Shih Tzu is the ideal companion for every dog lovers. It’s a loving dog, not a hunter. Shih Tzus name means little lion, but there’s nothing fierce about this dog breed. This is a playful and naughty dog and it’s true companion dogs for everyone. The Shih Tzu is a one of the lowest maintenance dog breed in the world.
Shih Tzu Content overview
- Different names
- Appearance and Characteristics
- Personality and Temperament
- Health & problems
- How to take care
- Puppy Information
- Puppy price
- Things to consider adopting a puppy
- Advantages & Disadvantages
- Photo gallery
Highlights of Shih Tzu
- The Shih Tzu tends to wheeze and snore, and can be prone to dental problems.
- The Shih Tzu comes in a range of colors that include various shades of gold, white, brown, and black.
- Good for New Owners this breed is well suited for those who have little experience with dog ownership.
- This breed is extremely friendly and definitely not shy, it’s a wonderful, loving companion dog
History of Shih Tzu dog breed
Tzu was bred by Tibetan Lamas associated with the lion and Buddhist mythology, this dog which was bred in due to its strength, elegance, beauty and appearance, and it was working as a guardian of the palace and the temple, it was developed in Tibet in 1600 because it was considered a sacred animal.
A recent study revealed that the Shih Tzu is one of the 14 oldest dog breeds. And speculated that the Shih Tzu was developed in China by crossing other breeds with the Lhasa Apso or Pekingnese. The modern Shih Tzu developed in China in the late 19th Century, when the Dowager Empress Cixi ruled the kingdom.
These dogs are not much mentioned in documents from 1700, but Many pieces of the early 1900s have seen depictions of small, coarse, happy dogs. And in 1861, the Shih Tzu became popular in the Imperial Court after a royal concubine became the Empress of China.
In 1935 the breed was shown as the Lhassa Lion Dog, and it was then that it began to gain popularity on a wider scale, in 192 the first Shih Tzus a male and female pair, were brought to England from Peking by Lady Brownrigg, the wife of the quartermaster general of the north China command.
The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1969 and today it is popular for a gentle, loyal and cheerful attitude. The Shih Tzu is still a highly recommended watchdog because of its quick and vocal reaction to strangers, in this day the breed is now recognized by all of the major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world and if you need more information to go to the dogtime.com.
- Weight: Male 9- 16 pounds, Female 9- 16 pounds
- Height: 9 to 10 inches
- Life span: 11 to 14 years
Other Name of Shih Tzus Dog breed
- Lion Dog
- Chinese Lion Dog
- Chrysanthemum Dog
- American Canine Registry – ACR
- American Pet Registry, Inc – APRI
- Australian National Kennel Club – ANKC
- American Canine Association Inc – ACA
- Canadian Kennel Club – CKC
- Canadian Canine Registry – CCR
- Continental Kennel Club – CKC
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale – FCI
- Kennel Club of Great Britain – KCGB
- Dog Registry of America, Inc – DRA
Name of Shih Tzus
We’ve got Shih Tzu dog names for males and females like being as bellow
- Macie Maie
Do you have a favorite Shih Tzu dog name? Post your comment and add it to our list. If you are looking for another name for this dog so visit allshihtzu.com.
Characteristics & Appearance
The Shih Tzu is a strong dog with a short muzzle and large dark eyes. They have a double coat soft and long. The coat may be of any color, like black, white, gold and blazes of gray are frequently seen, it’s very nice and sweet dog breed perfect for adoption.
Shih Tzu Breed Characteristics
- Low exercise
- Usually playful and friendly with other pets
- High coat maintenance
- Housebreaking problems
- Tendency towards obesity
- Stubborn, willful
Basic characteristics of Shih Tzu
Country of Origin: – China
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Trainability: little difficult
Exercise Needs: Fairly low
Energy Level: High
Barking: The Shih Tzu is not typically a barker.
Shedding: Moderate to high
Protective Ability: Good
Hypoallergenic Breed: Yes
Space Requirements: House with Yard
Good Pet for new Owner: Moderate – easier to train than many dogs
Average new Puppy Price: $400 to $500
Size: A fully grown Shih Tzu can weigh between 9 to 16 pounds.
Height: 9 to 10 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
The Shih Tzu can be playful, extremely friendly, loving and Always close and loyal to its owners, this Shih Tzu also bonds quickly with any person whom it family accepts. They may suffer from separation anxiety and love to receive affection.
Size, Proportion, Substance
Size: Adult Shih Tzu dog will weigh anywhere from 9 to 16 pounds and will stand anywhere from 9 to 10 inches tall.
This condition is most common in breeds with dome-shaped heads, like your Shih Tzu. The standard head is big and round and is set high with face looking forward or up.
Muzzle: Shih Tzu has very short muzzles. Square, unwrinkled, with good cushioning, set no lower than bottom eye rim never downturned.
