Shih Tzu For Dummies

From Shih Tzu For Dummies by Eve Adamson

Prepare your home for your Shih Tzu’s arrival by purchasing some essential (and fun!) dog supplies. Keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy by having emergency contact numbers handy and feeding your dog healthy treats in moderation.

Shih Tzu Shopping List

Before you bring home your new Shih Tzu, go shopping for pet supplies. Use the following list as a guide for picking up feeding, grooming, and general pet care items for your dog:

Premium puppy or adult dog food: kibble, canned, or both
* Dog treats (optional)
Stainless steel or ceramic food and water bowls (they stay cleaner than plastic)
Natural bristle brush (stay away from nylon)
Pin brush
Stainless steel Greyhound comb (two sizes of teeth, one narrow and the other wider)
Shampoo specifically designed for dogs
Coat conditioner
Spray conditioner for use on dry coat during brushing
Toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs
Moisturizing eye drops (if vet-recommended)
Tear-stain remover (for light-coated dogs)
Hair accessories for the topknot. (Small plastic bands designed for small, long-coated dogs avoid hair breakage.)
Clippers, scissors, and mat splitter (if you're grooming your own dog)
Toenail clippers
Small crate or kennel
Pet carrier or shoulder bag
Bedding
Lightweight leash
Collar or harness
Identification tags
Safe toys with no small parts that can break off and become a choking hazard
Pens or baby gates
Pet bed and other furniture
Luxury items like jewelry, clothing, fancy spa products, and Shih Tzu paraphernalia for you

Pet Emergency Contacts

If an emergency occurs, your Shih Tzu has the best chance of recovery if you act quickly and appropriately. To prepare yourself and your family for a pet emergency, fill out this list of pet contacts, keep a copy in your wallet and keep a copy handy, like on your refrigerator.

Veterinarian

Name:

Phone:

Address:

Emergency Veterinary Clinic

Name:

Phone:

Address:

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

(Have your credit card number ready, too— a $65 consultation fee may apply)

Pet Sitter

Name:

Phone:

Doggy Daycare or Boarding

Name:

Phone:

Address:

People willing to help in case of emergency

Name:

Phone:

Name:

Phone:

Name:

Phone:

Perfect Snacks for Your Shih Tzu

It's hard to resist giving your Shih Tzu a treat every time you look into those adorable, pleading eyes but treats should be doled out sparingly — no more than two a day. Shih Tzus can become overweight easily because of their small size. Look for healthy dog treats like these found right in your own fridge: