CS Swarens asked:

Does your dog run away yelping with its tail between its legs every time it hears a loud noise? Perhaps it is not quite that dramatic, but many pet owners have pooches who are quite frightened by loud noises such as the sound of thunder. Even the most aggressive dogs may run off to hide under the bed or in a closet when thunderstorms pass through. But, is it normal for a pet to get frightened by loud noises and, if so, is there anything you can do to help alleviate your pet’s fear?

Is Fear of Loud Noises Common?

Believe it or not, having a fear of loud noises such as thunderclaps is relatively common among dogs. In fact, feeling frightened by loud noises is considered to be a normal response to what is perceived as a threatening situation. After all, feeling frightened and reacting to this fear helps remove the animal from a potentially dangerous situation. When the fear develops into a phobia that causes your pet to react in an unreasonable manner, however, it can become a true problem.

Unfortunately, repeated exposure to the loud noises rarely helps aggravate the phobia once it has developed. In fact, repeatedly hearing loud noises often increases both the fear and corresponding nervousness in your dog. A dog that is afraid of the sounds of thunder may also begin to become fearful of other loud noises, such as the sound of a car that is backfiring or the sound of fireworks.

Is it Really a Problem if My Dog is Afraid of Loud Noises?

Although fear of loud noises is certainly troublesome to your pet, it can also become problematic to the owner as well. For example, a dog that is afraid of loud noises may become overly needy of your attention, which can become a nuisance. In addition, a fearful dog may exhibit any of the following symptoms:

- Freezing in place
- Pacing
- Excessive panting
- Trembling
- Excessive salivating
- Attempting to escape
- Uncontrolled urination
- Excessive barking

In addition, a fearful dog may accidentally hurt itself or its owner in its attempt to get away from the frightening sound. Therefore, it is a good idea to take steps to help alleviate the fear or to prevent your pet from becoming frightened in the first place.

How Can I Treat My Dog’s Fear of Loud Noises?

There are a couple different approaches you can take when it comes to treating your dog’s fear of loud noises. One option is to make attempts to hide the noise by covering it up with the sounds of a radio, television, air conditioner or fan. Of course, these background noises may not always be loud enough to cover the sound of a thunderstorm and you may not always be home to turn these devices on when a storm occurs. Therefore, it is better to take steps to help your pooch get over its fear.

One of the best ways to help your pet get over its fear is to use desensitization techniques. This involves replicating the noise your pet is afraid of, but exposing your pet to the noise at a reduced volume. By gradually increasing the volume of the noise, your pet can become used to the sound rather than becoming more frightened by it. If this doesn’t help, it may be necessary for you to obtain anxiety medication to give to your pooch during storms or when otherwise exposed to loud noises. This way, both you and your pet can feel more relaxed when situations occur.

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Shih Tzu Grooming

Rebecca Simpson asked:

One of the most eye-catching features of a Shih Tzu or Shih Tzu mix is their glorious, flowing and soft coat. In show Shih Tzus, this coat covers the eyes and reaches to the ground. In ancient China, where the breed originated, a long thick coat was necessary for survival in the drafty royal palaces. But that coat is a bear to deal with every single day.

Only show Shih Tzus should be kept in a full coat. Otherwise, the average Shih Tzu owner will go insane. Shih Tzu grooming of a full coat takes just as long as grooming the full coat of an Afghan hound (a much bigger dog). And your local climate is probably a lot more temperate than Northern China. If you live hot climates, a full coat will kill your dog. All breeding and pet Shih Tzus’ coats should be kept in a Shih Tzu puppy clip.

You need to make Shih Tzu grooming a rewarding experience for your dog. They should be praised and brushing should be like another expression of affection and no hitting the dog is allowed. Get your dog used to being bathed, brushed, combed, ears wiped, eyes wiped and nails clipped as soon as you can. Get them used to the sound of clippers days or even weeks before using them yourself. They should stand still before you attempt clipping them.

Your electric clippers will come with a dizzying array of detachable blade lengths, designated by numbers. Some professional dog groomers recommend a number four blade for the Shih Tzu puppy cut. A number ten will get rid of stubborn tangles, but will make a shorter cut. Number forty is what vets use before they operate – try not to get that mixed up with a four! Keep your clippers clean and stored well and this most expensive of Shih Tzu grooming supplies will last many years.

A Shih Tzu puppy cut is great for easy grooming but other grooming supplies will be necessary and can be found wherever pet products are sold. You need at least a nail clipper, a soft brush, a small slicker (or pin) brush (which have a square base) and a flea comb. All other brushes, combs and wipes are optional. Keep in mind that any white areas around the Shih Tzu’s eyes, nose and mouth will often be discolored, but shouldn’t be smelly. Introduce your Shih Tzu to the daily Shih Tzu brushing routine as soon as possible.

Shih Tzu grooming should be a time your dog looks forward to, or else your life will quickly become miserable. Use positive reinforcement and lots of verbal praise and treats during any Shih Tzu grooming session. Shih Tzus love to be the center of attention and quickly learn to stay put for it. Get out any tangles with a soft brush first, then with a slicker. A flea comb helps check for parasites and for very small, tough tangles. Clip the nails only when necessary. A Shih Tzu puppy cut makes this routine a lot easier.

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jodiprossr asked:

I would like to learn to groom my Shih Tzu. I was wondering if there are any good DVD’s out there that will show you how it’s done.

I’ve been able to keep it short after he came back from the groomers, but I’d like to start letting his hair grow.

I’ve seen some for sale, but I’m not sure if they are worth while.

Thanks,

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janet899 asked:

Some people say that for small breed indoor dogs you don’t really have to neuter or spray them. I have a Shih Tzu. I am trying to find out what are some cons I need to know about if I don’t neuter him.

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