Eyes: Very dark and Large, round, not outstanding, placed well apart, trying straight ahead. Lighter on liver pigmented dogs and blue pigmented dogs.
Ears: Drop ears are lined with long fur, Large, set slightly below crown of skull heavily coated.
Nose: The short snub nose of the Shih Tzu will result in numerous respiratory difficulties.
Neck, Topline, Body
Neck: Well Seton flows swimmingly into the shoulders of ample length to allow natural high head carriage and in balance with height and length of dog.
Body: The medium to large size Short-coupled and durable with no waist or tuck-up. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall.
The forequarters of the Shih Tzu are strong and straight.
Shoulders: Well-angulated, well laid-back, well laid-in, fitting smoothly into body.
Forelegs: The forelegs should be well-boned, muscular, and well set apart to support the broad, deep chest.
Feet: The feet should be well-cushioned, and thick, and the paw pads should be rough. The foot is not a part of the leg and may toe out very slightly.
Angulation of hindquarters ought to be in balance with forequarters. Muscular, and straight once viewed from rear with well-bent stifles, not shut set however in line with forequarters.
Feet: Shih Tzu Firm, well padded, purpose straight ahead.
Tail: Set on high, heavily plumed, carried in curve overrun back. Too loose, too tight, too flat, or too low set a tail is undesirable and may be fined to extent of the deviation.
The Shih Tzu has a double coat that’s comparatively long and straight on the skin. The inner coat is thick and soft to the bit. Slight wave permissible. The hair on prime of the head is busy.
Weather: These very little dogs don’t seem to be meant for outside living and may never be left outside. They’re not suited to hot and wet weather, keep the temperature setting on drier, cooler than usual in hot weather.
Shedding: The Shih Tzu may be a low shed breed, therefore, are often an honest companion for those stricken with pet allergies.
Color and Markings
With such an upscale sort of Shih Tzu colors, color combos and markings come a good deal of confusion. Shih Tzu puppies will be born with a solid coat of hair, a mixture of 2 colors, or a mix of 3 colors. All are permissible and to be thought of equally.
Coat Color and Markings
It is quite common and almost about expected for Shih Tzu to alter colors as they mature. This could take initial time house owners off guard and it usually ends up in some Shih Tzu showing to be a distinct color.
The Shih Tzu moves straight and should be shown at its own natural speed, neither raced nor strung-up, to judge its sleek, flowing, easy movement with sensible front reach and equally robust rear drive and tail carried in a mild curve over back.
Best costumes for Shih Tzu
Personality and Temperament
The Shih Tzu is a very small dog. Every Shih Tzu dogs are different in nature, but the Shih Tzu is an alert, lively, little dog. It is bred primarily as a domestic and family companion. It is very happy and hardy dog. Shih Tzus tend to like dogs and children. It makes a very alert watchdog.
The Shih Tzu can be very stubborn, so he may need some patience and extra time to train. Which is playful and mischievous, it will steal your shoes at the event. These dogs may become untrustworthy with children and sometimes adults.
If you are interested to adopt dogs so this is a beautiful and funny dog which is known for its special temperament. Which might be suitable for you. The Shih Tzu is a precious and amazing special dog breed for a reason.
These well-liked, very little dogs square measure playful companions WHO love spending time with their master. Though this breed is additionally marvelous with youngsters, they need lots of pampering and may not be handled roughly thanks to their little size. Overall, they’re nice family pets, however, are often a trifle difficult to coach.
It’s essential that its temperament be outgoing, happy, lovesome, friendly and trusting towards all. They’re terribly fond and mild in disposition and wish to play lots.
One of the foremost famous lap dogs around, the Shih Tzu may be a forever devoted companion. Shih Tzus are active and outside dogs. An easy walk round the block and a few romping time in the yard or at the park are enough to satisfy their daily exercise needs. They a lot of like clowning around the house or curling abreast of a lap to a rigorous cardio exercise.
Shih Tzus create glorious watchdogs. This dog is pleasant, light and sweet-natured, fun-loving and spirited with a cheerful disposition. They’re alert, watchful and can faithfully bark once somebody approaches his house.Training should embody lessons on obeying commands to stop barking.
The Shih Tzu breed includes a stubborn streak creating dog coaching slightly tough. House training can even be tough, however many of us have had sensible results with crate coaching ways.
Training should begin early, sessions should be unbroken short, and activities ought to be varied so as to stay the dog fascinated by what’s happening. Numerous excited praise and treats will facilitate, inspire a Shih Tzu to be told new behavior.
Shih Tzu Health Problem
What You Need to Know About Shih Tzu Health?
