A Guide to Shichons

How long do Shichons live?

Key Stages and Behaviour:

• Puppyhood (0-12 months): Energetic, playful, curious, prone to chewing. Require consistent socialisation and training.
• Adolescence (1-3 years): Can be rebellious, testing boundaries. Increased energy and potential chewing. Focus on obedience training and clear rules.
• Adulthood (3-8 years): Calm and confident (with proper training). Enjoy routine and playtime. Ideal companions for walks and activities.
• Seniority (8+ years): Less active, may sleep more. Possible hearing or vision loss. Regular vet checkups crucial.

Behavioural Differences:

• Puppies: Require constant supervision and patience due to playfulness and teething.
• Adolescents: More independent and may challenge authority. Consistent training is essential.
• Adults: Enjoy calmness and settled routine, ideal companions for walks and playtime.
• Seniors: Require gentle exercise and mental stimulation due to reduced mobility.

Colour Variations and Lifespan:

Lifespan Influencers:

• Genetics: Inherited health conditions impacting lifespan.
• Nutrition: Balanced diet and healthy weight are crucial.
• Exercise: Regular activity promotes physical and mental well-being.
• Veterinary Care: Regular checkups and preventive measures are essential.
• Environment: Safe living conditions and avoiding accidents are important.

How much exercise do Shichons need?

General Needs:

• Moderate energy level: They require 30-45 minutes of exercise per day.
• Factors to consider:
  
• Age: Puppies need less, seniors might need shorter walks.
• Health: Consult your vet for specific recommendations.
• Individual personality: Some Shichons may be more active.

Activities They Enjoy:

• Walks: Explore new places, sniff interesting smells, socialise with other dogs.
• Playtime: Fetch, tug-of-war, puzzle toys, indoor obstacle courses.
• Dog parks: Supervised social interaction and running space.
• Training: Provides mental stimulation and strengthens your bond.

Signs of Insufficient Exercise:

• Destructive behaviour: Chewing, digging, excessive barking.
• Hyperactivity: Restlessness, pacing, inability to settle.
• Weight gain: Lack of exercise contributes to obesity.
• Separation anxiety: Destructive behaviour when left alone.
• Boredom: Lethargy, lack of interest in activities.

Additional Tips:

• Start slowly and gradually increase activity as your Shichon grows.
• Variety is key: Offer different activities to keep them engaged.
• Warm up and cool down: Avoid strenuous exercise on cold days.
• Respect your Shichon's limits: Don't push them too hard.

Are Shichons family dogs?

Socialisation Needs:

• Expose them to different people: Introduce your Shichon to people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and appearances from a young age. Take them for walks, visit friends and family, or have people over to your home.
• Expose them to other dogs: Controlled introductions to well-socialised dogs are crucial. Puppy socialisation classes are ideal for this, offering safe and supervised playtime with peers.
• Expose them to different environments: Don't limit your Shichon's world! Explore various locations with them - parks, pet stores, car rides, and even different parts of your town. Allow them to experience diverse sights, sounds, and smells.
• Positive interactions: Make all social interactions positive and rewarding. Use treats, praise, and gentle handling to create happy associations with new people, dogs, and environments.

Key Socialisation Stages:

• Puppyhood (0-12 months): This is the critical period for socialisation. Expose your Shichon to as many positive experiences as possible during this time.
• Adolescence (1-3 years): Continue socialisation, focusing on obedience training and managing any anxieties that might arise.
• Adulthood (3+ years): Maintain socialisation opportunities even in adulthood to solidify good behaviour and prevent fearfulness.

Ensuring a Friendly and Happy Shichon:

• Start Early and Be Consistent: The younger you start, the easier it is. Make socialisation a regular part of your Shichon's life.
• Respect Your Shichon's Pace: Some dogs are naturally more outgoing than others. Go slow and let them adjust comfortably, avoiding overwhelming experiences.
• Focus on Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, and playtime. Create fun and enjoyable experiences when introducing them to new things.
• Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your Shichon shows fear or aggression, consult a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist for guidance.

