Dog Breeds - Shih Tzu

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is inclined to display towards their family members or individuals they are familiar with can vary significantly. Certain breeds may appear distant with everyone apart from their owner, while others exhibit a friendly demeanor towards anyone they are acquainted with treating them as though they are their closest confidant.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a breed demonstrates tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly disposition is worth considering. It is essential to provide supervision when dogs interact with young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall sociability of a breed towards other dogs is an important factor to consider. While it is crucial to supervise and manage interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds tend to have a predisposition to being more amicable and compatible with other dogs both in domestic settings and in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to shed is an aspect to take into account. Breeds that exhibit high shedding will require more frequent brushing, potentially triggering specific types of allergies. Additionally, they are more likely to necessitate regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the shedding effectively.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance varies among different breeds. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate towards grooming when assessing these requirements. Remember that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool is an important consideration. If you value cleanliness and dislike dogs that leave trails of slobber on your arm or create noticeable wet spots on your clothes, it might be advisable to choose a breed that is less prone to drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of openness a breed displays towards strangers is another factor to take into account. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around new individuals, irrespective of the setting, while other breeds are generally more enthusiastic about meeting new people whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppy stage is an important consideration. Some breeds maintain a strong desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others are content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is worth considering. Some breeds are more likely to react to any perceived threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds tend to be vigilant and may warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change is a significant factor to consider. This encompasses how well they adjust to alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are important aspects to evaluate. Some breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and are generally eager to learn, while others may have a more independent nature, preferring to do as they please, when they please and wherever they please.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed is crucial considerations. High-energy breeds are often ready and eager for physical activities, constantly seeking their next adventure. They are likely to engage in running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more sedentary, content with lounging around and snoozing. Determining the level of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs is important to ensure their overall well-being.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization, including barks or howls is an aspect worth considering. Certain breeds are more prone to barking at every passer-by or bird in the window, while others tend to vocalize only in specific situations. It's important to note that even barkless breeds may still express themselves through other sounds. Understanding a breed's tendency for vocalization can help you determine if it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs designed for specific tasks, often require mental engagement that involves decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied and these activities may not align with what you would prefer. Providing sufficient mental stimulation is essential to ensure the overall well-being of such breeds.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is inclined to display towards their family members or individuals they are familiar with can vary significantly. Certain breeds may appear distant with everyone apart from their owner, while others exhibit a friendly demeanor towards anyone they are acquainted with treating them as though they are their closest confidant.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The extent to which a breed demonstrates tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly disposition is worth considering. It is essential to provide supervision when dogs interact with young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall sociability of a breed towards other dogs is an important factor to consider. While it is crucial to supervise and manage interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds tend to have a predisposition to being more amicable and compatible with other dogs both in domestic settings and in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to shed is an aspect to take into account. Breeds that exhibit high shedding will require more frequent brushing, potentially triggering specific types of allergies. Additionally, they are more likely to necessitate regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the shedding effectively.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance varies among different breeds. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate towards grooming when assessing these requirements. Remember that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool is an important consideration. If you value cleanliness and dislike dogs that leave trails of slobber on your arm or create noticeable wet spots on your clothes, it might be advisable to choose a breed that is less prone to drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Long

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of openness a breed displays towards strangers is another factor to take into account. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around new individuals, irrespective of the setting, while other breeds are generally more enthusiastic about meeting new people whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond the puppy stage is an important consideration. Some breeds maintain a strong desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others are content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The inclination of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers is worth considering. Some breeds are more likely to react to any perceived threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds tend to be vigilant and may warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change is a significant factor to consider. This encompasses how well they adjust to alterations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are important aspects to evaluate. Some breeds are highly motivated to please their owners and are generally eager to learn, while others may have a more independent nature, preferring to do as they please, when they please and wherever they please.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed is crucial considerations. High-energy breeds are often ready and eager for physical activities, constantly seeking their next adventure. They are likely to engage in running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more sedentary, content with lounging around and snoozing. Determining the level of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs is important to ensure their overall well-being.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation a breed requires to stay happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs designed for specific tasks, often require mental engagement that involves decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied and these activities may not align with what you would prefer. Providing sufficient mental stimulation is essential to ensure the overall well-being of such breeds.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Black & White	019
Brindle	057
Brindle & White	059
Gold	091
Gold & White	092
Red & White	146
Silver & White	182
Blue	037
Blue & White	045
Liver	123
Liver & White	125
Silver	176
Red	140
Black Gold & Silver	235
Black White & Silver	033
White	199
Silver Gold & White	188
Black Gold & White	310

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Mask	004
Black Markings	002
Tan Markings	012
White Markings	014

About The Breed

The Shih Tzu breed is known for its delightful and captivating appearance. With their big dark eyes and sweet expression, they have been winning the hearts of owners for centuries. Often referred to as the "Lion Dog," Shih Tzus bring giggles and mischief wherever they go. Despite their small size ranging from 9 to 16 pounds and 8 to 11 inches in height, they are surprisingly sturdy. The Shih Tzu's coat, which comes in various colors is a notable feature that requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty.

