Shih Tzu Breed Information
If you're searching for a furry companion that's loving, loyal, and just plain adorable, the Shih Tzu might be the perfect breed for you. These little dogs are known for their long, silky coats, short snouts, and sweet personalities that make them beloved by families all over the world.
The Shih Tzu breeds are known for their incredibly affectionate nature. These dogs love nothing more than spending time with their humans, whether it's snuggling up on the couch or going for a leisurely walk in the park. They're also known for being great with kids, making them an ideal family pet.
But don't let their cute and cuddly appearance fool you, Shih Tzus are also surprisingly sturdy little dogs. Despite their small size, they're known for their courage and resilience, which makes them a great choice for families that want a dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Like any breed, Shih Tzus do have their unique needs when it comes to care and attention. They can be more prone to breathing problems due to their short snouts, and they're also more likely to overheat in hot weather. However, with proper care and attention, these issues can be managed to ensure that your furry friend stays happy and healthy.
BREED TYPE / MIX
Purebred
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Shih Tzu has a double coat that sheds depending on the length. A long coat sheds less while a short coat is easier to brush and to keep clean.
TRAINING
Determined
TEMPERAMENT
Affectionate, Courageous, Friendly, Sweet
ADULT WEIGHT
9-16 lbs
ADULT HEIGHT
8-11 in
LIFE SPAN
11-14 yrs
Characteristics
- They were once considered royal lapdogs and were bred specifically to be kept by Chinese emperors and their families
- Shih Tzus have an interesting history and have been depicted in ancient Chinese art, pottery and other artifacts
- The breed is often referred to as a "chrysanthemum dog," because the hair around their face grows in all directions, giving the appearance of a chrysanthemum flower
- Shih Tzus are a great breed for those with allergies, as they are considered hypoallergenic
- They may be small, but they have a big personality and are known for their spunky and playful nature
- Shih Tzus can be trained to do a variety of tricks, including standing up on their hind legs and dancing
- They are known for their expressive faces, which can range from serious to silly depending on their mood
- They can be a bit stubborn and independent, but they thrive on positive reinforcement and will respond well to kind, patient training methods
- Despite their small size, Shih Tzus make excellent watchdogs and will alert their owners to any potential danger
Appearance
When it comes to looks, it's hard to beat the adorable, expressive appearance of the Shih Tzu. These small dogs are known for their fluffy, silky coats that are often styled in a variety of different ways.
Their long, luxurious fur is a defining characteristic of the breed, and it's one of the reasons why they're so beloved by their owners. From top knots to ponytails, you can have endless ways to style a Shih Tzu's hair, and many owners enjoy getting creative with their pup's look.
But the Shih Tzu's appearance isn't just about their fabulous hair, they're also known for their expressive, adorable faces. With their short snouts and big, round eyes, they're sure to melt your heart from the moment you meet them.
Of course, there's more to the Shih Tzu's appearance than just their hair and facial features. These dogs are also small, standing at around 9-10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 9-16 pounds. Their compact build and adorable appearance make them ideal lap dogs, and they're often described as the ultimate family pet.
Temperament
When it comes to temperament, the Shih Tzu is known for their affectionate, playful, and loyal nature. These small dogs are beloved by families all over the world, thanks to their charming personalities and love for human companionship.
One of the things that set the Shih Tzu apart from other breeds is their affectionate nature. They love nothing more than cuddling up with their humans and showering them with affection. And while they may be small, they have big personalities that make them a joy to be around.
Shih Tzus are also known for their playful nature. They love to play and run around, and they're always up for a game of fetch or a walk around the block. But while they may be energetic, they can also be stubborn at times. This can sometimes make them a challenge to train, but with patience and positive reinforcement, they can learn to be well-behaved companions.
In addition to their affectionate and playful nature, Shih Tzus are also known for being alert and loyal. They make great watchdogs, thanks to their keen senses and their tendency to bark when they sense something is amiss. And once they've bonded with their humans, they're fiercely loyal and protective.
Care
Grooming
One of the most important aspects of Shih Tzu grooming is brushing. Because their coats are so long and silky, they can be prone to matting and tangling. Regular brushing, ideally once a day, can help to prevent these issues and keep your pup's coat looking smooth and shiny.
