Shih Tzu

Exercise Needs

Shih Tzus require little exercise - one or two walks per day. The ideal environment for this breed is a small yard. Shih Tzus can become lazy if not exercised. Shih Tzus tend to make good apartment dogs, but do not do well in hot temperatures. This breed may be destructive if left alone for long periods of time.

Grooming Needs

The Shih Tzu requires extensive grooming because the long, fine dense coat needs daily brushing. However, this breed is a minimal shedding one. Bathe once a month. Professional grooming may be needed. Keep eyes and ears clean.

Temperament

The Shih Tzu is active, alert, stubborn, dignified and arrogant. This breed can be snappish, difficult to house-train and needs plenty of attention. Under all that hair, Shis Tzus are actually very muscular. They are outstanding agility dogs and have been known to win agility competitions.

Compatibility with Kids

Can be jealous of small children or babies. Good with older, careful kids.

History

The breed has existed for several centuries. It is believed that Tibetan monks bred the first dogs as companions and to be given as gifts to visiting royalty. The breed is most likely the result of crosses between two even older Tibetan breeds, the Lhaso Apso and the Pekingese. Shih Tzus were known as Tibetan Lion Dogs because it was thought that the Tibetan God of Learning traveled with a small lion dog that could transform into an actual lion. For hundreds of years, this dog was a companion of royalty. The breed was nearly lost in the early 1900s during the Chinese Communist Revolution. Dowager Empress Tzu Hsi died in 1908 and her breeding program for Shih Tzus, Pekinese and Pugs was affected making it difficult to find dogs. Today, all Shih Tzus are related to the seven male and seven female dogs that rebuilt the breed. They remained at the palace until the late 1930s when breed clubs were set up in Peking and England. American soldiers brought the dogs home with them after WWII. In 1969, the breed became a part of the American Kennel Club.

Pet Facts

The hair on a Shih Tzu's face grows in all directions, hence it's known as the "Chrysanthemum-faced dog."

Colors are black and white, grey and white, or tan and white.

Shih Tzus are popular with many dog lovers, including celebrities. Famous pet parents include Nicole Richie, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Colin Farell, Bill Gates, and Queen Elizabeth II.