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Learn about Shih Tzu diseases
Health Concerns
Proptosis is displacement of the eyeball out of the eye socket that can occur in some dogs.
Cataracts cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Atopy is an itchy skin disease of animals that is caused by an allergy to substances in the environment.
Urolithiasis is a urinary tract disorder characterized by the development of bladder stones.
Corneal ulcers are common in the shih tzu due to the protrusion of the eyes.
Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) is a disorder that affects the spinal disks resulting in pain, difficulty walking and possibly paralysis.
Tracheal collapse is a weakening of the rings of the windpipe. This leads to irritation and coughing.
Kidney disease - is associated with a lack of development of the kidney has been found to be inherited in the shih tzu.
Chronic valvular heart disease (VHD) is a condition characterized by degeneration and thickening of the heart valves.
Ventricular septal defect (VSD) - a congenital defect of the ventricular septum of the heart.
Drug reactions to "glucocorticoids" can occur. Subcutaneous injections may cause local hair loss in this breed.
Perianal gland adenomas - are tumors that can occur of the anal glands.
Entropion is a problem with the eyelid that causes inward rolling. Lashes on the edge of the eyelid irritate the surface of the eyeball and may lead to more serious problems.
Distichiasis is a condition in which there is growth of extra eyelashes from the glands of the upper or lower eyelid.
Life Span
The life span of the shih tzu is 14 to 16 years.
We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.
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