In addition to brushing, Shih Tzus may also require regular trimming to keep their hair neat and tidy. This can include trimming around the face, feet, and tail, as well as regular haircuts to keep their coat at a manageable length.
Of course, washing is also an important part of Shih Tzu grooming. These dogs can be prone to skin issues, so it's important to keep them clean and free of dirt and debris. However, it's important not to overdo it with washing, as too much shampooing can strip their coat of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation.
Exercise Needs
When it comes to exercise, the Shih Tzu is a breed that doesn't require a lot of outdoor activity. These small dogs are perfectly content with short walks and indoor playtime, making them a great choice for those who live in apartments or smaller homes.
It's still important to provide your Shih Tzu with some form of exercise on a regular basis. Short walks around the block can be a great way to get them moving, and indoor activities like playing with toys and running around can also provide some much-needed exercise.
In addition to traditional exercise methods, some Shih Tzus may also enjoy agility or obedience training. These activities can provide both physical and mental stimulation for your pup, helping to keep them happy, healthy, and engaged.
Health
When it comes to health, the Shih Tzu is a breed that is known for their longevity and sturdy build. These small dogs have a relatively long lifespan for their size, with many living well into their teens and even twenties with proper care.
While they are generally healthy, there are some issues that can arise in the breed. These include respiratory problems due to their short snouts, allergies, and eye problems, mainly in old age. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (Boas) can be common in Shih Tzus due to their short snouts. This means that they may find it difficult to regulate their breathing during intense exercise, or their temperature in hot weather.
One of the most important aspects of Shih Tzu health is regular vet check-ups. Like all dogs, they require routine care to stay healthy and happy, including vaccinations, dental cleanings, and wellness exams. Regular vet visits can help to catch any health issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes.
In addition to routine care, it's important to keep your Shih Tzu at a healthy weight and provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Obesity can be a problem for some Shih Tzus, so it's important to monitor their diet and exercise to ensure that they stay at a healthy weight.
Lifespan
When you bring a furry friend into your family, you want to ensure that you have many happy years together. If you're considering a Shih Tzu as your next furry family member, you'll be happy to know that they have a relatively long lifespan for their size.
On average, a Shih Tzu can live anywhere from 10 to 16 years with proper care and attention. Of course, just like with humans, genetics and individual health factors can play a role in determining lifespan.
However, by providing your Shih Tzu with regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet and exercise routine, and plenty of love and attention, you can help ensure that they live a long, happy, and healthy life as a beloved member of your family.
Training
Training your furry friend is an important part of helping them become a well-behaved and happy member of your family. When it comes to training your Shih Tzu, positive reinforcement is key. This breed responds well to treats and praise, and a patient and consistent approach can help them learn and grow.
One important aspect of Shih Tzu training is socialization. These pups can be a bit wary of strangers and new situations, so it's important to introduce them to a variety of people and environments early on. This can help them feel more comfortable and confident in new situations, making them happier and more well-adjusted overall.
When training your Shih Tzu, it's important to be patient and consistent. These pups can be stubborn at times, but with a little persistence and a lot of love, they can learn to follow your lead. Positive reinforcement, in the form of treats and praise, can be a great way to motivate them and keep them engaged during training sessions.
History
If you're a fan of regal, elegant dogs, then the Shih Tzu might be the perfect breed for you. These small but mighty pups have a rich history that dates back thousands of years to ancient China.
As the name suggests, the Shih Tzu was originally bred to be a companion dog for the Chinese royalty. Their long, silky coats and charming personalities made them popular lap dogs, and they were often kept by emperors and other members of the royal court.
But the Shih Tzu was more than just a cuddly lap dog, they were also considered to be sacred animals in some Chinese traditions. In fact, it was believed that they could ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to their owners.
Despite their regal beginnings, however, the Shih Tzu eventually found their way into the hearts and homes of many people. They became popular pets throughout China and beyond, and it wasn't long before they were making their way to other parts of the world.
Today, the Shih Tzu is still beloved for their charming personalities and loyal companionship. They're often considered to be the ultimate family dog, thanks to their friendly nature and love for human companionship. And while they may have come a long way since their days in the royal court, their regal demeanor and elegant appearance are still a big part of what makes them such a beloved breed.