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The Shih Tzu
( Pronounced Shid Zoo )
The Shih Tzu breed is suspected to have originated in Tibet, although they are most often reported to be from China, where they became very popular and were kept as sacred temple dogs. They were known as the "little lion dogs" of China because of the full main of hair that falls around their face. The earliest evidence of the breed are Chinese paintings and art objects dating back to 624 A.D.
England recognized the breed in 1933. There was a disagreement as to the breed origin in 1934 when the Peking Kennel Club was formed. Some felt the breed had been taken into China as a pure breed while others felt the dogs had been bred from the Tibetan Apso and the Pekingese. In 1938 the breed standards were set and the Shih Tzu was recognized as a separate breed unto its' own .
The Shih Tzu are friendly, playful animals who interact well with adults as well as children. They love to lavish their attention on everyone they meet. Their small size and friendly demeanor make them the perfect dog for apartment dwellers and for anyone looking for an affectionate lap dog. They are truly "people dogs". They also possess a good stubborn streak ! This can be frustrating when trying to housebreak or train a young Shih Tzu puppy. It is not an impossible task though. A Shih Tzu loves to make his owner happy with him !
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Their coats come in a wide range of colors, from all black, to black and white, gray and white, gold and white, and all gold. A white blaze on the forehead and tip of the tail is highly prized in a show dog. The coat should not be completely straight nor be curly. Just a slight wave to it. These beautiful coats do require lots of daily attention though to prevent matting. Their face and top knots should be washed daily with special attention paid to the eyes. The top knot should be pulled up into a single band on top of the head, being careful not to pull it so tight that the dog cannot blink. A daily 10 to 15 minute brushing is also recommended. When this routine is started early with a young puppy, the dog becomes accustomed to it and actually enjoys the time he has the full attention of his owner while being brushed and petted.
The size of a Shih Tzu is normally between 9 to 16 pounds. They are a sturdy, muscular dog with a solid build that surprises people when they are picked up. They are approximately 8" to 11" high at the withers. The body length will normally be somewhat longer than the height, measuring from the withers to the root of the tail.
Being a small breed, the Shih Tzu has an longer average lifespan than those of a larger breed. Neutered or spayed pets have longer lifespans and a decreased risk of cancer. With lots of love and proper care by you and your veterinarian, a Shih Tzu can live a very long life.
A Shih Tzu is truly one of the happiest, loving and most adorable of the dog breeds.
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