If you own a Shih Tzu, you want to be a great parent to your pup. Unfortunately, much like with children, pets do not come with an instruction manual. If you've never owned a pet before, you may not know what to do, and you may question whether you'll be a good pet owner.

However, while you may not always get everything right, there are a few things that you can keep in mind to ensure you're a good owner to your Shih Tzu. Here, we have eight ways to be a good pet parent to your Shih Tzu.

Communicate With Your Pup

Your dog is actually much smarter than you give it credit for. Your dog can pick up on emotions, gestures, and even facial expressions. In addition to regularly talking to your dog, make sure that you provide your pet with plenty of smiles, giggles, touches, and hugs.

Spend More Time With Your Pet

It is essential that you carve out time each day to spend with your Shih Tzu. Whether the two of you cuddle on the couch, play outside in the yard, or even visit a pet store or dog park together, this time can be your special bonding time with your furry friend.

Feed Your Dog Healthy Food

You want to provide your dog with only the best, so make sure that you purchase a high-quality dog food that provides your pet with everything he or she needs to be happy and healthy. Keeping food out all of the time for your Shih Tzu may seem like a good idea, but this could actually lead to weight gain and additional health issues to follow. Work out a feeding schedule for your pet, and make sure you stick to it.

Always Observe

You should always keep an eye on your pet for two main reasons. First, you want to make sure that your pet isn't being destructive or getting into something that could be dangerous. When you're out of the house, consider putting your pet in a comfortable crate. Next, you want to keep an eye on the health of your pet. Observe behaviors and mannerisms, and address any issues that may arise, such as a sudden change in behavior, isolation, or illness.

Human Interactions

Shih Tzu dogs are very social by nature and you shouldn’t keep them away from other animals or humans. Invite a dog-loving pal over for a play date or head to the dog part. A socialized Shih Tzu is a happy Shih Tzu.

Always Brush Its Teeth

Just like humans, dogs require proper dental hygiene to keep their teeth and gums clean and healthy. Since your dog isn't able to brush his or her teeth, you'll have to do the job. It's also important to take your dog to the vet for regular dental checkups. Research shows that over 50% of dogs have some form of dental disease - don't let your Shih Tzu fall into these statistics.

Schedule Your Pet

Everyone else in your household has a schedule, and so should your Shih Tzu. From feeding to bedtime daily to occasional tasks like bathing or going to the groomers, stick to a schedule that your pet will know.

Don't Be Rough When Disciplining Your Dog

Dogs should be disciplined for bad behavior, but you should never strike or yell at your dog. This not only makes your dog lose trust for you, but it could have the opposite effect you intend. Instead, make sure that you work to train your dog and use positive reinforcement to teach your pet the difference between right and rough behaviors.

8 Ways To Be A Good Shih Tzu Parent

Spend More Time With Your Pet