Being cute seems to come naturally to the Shih Tzu and they embrace this way of life wholeheartedly. They are known for their affectionate nature particularly with children. As a breed originally developed to be companion dogs within royal palaces, they adapt well to apartment living or homes without large yards. While some dogs may enjoy digging holes or chasing cats, a Shih Tzu's idea of fun typically involves sitting in your lap and being utterly adorable, even as you try to watch TV.

What to Expect When Caring for A SHIH TZU

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Shih Tzu: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Shih Tzu face certain considerations due to their physical characteristics. Their heavy coats and short faces make them more susceptible to heat and they may struggle with heat intolerance. Additionally, due to their body structure, Shih Tzu are not known for their swimming abilities. In terms of health responsible breeders typically prioritize screening their breeding stock for potential hereditary conditions. Common health concerns in the Shih Tzu breed include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (a slipped kneecap) and various eye anomalies such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment and corneal dryness and inflammation resulting from improperly closing eyelids. Regular veterinary care, proper grooming and providing a suitable environment can help in maintaining the health and well-being of Shih Tzu dogs. It's always advisable to consult with a reputable breeder and a veterinarian for specific health advice regarding the breed. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: No recommended health tests

Grooming

	Maintaining the coat of a Shih Tzu especially if it's long, requires regular grooming. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent matting and tangles. Using a good-quality wire brush with flexible pins ensures you can reach down to the skin while effectively removing any knots. Layering the hair during brushing helps ensure thorough grooming. Bathing the Shih Tzu every three to four weeks helps keep their coat clean and in optimal condition. It is important to pay attention to the mustache and topknot, brushing and combing them daily. Gentle cleaning of the corners of the eyes with a damp cloth is recommended to prevent irritation. To protect the Shih Tzu's eyes from irritation, it is beneficial to either trim the hair on the top of their head short or tie it up into a topknot. If you prefer a lower-maintenance coat, a professional groomer can give your Shih Tzu an adorable "puppy trim," which reduces the length of the coat. Regular trimming of nails and cleaning of the ears should also be a part of the Shih Tzu's grooming routine to ensure overall hygiene and comfort.

Exercise

	Bred exclusively as a devoted house companion, the Shih Tzu doesn't demand extensive exercise. A combination of short daily walks in the company of their owner and enjoyable indoor play will adequately meet the activity needs of this small lovable companion.

Training

	Training a Shih Tzu can evoke a mix of amusement and frustration. This particular breed has a skill for captivating their owners into indulging their whims leading to weight gain and incomplete housebreaking, making grooming a challenging task. Due to their strong affinity for humans training techniques that emphasize praise and rewards yield the best results. The usage of harsh corrections should be avoided when dealing with Shih Tzus. To instill desired behaviors, introduce them gradually while maintaining a firm approach and never surrender to their mischievous behavior. Should your Shih Tzu nip or leap at you, it is best to ignore them until they calm down and then express praise. Early socialization and attending puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure that your Shih Tzu becomes a well-adjusted and well-behaved companion. When selecting a puppy class, ensure that the training methods employed are founded on positive reinforcement principles.

Nutrition

	To ensure the Shih Tzu's nutrition, it is crucial to provide them with high-quality dog food. This can include either commercially manufactured options or home-prepared meals, as long as they have the supervision and approval of your veterinarian. It's important to select a diet that is suitable for your Shih Tzu's specific age group, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. Given that some Shih Tzus have a tendency to gain weight, it's important to monitor their calorie intake and weight level. While treats can play a significant role in training, it's essential to avoid excessive amounts that could contribute to obesity. It is also worth educating oneself about which human foods are safe for dogs and which ones should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your Shih Tzu's weight or diet, consult your veterinarian for guidance. Lastly, make sure your furry friend has access to clean and fresh water at all times.

Historiography

When you become a Shih Tzu owner, you are not only embracing the companionship of a delightful dog but also welcoming a piece of Chinese history into your life. Centuries ago, skilled breeders in the Chinese emperor's palace developed the Shih Tzu, which translates to 'lion dog' using Tibetan breeding stock. This remarkable breed is believed to be the result of crossbreeding between two ancient Sino-Tibetan breeds namely the Lhaso Apso and the Pekingese.

For countless years, Shih Tzus enjoyed a life of luxury as cherished lap dogs within the realm of royalty. Emperors and their families adored these dogs so much that they would reward breeders who produced the most beautiful and affectionate Shih Tzus with valuable gifts. Remaining sheltered behind the palace walls, the breed remained largely unknown to the outside world until the 1930s.

It was during this time that breed clubs emerged in Peking and later in England playing a significant role in refining the breed. However, the definition of the ideal Shih Tzu prompted fervent discussions among enthusiasts within these clubs. Eventually, in 1969, the Shih Tzu was officially recognized by the AKC and entered its Stud Book. Subsequently, this captivating breed gained immense popularity as a toy dog both in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Even today, Shih Tzus continue to captivate the hearts of their owners treating them with royalty-like affection regardless of their social status. Notably, individuals as diverse as Queen Elizabeth II and Miley Cyrus have succumbed to the irresistible charms of the Shih Tzu.