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The Shih Tzu is a remarkably adaptable travel companion that feels at home anywhere as long as it is with its owner. Its small size and calm temperament make it one of the easiest dogs to take on holiday, whether by train, plane, or car. It does not require hours of exercise but enjoys gentle walks and discoveries at its own pace. Its affectionate and sociable character makes it welcome in most dog-friendly accommodations and restaurants. Only its heat sensitivity requires some precautions during summer stays.
Atouts en voyage
- Exceptional adaptability to all travel environments and situations
- Small size allowing free train travel and cabin air travel
- Calm and composed temperament ideal for restaurants and cultural visits
- Natural sociability with all people, children and elderly alike
Defis a anticiper
- Heat sensitivity due to short muzzle as a brachycephalic breed
- Daily coat maintenance essential, especially on active holidays
- Fragility around large dogs and on overly rough terrain
Profil voyage
Se deplacer avec votre Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an exemplary train traveler: it fits easily into an approved carrier and travels free on the SNCF network. Its calm and quiet temperament makes it a discreet passenger that will not disturb neighbors. Place a small cushion in the bag for comfort and it will probably sleep through most of the journey. It is one of the simplest breeds to transport by train.
In the car, the Shih Tzu settles comfortably in a small crate or on a booster seat with a harness. It generally handles journeys well but may be prone to motion sickness, in which case a preventive treatment from the vet will help. Keep the air conditioning on in summer as its brachycephalic build makes it vulnerable to cabin heat. Breaks every two hours are sufficient for its modest needs.
The Shih Tzu travels in the cabin in a soft carrier slipped under the seat in front of you. However, some airlines refuse brachycephalic breeds due to respiratory risks linked to pressurization. Systematically check with the airline before booking and request a veterinary certificate attesting flight fitness. Short flights and cool periods are preferred.
Sante en voyage
Risques specifiques
- Respiratory distress linked to its brachycephalic build in case of heat or stress
- Frequent eye irritation as its protruding eyes are exposed to dust and wind
- Skin problems under the long coat if it remains damp or poorly maintained while traveling
Precautions
Clean its eyes and facial folds daily with a suitable lotion to prevent infections. Never subject it to intense exertion in hot weather and constantly monitor its breathing for signs of distress.
Tolerance chaleur
The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed particularly vulnerable to heat due to its narrow airways. Never take it out during the hottest hours and ensure it always has a cool, air-conditioned place to retreat to. Regularly wet its paws and belly and never make it run in hot weather.
Pharmacie de voyage
- Saline solution and gauze for daily eye cleaning
- Cleaning wipes for facial folds
- Detangling spray to maintain its coat while traveling
- Protective balm for sensitive paw pads
Equipement indispensable
Cabin-approved soft carrier
Its small size lets it travel everywhere in a suitable bag, on trains and planes; this is its number one accessory
Travel brush and comb
Its long silky coat needs daily brushing to prevent tangles and skin irritation
Eye wipes
Its prominent eyes are prone to irritation and need cleaning twice daily during travel
Cooling bandana
Its brachycephalic heat sensitivity makes an easy-to-carry cooling accessory necessary
Small padded harness
Its fragile neck and sensitive trachea require a harness rather than a collar for all walks
Ou partir avec votre Shih Tzu ?
The Shih Tzu is the ideal companion for urban and cultural holidays, restaurant terraces, and comfortable accommodations. It will also enjoy off-season beaches provided you protect it from the heat.
Le saviez-vous ?
The Shih Tzu was the sacred dog of the Chinese emperors and it was strictly forbidden to give one to a foreigner under penalty of severe punishment
Its name means 'lion dog' in Mandarin because it was groomed to resemble a lion, a sacred animal in Buddhism
Today's Shih Tzu descends from only 14 dogs, 7 males and 7 females, saved after the Chinese Communist revolution
Questions frequentes
Can the Shih Tzu go hiking?
The Shih Tzu can manage walks of 3 to 5 km on flat terrain at its own pace, but it is not a hiking dog. Its short legs and flat muzzle limit its physical capabilities and stamina. Choose gentle walks and plan to carry it on difficult sections.
Can my Shih Tzu travel by plane?
The Shih Tzu can travel in the airplane cabin thanks to its small size, but some airlines refuse brachycephalic breeds. Check each airline's policy and obtain a veterinary certificate confirming flight fitness. Favor short flights and cool periods to minimize respiratory risks.
How do you maintain the Shih Tzu's coat on holiday?
Plan 10 to 15 minutes of daily brushing with a suitable brush and comb to prevent tangles. A short summer cut before departure greatly simplifies holiday maintenance. Bring detangling spray and wipes for quick touch-ups between grooming sessions.
Is the Shih Tzu accepted in restaurants in France?
Thanks to its small size, natural calm, and well-groomed appearance, the Shih Tzu is generally very well accepted in dog-friendly restaurants. It slips discreetly under the table or stays quietly in its carrier. It is one of the most welcome breeds on terraces and indoors.
Does the Shih Tzu fear the cold in winter?
Despite its Tibetan origins, the modern Shih Tzu with its maintenance cut is not very resistant to damp cold. A warm coat is recommended for winter walks, especially if its coat is cut short. Also protect its paw pads from de-icing salt with a suitable balm.
