It is very common, and just about expected, for Shih Tzu dogs to change colors as they mature. This can take first time owners off guard and it often results in some Shih Tzu having a different color than what is listed on their registration papers.

Do Shih Tzus change color as they age?

A good rule of thumb when choosing a Shih Tzu puppy is never to base your decision on color. That’s because the breed is well known for changing coat colors as he enters adulthood. You will notice fading in puppies as young as a month old. Fading will continue until the dog reaches his first birthday.

What is the rarest color of Shih Tzu?

Solid black Shih Tzus are considered the rarest color. If there is even a hint of another color (usually white) anywhere on the fur, it is regarded as a two-color dog. This coloring extends to their noses, paw pads, and lips. A black dog with a brown or liver-colored nose is not accepted as a true black Shih Tzu.

Can a black Shih Tzu turn brown?

If a Shih Tzu puppy is born solid brown, in some cases, his coat will change as he matures. Many times, it will lighten. A Shih Tzu that is light brown or even a color close to black may mature into having a darker brown coat.

Can puppies change color as they get older?

Fur Color Change Due to Aging The most common cause of color change in dogs is simply the natural aging process. Puppies often do not gain their adult coloration until they reach maturity, so if you’re adopting a puppy, you may notice some changes to its coloring as it nears adulthood.

Is it normal to Shih Tzu to change color?

Overview. It is very common, and just about expected, for Shih Tzu dogs to change colors as they mature. This can take first time owners off guard and it often results in some Shih Tzu having a different color than what is listed on their registration papers.

Why is my Shih Tzu turning red?

In any case, the discoloration is caused by tears running down around the eyes, in which the hairs become wet with saline. This alone can cause staining. In addition to that, if the hairs remain damp, a red yeast infection can set it, which also causes further staining.

What color Shih Tzu is more expensive?

Individual breeders breed only solid color puppies such as chocolate or white color Shih Tzu puppies, and therefore the price might be higher compared to some other colors such as brown and white or black and white.

How do I know if my Shih Tzu is purebred?

Shih Tzu have large, wide eyes. Their eyes are very dark (though may be slightly lighter on liver and blue colored dogs), round, and “placed well apart”, according to the AKC. Look for a squashed-like nose. Shih Tzu have squashed-like noses with wide, open nostrils.

What age is a Shih Tzu fully grown?

As with most toy breeds, shih tzu are quick to mature, reaching adult size by about 10 months. The shih tzu is often slightly longer than tall, with a sturdy body and a good-sized head.

How much does a brown Shih Tzu cost?

The price could be as low as $250 if you get your puppy of off Craigslist – or around $1,200 if you get him from a registered breeder. Dogs with exceptional pedigrees may run as high as $3,000. Rescues charge about $350 for Shih Tzu puppies.

Why is my Shih Tzu face turning brown?

Brown fur staining is primarily caused by an infection with the yeast Malassezia. This is the yeast that is responsible for skin and ear infections in dogs.

Are white and black Shih Tzus rare?

What is the rarest color in a Shih Tzu? Although black is one of the most dominant genes, a completely black Shih Tzu, without any white markings, is arguably the least common. Similarly, a pure white Shih Tzu is only seen rarely and a white puppy with black markings is virtually unheard of.

What age do puppies fur change color?

The secondary hairs then start emerging around the age of 12 weeks. The skin and coat of a dog may sometimes change color, becoming lighter or darker. Fur growth cycle averages about 130 days, though this varies from breed to breed. Adult coats of the Goldendoodle is typically lighter than the puppy fur.

Why is my puppy’s fur changing color?

Many breeds have coats that change over time. Puppies will generally be a different color than the adult dog. Medications, sunlight, nutritional status and skin disease can all be factors in changing and dog’s coat color.

Do puppies coats change?

Puppies lose their puppy coats between 4-to-6 months of age, although this time frame varies widely from breed to breed and can start at 12 weeks or wait until they’re one year old. You might not notice your puppy shedding, especially if she is a shorthaired breed, or the change could be dramatic.