What Is the Breed Origin of the Shih Tzu Dog?

It is unknown when the Shih Tzu became a separate and distinct breed or what dogs influenced its origins. Documents and artistic renderings of a dog resembling the Shih Tzu date back as far as A.D. 624, although the breed's introduction into China probably occurred hundreds of years later, according to the American Shih Tzu Club.

  1. Origins

    • The Shih Tzu, also known as the Chrysanthemum Dog or Little Lion in Mandarin Chinese, may have descended from Tibetan mountain dogs (Lhasa Apso) or they may be related to toy dogs of the Orient, such as the pug or Pekingese. The most common theory is a Tibetan spaniel was crossed with an Asian Pekingese, resulting in the Shih Tzu we know today.

    Ming and Manchu Dynasties

    • It is well documented that the Shih Tzu was the favorite breed of the Chinese royals during the Ming (1368 to 1644) and Manchu (17th century) dynasties, even receiving royal ranking and wearing hats befitting their station, according to Shih Tzus for Dummies.

    Legend

    • The lion, one of Buddhism's sacred symbols, is not native to China, and legend says the Shih Tzu was bred and groomed to resemble the king of beasts, reports Shih Tzus for Dummies. This may explain the doglike features of Chinese lion sculptures.

    Protected

    • The Chinese prized the Little Lion and refused to sell the breed to outsiders, even after trade with the Western world was firmly established.

    Rescued

    • After the Communist revolution in China, people were discouraged from owning dogs unsuitable for work or eating. Therefore, many breeds nearly died out. Seven males and seven females from England, Norway and Sweden may have saved the Shih Tzu from becoming extinct in the Western world.