In this article, we will learn all information about Shih Tzu Dog Breed. The Shih Tzu is a small and lively dog breed that is the perfect addition to any family. This intelligent and loyal pup has been around for centuries and was originally bred as a lapdog for Chinese royalty.
They are full of personality, making them great companions for both children and adults alike. The Shih Tzu is an adaptable breed that thrives in homes with active lifestyles or those looking for a low-maintenance pup.
History: Origin and Development
The Shih Tzu originates from the monasteries of Tibet. They are a very old dog breed. The monks wish to keep a breed that looks like a lion. Because they believed that the Buddha kept a dog that could change into a lion. So their name is Shih Tzu which means lion.
From the 7th century, they were live in monasteries in Tibet. About 1000 years later they were going to China Castles for their testing and they perform better, so the emperor owned them.
Communism came to power in China and established its own government, and the Shih Tzu number decreased. Because the Shih Tzu is a popular breed in old China, the new emperor did not see this breed as a ruler breed. So in this way, in the half of the 20th century, there were 14 pure breeds of Shih Tzu left.
The European love the dog you know, so he didn’t see this breed lost. The Europeans grow this breed outside China. The result of this thing is today all the world import this breed from Europe.
Shih Tzu Dog Breed Overview
The Shih Tzu, also known as the ‘Lion Dog’, is one of the oldest and most recognizable breeds in the canine world. With its long flowing coat, expressive eyes, and charming demeanor, the Shih Tzu makes an endearing companion to many pet owners.
Size
They are small in size.
Height
8 to 11 Inches in height.
Weight
4 to 8 kg in weight.
Coat
They also typically come with two different types of coats: smooth or long, and long, flowing coat.
Color
Shih Tzus come in a variety of colors including white, black, brown, gray, and brindle. And their mixture includes White and Black, White and Brindle, White and Gold, White and Golden Brindle, Solid black, and Solid gold.
Lifespan
Their lifespan is 11 to 16 years.
Swim
Have the ability to swim, but don’t have the stamina to complete length.
Hypoallergenic
Yes, they have.
Need of Exercise
Less amount of exercise need because of the small size. About 5 minutes in a day.
Bark
Prone to barking.
Characteristics and Behavior of Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small and fluffy dog. They are social dogs. Their upper coat is long, smooth, and full, and their hairs are similar to human hair. Their hair growth continues and falls on the ground. The Shih Tzu has floppy ears and a round head. The tail of Shih Tzu covers their back and their tail peak point is level with their head. Their ears and neck are hidden in the fluffy coat, and only their dark and large eyes expose slightly in the coat.
The Shih Tzu is present in many colors but the color which has been popular is the combination of white tail tip and blaze. The blaze is also known as the Buddha kiss.
The Shih Tzu is open-minded, smart, and friendly. But sometimes they are showing arrogance. They are loyal dogs and do not want to live in kennels or gardens. They feel happiness in between humans.
Due to their friendly nature, they easily live with other dogs and they don’t have a hunting instinct. The children can play with the Shih Tzu but carefully because they have small size and remember, children don’t rough play with them.
Training and Exercise of Shih Tzu
The training of Shih Tzu is difficult as compared to other dog breeds. They are very smart and learn quickly but they are self-confident and stubborn. They arise questions on your command, and they don’t like to obey rules because of their independent nature. So in this way, you should need to be sensitive and consistent.
They don’t need more exercise because the Shih Tzu’s nose has shortened and when you play or romp with them, they face the problem of breathing. Which is dangerous for him. Give him 5 to 10 daily play sessions or exercises.
Diet and Food
The good news is the Shih don’t need much food. They need food for a living, not live for food. Some peoples give their dog the food which he eats. But don’t give human food to Shih Tzu. Give him proper snacks for the dog.
The Shih Tzu is not overweight. If he tends to be overweight, they could face problems with breathing.
There are two foods for the Shih Tzu, one is dry food and second is wet food. Both have advantages and disadvantages.
Dry food can be stored easily for next use and could not dirty the teeth. On the other side, wet food is aromatic, tasty, and also contains more resources of protein than dry food.
The Shih Tzu eats less but gives him quality food. When choosing the ingredient food, list the meat first. The meat should not be a waste of animals. Sugar, preservatives, and additives are not for dog food.
Grooming Requirements
The Shih Tzu gets more grooming than other dogs due to their long hair. First, you need some utensils for adequate care such as Brush, comb, and hair ties. They tie up the hairs which are on the face for seeing their eye.
For bathing, you need good shampoo which cleans the Shih Tzu’s hair and coat. For cutting the nail, Trimmer or Scissors is best. For removing ticks, use a pair of tweezers or the Tick Pliers.
As you know if you have owned a Shih Tzu that they have do not an undercoat, which protects them from coldness. It freezes their body. When they are wet or cold they give them warm clothes and quickly dry their wet hairs. If they are wet for a long time, they get many health issues, it is harmful to the health of Shih Tzu such as cystitis, flu, and frostbite.
Health Concerns
As we discussed that they have a very small undercoat and the top coat is very long and lush. Their hair grows constantly and it requires a lot of care.
You should need to check daily hair on the face, cut the facial hair or tie it up. If they long and goes to the eye, then it causes irritation in the eyes.
When you take Shih Tzu for a walk they get dirt from the ground because of their small legs and long hair, so you need to clean them. Dirt ness cause many diseases like it destroys the skin’s protective layer.
Don’t use any other product for bathing them, only use conditioner or shampoo. Because their skin is sensitive. During bathing protect the Shih Tzu’s eyes, ears, and nose from water or foam.
Dry them quickly, and use a towel or dryer. Make sure the dryer is not so hot. If they were not properly dry, they get chilliness.
Trim the coat of Shih Tzu, some places need regular trimmer due to protecting for dirt and some place need one time trim in a month.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Shih Tzu breed is a loyal, friendly, and intelligent companion that is suitable for people of all ages. They are good with children, socialize well, and do not require much exercise. They can be relatively easily trained and make excellent watchdogs.
Hope you will enjoy and learn from this article. However, they need regular grooming so it’s important to factor in the cost of hair care products or visits to the groomer into your budget.
Shih Tzu’s popularity makes it easy to find one via reputable breeders or shelters. If you are looking for a low-maintenance and personable pooch who loves to cuddle, then the Shih Tzu may be the perfect fit for you.
