There are many myths involving the health of Imperial Shih Tzu commonly known as the Chinese Imperial Dog. Most of these are unfounded. This article will address the most common ones and dispel the myths.

Umbilical Hernias
An umbilical hernia is a small bubble like protrusion of fat at the navel. This is very common in the breed as the Imperial Shih Tzu has a flat face with an under bite. This does not allow the dam to cut the cord with her teeth. The breeder must cut the cord for her. If the cord is tugged on excessively it will cause an umbilical hernia. Most are very small and will close over time as the puppy grows. This can take up to one year. Some small ones do not ever close. This is not a cause for concern and will not effect the health of the dog as long as you are able to push the fat back into the hole. If the bubble becomes hard or the hernia is quite large you should have it surgically repaired. A great time to have this done is when you spay or neuter your pet.

Pinched Nostrils
Your puppy may have snorty sounding breathing. This may be caused by tightly closed nostrils. This is called pinched nostrils. When your puppy is teething, it causes the gums and the lining of the nostrils to swell. They may also have a clear discharge coming from the nose. This clears up after the adult teeth grow in. As long as the puppy is eating, drinking and playing normally then the puppy is just fine and healthy. If the puppy is not eating or playing then there may be and infection and should be seen by your Veterinarian.

Reverse Sneezing
Reverse sneezing is when your puppy seams to be unable to breath easy and making a honking or snorting sound. The cause may be allergies, nasal irritants or even nasal inflammation. This can be a bit alarming to witness as it seams that the dog is not able to breath. Reverse sneezing is not life threatening and will last a very short time.

Open Fontanels
Sometimes the smaller Imperial puppies will mature slower than the larger Shih Tzu and will have an open fontanels longer. This is will most likely close as the puppy gets older. This does not predispose the dog to a condition called hydrocephalus. However, the puppy should be protected from hitting it’s head as this could cause injury or death.

Many people unfamiliar with our precious breed have alarmed new comers to the breed unnecessarily. The Imperial Shih Tzu is quite a healthy breed and will make a wonderful pet without concern for it’s health.

Karen Christensen