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Our 4lb. Shih Tzu Is Scared Of Everything!! Advice???

17K views 16 replies 10 participants last post by  Durbkat  
Durbkat, Average Shih Tzu's are 10-15 lbs. but Emmy was the runt and only grew to 4 lbs (she is 3 years old). We are always hearing from other Shih Tzu owners that she is the smallest they've seen. The vets have always said she is healthy, just very small.
Runts often end up the size and weight they were intended. That your dog is significantly smaller than the breed standard makes me wonder about her origins, or, who, and what, her breeder was about. This could also account for her shy, fearful nature, but, could simply be the kids you mentioned. Keep those children away from her, unless they're willing (and you have the time and willingness to instruct) to learn how to interact appropriately with a dog.