Shih Tzus are generally healthy, but like all breeds of dogs, they are prone to certain conditions and diseases, Shih Tzu lifetime from 11 to 16 years small diseases may affect the species like Renal dysplasia, retinal atrophy, inguinal may well become a subject of major concern to worry about diseases such as Canine Hip. Shih Tzus can be happy and hard to house-train. Despite their generally sweet demeanor, some may be snappish.
Some of the common health problem like
It is a very common problem for Shih Tzus. Shih Tzu Eye Problems can cause irritation, discomfort and even blindness to your sweet Tzu. Shih Tzu eye problems are usually necessary to take care because that it could ever be fatal. A cataract is an opaque cloudiness that affects the eye lens. Euphoria is also referred to as “wet eye,” or “watery eye” or an overflow of tears or excessive tearing. So eye care is a very important element of keeping your dog happy and healthy.
The Shih Tzu’s short face not only makes them susceptible to eye problems, but also respiratory issues, such as heatstroke breathing. Shih Tzus, a short flat nose so may have difficulty breathing, especially when the weather is hot.
Other Health problems
Like all breeds, there may be some health issues, like
- Hip Dysplasia
- Liver Problems
- Ear Infections
- Skin Problems
- Juvenile Renal Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Umbilical Hernia
How to take care of the Shih Tzus
Shih Tzu is descended from royal Chinese dogs and was originally bred to be great companions. Health care is always important for everyone, but do you know how to take care of Shih Tzus. If you don’t know so read information and make your dog very healthy and happy. Today there are many ways to easily take care of the dog, but you have followed this step and take care of the dog.
This breed needs exercise. Human and any pet exercise are almost needed for health care. This is a very important part of any dog or pet life. The good news is that keeping your dog healthy, happy and out of trouble with daily exercise is a lot of fun and provides many benefits, including:
- Exercise Helps to keep your Shih Tzu dogs healthy, agile and limber
- To keep dogs’ weight under control
- Helps timid or fearful dogs build confidence and trust
- It helps to reduce digestive problems and constipation
- Helps to reduce or eliminate the common behavior problems
- Walking is a good exercise for every dog.
- Walking is a simple exercise and good for both of you. It’s even good for your family
Exercise is a good and useful way to take care of the Shih Tzu dog breed. Exercise is good for you and your dog. It will help keep your dog’s heart, lungs, and muscles strong and healthy so he lives longer.
Grooming & Bruising
Grooming a Shih Tzu may be a long endeavor. Daily brushing and brushing may be a should to get rid of tangles, and bathing is typically necessary once per week. Tiny dog area unit at risk of dental issues later in life, thus brushing additional typically may be a sensible plan. To boot, nails ought to be cut once per month, if the dog doesn’t wear the toenails down naturally.
The coat is simpler to worry about once it changes. What proportion you wish to brush or comb a Shih Tzu depends greatly on the feel of his explicit coat. Some need daily care, and a few would like it just the once every week. A taster coat gets matted additional quickly, even additional so if it’s thick. Bathe your Shih Tzu as typically as you prefer, however, make sure to comb out any tangles before you bathe him. They’ll restrain once they get wet. Dry the coat completely to stay your Shih Tzu from obtaining chilled.
Dental Health check up
The Shih Tzu suffers from several of the health issues common to small dogs and includes a few specific health issues of his own. Shih Tzus will have teeth that area unit misaligned or missing. As a result of their tiny mouths contribute to tooth situation, they are additionally prone to periodontitis and need regular veterinary attention. They’ll even be born with a cleft lip and surface.
Regular vet visits
Contact your vet if you are concerned about the health of your dog/puppy. Take your dog for a check-up at least once a year. This can be done at vaccination time to ensure early detection of problems. Never give a dog human medicine such as Panadol or Aspirin as these can be harmful or even fatal.
Vaccinations against disease are critical throughout your dog’s life. SPCA gives most initial vaccinations and a health card recording them. Check this for the due date of future vaccinations and arrange with your vet.
Flea and worm treatment: Regular treatments will help keep your dog free of fleas and worms. Check your dog’s health card for treatment dates.
Love & affection
Love and affection are useful for every dog. If you give a love and affection to your Shih Tzu than the dog will love you back. The Shih Tzu is bred primarily as a domestic and family companion, therefore, its temperament ought to be radio-controlled by friendliness, buoyancy, tolerance, and trust. This breed showers affection on its family once it’s been treated in a similar way, and is sweet and mild with kids.
Best food for Shih Tzu
Feed Healthy food
Feeding a healthy meal in the dog’s life is the most important. In this day there are many healthy foods are available in the market so that you can choose any healthy food for your dog. Because healthy food is the most important for dog health care.
Cat food is not suitable for dogs and some human food like salt, sugar, or additives that can be harmful, fattening or cause severe reactions. So don’t feed this kind of food of your dog and do not give your dog milk, as most are lactose intolerant and will get diarrhea
Give your Shih Tzu healthy dog food:-
Healthy dog food is available in the market, so you have to be urged to habitat healthy diet for your Shih Tzu dogs because it’s best for your dog health care and Keep in mind that some Shih Tzu have allergies or stomach sensitivities. So healthy dog food is always important for your Shih Tzu dog.
