🐶 Meet the Shih Tzu

Originally from Tibet and perfected in China, the Shih Tzu was bred to be a royal companion — not a hunter, not a worker, just a pure bundle of love and personality. Small but confident, these dogs bring warmth and joy wherever they go.

Quick facts:

• Weight: 4–7.2 kg
• Height: 20–28 cm
• Coat: Long, luxurious, and high-maintenance
• Face: Short muzzle, big round eyes, and a sweet “chrysanthemum” face

Shih Tzus come in a variety of colors — black and white, gold and white, silver, or even rare blue tones. Each one has a unique pattern and personality to match.

💖 Personality: Big Heart, Small Body

Don’t let their small size fool you — Shih Tzus are full of confidence, affection, and playful energy. They love being around people, adapt easily to apartment life, and don’t need long runs to stay happy.

They can be a bit stubborn during training, but with patience and treats, they’ll soon become your best-behaved flatmate.

☀️ Caring for a Shih Tzu in Hong Kong’s Climate

Hong Kong’s heat and humidity can be tough on Shih Tzus. Their flat faces and thick coats make it harder for them to cool down, so owners need to take extra care, especially in summer.

Keep Them Cool

• Walk during early mornings or cooler evenings.
• Avoid outdoor activities from 10 AM to 5 PM.
• Use air conditioning and cooling mats indoors.
• Always carry fresh water on walks.
• Watch for signs of heat stress: heavy panting, drooling, weakness, or lethargy.

Even mild overheating can become dangerous quickly, so never underestimate the summer heat — especially when humidity is above 70%.

🌬️ Breathing and Air Quality Challenges

As a brachycephalic breed, Shih Tzus have short nasal passages that limit airflow. High humidity and pollution worsen these breathing challenges.

Common signs of respiratory distress include:

• Labored breathing or noisy panting
• Wheezing or snorting
• Difficulty cooling down after walks

Hong Kong’s urban air pollution — from vehicle emissions and regional smog — can also irritate their airways. Try to:

• Keep windows closed on poor air quality days.
• Use an air purifier indoors.
• Schedule walks in cleaner, greener areas like Victoria Peak Garden or Ap Lei Chau Promenade.

🧴 Skin, Coat, and Ear Care

The Shih Tzu’s long, beautiful coat can trap moisture, especially in Hong Kong’s humid months (April–September). This can lead to itchy skin, yeast infections, and hot spots.

Prevent Skin Problems

• Brush daily to remove tangles and moisture.
• Keep facial hair clean and dry.
• Trim regularly for better air circulation.
• Ask your groomer about summer trims.

Their droopy ears also trap heat and moisture — a perfect setup for infections. Gently clean ears weekly and keep them dry after baths or rainy walks.

Grooming Essentials Checklist

• Daily: Light brushing
• Weekly: Face and ear cleaning
• Every 4–6 weeks: Professional grooming
• Every 2–3 weeks: Nail trimming
• Regularly: Dental brushing

Keep sessions short and positive — think of it as a mini spa day for your pup!

👁️ Eye Health

Because of their large, shallow-set eyes, Shih Tzus often deal with tear staining and irritation.

Eye Care Tips

• Wipe under the eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth.
• Keep facial fur trimmed short around the eyes.
• Use vet-approved eye wipes or tear stain removers.
• Avoid exposing them to cigarette smoke or incense.

If you notice redness, thick discharge, or frequent rubbing, schedule a vet visit — eye infections can develop quickly.

⚖️ Weight and Nutrition

Shih Tzus are small but love to eat! In Hong Kong, where exercise can be limited, weight management is essential.

Feeding Tips

• Serve 2 small meals per day (avoid free feeding).
• Choose high-quality small-breed food with omega-3s and biotin for coat health.
• Avoid table scraps and oily foods.
• Adjust portions during hot months when appetite drops.
• Offer moisture-rich meals (like gently cooked fresh food) to support hydration.

Hong Kong Pro Tip: In humid weather, your Shih Tzu may eat less. Try gently warming their food or adding a spoon of dog-safe bone broth for aroma and hydration.

Extra weight makes it harder for them to breathe and handle heat, so keep treats small and walks regular.

🏙️ Daily Routine for Urban Life

Living in a Hong Kong apartment doesn’t mean your Shih Tzu can’t live large! Here’s a balanced city routine:

• Morning: Short bathroom break → light brushing → breakfast → walk before the city heats up.
• Afternoon: Indoor play → nap in a cool area → quick bathroom break.
• Evening: Longer stroll → dinner → cuddles → face cleaning before bed.

Tip: Pee pads or balcony grass patches are great for backup potty breaks in high-rises.

🎓 Training Tips for Busy City Girls

Shih Tzus are clever but have an independent streak. They respond best to positive reinforcement and consistency.

Urban Training Basics

• “Wait” – for elevators or crossings
• “Quiet” – for apartment living
• “Leave it” – for street safety
• “Come” – essential recall command

Training sessions should be short (5–10 minutes) and reward-based. Never use harsh discipline — these sensitive dogs learn through love and routine.

🏡 Small-Space Living Tips

Even in tiny Hong Kong flats, you can create a cozy environment:

• Use vertical storage for toys and accessories.
• Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh.
• Create a dedicated “dog corner” with their bed and bowls.
• Choose dual-purpose furniture (like ottomans that store pet gear).

Your Shih Tzu doesn’t need much room — just love, attention, and a comfy spot by your side.

❤️ Final Thoughts

A Shih Tzu isn’t just a pet — she’s your little shadow, your Netflix buddy, your reason to smile after a long day.

In a city as busy as Hong Kong, these gentle, affectionate dogs bring calm, joy, and companionship that make apartment life feel more like home. With thoughtful care and lots of love, your Shih Tzu will thrive — and so will you.

✨ Furry Green Pets Tip: Think of raising a Shih Tzu as adding a touch of soft, fluffy royalty to your life — she doesn’t need a palace, just your heart. 💕