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8 Problems Only a Shih Tzu Owner Would Understand

Written by: Arlene D.
| Published on June 6, 2023

Shih Tzus, with their luxurious coats and love-me-eyes, are indisputably adorable. But beneath those silky tresses and wagging tails lie a few quirky “problems” that only Shih Tzu owners can truly relate to. From their diva-like attitudes to their uncanny abilities to manipulate, here are eight hilariously relatable problems unique to Shih Tzu’s parents.

1. The Shih Tzu Stare

Any Shih Tzu owner will testify that these dogs possess a Jedi-like mind control ability, perfected through the ‘Shih Tzu Stare.’ Whether they’re begging for a treat, requesting belly rubs, or implying it’s time for their royal walk, those puppy dog eyes are utterly irresistible. Resistance is futile when they fix their gaze on you. Not even a Sith Lord could stand up to the power of a Shih Tzu’s hypnotic stare.

2. Hair, Hair Everywhere

Shih Tzus may not shed as much as other breeds, but that doesn’t mean their hair isn’t a problem. Their long, silky locks are a thing of beauty, but grooming them is a full-time job. From daily brushing sessions to prevent matting to dealing with the dreaded ‘eye goop,’ Shih Tzu hair maintenance should come with a user manual and possibly a personal stylist. Plus, let’s not forget the mini heart attacks you get when you step on one of their loose hairs barefoot, mistaking it for a bug.

3. The Diva Attitude

Shih Tzus are royalty, and they know it. These little divas expect nothing less than 5-star treatment at all times. Their preferred mode of transport? Your arms, of course! Walking is for the plebeians, after all. These pampered pups will have you questioning who’s the real master in the house.

4. The Snore Symphony

Shih Tzus are adorable, but they’re also notorious for their ability to snore like a freight train. It’s not their fault – they’re brachycephalic (flat-faced), after all. But when your tiny dog sounds like a chainsaw at 3 AM, you might start considering investing in some noise-canceling headphones. Who knew such a small creature could make such a cacophony?

5. The Not-So-Subtle Begging

Shih Tzus aren’t known for their subtlety, especially when it comes to food. Those pleading eyes, the paw on your leg, the intense focus on every bite you take – their begging techniques would put even the most accomplished actors to shame. Before you know it, you’re handing over the last bite of your steak to your dog and eating their kibble for dinner.

6. The Drama of Bath Time

Is it a Shih Tzu bath time or a reenactment of an epic disaster movie? With the drama that ensues during bath time, it’s hard to tell. These little furballs will wiggle, squirm, and give you their best ‘why hast thou forsaken me’ look, all in an attempt to escape the dreaded water. They may love pampering, but when water’s involved, they turn into melodramatic fur-dramatists.

7. The Selective Hearing

Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs, but they have an uncanny knack for ‘selective hearing.’ Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” often get lost in translation unless accompanied by the rustle of a treat bag. They’ll look at you with a mischievous glint in their eyes as if to say, “I hear you, but I choose not to listen.”

8. The Unconditional Love Problem

Finally, the most significant problem of being a Shih Tzu owner is the unbearable amount of love they give. With their sweet-natured personalities and constant companionship, they wrap you around their little paw before you even realize it. They might be tiny, but the love they have for their humans is enormous, and that’s a problem no Shih Tzu owner minds having.

Shih Tzus, with all their peculiarities, bring endless joy and laughter into our lives. Owning one means signing up for a lifetime of affectionate stares, luxurious grooming sessions, and love that knows no bounds. And honestly, those aren’t such bad problems to have, are they?

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