Shih Tzus - Breed Introduction

The Shih Tzu (pronounced shĭd´ zoo or shēt´ soo) is also known as the Chrysanthemum Dog. This lively little dog struts proudly with its tail carried over its back. It is the quintessential lap dog, whose sole purpose is to function as a companion dog.

Classified as a Toy Dog in America, the ShihTzu is typically 9 to 10 inches (27 centimeters) in height and weighs a mere 9 pounds (4 kilograms).

History of Breed

The ancestry of the Shih Tzu can be traced back to 17th-century Tibet.  They were often housed in Tibetan temples. These dogs were considered worthy of being presented as gifts to the Emperors of China.

During the Ming Dynasty, the royal family owned and bred many of these dogs. The Chinese crossed these dogs with ancestors of the Pekinese to develop the breed we know as Shih Tzus today.

The breed was introduced in Great Britain in 1912, but because of its similarity to the Lhasa Apso, both were categorized as the apso until 1935, when the two breeds were officially distinguished from one another.

Their arrival on the shores of America came at an even later date. A single cross with a Pekingese was allowed in 1952 for the purpose of improving the breed standard, which was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1969.

Color and Coat

At first glance, one might wonder if there’s really a dog underneath all that long hair. The Shih Tzu has a double coat, and the thick outercoat flows long and straight to the floor.

Shih Tzus are bred in a variety of colors, including black, gold, gray, silver, beige, brindle, and red, and any of these may be accompanied by white.

Personality and Temperament

One might think that a dog of such diminutive size would be timid, but Shih Tzus are spunky and independent. However, they are also affectionate and playful. They seem to expect to be treated like the royalty they were bred for, and can be tenacious.They have a tendency to be wary of strangers, but are not well suited to performing as watchdogs.

Shih Tzus may not particularly seem to care for the concept of obedience, considering themselves to be above such requests, and their stubbornness can make them a challenge to train. Training is necessary, since a lack of it can result in a dog that is excitable and snappy. However, with patience and consistency, Shih Tzus can be trained to be relatively well-mannered.

Shih Tzus are a good choice for those who are unwilling or unable to provide a dog with a significant amount of exercise, as this breed requires very little and is content with short walks and playing indoors.

These little dogs get along well with older children, but tend to be jealous of infants and toddlers. Shih Tzus can adapt to other dogs and household pets of other species, though it’s best to introduce them to these companions at an early age.

The Shih Tzu is a relatively quiet dog, and this, combined with its size and minimal exercise requirements, makes it an excellent choice for those living in apartments or small spaces. It cannot tolerate humidity, and thus is meant to be kept indoors.

Show Characteristics

The body of the Shih Tzu is longer than the dog is tall, and the legs are short and muscular. Shih Tzus have broad, round heads with short, square muzzles. Their eyes are set well apart, and are large and round.

The Shih Tzu’s black nose may be level, or it may tilt slightly upward, and it is surrounded by a distinctive mustache. The ears are large and  long. The dog’s feet may appear disproportionately large, but this is due to their large amount of hair. The tail is longhaired and high-set.

A slight wave in the hair is allowed, but the show standards do not allow for curly hair. The coat must be long and dense. The hair on the head is typically styled, as noted in the “Grooming” section, below.

Typical Health Concerns

The protrusion of the Shih Tzu’s eyes makes them prone to eye problems, including ulcers and lacerations, and their eyelids and lashes may grow in such a way that they irritate the eyes.

The tear ducts may require treatment as a result of producing too many or too few tears. Shih Tzus are also susceptible to respiratory and thyroid problems.

Grooming

Shi Tzus are high-maintenance dogs, requiring daily brushing to eliminate knots and matting, in addition to periodic professional grooming, and they should be acclimated to grooming at a young age.

The hair grows upward from the bridge of the nose and is often styled in a topknot or other fashionable hairdo, secured by an elastic band or a ribbon. Alternatively, an owner may decide to have their hair trimmed short, though this is less common.

Shih Tzus need to have their faces washed daily because their hair tends to fall into their food, and they should be bathed and thoroughly dried at least once a month. Shih Tzus are moderate shedders.

Country of Origin

The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet, a region in Central Asia that is officially claimed by the People’s Republic of China, though there is disagreement between the Republic of China and the Government of Tibet in Exile as to whether this incorporation is legitimate in accordance with international law.

It seems fitting somehow that this small breed bent on asserting its independence hails from a country dealing with similar circumstances.

Average Life Span

The average life span of the Shih Tzu is 9 to 15 years, but Shih Tzus may live well into their teens.