It’s a question that has plagued dog owners for years! Can a Shih Tzu swim? The answer, as it turns out, is yes and no. Some Shih Tzus love the water and will take to swimming like a fish, while others will do everything they can to stay as far away from the pool or lake as possible. So, what’s the verdict? Can a Shih Tzu swim? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question in more detail.
Can A Shih Tzu Hold His Own While Swimming?
The Shih Tzu is a small, lively dog with natural swimming instincts. They can’t swim for very long because they’re so light and don’t have the same endurance as other breeds of water-dogs like Labradors or German Shepherds!
They do, however, enjoy wading, but they will get tired quickly if you don’t take them out of the water frequently enough or keep their paws dry so they can walk on land comfortably. Having said that, the Shih Tzu may be able to swim for a short distance, they are not good at going any significant amount of time without stopping.
Is Shih Tzu Brachycephalic?
The Shih Tzu is brachycephalic, which means they have partially obstructed airways, leaving them a little harder job when breathing. This condition makes certain activities challenging, like swimming, because their nose is narrow enough. There’s not much room inside, even though dogs don’t need big lungs compared to some humans, but it still hinders its capacity.
The size of a Shih Tzu’s legs can also be a factor that makes swimming difficult. They have fur on their lower half, which means that when they swim in the water, it gets wet and heavy with all that excess water.
Does Shih Tzu Need To Be Taught To Swim?
The Shih Tzu, like all dogs and especially those that are smaller in size, can be trained to enjoy the water. However, it is important for owners of the breed not only to take them out on one occasion but also spend some time teaching their pup how they should behave when inside or near any submerged body of water. This will help avoid any accidents later down the line.
Tips On Getting Your Shih Tzu To Swim
Teaching a Shih Tzu to swim can be difficult, but it’s worth it. Make sure that you have patience and help them in the water with an arched-back coat equipped on one handle, so they don’t get splashed while trying to stay afloat or enjoy floating around comfortably without worrying about their wet fur getting cold too fast!
To make it easier for your Shih Tzu to learn how to swim, throw sticks and water toys in shallow waters. The perfect way of teaching them this skill is by throwing their favorite objects into the pool so that they can receive them again after being thrown back out with interest!
The Best Practice To Adopt While Teaching Your Shih Tzu To Swim
The best way to teach your Shih Tzu how to swim is by getting in the water yourself and testing its temperature. This will allow you both time for some playtime before beginning any lessons on technique or safety, which are important anyways!
When your Shih Tzu starts doggy paddling, they’re comfortable with what’s happening and ready for more! It can be difficult at times but keep practicing because eventually, it will become second nature once again.
It is important always to accompany your dog when he/she goes into the pool. Even if you think they will be okay for just five minutes, it’s better not to leave them unattended!
What To Do When A Shih Tzu Is Scared Of Water?
When your Shih Tzu is scared of water, the best thing you can do for them is to try and be as calm and reassuring as during this time. You can fill up a tub with warm tap water before slowly pouring it into one side at first. They have something familiar around them, which matched by an unfamiliar environment will help ease any fears or anxieties.
The best way is by taking it slow and not be pushing their limits. As with any new experience, they need time for adjustment before being introduced too heavily to get scared or uncomfortable around these environments.
Can A Shih Tzu Swim In Sea Water?
The answer to this question is yes, but there are some things you should know. Seawater can cause sickness and diarrhea, so make sure your pet stays healthy by staying out of the ocean or near bodies of water where it may have been saltwater!
If your Shih Tzu likes to swim in the sea, they mustn’t drink saltwater. Sand may also be ingested during these activities, which can cause serious health problems like irritation of their digestive tract or lungs.
How Far Can A Shih Tzu Swim?
A Shih Tzu can swim about three-quarters of an hour before getting tired, and it’s best not to go any longer than ten minutes at once when the pup first starts learning how to swim.
Conclusion
We want to conclude by saying that Shih Tzus can swim. They can do so because it’s in their nature. Just take proper precautions when swimming with your Shih Tzu and never leave them unattended!