an enclosed backyard or a dog park is all that is needed.
Swimming is also an excellent way to exercise your Shih Tzu and is easy on the dog’s muscles and joints.
Another excellent way for Shih Tzu owners to keep their dogs fit and busy is by entering them into competitions such as agility courses. These competitions are both physically and mentally challenging for canines. Do not worry if your dog does not get it right away; the more he practices, the better he will get. This activity is great for all dogs, including neutered and mixed breeds.
When you are not up for a walk or competition training, a safe yard for your Shih Tzu to explore would work just as well. A safe fenced-in yard is a great way to keep them out of trouble. However, a cooped-up Shih Tzu is not a happy one. These dogs possess an innate inclination for digging. Therefore, do not leave your dog unattended for an extended time. It does not take long for a Shih Tzu to dig its way to freedom.
One way to solve the digging issue is to set aside an area just for digging, which is much better than discouraging a behavior intuitive to the breed. Remember, this activity satisfies the dog’s needs and helps eliminate extra energy. To discourage digging in other areas of the yard, keep it wet.
Additional Tips
- Always consult your veterinarian for personalized exercise recommendations for your Shih Tzu.
- Make exercise fun and rewarding for your dog with praise, treats, and positive reinforcement.
- Be aware of your Shih Tzu’s body language for signs of fatigue or overheating.
DISCLAIMER: The information on shihtzudoginformation.com is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only. The content is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have regarding your dog’s health or medical condition.
