Shih Tzu Eyes-What You Need to Know

 

A dog's eyes are their windows to the world, and I recomMend that every dog owner learn about proper eye care for their particular breed. The Shih Tzu, like many other breeds, is vulnerable to various eye problems, and if you know what to look for, you can be proactive in keeping your Shih Tzu happy. Also knowing what the breed standard say about the eyes, will help when you choose your next puppy.

Shih Tzu Eyes-What You Need to Know

Shih Tzu Eyes-What You Need to Know

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Shih Tzu Eyes-What You Need to Know

Shih Tzu Eyes-What You Need to Know

Breed requireMents

The Shih Tzu breed standard states that the eyes should be large, round and dark in color, with the exception of lighter coated dogs where light brown eyes are acceptable. Blue eyes are also acceptable in blue coated dogs. Very little of the white around the eyes should be visible when the dog is looking straight ahead. If you can see toomuch white, the dog's eyes are considered faulty by breed standards. The eyes should convey a feeling of warmth, friendship, and trust.

Eye Problems

Dry Eye, also known as KCS, is a problem where the eye does not produce enough tears to keep the eye properly lubricated. It is a common condition in older dogs, the Shih Tzu often gets KCS because of the shape of their eyes, which are usually large and protruding from their eye sockets. KCS is often treated by using Cyclosporine to stimulate tears, but before doing so, I would highly recomMend a visit to the vet for proper instructions.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelids turn inward actually along with the eyelashes, irritating the Shih Tzu's eyes and causing excessive watering. If the eyes of aShih Tzu water constantly, this will not only irritate the poor dog, but will also create tear stains that are almost impossible to remove. While tear stains can be reduced by clipping the hAir short, Entropion itself may require surgery. A related problem is called Distichiasis, where eyelashes grow too close to the eye and keep rubbing against it. This can cause scarring of the cornea and ulcers that may lead to blindness.

A serious eye problem for the Shih Tzu is called Proptosis. It can occur because Shih Tzu eyes tend to bulge out of the skull. Sometimes, the eyelids get stuck behind the eyeball and can't close properly. When this happens, the blood Supply to the eye can be cut off. You'll know it is happening if you see that your Shih Tzu is not blinking and seemsuncomfortable. I cannot stress enough how important it is to get to a vet immediately, since you only have about 20 or 30 minutes before the dog is blinded from lack of blood to the eye.

How to groom the hAir around the eyes

Shih Tzu Eyes-What You Need to Know