About ShihTzu Dogs

The Shih Tzu breed is known in the United States as chrysanthemum dog and normally pronounced "sheet-sue," but the proper Chinese Mandarin pronunciation is "sure-ds." Shih Tzu translates to lion dog, describing the long flowing coat that is characteristic of this breed. The Shih Tzu breed is a small and lively breed, typically characterized as a toy breed because of their small stature.

  1. History

    • The exact origin of the Shih Tzu breed is unknown, but the breed is said to have descended from pairing the Pekingese with the Lhasa Apso during the 17th century in Peking, China. Chinese royals were fond of the Shih Tzu breed and prized the breed so greatly that they refused to trade, sell or give them away until the 1930s, when a pair of Shih Tzu dogs was imported into England. The breed was officially recognized in Britain in the year 1946 and was recognized by the AKC in 1969.

    Physical Description

    • The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy and compact dog breed with a long tail and a body that is only slightly longer. This breed features a broad, round head with a short, square muzzle and a wide space between the large, bright eyes. The nose, lips and rims around the eyes are colored according to the dog's coat color. Liver- and blue-colored dogs have matching features, while other colored coats have black noses, eye rims and lips. These dogs feature a high-set tail that curves up over the back with long, flowing hair. Shih Tzu dogs have a dense, long, double coat that flows down to the feet, requiring regular grooming.

    Size

    • The Shih Tzu breed is classified as a small or toy dog breed, with a maximum height of 11 inches at the shoulder. The average height for an adult Shih Tzu is between 8 and 11 inches. The average weight of a Shih Tzu ranges between 9 and 16 lbs.

    Behavioral Characteristics

    • The Shih Tzu is a lively, alert dog but also offers challenges in terms of training. Shih Tzu dogs require every human in the household to be a pack leader, as they are prone to behavioral issues and challenging authority. Some of the behavioral issues that are common in Shih Tzu dogs include anxiety, growling, guarding, snapping, separation anxiety and sometimes biting. When properly trained, the Shih Tzu breed has a positive temperament that is naturally trustworthy and good with social situations, children and other pets.

    Health Concerns

    • The Shih Tzu breed is prone to some health problems including spinal disc disease and slipped stifle. These health issues are caused by short legs and longer backs. Other health issues that the Shih Tzu breed may be prone to include eye problems, ear infections and early-onset tooth loss. The Shih Tzu breed can also snore and wheeze, and may develop respiratory problems over time. Shih Tzu dogs are also prone to weight gain from overeating, so careful feeding is necessary in caring for this breed.