Top 5 Health Concerns for Shih Tzus – From the Plantation Midtown Doctors

Shih Tzus may be small, but their affectionate personalities and charming looks make them true companions in every sense. Our team loves caring for these sweet, people-loving pups and understands how much their families cherish their health and happiness. Like all breeds, Shih Tzus have a few breed-specific health concerns that are important to watch for. Here are the top five issues we commonly see in our practice and how we can help detect and manage them early:

Dental Disease

Shih Tzus are particularly prone to dental disease due to their small jaws and tendency for crowded or misaligned teeth. Their compact mouths can easily trap food and bacteria, leading to rapid plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and even early tooth loss. Regular dental care, both at home through brushing and professionally at the vet, is essential to keep your Shih Tzu’s mouth healthy and comfortable.

The earliest warning sign is often bad breath, but more advanced disease can cause pain, difficulty eating, or even infections that affect the heart and kidneys. Preventive care is essential to keeping your Shih Tzu’s mouth, and overall health, in great shape.

How we can help:

• Oral exam – We check for plaque buildup, alignment issues, and signs of gum infection. We also evaluate for loose, broken, or crowded teeth
• Dental X-rays – These allow us to see below the gumline where serious issues can hide. X-rays help identify pockets of infection under the teeth, bone loss from the jaw, and damaged roots, which can all cause unrealized pain. This helps the veterinarian determine if any teeth need to be pulled or if infections need additional treatment
• Professional cleaning – Just like people, Shih Tzus need regular dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. Dental cleanings under anesthesia performed by a veterinarian are the safest and most effective way to thoroughly clean your Shih Tzu’s teeth. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria, protect their airway, and allow the vet to remove any teeth that may be causing problems. This also lets the vet identify issues that aren’t visible during a regular exam
• Home care guidance – We can recommend brushing routines, dental diets, or safe chews to help maintain your dog’s oral health between visits.

Luxating Patella (Kneecap Dislocation)

Shih Tzus are prone to a condition called luxating patella, where the kneecap slips in and out of place. This can cause your dog to suddenly hop, skip a step, or hold one leg up while walking. Some dogs may not show discomfort, but others may limp or seem reluctant to run or jump.

In mild cases, this condition may be managed with monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. More severe or painful cases can lead to long-term joint problems and may require surgery to correct.

How we can help:

• Physical exam – We carefully assess your dog’s knees, feeling for looseness or abnormal movement of the kneecap.
• X-rays – Imaging helps us evaluate the severity of the condition and check for signs of arthritis or bone changes.
• Treatment planning – Depending on the grade of the luxation, we may recommend joint supplements, weight management, or surgical correction for long-term relief and mobility.

Eye Problems (Dryness, Injury & Pressure Issues)

Shih Tzus have large, expressive eyes that are especially vulnerable to injury, irritation, and dryness. Their flat faces and prominent eyes make them more exposed, increasing the risk of scratches from rough play, rubbing, or debris like dust and hair. Their long facial hair can also trap stray hairs or become matted, which often causes additional irritation. Signs of eye trouble in Shih Tzus include squinting, pawing at the face, redness, discharge, or swelling. If left untreated, eye issues can cause discomfort, vision loss, or permanent damage. Regular eye exams and gentle grooming are essential to keeping your Shih Tzu’s eyes healthy and comfortable.

How we can help:

• Fluorescein dye test – We apply a gentle, eye-safe dye to reveal scratches or ulcers.

• Tear test – This checks for dry eye, which can cause infection and discomfort if untreated.

• Eye pressure test (Tonometry) – This screens for glaucoma, a serious condition that requires lifelong management or surgery.

Skin Allergies

Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that need regular grooming to stay healthy and free of mats, but they are also prone to skin allergies and sensitivities. Their immune systems can react to environmental triggers like pollen, dust mites, or certain foods, leading to persistent itching, redness, and skin inflammation. Additionally, Shih Tzus’ floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, making them susceptible to chronic ear infections if not cleaned regularly.

If your Shih Tzu is scratching at their ears or skin, shaking their head, licking or chewing at certain areas, or seems generally uncomfortable, it might be time for a check-up. Redness, odor, discharge, scabs, or hair loss are all signs that something’s not right.

How we can help:

• Skin / Ear Cytology – We examine samples under a microscope to check for infections like bacteria, yeast, or mites. This helps us choose the most effective medication based on what’s actually causing the problem.
• Culture Testing – This goes a step further than cytology. It helps us identify the exact type of bacterial or fungal infection that’s making your Shih Tzu uncomfortable and determines which medications will work best to treat it.
• Allergy Tests – Blood or skin testing can reveal environmental allergy triggers. This helps us tailor your Shih Tzu’s diet and develop a personalized allergy treatment plan.
• Food Trials – If we suspect a food allergy, we may try different diets to determine if food is the underlying issue.
• Medications – We provide options for both immediate relief and long-term management of skin and ear issues related to allergies or infections.

Back and Spine Problems (IVDD – Intervertebral Disc Disease)

Shih Tzus are prone to a condition called Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae in the spine begin to bulge or rupture. This puts pressure on the spinal cord and can cause pain, weakness, or even paralysis. If you notice your dog hesitating to jump, walking with a hunched back, trembling, or even dragging their hind legs, it’s time to get them checked out quickly.

How we can help:

• Physical exam – We gently examine your Shih Tzu’s spine and limbs, checking for signs of pain, weakness, or neurologic changes.
• Imaging – X-rays help us rule out other causes of back pain and may indicate the need for advanced imaging (like MRI or CT) for a more detailed diagnosis.
• Treatment planning – Based on the severity, we may recommend strict crate rest,

anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or refer for surgery to protect long-term mobility and comfort.

• Reducing the risk – We can help by monitoring your Shih Tzu’s weight, recommending safe exercise options or supplements, and offering guidance on lifestyle adjustments tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

We’re here to care for your Shih Tzu like one of our own. Schedule a visit today so we can partner with you to keep your loyal companion happy, healthy, and thriving for years to come. Mention this email when booking, and you’ll receive 50% off the wellness exam and consult for your Shih Tzu.

Warmly,

The Doctors and Team at Plantation Midtown Animal Hospital

Dr. Sausner, Dr. Alonso and Dr. Zimandy