Welcome! Wikis are websites that everyone can build together. It's easy!

Shih-Tzu

Shih-Tzu - Dogs & Dog RescueUnique Embroidered Greetings Cards for Lovers of Shih Tzu

Shih-Tzu - Dogs & Dog RescueMake a page for your shih-tzu.

Shih-Tzu - Dogs & Dog RescueShare shih-tzu rescue stories.

Shih-Tzu - Dogs & Dog RescueAdd to or browse shih-tzu picture gallery

Shih-Tzu - Dogs & Dog RescueKnow about these dogs? Click EasyEdit to add info anywhere on this page.


Shih TzuThe Shih Tzu has a reputation for being a high-strung, high-maintenance, and high-society breed. And while there is some truth to this reputation, Shih Tzus are also loyal and delightful companion dogs.

Short History of the Breed


  • "Shih Tzu" means "lion dog" in Chinese and dates back as far as 624 AD.
  • The Shih Tzu is an ancient Chinese breed that was used by the Chinese aristocracy in the 19th century as a companion animal and a symbol of wealth and prestige.
  • Once considered exotic and off-limits for the masses, the Shih Tzu was introduced to North America in the early 20th century but was not a recognized AKC breed until 1969.

Physical Description & Size


Shih Tzus are perfectly sized lap dogs! They are usually 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh an average of 9 to 12 pounds.

Shih Tzus are sometimes called "the chrysanthemum-faced dog" because the facial hair grows outwards in many directions like a flower. They have an exaggeratedly arrogant carriage with a turned up tail and a peppy gait.

The double coat is long, thick, luxurious, and smooth, sometimes with a slight wave. Hair on top of the head is often tied up not only to enable the dog to see and to prevent eye infections.

The Shih Tzu coat can be black and white, gray and white, red and white, and beige and white, or any combination of these colors.
Shih-Tzu - wikiFido:Dog Breeds, Rescues
Kaley, a 8-yr-old shih tzu, loves to play ball and swim!

Temperament


Shih Tzus are usually happy, outgoing, trusting, and affectionate dogs. They love kids(more of such older kids), and get along well with other animals,however they dont do well with younger children,as they have a strong sence of seif-importance and they might be jealous of little children.They usually attach themselves closely with one individual but are friendly to many. This breed can become distraught very easily by change of routine and surroundings, however, and it is healthiest to keep life as similar as possible since they do not adapt well to change.

Dog Care (exercise, grooming, diet)


The famous Shih Tzu coat of long, silky hair does, of course, require a fair amount of grooming and upkeep. Many owners will rely on the help of a professional groomer to keep their dog's coat in glossy condition.

Like other dogs in the AKC Toy group, Shih Tzus are well suited as apartment dogs and urban pets. This breed does not need much exercise, and will be happy with a daily walk around the block.

They are best suited in households without too much chaos and because they can be defensive and nippy in situations perceived as stressful or threatening.

Shih Tzus require a high-quality, regulated diet to prevent weight gain and obesity.

Health Issues, Life Expectancy


Shih-Tzu - wikiFido:Dog Breeds, RescuesAs with other pure bred dogs, there are certain health concerns common to the breed, This includes a tendency towards eye injury (because of the unique shape of the Shih Tzu's face and their protruding eyes), ear infections, thyroid disorders, and hip dysplasia.

That being said, the breed as a whole is quite healthy, and most Shih Tzus live long, healthy lives that can last 12 to 16 years or more.

AKC Group


The Shih Tzu belongs to the AKC Toy group of dogs. Other dogs in this category include the Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, and Pug.

Additional Resources




Latest page update: made by Dogmania.co.uk , Mar 9 2008, 5:32 PM EDT (about this update About This Update Dogmania.co.uk Edited by Dogmania.co.uk


view changes

- complete history)
Keyword tags: dogs shih tzu toy breed
More Info: links to this page

Anonymous  (Get credit for your thread)


(Showing the last 5 of 14 - view all)
Started By Thread Subject Replies Last Post
1mica10 confused 7 Apr 21 2008, 7:38 PM EDT by Anonymous
1mica10
Thread started: Sep 13 2007, 7:30 PM EDT  Watch
i have a shih tzu that will be 2 on december 11, since a short time after we got him we have notices that he has a tendency to bite all four of his paws, if u have any ideas plz message me, 1mica10
3  out of 4 found this valuable. Do you?    
Keyword tags: None
Show Last Reply
Anonymous eating his feaces 5 Mar 1 2008, 10:38 PM EST by Anonymous
Thread started: Aug 20 2007, 10:16 AM EDT  Watch
i have just acquired a shitzu puppy he is about 9 weeks old but i have noticed on 2 occasions he is eating his poo not the solid poo the runny stuff i am currently feeding him just nuts and water any advice much appreciated
ciara ireland
3  out of 7 found this valuable. Do you?    
Keyword tags: None
Show Last Reply
Anonymous skin problems 0 Jan 20 2008, 5:34 PM EST by Anonymous
Thread started: Jan 20 2008, 5:34 PM EST  Watch
My Shih Tzu is 12 years old and has begain to have skin problems. Over the past few months her skin is turning black in spots and has a foul smell. I would love to know what is causing this and how to help her. Thanks
4  out of 5 found this valuable. Do you?    
Keyword tags: dogs shih tzu toy breed
Anonymous MY DOG. 6 Dec 13 2007, 11:03 PM EST by Anonymous
Thread started: Sep 18 2007, 6:31 PM EDT  Watch
MY GRAND MOTHER HAS A SHITZU AND IT IS TOO MUCH FOR HER. SHE HAS NO TIME FOR IT AND WE WOULD LIKE IT TO GO TO A BETTER HOME...
WHAT SHALL WE DO??
2  out of 5 found this valuable. Do you?    
Keyword tags: None
Show Last Reply
Anonymous My shih tzu loves everything and everyone 6 Dec 7 2007, 12:16 PM EST by Anonymous
Thread started: Mar 9 2006, 1:01 PM EST  Watch
My experience is just the opposite. People can't believe how easy going he is. He lives with 3 cats, loves kids, and is a friend to all. The only time he ever growls is when he is stalking and attacking his stuffed toys. When I take him out, he usually collects a fan club within 1-2 blocks, of people cooing over him. If I see a couple walking with a young child and the child looks like they want to meet the doggie, I always reassure them that he is very gentle, and is a good dog for them to meet. If I stop to talk with a friend, he just lies down to wait until I am finished, with no tugging or restless behavior. I know every shih tzu is different, but just wanted to let readers know that some are as sweet as can be. There are several shih tzus living in my neighborhood, and uniformly they are happy friendly little guys - very low maintenance.
12  out of 13 found this valuable. Do you?    
Keyword tags: None
Show Last Reply
(Showing the last 5 of 14 - view all)

Related Content

(what's this?Related ContentThanks to keyword tags, links to related pages and threads are added to the bottom of your pages. Up to 15 links are shown, determined by matching tags and by how recently the content was updated; keeping the most current at the top. Share your feedback on Wetpaint Central.)
Wiki pages
Top Contributors