Shih Tzu
Appearance
(Chrysanthemum Dog, Chinese Lion Dog) The Shih Tzu is a sturdy toy dog with a compact, solid build. These dogs have a distinctive, arrogant carriage that is befitting of their noble Chinese heritage. The length between the withers and the tail root is slightly longer than the height at the withers. This breed is always solid, compact, and substantial, with good weight carriage and proportions. They have an overall look of balance, and none of their bodily features are over-exaggerated. Their neck blends gracefully into their shoulders, and it is of adequate length to permit a naturally high head carriage. The breed’s topline is level and the chest is broad and deep. They have well-sprung ribs and the depth of their ribcage extends to the point just below their elbows. Tails of this breed are high-set, heavily plumed, and carried in a curve well over the dog’s back. Their properly angulated shoulders are well laid-back and fit smoothly into the dog’s body. They have muscular, well-boned, straight limbs that are set well-apart and under the chest. Their elbows are set close to their body, and their hocks are well let down and perpendicular. Feet of this breed are firm, thickly padded, and point straight ahead. The round head of the Shih Tzu is broad, wide between the eyes, and in tune with the size of the rest of the dog’s body. Their skull is domed and their stop is pronounced. The muzzle is square-shaped, short, and unwrinkled, with good cushioning. The breed’s nostrils are broad and open, and their jaw is wide and undershot. The Shih Tzu has a luxurious, long, dense double coat that is straight or slightly waved and flowing. The hair on the top of the dog’s head is usually tied up. Any coat color is acceptable.Temperament
Because the Shih Tzu is solely bred to serve as a companion and house pet, it is especially important for their temperament to be cheerful, affectionate, outgoing, and trusting towards everyone. They are spunky and full of spirit, and they possess good character. They are naturally very dignified, and they sometimes have a tendency to appear arrogant. They are gentle and kind, and they get along well with polite, careful children. This breed likes to bark outside, but they are usually quiet in the house. If surprised, teased, or pestered, they may have a tendency to snap. The Shih Tzu needs a great deal of interaction with people.Size
11 inchesWeight
9 – 16 poundsHealth
The Shih Tzu has a propensity to wheeze and snore. Some lines of this breed are susceptible to ear, eyes, and respiratory problems. Because of their long back and short legs, spinal disc disease is also a concern. Teeth of this breed require regular veterinary attention. The Shih Tzu gains weight easily. They typically live for 15 or more years.Origin
Recent research and DNA analysis confirms that the Shih Tzu is one of the oldest dog breeds. It originated in China, probably as the result of crossings between the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. The breed was a favorite of the Imperial Chinese court, and for many years the Chinese refused to trade or sell these dogs with the Western World. It wasn’t until 1930 that the Shih Tzu was imported to England. The breed was officially recognized in Britain in 1946. The United States recognized the breed in 1969. The Shih Tzu is very popular as a companion and show dog.Maintenance
The Shih Tzu should be groomed on a daily basis with a bristle brush. Many of these dogs have a topknot that is tied with a bow. Eyes and ears of this breed should be kept clean. They shed little to no hair, and they are a good choice of pet for allergy sufferers.Ideal Environment
The Shih Tzu is well-suited to life in a small household or apartment. They are a comparatively active breed indoors, and they are content to live without a yard. They are sensitive to hot weather.Ask a QuestionShih Tzu Q&A
Upload a PhotoShih Tzu Photos
Write a ReviewShih Tzu Reviews
Shih Tzu a great little dog
I have had many dogs most that have had something about them that drove me nuts, But my little 10 week old pup does no wrong in my eyes! She can get away with it all. I love love,love this dog. Best breed I have ever had.Very loving and smart even at a young age.
Pros: Great Great Dog
Cons: NONE
I love My Pepper.
My Shih Tzu lived 13 years, I had him basically my whole, life growing up. He was so Sweet.
Pros: Friendly, Loving, People Person, Greets you at the Door, Watch Dog (Barking when someone is at door.), Beautiful Coat, Cuddle Dog, Family Dog, Good with Kids, Good with other Dogs, Playful, Energetic, People (Person) dog, everything else.
Cons: Have to cut hair in hot climates(unless you keep them inside), High Matinence Hair, Must get themused to getting their hair done at a young age.
jasper a.k.a "wyatt's shadow"
jasper is a black with white goatee shih tzu - lapso aso cross. looks 100% shih tzu. we named him jasper after the jasper park bear mascot to remember our trip out west.he is our second dog,he is a great playmate for our standard poodle wyatt. he is only 6 months old,still in the puppy stage.but looks like he will turn out to be a good dog. i was surprised to find that a smaller dog is actually more work than larger dog.....so don't let size fool you.
Pros: hypoallergenic,cute,lovable,playful,
Cons: house training issues,likes to chew,grooming costs.
I <3 My ShihTzu!!!!!!!!:)
Tuck is about 2yrs old and is one of the sweetest dogs i have ever met. He loves to cuddle and has to be around people! he is a little ocd about his toys and playing fetch. overall he is very sweet and i couldn't ask for a better dog!:)
Pros: He is very clean and never sheds.He also loves to cuddle!
Cons:
Shih Tzu's Rock
My Shih Tzu Gizzmo is so sweet I love him so much. He loves to have his belly rubbed and travels in the car with us. As long as he is with us he is happy. Gizzmo is always wanting to play with his toys. Gizzmo loves to bark and bark. He is sweet though and that his way of telling us that someone is at the door. SHIH TZU'S ROCK
Pros: Does not shed, very sweet, loving, playful
Cons: Barks A LOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!