Shih tzu shopping list
Before you bring home your new shih tzu, go shopping for pet supplies. Use the following list as a guide for picking up feeding, grooming, and general pet care items for your dog.
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Premium puppy or adult dog food: kibble, canned, or both
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Dog treats (optional)
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Stainless steel or ceramic food and water bowls (they stay cleaner than plastic)
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Natural bristle brush (stay away from nylon)
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Pin brush
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Stainless steel Greyhound comb (two sizes of teeth, one narrow and the other wider)
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Shampoo specifically designed for dogs
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Coat conditioner
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Spray conditioner for use on dry coat during brushing
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Toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs
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Moisturizing eye drops (if vet-recommended)
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Tear-stain remover (for light-coated dogs)
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Hair accessories for the topknot. (Small plastic bands designed for small, long-coated dogs avoid hair breakage.)
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Clippers, scissors, and mat splitter (if you’re grooming your own dog)
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Toenail clippers
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Small crate or kennel
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Pet carrier or shoulder bag
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Bedding
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Lightweight leash
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Collar or harness
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Identification tags
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Safe toys with no small parts that can break off and become a choking hazard
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Pens or baby gates
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Pet bed and other furniture
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Luxury items like jewelry, clothing, fancy spa products, and shih tzu paraphernalia for you
Pet emergency contacts
If an emergency occurs, your shih tzu has the best chance of recovery if you act quickly and appropriately. To prepare yourself and your family for a pet emergency, fill out this list of pet contacts, keep a copy in your wallet and keep a copy handy, like on your refrigerator.
| Veterinarian |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
| Address: |
| Emergency Veterinary Clinic |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
| Address: |
| ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 |
| (Have your credit card number ready, too — a $75 consultation fee may apply) |
| Pet Sitter |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
| Doggy Daycare or Boarding |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
| Address: |
| People willing to help in case of emergency |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
| Name: |
| Phone: |
Perfect snacks for your shih tzu
It’s hard to resist giving your shih tzu a treat every time you look into those adorable, pleading eyes, but treats should be doled out sparingly — no more than two a day. Shih tzus can become overweight easily because of their small size. Look for healthy dog treats like these found right in your own fridge:
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One or two blueberries
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Very small broccoli florets (about an inch long)
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One baby carrot
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Tiny bits of cooked chicken, turkey, or fish
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Small pieces of strawberry
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Small chunks of hardboiled egg white
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Tiny pieces of raw apple
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Spoonful of nonfat plain yogurt
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Spoonful of lowfat cottage cheese
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A couple of Cheerios