Black Shih Tzu: Friends for Life 

Shih Tzus are friendly, outgoing, silky, flowing, smooth-coated, loving dogs with soft faces. Though they are available in as many colors as you desire, the black Shih Tzu is extremely special due to its extremely dark color and regal look.

If you’d like to have your black Shih Tzu as a pet delivered to your house or simply learn everything regarding the great coloration of the breed, the following information will be full of information.

What is a Black Shih Tzu?

Black Shih Tzu is one of Shih Tzu’s solid black coat lines. Shih Tzus have the widest range of coat colors, except for black. They have silky, flowing, plush coats with aura of dignity around them and are simply irresistible to some dog fanciers.

Problem: Coat and Color Changes in Shih Tzus

• Solid Black: Solid black Shih Tzu is okay, nice, shiny, bright black coat, but dolorously deviant in some manner. They are rather matte and soft-appearing, or rather shiny. 
• Black with White Markings: Black Shih Tzus also have white markings on their paws, chest, or faces. This is another very nice and cute appearance.
• Black Shih Tzus: Black being the exception, Shih Tzus are found in colors ranging from gold and chocolate to white to a combination of the above.

Getting a Black Shih Tzu’s Coat

Black Shih Tzu has a silky, flowing coat that will not break and does not need trimming unless it is under constant grooming. Its double coat comprises:

• Outer coat: Long and soft to the touch, and streaming too.
• Undercoat: Soft and dense, to warm the body.

The beautiful coat will have to be brushed daily so that it won’t become matted, but properly done, then the black Shih Tzu coat will glow and be gorgeous looking. 

Black Shih Tzu Personality Traits

Though a black Shih Tzu possesses all the natural traits of all the other Shih Tzus, it possesses certain unique traits that set it apart.

Black Shih Tzu Personality Traits:

• Affectionate: Any Shih Tzu, including black Shih Tzus, is extremely cuddly and affectionate and loves being around its owner. They bond and snuggle up in your lap for hours with utmost vigor. 
• Friendly: Black Shih Tzus are friendly dogs, ideal for singles, families, and the elderly. They are also friendly with children and other pets.
• Independent but Obedient: Black Shih Tzus are independent but enjoy being pampered. Nevertheless, they turn obedient after excellent training and accept commands immensely. 
• Playful: Black Shih Tzus are playful despite being among the smallest dog breeds. They play for a bit and then get tireful.

Health and Care for a Black Shih Tzu

Black Shih Tzus and black sister dogs are healthy but share generic health problems like any other dog breed. The more you understand generic health problems most likely to occur in them, the better pet parent you will be.

Common Health Issues

1. Brachycephalic Syndrome: Like one or two other toy breeds, the Shih Tzu is brachycephalic (short, flattened face) and, therefore, has stertorous breathing. Observe your dog’s breathing very closely, especially when in heat or following exercise.”
2. Eye Issues: Shih Tzus also experience tear stains, easily noticeable in black-faced Shih Tzus. They result from the spilling tears, creating reddish-brown marks surrounding and over their eyes. Wiping requires supervision so they won’t create.
3. Hip Dysplasia: Fewer Shih Tzus than the bigger breeds will get hip dysplasia, but a few will have it knocking on their door properly. Prevention through exercise, diet, and staying in shape is enough prevention for such an ailment.
4. Mouth Conditions: The Shih Tzu, like other toy breeds, is prone to mouth conditions like gum disease and tooth rot. Brush your Shih Tzu’s teeth daily and give dental chew toys or chews.
5. Surface Allergies: Surface allergens attack Shih Tzus as well and appear as rashes on the outside of them. Black Shih Tzus, simply because they happen to be black in coat, are typically victims of skin disease that would be simpler to spot were their coat not so thick.

Black Shih Tzus Grooming Needs

Grooming requirements of these black Shih Tzu are the same as any other color of Shih Tzu, other than the shorthair, as a color isolating grooming requirement:

• Brush Daily: Shih Tzus, particularly long black Shih Tzus, require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Loose hair and dirt can brushing off using a pin brush or a slicker brush.
• Bathtime: Bathe your Shih Tzu for 3-4 weeks to try to wash their coat. Shampoo and condition the dog using shampoo and conditioner, and condition and polish their hair. 
• Eye Care: Because the black Shih Tzu’s eyes protrude, gently wipe away daily tear stains. Wipe clean around the eye using a wet cloth or dog tear stain remover.
• Trimming: They need their coats trimmed around their faces and paws regularly so that they are neat and clean. A professional trimmer should trim them every 4–6 weeks, which is the best way to make the coat readily available.

Selecting a Black Shih Tzu

If you desire a black Shih Tzu in your life, there are some things that you need to look into before deciding:

Things to Consider:

1. Temperament: Ensure the dog’s temperament fits your family lifestyle and life. Shih Tzus are otherwise social and friendly but will be happy with your family life as well.
2. Health and Genetics: Purchase a healthy black Shih Tzu puppy from a good-quality breeder who tests for genetic diseases like hip dysplasia, eye disease, and brachycephalic syndrome. Good-quality breeders will have the parents’ health cleared.
3. Age: They are hard to train but very people-attached. Older black Shih Tzus will be simpler to train and are more likely to be cured of some of their behavior and medical issues.
4. Coat Condition: Your coat must be conditioned well and in good condition. This is the only section to examine your dog’s coat or skin in good condition and entirely healthy.

Black Shih Tzu’s Dream Home

Like any Shih Tzu, black Shih Tzus would love spoiling in a home where they are treated like royalty and pampered. However, they need a few special things to enjoy their home life.

• Home Pets: Shih Tzus are home pets and should never be outside at any time of the day. They like to be in warm, climate-controlled areas. 
• Apartment Living: Black Shih Tzus also did very well in apartment living because they are very small and get along well. They need exercise and stimulation to lead a healthy and happy life.
• Exercise Needs Energy Needs: Although Shih Tzus don’t need exercise, they enjoy walking and running short distances. Ensure they get a good rest for the brain in case they get bored and behave.
• Socialization: They are ideal for families where they need to share pets or kids and socialize with the family. They are friendly and gentle and are excellent pets for families.

Black Shih Tzus and Allergies

One of the numerous things that humans love about Shih Tzus, and black Shih Tzus specifically, is their low-shedding coat, which makes them perfect for individuals with allergies. 

While no dog can ever be considered hypoallergenic, black Shih Tzus are perfect for individuals who suffer from mild pet allergies because:

1. Less Dander: Shih Tzus released fewer dander particles during shedding than any other dog breed.  
2. Less Shedding: Because their coats keep growing and shed very little, less hair and dander are lost within the house.  
3. Regular Grooming: Brushing and frequent grooming of your black Shih Tzu will help keep the allergens under control.

If you or a family member is allergic, you must control allergens by practicing environmental hygiene, bathing the Shih Tzu, and regularly brushing its coat.

Is a Black Shih Tzu for You?

Black Shih Tzus are a beautiful breed with a gentle temperament and extremely high grooming needs. Their silky, dark fur and smiling faces make them perfect companions for singles, retirees, and families.

However, they do require commitment to grooming and health care. If you’re willing to dedicate time to their coat and medical needs, a black Shih Tzu can make a loyal and loving companion for many years.

If you are able to get one back to your family, simply ensure that you give them a clean and nice home. Also, always ensure that they get nice grooming and regular medical checkups in an attempt to keep them healthy and in good shape.