_
_
Check out some great offers for your dog:
Groomax Allergin Reducing Shampoo
Cate Black/White Check Dog Collar & Leash
Or for more PETsMART Featured Items just click here
Appearance: The Shih Tzu breed is characterized by its long, luxurious, flowing double coat; sturdy build. Sometimes they are confused with Lhasa Apso. They have a short snout, large eyes, and a palm-like tail that waves above its torso. Their face has bee described as similar to a chrysanthemum. This impression is given by the tendency of the hair on the bridge of the dog's nose to grow upwards. This hair is usually customarily tied up not only to enable the dog to see and to prevent eye infections, but to be fashionable also. The Shih Tzu's hair can be styled either in a short summer cut, or kept long as is compulsory for conformation shows. Although Shih Tzu owners do not generally find fur on furniture or cloths, they do shed a small amount and shouldn't be mistaken for a hypoallergenic pet. Their shedded hair are usually trapped in the Shih Tzu's dense undercoat until the Shih Tzu starts to do activities that involve a lot of movement (e.g. Running around.)
Time of origin: 1600s
Country of origin: Tibet
Primary usage: Court dog
History: The Shih Tzu was bred to sit around the palace of the Emperor of China and bark when people or animals approached. It is believed that this ornamental breed was created by breeding the Bei-jing gou ( Pekingese ) with a Tibetan dog breed, the Lhasa Apso. Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest breeds of dog . The Shih Tzu is also known as the Chinese/Tibetan Lion Dog or the Chrysanthemum Dog. It is called the chrysanthemum dog because it's face looks very much like the flower. In 1994, the Shih Tzu became the 12th most popular breed of dog in the AKC's 139 breeds, in 2006 they reached 9th position.
Temperament: Shih Tzus are outgoing, happy, and affectionate companions that respond well to gentle obedience training. They love children and get along with other animal and unfamiliar people. Although generally outgoing and friendly, the Shih Tzu definitely has an attitude that cries to be spoiled. However, poorly bred dogs of the breed can be excitable, noisy, and snappy. Shih Tzu will almost literally do anything for food and look for any kind of chance to eat something other than just dog food. Though Shih Tzus are generally good with children, they become easily jealous of babies and toddlers and may snap if bothered by rambunctious children. And although the Shih Tzu aren't known to be aggressive, if not properly trained they will bite whatever they can get their hands on, including people. They're most suited for older children, particularly those who enjoy combing his hair. Shih Tzus are very active and alert. They are intelligent, and can be trained for obedience competition and for good manners around the home. They can be stubborn, so persistence and consistency are definite plusses in training methods. Punishment makes this dog shut down, so training should also be low-key and motivational.
Height: 27 cm (10,5in)
Weight: 5 - 7kg (10-16lb)
Health issues: Shih Tzus must be brushed and combed daily to avoid severe matting. Most Shih Tzus are satisfied with daily walks and an occasional romp. The Shih Tzu is a long lived and fairly healthy breed, but there are a few health conditions that are known to affect the dog. Health issues include entropion, portacaval shunt, renal dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), patellar luxation, and trichiasis. Shih Tzus typically live between 11 and 14 years.
Other names: Chinese/Tibetan Lion Dog, Chrysanthemum Dog, Shih Tsu, Shizi Gou, Shih-tzu Kou, Xi shi quan, ???