Blue-eyed Shih Tzu – All Information You Need To Know

One of the exciting kinds of Shih Tzu is the ones with blue eyes. The standard eye color of this breed is black. Thus, dogs of this kind with blue eyes don’t come as often. Moreover, having blue eyes may even mean some type of health complication. Therefore, while Blue-eyed Shih Tzus may look unique and elegant, it’s not a good thing for them.

If you’re into pets with unique eyes, then this type of Shih Tzu is for you. Of course, it’s only as long as you understand and accept the risks.

In this article, we will cover all the essential information you need to know about Shih Tzus. 

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

General info

As I said earlier, Blue-eyed Shih Tzus may look fancy and adorable due to their striking blue eyes. In reality, that particular attribute may be an indication of a health complication.

Aside from the eyes, these dogs usually have the same characteristics as their typical breed. In general, we can sum up the information about this type with the following:

Size

  • 9-16 lbs is the average weight of both male and female
  • 10 inches is the average height of both male and female

Features

  • Blue-eyed Shih Tzus have blue coats and blue eyes.

What to expect

  • Needs 20 minutes of exercise per day
  • Has an average energy level
  • Has an average lifespan of 11-14 years
  • Does not drool much
  • Does not snore much
  • Barks Quite Loud
  • Does not dig much
  • Requires close attention and care
  • Requires high and constant grooming

Bred type

  • Lapdog

Coat

  • Long Fur Coat
  • Straight Coat
  • Color varies

Club Recognition

  • AKC Classification – Toy
  • UKC Classification – Companion Dog

If you want an in-depth take on each aspect of this breed’s characteristics, take a look at the following.

Appearance

Like the typical ones, blue-eyed Shih Tzus are sturdy, lively, and alert toy dogs wrapped in a long flowing double coat.

Its head is usually round, broad, and is wide between eyes. Its size is always in balance with the body. Thus, it’s neither too large nor too small.

Their expression is warm, wide-eyed, sweet, trusting, and exceptionally friendly. 

The body is short-coupled and sturdy, with no waist. This breed is also a bit longer than tall.

The coat is a luxurious one. It’s double-coated, long, flowing, and quite dense. The shoulders are well-angulated, well laid-in, and well laid-back. It fits smoothly in the body as well.

The legs are relatively straight, boned, muscular, and well-apart under the chest.

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus also have healthy and perpendicular pasterns. The feet are quite firm, well-padded, and point straight ahead. It has dewclaws that you can remove.

Size

Shih Tzus have small sizes, making them perfect lap and toy dogs. The same goes for the blue-eyed ones.

Both male and female Shih Tzus have an average weight of 9 to 16 lbs. Both also have an average height of 10 inches tall.

Of course, some types of Shih Tzus are smaller than the others, like teacups and imperial. However, such classifications are prone to many more health issues due to having tiny organs.

While Blue-eyed Shih Tzus usually have the regular size, it doesn’t mean they’re as healthy as the purebreds and those with proper weight and height.

Coat colors and quality

Blue-Eyed Shih Tzus usually have blue coats. Some dogs with typical coat colors typically have black eyes since it’s the standard eye color for this breed. However, due to some health complications, their eyes may turn blue.

For this reason, your best bet in getting a blue-eyed pup is by checking its coat. If a puppy has a blue one, then its eyes are blue from the start. However, if the coat’s color has no blue shade, it may have blue eyes due to complications.

In general, this breed comes in a variety of colors and color combinations and styles. They have long and silky coats that are gorgeous in everyone’s eyes. Their coats may come in the following:

  • Black (Solid Black is rare)
  • Black and White
  • Gray (or silver) and White
  • Brown (Solid brown, which is often considered Liver)
  • Brown and White
  • Red and White

Tails that have white tips and foreheads with white blaze are quite expensive. Shih Tzus that come is Solid Black is the rarest of all.

History

Shih Tzus are one of the oldest dog breeds. Thus, they carry some fancy history with them.

One theory states that Shih Tzu descended from a cross between the breeds Pekingese and Lhasa Apso in the 17th century.

Shih Tzus back then earned the favor of many emperors and royals. Thus, they don’t allow any selling or trading of such pups.

It was only in 1930 that the first dogs of such breed got imported into Europe. Its first European Standard happened in 1935 by the Shih Tzu Club.

It was in 1969 that the American Kennel Club recognized it as belonging to the Toy Group.

In 2013, the Shih Tzu breed ranked the 15th of the most popular among all species.

Temperament

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus make the perfect family and lapdogs due to their warm temperament. Thus, if you plan on getting one, you can’t go wrong with their attitude.

Here are five of the personalities you’ll surely love with your Blue-eyed Shih Tzu:

Playful

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus love to play, and they’ll play and spend time with you as long as you want.

Whatever the activity may be, expect this dog to be always ready for it.

Thus, no matter what game you choose to play, your pet will likely be the same as long as you enjoy it.

Stubborn

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus can be quite stubborn, especially in following commands. The reason is that they may find it challenging to catch on.