Best Dog Food for Shih TzusFish
- Sweet potato 7. Green beans
- Sweet peas 8. White chicken meat
- Organs 9. Pasta
- Cottage cheese 10. Baby carrots
- Raspberries 11. Blueberries
- Macadamia Nuts
- Fruit pits and seeds
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.
Shih Tzu puppies for sale
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How to train Shih Tzu puppy
First, if you want to take care of your dog, it must be given appropriate training because training is an important part of any pet care. Train your Shih Tzu in basic obedience skills. They can have a holier than thou attitude, which makes it a bit tougher to train them.
You do not have to teach your Shih Tzu dog a lot of different tricks, but they should at least be able to do the following on command like come, sit, leave it, stay, heel etc. Another element of training that you will want to start working on immediately is house-training, crate training etc.
The Shih Tzu dog is a very friendly and active dog. Training a Shih Tzu takes long-term dedication and time, but it can worthwhile as it can foster a healthy, happy relationship between you and your pet.
Crate training is important for every dog or any pets. Many people use crates to train their puppies. Crate training is most people prefer because it is a simple and effective. Most puppies feel very safe in his crate So create training is very useful for a Shih Tzu puppy.
A crate can use as a:
- Transport carrier in a car, plane or other vehicle
- Can be used to protect a puppy from dangerous household items such as poisonous plants, electrical cords, medicines, etc.
- Can be used in a hotel room
Shih Tzu Clicker Training
Clicker training is very useful for a Shih Tzu dog. Shih Tzu training when using a clicker is great fun. The inventive, sparky and highly intelligent Shih Tzu loves clicker training when motivated with the right food. It also provides your dog with love and Feeling. This is a good training for everyone because Shih Tzu clicker training can be done at home after a clicker tuning in the process, but it can also be used in a training class with great results.
Behavioral training is very important for any dog. At some point in time all of us dog owners need to administer some dog behavior training. Behavioral training is very helpful for taking care of the dog. First of all, if you want to train your Shih Tzu so find out some common behavioral issues like briking, aggression, food guarding, howling, mouthing and chewing, separation anxiety etc and stop this behavioral issues and train your dog easily.
This is a one of the basic and most important training for any dog. There are 3 methods of training that we use with your Shih Tzu, all begins with a strong foundation in the core 5 obedience commands: come, sit, stay, heel, down. Every dog should know these 5 basic obedience commands Because it is very necessary for obedience training.
This is probably the most important thing that you can do for your Shih Tzu. Like any other dog breed, this breed also requires early socialization and is likely to become a well-rounded pet if you introduce them to new faces and surroundings from a young age.
A Shih Tzu might cost anywhere from $900 to $2500 depending on whether it is particularly popular, whether you buy from a good breeder, where you are and the health of the dog. These come to $400 – $500. Annual costs will cover things like training, vaccinations, food, license, health checks, treats, emergency health care savings, toys. This will be about $1000 – $1100.
Find a breeder
Things to consider adopting a Shih Tzu
If you’re seriously considering adopting a Shih Tzu, you should know.
- As a tiny, low breed of dog, the Shih Tzu offers birth to comparatively tiny to medium sized litters, sometimes consisting of something from 3 to 5 puppies.
- Shih Tzu like to be around their people at home or on the go, they’re very affectionate and loyal.
- Before you adopt a puppy, ask yourself if you are available to walk your dog several times throughout the day.
- You also have the advantage of knowing that your dog is physically able to “hold it” for several hours at a stretch.
- Ask anybody who has adopted an adult dog then after adopts an adult dog.
- If you’re unsure of whether the new dog you’ve chosen is right for your family and lifestyle, consider fostering before making a commitment.
Advantages of Dog
- Protective, loyal, can be trained as guard dogs
- Excellent choice for cold climates
- Loving, playful, good with kids
- Perfect for active families/owners
Disadvantages of Dog
- Sheds constantly
- Needs at least an hour of daily outdoor exercise
- May be aggressive towards pets and strangers
- May suffer separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time
- Not for a first time owner; somewhat difficult to train
Shih Tzu Photos
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Also read: Top 10 benefits of having a Beagle
I like that you talked about how Shih Tzu can live comfortably in any kind of home including apartments and can easily get along well with other individuals. Since I was a child, I’ve been dreaming of owning a dog. Now that I have the means to do so, I’m looking for the best breed of dog that I can buy. My husband and I live in small apartment, so it will make sense for me to make sure that the dog that I will buy won’t have any problem living in our space. I’ll go ahead and consider all your tips. Thank