We surveyed 230 Shih Tzu owners and asked them what they think their dogs would say if they could talk.

And, while some dogs may talk, dance and sign – but, it seems that very few dogs will ever compare to the ways a Shih Tzu says, “I love you”.

They smile.

They stare.

They pose.

And, they love to be loved – especially when you share time, food and attention with them!

If your Shih Tzu could talk, what would he/she say?

Well, to find out, let’s walk through a typical day in the life of a Shih Tzu.

Are you ready?

Let’s go…

Breakfast….did someone say breakfast?

It’s no secret that your Shih Tzu LOVES to eat.

And, to them, it’s always meal time!

However, your Shih Tzu can be a picky eater at times, especially when their only meal option includes “yucky dog food.”

When it comes to food, your Shih Tzu can be a little demanding:

“And, don’t buy me that cheap dog food, I have standards.”

“I’m not eating dog food, get cooking!”

But, they’re always willing to make the morning routine a little easier for you. And, they’ll have a little bit of whatever you’re having! They are easy to please.

And, they are more than happy to try a little – including your toast or coffee!

Constant companionship….promise!

You’re in luck!

If your Shih Tzu was allowed to make the rules, you would NEVER have to work another day in your life! Sounds like a pretty good deal, right?

Don’t worry about getting bored or feeling lonely while you’re sitting at home. You’re Shih Tzu is happy to keep you company all day long! You’ll rarely find any alone time with your Shih Tzu around. He/she is always happy to stay right underneath your feet. See, never alone.

“Watch out for me, you know I am right behind you!”

How do you feel about being constantly stared out?

Does that make you feel better?

Most Shih Tzu owners would agree that their dog is the best companion. They are givers of happiness, and they expect very little in return.

Everyone is treated equally and fairly in a Shih Tzu household – ok, almost everyone.

Our Shih Tzu friends are not selfish with their love, and they will graciously share it with anyone who wants it (or, doesn’t want it) throughout the day and night.

Sometimes, that means by letting their family members give them all the belly rubs, and all the treats they have to offer. But, most often, Shih Tzus know that how to keep their owner nice and content, just by allowing us to gaze into their big, beautiful and loving eyes – all day long!

Take me with you…Wait, where are we going?

Sometimes, our Shih Tzu friends like to think that they’re humans.

“I truly believe that he thinks he is a human, and our third child (not far from the truth).”

But, as with any human, that requires a lot of work. And, we’re not so sure that a Shih Tzu would be prepared for that.

Their typical work day consists of consuming a lot of treats, partying like a rock star, and taking plenty of naps, here and there.

Wait, that sounds oddly familiar for some reason…?

Most pet lovers would agree that if their Shih Tzu were in charge, every day would feel just like a weekend. And, if they were in charge, there are many things that they boycott right away.

If your Shih Tzu had it their way, many things would change – starting with:

• You would never have to give your Shih Tzu a bath, or pay for a groomer – okay, maybe just a little primping here and there.

• You won’t have to worry about scheduling visits to the vet’s office, except in emergencies, of course. Then, all deals are off.

“I forgive you for that one trip to the vet, where I came home sleepy”

• And, forget about buying clothes. Save the money. It’s too hot, and your Shih Tzu would prefer to be naked, so that you can reach his/her belly much easier!

The magical language of love…and crazy!

Based upon the survey results, most Shih Tzu owners see their pets as more than just dogs. They are our family members, our traveling buddies and our friends for life. And, just like an unruly teenager, it’s amazing what we can get them to do with a little bribery.

YES! Our Shih Tzu friends can be bribed to do just about anything – for treats.

It’s almost like magic. Just a few puppy treats can instantly transform even the laziest Shih Tzu into a singer, a dancer, a model, an athlete or even a bodyguard, especially when there’s a cat or a bird around!

Sometimes, it takes a lot more than just a tasty incentive to motivate a Shih Tzu. But, it never takes much more than a few strategically placed words to rouse them up from their semi-deep slumber.

Based upon the survey results, there are a few magical words that will awaken the ears of any Shih Tzu, and they are:

“Walk”

“Play”

“Ride”

“Out”

“Bye-bye”

These words work like magic, because your Shih Tzu can hear them from a mile away!

Even if you just accidentally mumble the sound that seems remotely similar to a magical word – your Shih Tzu’s ears will perk up right up. And, that’s when crazy happens!

They will instantly fall in love with you all over again! Whatever you’re doing, they want to do too. And, wherever you’re going, they want to come along!

You have their complete and undivided attention. Actually, it never went away – it was just tucked away for the moment, until something interesting happens.

What a Shih Tzu may lack in stature, they sure make up for with a BIG personality! And, it just keeps going and going…

Bedtime………not a chance!

At the end of the day, it’s fair to say that everyone is a little tired – except our furry friends.

It’s really hard work for a Shih Tzu to keep his/her owner happy, while still looking fabulous!

But, most pet lovers would agree that their Shih Tzu is always up for the challenge.

Shih Tzus aren’t lazy dogs, but they do like to snuggle and nap a little bit. That’s because they have to conserve their energy for the next round of crazy – which usually happens just before bedtime!

“He loves me unconditionally. He’s willing to protect me from all the leaves blowing around at 2-3am with a loud bark.”

And, how do you say “No” to a face like that?

We can learn a lot from our pets about how the world should be, including why it’s so important to take more naps during the daytime. But, no matter where they are or what we’re doing…

They will always be close by, and will love you unconditionally.