Thus, when training your pet, it’s essential to be consistent and patient. Moreover, expect that training would take you longer and will require you more time.

Quiet

Unlike other dog breeds, Shih Tzus are more on the quiet side. The reason is that this isn’t a breed designed to be watchdogs.

For this reason, don’t expect your pet to be alert when a stranger comes. It’s ideal for those of you who stay in an apartment, wishing for a quiet but adorable companion.

Friendly

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus see everyone as their friends. Thus, if you have visitors, your pet may think they’re visiting him and not you.

Thus, if you have companions around the house, you’ll be sure this pet will be everyone’s friend.

Devoted

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus are the ideal breed designed for long-term companionship. Thus, being devoted as your partner or buddy is what he boasts of all the time.

As long as you treat your pet right and you take good care of it, you’ll end up having the best buddy that devotes itself to you.

Blue-eyed Shih Tzu and family

With all those qualities, it’s no question why Blue-eyed Shih Tzus are the ideal family pets. The only thing that sets these pups from their breed is that they can be more delicate and prone to health complications. However, they can still make great pets for all members.

One great thing about these dogs is that they get along with other pets and even with children. Thus, as long as the kids know how to deal and play with small pups, they won’t pose any problem.

This breed boasts of being an affectionate pet towards all family members. Moreover, it sees everyone as friends. Thus, it is an ideal pet, even for a household that receives many visitors.

Affection is this breed’s dominant trait. Moreover, your lap is its favorite place. Thus, they are at their happiest state when they are with you or your family as they give and receive attention.

This breed also gets along with other dogs or animals. They have that docile personality that makes them an ideal companion for kids.

While they are friendly, they can be a bit clingy and only follow their owner’s orders. However, that trait usually happens only through training.

Although you can entrust kids with this breed, it’s always a great idea to supervise them when they play. This way, you can ensure the safety of both your kids and your pet.

Care and life with American Shih Tzu

Before you take a Blue-eyed Shih Tzu home, you must learn and understand how to care for this pup. You must also understand what to expect with your life with this adorable companion.

Of course, as owners, you’ll need to adjust your preferences to suit your pet. Moreover, it will also change the way you see things.

A Shih Tzu would need constant care to keep good health. It requires regular feeding and food planning to have a good diet.

Moreover, it needs to play, exercise, and train regularly. Without further ado, let’s have an in-depth take on the things to keep in mind.

Blue-eyed Shih Tzu dog

Health

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus don’t have the best health among all Shih Tzus. Thus, they can be quite delicate, and you may even expect frequent visits to the vet throughout its life.

Aside from the birth complications, there are other health complications your pet may experience. Since they already have some defects, they can suffer more than the healthy Shih Tzus if they get sick.

As owners, you need to be aware of such conditions so you’ll know how to respond if your pet experiences it.

Allergies

Allergies come first in line when it comes to possible health issues for this dog. Generally, there are three main types of allergies, namely:

  • Food allergies
  • Contact Allergies
  • Inhalant Allergies

Eye Problems

The eyes of Shih Tzus are one of the usual roots of issues. Thus, extreme care and protection are essential for Shih Tzu’s eyes. Some of the eye problems include the following:

  • Keratitis
  • Proptosis
  • Distichiasis
  • Ectopia cilia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Dry eye

Other Health Issues

Other health issues that may happen to Shih Tzus are the following:

  • Canine hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Juvenile renal dysplasia
  • Bladder stones and bladder infections
  • Ear infections
  • Tooth and gum problems
  • Umbilical hernia
  • Portosystemic liver shunt
  • Snuffles
  • Reverse sneezing

It would be best to consult a vet to learn and understand your pet’s care. Your vet will give you recommendations on how you’ll deal with such conditions as well.

Feeding

The recommended amount you should give is 1/2-1 cup of high-quality dry food for the day when it comes to feeding.

It’s important to remember that the size of food you should give will depend on things such as:

  • Size – Big size means it needs more food
  • Age – Adults need more food than pups
  • Build – Bigger builds need more food
  • Metabolism – Faster metabolism needs frequent feeding.
  • Level of Activity – High levels of activity needs more food for sustenance.

Since Blue-eyed Shih Tzus are companion dogs, it may be tempting to share human foods as treats. Still, it’s essential always to be cautious when doing such things. Moreover, having these delicate pets, it’s critical to observe caution when feeding human food.

Of course, you can give the following as treats and only in small amounts and pieces. You can offer small amounts of cheese and fruits like apples and mangoes.

If you have ice cream, you can give your pet a taste. Still, remember not to give ice cream with chocolate flavor or any food with chocolate.

It’s also better to give small amounts of meat since it’s rich in protein. As long as you keep it as treats, you can provide pork and chicken. Still, when doing so, always make sure you offer it plain, cooked but without excess oil, and with no seasoning.

