Shih Tzu, Best Social Toy Dog Breeds | Shih Tzu Puppies

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu, also known as the Chrysanthemum Dog, is a toy dog breed. The exact origin is unknown but supposed to have the first introduction in Tibetan Plateau, and then bred in China.

Size and Weight

The average size of Shih Tzu is no more than 26.7 cm (10½ inches) at the withers, and normal weight of an adult dog ranges from 4.5 kg to 7.3 kg (10 to 16 lbs.).

Appearance

The Shih Tzu is a robust tiny dog with a short muzzle and large murky eyes. Shih Tzu has a smooth and long double coat. Drop ears are covered with long hair, and the large hairy tail is carried curled over the back. The coat may be of any color, however white and with blazes of grey are commonly seen. The Shih Tzu is a little longer than taller. A very conspicuous feature is the underbite, which is required in this breed standard. The long silky coat, which touches the ground, needs daily brushing to protect from tangles.

For long coat and fast-growing fur, regular training is essential, which may be expensive and should be taken into account when accepting one of this breed. Frequently, the long coat of Shih Tzu is clipped short to simplify care, but the coat still demands regular brushing. The coat must be left in its normal position, yet trimming (puppy cut) for elegance around the feet and anus is permitted.

Shih Tzu Temperament

Although the temperament of a single Shih Tzu's differs from dog to dog. The breed has a gracious behavior and temperament that is loyal, affectionate, outbound, and attentive. Good exercise and appropriate socializing must start at a young age for the Shih Tzu to follow basic commands, for the Shih Tzu is prone to obstinacy when it starts training. While the Shih Tzu is an outstanding watchdog for its alertness and lively nature, it was not specifically bred for this purpose. The Shih Tzu prefers to be handy to its companions and sometimes offers strangers its affection. Because of its sociable nature, the Shih Tzu likes to interact well with other dogs, the children, and the adults.

Coat Colors and Quality

The Shih Tzu comes in a variety of colors that comprise various shades of gold, white, brown, and black. Other colors consist of black and white, black mask gold, solid liver, liver and white, solid black, white, red and white, and grey and white. Therefore, when two Shih Tzu mate, there is a probability that their progeny's coat will be similar to the sire's color, dam's color, tricolor, or a mix of both parents' colors.

The normal straight and silky Shih Tzu coat has also been recorded by various popular dog information sites as being hypoallergenic. In comparison with various other breeds, Shih Tzu doesn’t shed to the same amount, but only lose small quantity when bathed or brushed. The Shih Tzu coat is supposed to fall out merely when brushed or broken. The coat may also be curvy or stiff.

Lifespan

The average life of a Shih Tzu is about 13 years and 2 months and mostly live for 10 to 16 years (UK Kennel Club survey).

Kennel Club Dissimilarities

The Shih Tzu of American Kennel Club (AKC) is different from UK Kennel Club due to following characteristics:

1. The forequarters (front legs) are straight, and hindquarters (rear legs) are muscular. Neither should be too small nor too large.

2. The normal head is big and round and is set high with the face looking forward or up.

3. The neck and body of American Shih Tzu are most important and should not be inflated.

4. The eyes are large and look at the front.

5. The shoulders of American Shih-Tzu are frontward.

Shih Tzu Puppies

Shih Tzu Puppy

A cream coloured Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu Puppy

Also see: Beautiful Photo Gallery of Cute Shih Tzu Puppies