About Deanna Isenhour Expertise I can answer most questions on Shih Tzu Breeding, caring for and raising puppies and adult shih tzu's. I familiar with the breed standard and history.
Expert: Deanna Isenhour Date: 12/28/2007 Subject: Six Week old Shih Tzu health concern
Question We added a six week old Shih Tzu puppy for Christmas to our family (48 hours ago).Do you think this young of a puppy presents serious health risks for the dog? We had many visitors and lots of handling over the last two days and now she seems to be very lethargic.At first she was eating approx every 4 hours playing for a little while then sleeping.She pee'd and pooped every time she woke up or after eating no problem. Now she seems to be sleeping non stop and not eating much at all. Diarrhea the last two times she eliminated and not interested in any playtime I know health issues with a puppy can occur quickly. Any suggestions or comments would be greatly appreciated.
Answer First things first, I don't understand why the breeder even allowed the puppy out the door at 6 weeks. The puppy should not go out the door until it is at least 8 weeks old and had it's first series of vaccinations. It is too much stress and too much handling on the puppy at this age and she may have picked up a virus. You need to take her to the vet to have her examined and check your contract if it allowed for a certain time for an exam (72 hours) and then contact the breeder with any problems that arise from the vets visit