Additional Tips:

• Involve Your Whole Family: Everyone should participate in socialisation. This helps your Shichon build confidence interacting with various people.
• Make Socialisation Fun: Turn it into an adventure! Explore new places, play with different dogs, and engage in activities your Shichon enjoys.
• Enrol in Puppy Classes: This provides a structured and safe environment for learning socialisation skills early on.
• Socialise Responsibly: Always leash your Shichon and be mindful of others when engaging in socialisation activities.

How easy are Shichons to train?

Individual Factors:

• Age: Puppies learn faster (8-12 weeks old) but have shorter attention spans. Adults might take longer but have better focus and impulse control.
• Personality: Eager-to-please dogs learn quickly with positive reinforcement. Independent ones need patience and clear communication.
• Complexity of commands: Basic commands like sit, stay, come can be learned within weeks with consistent training. Advanced tricks require more time and effort.

Training Methods:

• Positive reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and happy interactions to motivate your Shichon. This is generally the most effective and humane method.
• Clicker training: Helps mark the exact moment your dog performs the desired behaviour, making association with rewards clearer.
• Short and engaging sessions: Keep training sessions fun and avoid overwhelming your dog. Start with 5-minute sessions and gradually increase.
• Consistency is key!: Regular, consistent training sessions are crucial for success. Aim for daily or every other day practice.

Estimated Time Frame:

• Basics (sit, stay, come): 2-4 weeks with consistent training.
• Intermediate commands (heel, leave it): 4-6 weeks with consistent practice.
• Advanced tricks: Vary based on complexity and individual dog.

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behaviour consistently.
• Short and Fun Sessions: Keep training enjoyable and engaging.
• End on a Positive Note: Always finish sessions with a successful command and positive interaction.
• Be Patient and Understanding: Mistakes happen! Reward effort and progress, not perfection.
• Consider Professional Training: If you struggle or seek expert guidance, a qualified dog trainer can be invaluable.

How energetic are Shichons?

Exercise Needs:

• Average recommendation: They require at least 30 minutes to 1 hour of daily activity, including walks, playtime, or a combination of both.
• Factors to consider:
  
• Age: Puppies need less exercise initially and gradually increase as they grow. Senior dogs might need shorter, gentler walks.
• Health: Consult your vet for specific exercise recommendations if your Shichon has any health conditions.
• Individual personality: Some Shichons may naturally be more energetic than others. Pay attention to your dog's cues and adjust activity accordingly.

Impact on You:

• Moderate commitment: You'll need to dedicate time daily to their exercise needs. You can incorporate this into your routine with walks, playtime, or dog park visits.
• Variety is key: Don't just stick to the same walk every day. Explore new routes, try different games, or introduce new toys to keep them engaged.
• Mentally stimulating activities: Offer puzzle toys, training sessions, or trick learning to keep their minds active and prevent boredom-related behaviours.
• Be prepared for energy bursts: Even with regular exercise, Shichons might have spurts of energy, especially when young. Be ready for zoomies and playful moments.

Tips for Owners:

• Start early: Establish consistent exercise routines early on, especially during puppyhood.
• Listen to your dog: Pay attention to their cues and adjust activity based on their energy level and stamina.
• Make it fun! Keep exercise and playtime engaging and enjoyable for both you and your Shichon.
• Seek professional help: If you struggle managing your Shichon's energy, consult a dog trainer or behaviourist for guidance.

How friendly are Shichons?

General Temperament:

• Affectionate and loving: They crave attention and form strong bonds with their owners.
• Playful and energetic: They enjoy games, walks, and exploring new things.
• Gentle and adaptable: They are generally good with children and other pets with proper socialisation.
• Intelligent and eager to please: They can be easily trained with positive reinforcement methods.

Potential Challenges:

• Vocal: They might be prone to barking if not trained properly.
• Stubborn: Their independent streak requires consistent and patient training.
• Separation anxiety: They can be sensitive to being left alone, potentially leading to destructive behaviour.
• High energy bursts: While moderate overall, they might have moments of playful zoomies.