Here’s a list of toxic food that you shouldn’t give your Shih Tzu:

  • Chocolate
  • Raisins and Grapes
  • Macadamia Nuts
  • Nuts in general
  • Onions
  • Sweets and Candies (mostly sugar-free since they contain xylitol)
  • Mushrooms
  • Raw Egg
  • Cow’s Milk (due to being lactose-intolerant)
  • Products with Caffeine
  • Green potatoes (also toxic for us)
  • Bread dough
  • Moldy Food
  • Avocado
  • Cherries
  • Garlic

To learn more about feeding Shih Tzu, you can check out these related articles in our blog.

Training

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus are the types of pets you can enjoy playing with all day long. This trait makes them adorable and easy to love. However, when it comes to training, they could be quite stubborn.

Of course, he’ll learn basic commands and tricks. However, it may take a lot more time than training other breeds.

For this reason, training your pet requires consistency, gentleness, and understanding.

If you wish to teach your dog the basic commands, it’s essential to prepare yourself to be patient and consistent.

As always, remember that despite being adorable, they can be challenging to train.

Blue-eyed Shih Tzu breeders

If you plan on taking home a Blue-eyed Shih Tzu, you may check out these five breeders. They have all the information you need on their website. However, I added their contact information, in case you want to reach out to them.

Bluecajun Shih Tzus

Located in Louisiana, this shop specializes in rare true blue Shih Tzus and exotic colors of the said breed.

If you’re looking for a blue-eyed puppy, this shop is a must-visit one.

  • Located near Thibodaux, Houma, and Morgan City
  • Contact through their page: https://www.bluecajunshihtzus.com/Adoption-Information.html
  • https://www.bluecajunshihtzus.com/

Le Itsy Lolli Pups

Itsy Lolli Pups is a shop that offers cute puppies, and they boast of exotic and rare colors as well.

Thus, this shop may be a good starting point in looking for your dream Blue-eyed Shih Tzu. Be sure to check out their site.

  • Hayward, California 94544
  • itsylollipups@gmail.com
  • (510) 767-1345
  • https://www.itsylollipups.com/

Bells AZ Shih Tzu

Owned by Ali and David Bellerson, who are both dog lovers for a long time. They are Shih Tzu Hobby Breeders in Arizona for 11 years. They have experience in breeding litters with exotic colors.

Thus, checking them out may get you a Blue-eyed pup afterward.

  • alibellerson@yahoo.com
  • Chandler AZ 85225
  • https://bellsazshihtzu.com/

Fantasy Shih Tzu

With almost 30 years of experience, this shop boasts of its quality Shih Tzu Pups raised with love and care.

If you’re planning to get a Blue-eyed Shih Tzu, this shop is worth looking into as you head with your quest.

  • Green Lake, WI 54941
  • (920) 896-3017 / (920) 748-5659
  • tzupower1@gmail.com
  • https://www.fantasyshihtzu.com/

Maple Lane Pups

Maple Lane Pups started in 2006 when the owners Monica and Ed adopted their first Shih Tzu. From then on, they started breeding Shih Tzu Pups.

This shop boasts of its quality and home-raised pups. Be sure to check them out if you’re looking for blue-eyed puppies to take home.

  • Marion MI, 49665
  • (231) 743-6948
  • maplelanepups@yahoo.com
  • https://www.maplelanepups.com/

Interesting facts

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus have some interesting facts to tell its fans. Thus, if you’re curious to know more about this breed, you may find these few trivia interesting.

Here are some things you didn’t know about this type of Shih Tzu:

Blue-Eyes may indicate a health problem.

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus may boast of their awesome-looking eyes. However, it’s also one of their weaknesses as well.

The typical eye color of the Shih Tzu breed is black. Thus, while a blue one sets them apart from the rest, it’s not because they’re special.

The blue eyes come from a lack of genes. Thus, they run short of that blackness. In the end, their eyes remain blue.

The color of the nose and muzzle sets the color of the eye.

Many people think that the coat is the factor that states the color of the eye. However, the eyes of Shih Tzus depend most on the color of the nose and muzzle.

For this reason, Shih Tzus with a Blue Nose and Muzzle are the pups that will retain their blue eyes.

All Shih Tzu puppies start with blue eyes.

All Shih Tzu puppies begin their life with blue eyes. Of course, most people won’t notice the blue color since the pups usually have their eyes closed for a while.

However, all puppies start with blue eyes, and it eventually turns into black as they age. 

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus retain those colors due to a lack of genes or other health complications.

Types of Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is a breed that comes with a variety of distinctions. In general, there are eight specific types that you need to know.

Understanding the difference is essential in choosing your preferred pet to take home.

Aside from the blue-eyed ones, the other types of Shih Tzus are:

All eight types of Shih Tzus come from one of the same breed – the Shih Tzu. Thus, the traits and personalities are similar.

The main aspects that set them apart from each other are their appearance and health.

If you wish to know an in-depth take regarding this matter, you may read our article Types of Shih Tzu.

Summary

Blue-eyed Shih Tzus are perfect pets for people who want a unique appearance and don’t mind putting extra care and effort. Although these dogs may be a bit more delicate and fragile than the typical ones, they still make perfect pets for everyone.

Thus, as long as you’re willing to make an extra effort and care for this pet, you’ll have an excellent blue-eyed companion in your life.

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