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The Shih Tzu breed has dogs of small sizes: their height measures from 8 inches and up to 11 inches and their weight varies from 9 pounds up to 16 pounds. The Shih Tzu appear to be extremely beautiful dogs. It has a double coat – one long-haired luxuriant coat and the other soft and wooly. The owners of the dogs of this breed usually comb the hair on their head into a top knot, in order to keep it from falling into their eyes.

Shih Tzu is the chinese name of this breed originated from Tibet and means the Small Lion, name under it is most known all around the world. When learning about the history of the Shih Tzu, we see that it was a favorite pet of the Emperors of Manchu Dynasty of China around 19th century where they flourished. They reached China as gifts from Tibetan monks to the emperors of that time. Since they looked like lions, they were named as the Tibetan Shih Tzu, or the Tibetan Lion. These dogs reached England around 1930 and from there they were brought to US by American soldiers. The breed was instantly accepted by people there because of the breeds’ beauty and friendly attitude.

Why Are the Shih Tzu Dogs Beloved By People All Around The World?

The Shih Tzu is a people’s dog. They can only be happy if they are with someone or, at least, if people are around. When they were left alone for a too long time, they can become cranky or act distructively. They are calm and sweet by temperament and go along with everybody – people and/or animals – without any effort. It is however not advisable to leave them around small children lest anyone be harmed.

The Shih Tzu puppies and adult dogs need a lot of grooming since it has two coats of hair – one short undercoat and one sweepingly long. Every day you must comb their hair to prevent tangling or matting. They need to be bathed often and they fall easily sick if exposed to high humidity content in the air, hence should be brought to live in climates, which are not too humid. Their teeth need special attention since they have a tendency of falling when the dog crosses into middle age (9 years old and onwards).

Having short and flat faces, their breathing is troubled by wheezing sounds and they snor loudly. They are prone to obesity and should not be overfed. They tend to become and behave like spoiled brats easily.

The Shih Tzu dogs are difficult to train because of their stubbornness. Owners need a lot perseverance to train them at home. Harshness has no effect on their training, you need patience.

As indoor dogs, they don’t need more than an apartment to live. And there is no need of much exercise. However, they love outdoors and enjoy games. In order to understand this breed better, you will need to know as much about the Shih Tzu as possible. And a great part of their history waits to be discovered.

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