Factors Influencing Temperament:

• Genetics: Breed predisposition and inherited traits play a role.
• Upbringing and socialisation: Early experiences significantly shape personality.
• Age: Puppies, adults, and seniors have different needs and behaviours.
• Individual personality: Just like humans, each Shichon has its unique quirks and preferences.

Tips for Understanding Your Shichon's Temperament:

• Observe their behaviour: Pay attention to how they react in different situations and around people and animals.
• Spend quality time together: Build a strong bond through play, training, and affection.
• Seek professional help: If you have concerns about your Shichon's temperament, consult a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist.

Do Shichons have health issues?

Common Health Issues:

• Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): This progressive heart condition is a leading cause of death in older Shichons. Regular vet checkups and early detection are crucial.
• Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement causing lameness. Surgery might be necessary in severe cases.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): A liver bypass issue causing neurological abnormalities. Early diagnosis and management are vital.
• Allergies: Can cause skin irritation, itching, and discomfort. Identify triggers and manage with medication or dietary changes.
• Eye Issues: Cataracts, dry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy are potential concerns. Regular eye exams are recommended.
• Ear Infections: Due to floppy ears, regular cleaning and vet attention are needed.
• Dental Issues: Regular brushing and professional cleanings prevent periodontal disease.

Ensuring a Long and Healthy Life:

• Preventive Care: Regular vet checkups, vaccinations, and parasite control are essential.
• Healthy Diet: Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Avoid overfeeding.
• Regular Exercise: Provide daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to maintain physical and mental well-being.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity can worsen joint problems and other health issues.
• Dental Care: Brush their teeth regularly and get professional cleanings when needed.
• Early Detection: Be familiar with common health issues and promptly address any concerning symptoms.
• Spaying or Neutering: Can offer health benefits like reduced cancer risk and less unwanted behaviours.
• Quality of Life: Ensure their environment is safe, enriching, and provides opportunities for play and relaxation.

Additional Tips:

• Pet Insurance: Can help manage unexpected veterinary expenses.
• Research Breed-Specific Health Issues: Stay informed about the latest developments and potential concerns.
• Build a Strong Bond with Your Vet: Regular communication ensures optimal care and personalised advice.

How expensive are Shichons to own?

1. Food:
   
• Quality: Higher quality food offers better nutrition but carries a higher price tag. Budget-friendly options exist, but consider the potential impact on health.
• Brand and size: Different brands and bag sizes impact overall cost.
• Dog's age and activity level: Growing puppies and active adults require more food than seniors or less active dogs.


Estimated monthly cost: £20-£50+



2. Vet bills:
   
• Preventative care: Regular checkups, vaccinations, and parasite control are crucial.
• Unexpected illnesses or injuries: These can significantly increase vet bills.
• Pet insurance: Can help manage unexpected costs but adds further monthly expense.


Estimated monthly cost: £20-£50+ (excluding pet insurance)



3. Toys and treats:
   
• Frequency and quality of purchases: Buying new toys every week will be more expensive than occasional purchases. Higher-quality, durable toys generally cost more.
• Treat type and frequency: Occasional healthy treats are fine, but regular treats add to the cost.


Estimated monthly cost: £10-£30+



4. Grooming:
   
• DIY grooming: Requires buying brushes, shampoo, etc., and time commitment.
• Professional grooming: Frequency and services chosen impact cost. Regular brushing helps reduce professional grooming needs.


Estimated monthly cost: £0-£30+ (depending on DIY vs. professional)



5. Training:
   
• Puppy classes: Can be beneficial, but add to the overall cost.
• Dog trainer: Private sessions can be expensive but effective.


Estimated monthly cost: £0-£50+ (optional)



Total estimated monthly cost: £50-£180+ (excluding pet insurance and unexpected vet bills)

Additional costs to consider:

• Travel costs: Taking your dog on trips or using doggy daycare services adds to the budget.
• Pet licence and registration fees: Varies depending on your location.

Tips for saving money:

• Compare food brands and prices.
• Consider pet insurance for peace of mind and potential cost savings.
• Learn basic grooming tasks to reduce professional grooming frequency.
• Explore free or low-cost training options.
• Factor in unexpected expenses when budgeting.