Shihtzu Profile

Other Names:  Chrysanthemum Dog

Country of origin: Tibet

Dog Group Kennel Club:  Utility

General appearance:

Shih Tzus are sturdy dogs with high head carriage, a good undercoat and long, dense outer coat.  Often these dogs have the hair on their faces tied up to revel their eyes. The luxurious and profuse outer-coat often sweeps the ground, and may be slightly wavy. The under-coat is wooly and soft in texture. They are minimal shedders and are considered hypoallergenic. Shih Tzus are small breeds of dog and were originally Tibetan holy dogs.

Colours:

All colours are allowed.

Size:

Dog             20 -28 cms

Bitch           20 -28 cms

Weight:

                          Min            Max
 
Bitch           4kg (9lbs)   8kg (18lbs)
 
Dog             4kg (9lbs)    8kg (18lbs)

Temperament:

Shih Tzus are intelligent and lively with a friendly, active, independent outlook. The Shih Tzu is first and foremost a companion. They love nothing more than being indoors with their family.They do love children and will accept other dogs and household pets if introduced from an early age. As a breed they can be independent and wary of strangers. They are outgoing and self-assured, keen and alert. They make excellent watchdogs. They do not do well being separated from their owners and may become destructive if left alone for extended periods of time.The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful and intelligent dog.

Movement:

Smooth and far reaching with a slightly arrogant look.

Care and training:

The Shih Tzu requires extensive grooming. They need brushed daily to prevent knots, tangles, and mats. They need to be bathed monthly. They are not suited for humid climates. It is important to keep their eyes and ears cleaned. Their eyes are particularly sensitive. They are prone to kidney disease and slipping kneecaps. The Shih Tzu's short muzzle makes it exceptionally prone to snoring and wheezing problems.

Overall Exercise: 0 - 20 minutes per day.
They do require exercise but are quite happy to stay at home and play. They are perfectly content with short walks.

Feeding requirements:

Feeding will be less than £4 per week. 
 
Exercise: Low

Grooming: Med

Noise: Low

Personal Protection: Low

Suitability As Guard Dog: Low

Level of Aggression: Low

Compatibility With Other Animals: High

Suitablity for Children: High

Often docked: No

Average litter: 2 - 4 puppies

Life expectancy: 10 - 14 years

Health issues: Kidney disorder, allergies, cleft palate, eye problems, renal disease, and von Willebrand's disease.

History:  Shih Tzus may have originated from a cross between the Tibetan Mountain Dog, Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. They were a favored dog of the Emperor and have been portrayed in Chinese paintings and artwork for centuries. Thought to have been around since possibly the 7th century, the Shih Tzu was probably descends from a Lhasa type dog that came from Tibet, which then mixed with the Pekignese or Tibetan Mountain Dog. All are similar in appearance and attitude, although the Shih Tzu is more people oriented and less suspicious than the Lhasa Apso. Shih Tzus lived a life of luxury in the palaces of royal Emperors and the Dalai Lama. They were bred as pets and companions, and commonly kept as so. They were called "Lion Dogs" by the Chinese, in which the lion was a powerful symbol of honor and strength. Chine became a republic in 1912, and afterward a few of these animals made their way to Britain and other countries