The truth is Shih Tzu dogs and Lhasa Apsos are in fact, related. Though Lhasa Apsos originated from Tibet, they eventually made their way to China as gifts from Dalai Lhamas to Chinese Emperors. Upon their arrival in China, palace breeding kennels cross bred them with Pekingese dogs. Thus, the birth of the Shih Tzu breed.

However, though it may seem that we can hardly tell apart a Lhasa Apso from a Shih Tzu, both breeds also have their distinct differences. Here is a quick breakdown of each dog’s similarities and differences:

Built
Though two dogs are approximately the same size, you would notice that Lhasa Apsos have slightly taller and longer bodies. Shih Tzus on the other hand, are slightly smaller and have longer tails that curl up to their back.

Temperament
As far as personality goes, Lhasa Apsos tend to be more over-protective and guarded, while Shih Tzu dogs are usually more cheerful and outgoing. Both breeds are very distinct chewers as well.

Trainability
Since Lhasa Apsos tend to be more aloof, chances are they may respond negatively to basic training exercises. Shih Tzus, on the other hand, are much more eager to please their owners.

Health
As far as health concerns go, findings show that Shih Tzus tend to be more prone to eye infections as compared to Lhasa Apsos. Other health concerns that are quite common among both Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos include the risks of kidney infection, heart, vision, and spinal cord problems.

Appearance and Grooming
When it comes to dog grooming, it may be hard to tell one breed from the other. Usually Shih Tzus have a much sleeker look to them. It’s long, straight, and flowing hair would be different from the Lhasa Apso’s much shorter mop.

Whatever the case, simply remember that even though Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu share quite a number of traits together, the two are still very separate dogs with different personalities. Whatever breed you choose, one thing is for sure, any one of the two would prove to be a genuine loving companion.

A lot of it may revolve around how well you know your dog and the characteristics of the breed. To begin with you should try to make them feel comfortable and at ease. Play with them and give them heaps of attention and affection. Remember, while getting them to pose for the camera, continuously praise them for their good behavior. Shih Tzus are extremely smart and they will work out what you’re trying to do and tell them.

Many pictures of Shih Tzus usually incorporate costumes and or accessories that they love to play with or use. So if you’re planning on using costumes in your photo shoot, as soon as you get to your photo location, begin grooming your puppy as soon as possible, it also helps them feel comfortable as they love to be groomed.

While this breed can be rather stubborn about particular things, you might want to try a few costumes on prior to having their photo taken. This way you can see what suits them or if they don’t like a particular costume then just put it away and try something else. Forcing them to do something they don’t particularly want to do may result in the end of your photo session as they may no longer cooperate.

But if you’ve passed all that and have their favorite costumes ready and they are comfortable with their surroundings then you can start to take some photos of them. Try not to have too many people around or at a location that may be too noisy or distracting, this breed tends to be highly strung at times and may not behave well if spooked.

If you’ve got the perfect little fashion model doing all the right things, make sure you continue to praise them, treat them like royalty. Being the centre of the attention without surrounding distractions you should be able to take some great pictures.

The key to getting great photos of your Shih Tzu is a lot to do with the preparation and settling them at a location free of noise or distraction. Get them comfortable by grooming them. Practice with costumes before the session to find the perfect item you and your dog will be happy with. Pile on the compliments and praise throughout your photo session. End with a special treat and loads of affection and you should have some great photos of your special little mate.

Tear staining has also been linked to diet, genetics and the dog’s health. Allergies caused by environmental factors can also impact on tear stains, by irritating the eyes leading to excess moisture from they eyes.While tear staining in most cases is from excessive moisture from the eyes, it can also become a breading ground for bacteria and yeast. Tear stains are generally reddish-brown on Shih Tzus called Red Yeast. It can also emit a rather strong and pungent odor. Without treatment tear ducts can become blocked or infected which may result in excess tearing and deeper staining.

If infections take hold, you will need to follow a sequence to eliminate its presence. Medication may be prescribed by your local Vet to treat the infection. Tear stains are common amongst small breeds, but should not be taken as a normal condition that occurs. Treatments vary from oral medication that can alter the tears chemical metabolism, thus reducing the problem making them less apparent, to treating any skin irritations beneath the eyes. Seeking advice from your Vet is the best direction to go first in order to examine your Shih Tzu and guide you into the best direction of how to treat the condition.

Long hair and bulging eyes which are a common trait for this breed have a higher predisposition to eye stains or tear staining. While low quality commercial food can result in excessive tear stains, also some puppies have a tendency to have watery eyes during teething. Some females when in season tend to stain too. The environment can play a large factor depending on the time of year, such as dust, pollen, room deodorizers and sawdust.

If you notice the rusty-brown stains under your Shih Tzus eyes, see your local Vet to start a treatment to quickly eliminate the problem before it gets infected. Looking after dog health is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. To have a thriving companion or even a stunning show dog, keep their hair around their face and eyes tidy, and address any bacteria or yeast build up should it appear.