The old saying, "you are what you eat," is true, and its truth applies as much to dogs as it does to humans. A toy breed like the Shih Tzu can only consume a small amount of food without risking obesity, so it is especially important to feed this breed healthy food. The best Shih Tzu diet is premium dog food-with occasional treats, of course.



Some owners enjoy cooking food for their dogs. If you want to cook your own dog food, brown lean ground beef or lamb in a skillet, add some cooked brown rice, and feed the same serving size, by weight or volume, as is recommended for commercially produced food. Your Shih Tzu will also appreciate occasional healthy treats, like small bites of cooked chicken or vegetables.

Good grooming is essential to your Shih Tzu's care, and you should inspect your dog on a weekly basis so you can catch any problems early, when they are easiest to manage. Inspect ears for cleanliness and redness, and inspect eyes for redness and excessive watering. Tie your dog's hair out of her eyes to maximize eyesight and minimize eye problems.

Start opening your dog's mouth with your fingers when he is a puppy so he can get used to having your hands in and around his mouth. Check his teeth for tartar and bleeding gums, and contact your vet if you see problem areas. Similarly, you should rub your dog's feet at regular intervals, and reward him when he tolerates this kind of attention.

It will come in handy when it is time to trim his toenails.The Shih Tzu's coat requires regular grooming. Most Shih Tzus spend hours in their owners' laps. Use this time to brush your dog's coat and untangle any snarls before they develop into mats.

Good Shih Tzu health requires that a veterinarian do an examination as soon as possible after you bring your dog home. The vet will prescribe any necessary treatment, like de-worming and vaccinations, and will schedule an appointment to spay or neuter your pet. If you don't already have a veterinarian, talk to your breeder, your friends, and your family members who have pets to find out where they take their pets for veterinary care. Very soon you will have a list of veterinary clinics from which to choose. Select a vet near your home who comes highly recommended by one of your friends or family members.

Choosing the right veterinarian is the first challenge. If you've had pets before, then you probably already have a vet. If you don't, then the best way to find a reliable vet is to talk to your friends, co-workers, and family members who have pets and find out who they use for veterinary services. You should be able to develop a short list of really good vets this way. Choose the veterinary clinic closest to your home, and make sure the clinic is open for business during hours that are convenient for you. Take your new Shih Tzu to the vet for a health inspection as soon as you get it. Your vet will diagnose any health conditions, will make sure your dog has all the required vaccinations, and will set your dog up on a schedule of regular health checks.