If you’re getting a Shih Tzu puppy or even if you have an adult dog, you might be wondering should you microchip your Shih Tzu? Are they too small to microchip? Will it cause any issues for your dog? Let’s find out…
Should You Microchip Your Shih Tzu
Up to a third of all dogs get lost.
That’s a scary thought.
However, before you decide whether or not you should microchip your Shih Tzu, you need to understand what a microchip is and what it does.
First Off – What is a Microchip
According to the American Kennel Club,
“A microchip is a radio-frequency identification transponder that carries a unique identification number and is roughly the size of a grain of rice. When the microchip is scanned by a vet or shelter, it transmits the ID number.”
What’s nice about it is that it has no moving parts and it doesn’t need any energy source to work.
The microchip implantation can take place at your vet’s office.
The vet will place the microchip between your Shih Tzu’s shoulder blades in the loose skin.
Can You Feel a Microchip in a Dog
If you rubbed your fingers over the area where the microchip is and pushed firmly, then yes, you might be able to feel it.
But, if you are just petting your Shih Tzu normally, then no, you won’t notice it or feel it.
Also, your dog will never know that it is there once it has been inserted.
Will the Microchip Hurt Your Shih Tzu?
Your Shih Tzu won’t even know that it has a microchip and it won’t hurt your dog.
It is really tiny.
When it is inserted through an injection it is no different than when your Shih Tzu gets a shot.
While they will feel it, it doesn’t actually cause a lot of pain and it is over very quickly.
For most dogs, there are no side effects what so ever and for the few that have them, they are not a real issue and go away pretty quickly.
Even if your Shih Tzu has a medical condition, they will be fine with a chip.
How to Update Information on the Microchip
If you need to change the information on the microchip because you’ve moved or have gotten a new phone number, it is pretty easy to do.
You will either do it at your vet’s office or through the microchip company that provided the microchip.
You’ll receive this information when you have the microchip inserted.
Depending on who provides the chip you will either have to pay a small fee each time you change the information or you may be asked to pay a one-time fee that will cover all future changes when the chip is inserted.
If you happen to move around a lot, such as a military family, be sure you understand upfront what you will be required to pay going forward.
A microchip with an outdated address or phone number won’t do you or your dog any good.
What Happens if My Shih Tzu Gets Lost?
If your Shih Tzu runs off or gets lost somehow and is picked up by an animal shelter, they or a vet can use a microchip scanner to read the chip.
This is completely painless for your Shih Tzu.
Having a microchip that’s up to date can mean the difference between never seeing your precious pup again or having to wonder what happened to them for the rest of your life.
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Does My Elderly Shih Tzu Need Microchipped?
You might think that your older Shih Tzu isn’t going to run away or get lost.
I can understand that.
My, Truman is 17 and he doesn’t get very far from me.
But, you never know.
If you are traveling with your Shih Tzu or got distracted for some reason, even an older dog could get away from you.
You’d feel terrible and be crazy with worry and who knows what could happen to your dog.
For your own peace of mind, if your Shih Tzu was microchipped when they were younger, it is never too late to have it done to keep your dog safe.
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To Sum it All Up:
Pet owners and prospective owners should really consider having their Shih Tzu microchipped if they haven’t already been at the breeders or adoption center. All veterinary clinics are able to implant the chip, so you can just have it done when you take your Shih Tzu to their first or next appointment. As pet parents, it will give you peace of mind knowing if the worst happens you will be able to find your Shih Tzu again.
Please Note:
This article is informational only and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always check with your veterinarian or doctor if you are concerned about your Shih Tzu’s. This article should not be considered in any way as veterinarian advice.
