|
|
|
 Shih Tzu Information and Picture
Dog Breed Group
Toy Group
History and Origin
In Chinese word, "Shih Tzu means "lion". "
This lion dog is believed to be originated from Tibet and is the oldest and smallest of the Tibetan holy dos, and is associated with the tenets of Buddhism from India. Therefore, it was also called Tibetan temple dog. It was given to Emperors of China during Qing Dynasty as a gift.
also called Òchrysanthemum-faced dogÓ because its face is look like the flower.
Shih Tzu originally was bred as a companion dog or lapdog. It was the famous pet during Ming Dynasty.
Dowager Empress Cixi, is the kennel of Pugs, Pekingese and Shih Tzu.
After her death in 1908, the dogs were dispersed and breeding become haphazard.
|
 |
Temperament
Shih Tzu is an affectionate, alert, outgoing, happy, playful and intelligent dog.
It is an alert watch dog. It enjoys to learn and like to please.
Shih Tzu is an independant dog and have the mind of their own, this can be stubborn and manipulative.
It is suitable to consistent patient training.
This little dog expects you to treat it like royalty and give it everything in high quality such as its food and its bed.
Shih Tzu is not suitable for family which have babies or toddlers because it will get jealous of them and may snap if it feels you are giving more attention to the small children but not it.
Long period of seperation or left alone will lead to seperation anxiety and even become destructive.
Shih Tzu has housebreaking difficulties which same with other small dogs.
Description (Appearance)
Shih Tzu has a lion-like look and a long, flowing double coat.
Its body is solid, compact, sturdy built and slightly longer than tall.
The Head of shih Tzu is dark, broad, round and set well apart between the eyes.
The muzzle is short and square with an abundance of hair and the ears are large and long will hair.
All coat colors are allowed and these colours can have while with them.
Size
Height: 8 - 11 inches to the shoulder
Weight: 9 - 16 pounds (4 - 7 kg)
Living Conditions
Suitable to apartment life.
As a brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog, Shih Tzu is very sensitive to high temperature.
Exercise demand
Shih Tzu requires minor exercise but daily walk is needed.
Health problems
Shih Tzu is prones to eye, ear and respiratory problems.
Its short muzzle cause it to wheeze and snore.
Renal Dysplasia, kidney disease and slipping kneecaps are also common health problems of Shih Tzu.
Life Expectancy
About 13 - 15 years.
Grooming
Need daily grooming and brushing for its coat to keep its coat in good condition and avoid tangles.
Moderate shedder.
Shih Tzu's eyes are sensitive and should be keep clean always.
Special Concern
NA
Recognition
ACR, AKC, ANKC, APRI, CCR, CKC, FCI, KCGB, NKC, NZKC, UKC
|
|
|