A Breed Apart: The Shih Tzu

If you are looking for a lively little dog with lots of spunk, then you’ll love the Shih Tzu. The breed’s diminutive size does not keep him from being a loyal and active companion. In fact, Shih Tzu like nothing more than being held, stroked, and pampered by their owners. They’re equally happy sitting on the couch with you for hours or romping through the snow.

The Shih Tzu is one of the world’s oldest dog breeds, commonly thought to have stemmed from a cross of the Pekingese and the Lhaso Apso. Ancient Chinese paintings uncovered from the sixth century A.D. show grand depictions of Shi Tzu-like dogs, while documents from the period claim that these prized pooches were offered as gifts to the Chinese court from the Byzantine Empire. Shih Tzu were common house pets during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644 A.D.) and since that time, they’ve been highly prized by the Chinese. In 1908, they made their way to England, where they were bred and shipped off to parts of Europe and Australia. The American Kennel Club certified the breed in 1969, and it has been a popular competitor in the Toy Group ever since. A little note: The name Shih Tzu is for both singular and plural usage.

Country of origin: Tibet

Height: 9 to 10 inches

Weight: 9 to 18 pounds

Color: The breed has a long, soft, double coat. Most often the fur is beige, black, or red, with a blaze of white on the forehead and tip of the tail.

Training: The noble Shih Tzu can be stubborn and willful at times, so training may not always run smoothly. If you approach this somewhat obstinate breed with plenty of patience, it is possible for your Shih Tzu to achieve a high level of obedience.

Grooming: Although the Shih Tzu is more hypoallergenic than some breeds, his long silky coat grows to floor length and requires daily brushing to avoid tangles. In addition, regular grooming is necessary for this fast-growing coat. Often Shih Tzu are clipped short in a “puppy cut” in order to simplify care.  If the hair is to be left long, a hair bow or elastic is necessary to keep the hair out of their eyes.

Exercise: The Shih Tzu is content with short walks. Many are known to play in the snow.

The Family Factor: Shih Tzu rarely bark. They typically love company and tend to get along well with other pets and children. However, older children are probably better companions for this breed, as the Shih Tzu can snap if scared or teased.

Health Concerns: Shih Tzu are brachycephalic (short-muzzled) pups that are very sensitive to high temperatures. Many airlines that ship dogs will not accept this breed when temperatures at any point on the planned itinerary exceed 75°F. Common health issues can include hip dysplasia, ear and kidney infections, and eye sensitivity problems.

Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years

Famous Owners: Nicole Richie, Jane Seymour, Frank Sinatra, Brooke Shields, Oleg Cassini, Beyonce