Shih Tzu Breed Information




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Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet where it was kept in temples as a sacred dog. Occasionally they were given to the emperors of China as a tribute of great honor. In China, those dogs quickly became "little temple dogs". Today the Shih Tzu is small, intelligent, lively and alert. The sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is as a companion and house pet thus he is outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting toward everyone. He needs a minimum amount of exercise but the coat does need regular brushing to ensure that it won't tangle.

The Shih Tzu is a member of the Toy breed. They can come in a variety of colors, so when you hear someone refer to a dog as a Parti or a Solid, you now know that they are referring to the Shih Tzu. Originally from Tibet, the Shih Tzu has a height of around 7 inches, and a weight between 9-16 pounds. They are very friendly and make perfect family pets.

Grooming for you Shih Tzu is very important. You should make it a point to clean your Shih Tzu's eyes once a day. Also make sure to brush it thoroughly once a day. Shampoo it once a week with designated cleaners.

Shih Tzu Breed Outline

Country of Origin:	Tibet
FCI Classification:	Group 9 - Companion and Toy Dogs; Tibetan breeds (without working trial)
Utilization:	Companion dog
AKC Classification:	Toy Group
Personality:	Quiet, intelligent, independent, affectionate, playful, and eager to learn.
Size Category:	Small
Height:	9-11 inches at shoulders
Colors:	All colors permissible, white blaze on forehead and white tip on tail highly desirable in parti-colors.
Other Names:	In earlier days it was known as the Chrysanthemum Dog, or the Lhasa Lion Dog
Average Litter Size:	5
Life Span:	9-15 years
Grooming Requirements:	Shih Tzu need daily combing, eye cleaning, weekly bathing and overall professional grooming. His coat is a little softer than the Lhasa Apso. To fashion the Shih Tzu topknot, part the hair from the ear on both sides of the head. Next, gather up in one hand the hair in the middle and slip on a latex band at the base. The band may have to be wrapped around twice to make it secure, but the topknot should not be drawn so tight as to cause the dog discomfort. Finally, a ribbon or barrette may be attached to the latex band, but this point is purely optional.
Shedding:	Moderate
Social skills:	The Shih Tzu gets along with other animals when properly socialized from puppyhood.
Suitability for Children:	Patient with children of all ages if introduced at an early age.
Exercise Needs:	Shih Tzu is happy with house activities but a 20 minutes walk will do good.
Train Ability:	Can be hard to house break, stubborn.
Health & Behavior Issues:	Shih Tzu have several serious health problems. The most common are eye ulcers, knee dislocation, bleeding disorders, heart strokes, kidney disorders and high susceptibility to colds.