Many Filipino families have a small dog, and often it’s a Shih Tzu! They’re small, only about 9 to 10.5 inches tall, but they’re very elegant and get a lot of attention. Shih Tzus have long, silky fur and a cute face that’s pushed in. They’re famous and loved all over the country for their looks. Because they’re small and easygoing, they can live happily in apartments or houses.

They don’t need a lot of exercise, which is great for the warm weather in the Philippines. People love them for their charm and how they make great companions. Shih Tzus are really special to dog lovers in the Philippines.”

For 0-1 years they should be fed 1.0 oz-2.0 oz per day, for 1 year to 9 years, it should be 2.0 oz to 3.4 oz per day and for shih tzus who are 9 years old and above, they should be fed 2.0 oz – 3.4 oz per day. It’s recommended that you feed your Shih Tzu at least three times a day when they are of adult age. If they are still a puppy, they may require 4-6 meals a day.

Shih Tzus have a higher risk of becoming overweight, so it’s best to avoid too many carbs in their food. Just like other dogs, they need plenty of protein for growing healthy. Good sources of lean protein for Shih Tzus include chicken meat, chicken, turkey, and eggs. Fish is also great because it has protein and healthy fats. For carbs, Shih Tzus can have sweet potatoes, oats, rice, and barley. These help keep them energized. Veggies are good too, as they provide important vitamins and minerals.

Health issues always come up with purebreds. Shih Tzus are prone to hypothyroidism, which tends to hit around middle age. They can also inherit intervertebral disk disease and respiratory problems due to the shape of their faces. Eye and ear infections, anemia, and heat stroke are other common problems.