Shih Tzu

                                                               Shih Tzu

AKA:Chrysanthemum Dog
Origin:Tibet
Size:Small
Ease of training:Low
Grooming:Medium/High
Shedding:Low
Exerxise needed:Occasional walk
Energy level:Medium
Protection:High, watchdog barking
Good with children:Yes, best with older, gentler children
Health clearances:OFA, CERF, kidney function
Popularity:9/155

Shih Tzu Temperament

A lively, proud, and confident breed, the Shih Tzu is a dog that loves to play and perform tricks, but is also very loving and gentle. Some may appear to be a little on the arrogant side, but these are actually sweet natured little dogs who love to cuddle and enjoy their creature comforts. With property, early socialization the Shih Tzu boasts a stable, friendly personality and disposition, and is a peaceful creature. The Shih Tzu thrives on affection and attention, and is not the right breed for those with little time to devote to a pet. He is an excellent choice for those that cannot get around much, such as the elderly, and is intelligent and responsive, which makes him less of a challenge to train. The Shih Tzu is suited to both experienced and inexperienced dog owners, and makes a great family pet as well as a very loving companion. The popularity of these dogs has soared over the years, reflected by the Shih Tzu's top ten position in the AKC popularity listings.

Although the Shih Tzu gets along well with children, he is a small dog that cannot really handle tough handling. He is therefore best suited to families with gentle, older children. He gets along well with strangers, as well as with other animals. Housebreaking the Shih Tzu can prove problematic in some cases, and some can be a little stubborn and haughty at times. However, by and large, the Shih Tzu makes a wonderful addition to the household, and is living, gentle, peaceful, trusting, and entertaining. His exercise demands are low, and he will fare well with a safe and secure place to play and run around in. This is a dog that will love to spend cosy nights in snuggled up with his owner and receiving plenty of pampering. Although friendly, the Shih Tzu will generally bark to raise an alarm so can make an effective watchdog.

Shih Tzu Appearance

The Shih Tzu is a small, elegant, and pretty little dog, but is nevertheless quite sturdy in build. He has a beautiful, flowing coat, with a dense undercoat. The Shih Tzu has inviting, wallowing eyes, and a very sweet expression. The coloring of the coat can vary, and he comes in a myriad of colors, including parti-colors and solid colors. The height of the Shih Tzu is around 8-11 inches, and he weighs in at around 9-16 pounds.

Shih Tzu Grooming

The Shih Tzu is a fairly high maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. His coat should be brushed and combed three or four times each week, and every month or two he may need to have his coat clipped or trimmed. The hair around the bottom should be trimmed for hygiene reasons, and you should check that his ears are clean and dry. When properly groomed the Shih Tzu is a low shedder, and therefore may be well suited to those with allergies. You should also check his eyes for signs of injury or infection regularly.

Shih Tzu Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The Shih Tzu has a life expectancy of around 10-14 years, and there are a number of health issues to look out for with this breed. This includes vWD, anemia, luxating patella, kidney problems, thyroid problems, allergies, and eye problems. His eyes are large and can be more susceptible to injury and infection. The Shih Tzu can also suffer heatstroke in hot or humid conditions. The parents of the Shih Tzu puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates, and you should also ask about kidney function screening.

Shih Tzu History

The Shih Tzu was a favorite pet of the wealthy and the royals in its native Tibet, and was much loved by the imperial dynasties. In the 1930s the breed was introduced in England, and following the Second World War was also introduced in America. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1969.