Shih Tzu

Get to Know Shih Tzus

• Ancient Chinese Royalty: The Shih Tzu has a history that dates back over a thousand years and was originally bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty. They were highly prized in the imperial court and were often depicted in ancient Chinese art.
• Luxurious Coat: Shih Tzus are known for their long, flowing double coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. Their coat can come in various colors and patterns, adding to their regal appearance.
• Friendly and Affectionate: Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They thrive on human companionship and are excellent lap dogs, often forming strong bonds with their owners.
• Compact and Adaptable: Shih Tzus are small dogs, typically weighing between 9 to 16 pounds, making them well-suited for apartment living. Despite their small size, they are sturdy and adaptable to various living situations.
• Distinctive Facial Features: Shih Tzus have a distinctive face with a short muzzle and large, dark eyes. Their facial structure gives them a sweet, expressive look that has endeared them to dog lovers worldwide.

Breed History

The Shih Tzu is an ancient toy dog breed that originated in China, where it was highly regarded in the palaces of Chinese emperors. The breed’s name, meaning “lion dog,” reflects its noble heritage, resembling the Chinese lion statues. It is believed to be a cross between small Tibetan dogs and the Pekingese, with a mix of Pugs and other toy breeds. The Shih Tzu’s purpose was to be a royal companion and a symbol of wealth and prestige. Today, Shih Tzus are adored as affectionate family pets and excel in both companionship and as lapdogs.

Personality and Behaviour

• Affectionate and Loyal: Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They thrive on human companionship and form strong bonds with their families. They are particularly attached to one person but are generally friendly with all family members and visitors.
• Playful and Spirited: Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are lively and playful dogs that enjoy interactive games and activities. They can be spirited and have a fun-loving personality, making them great companions for children and adults alike.
• Intelligent and Independent: Shih Tzus are clever dogs that can be quick learners, but they also possess an independent streak that can make training a bit of a challenge. They can be a bit stubborn and may need patience and consistent reinforcement during training sessions.

Care

• Exercise: Shih Tzus have a low to moderate energy level and do not require much exercise. A short daily walk (15-20 minutes) and some indoor play are usually sufficient to keep them healthy and prevent weight gain. They enjoy low-impact activities like chasing toys indoors, but it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise, especially in hot weather, due to their short snout and brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure.
• Grooming: The Shih Tzu’s long, luxurious coat requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangles, which can occur easily due to their long hair. Bathing should be done as needed, with attention to keeping the coat clean and dry. Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues, so regular teeth brushing and dental check-ups are important. Nail trimming and ear cleaning should be done regularly to maintain overall hygiene.
• Training and Socialization: Training a Shih Tzu requires patience and consistency due to their independent nature. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization is important to help Shih Tzus become well-adjusted and friendly with other dogs, people, and new environments. Because they can be wary of strangers, exposing them to new experiences at a young age helps prevent shyness or aggressive tendencies.