“The toy dog with a chrysanthemum like face” is what the Chinese breed called Shih Tzu is also known as. It is believed that this small dog was loved by the Buddhist monks for its resemblance of a lion, a sacred animal in this culture. The breed was also popular among Chinese royalty, going so far as even refusing to sell or trade any of the dogs. The first time that the breed got out of China was in the 1930s, when a pair was imported to England. The breed was finally recognized in 1969.
The Shih Tzu is a small dog, with a body slightly longer compared to its height. The head is broad and round, and wide between the eyes. It has a short muzzle, with a broad nose. The teeth meet in a level bite, or, sometimes, in an under bite. The round eyes are large and dark in color, but can have lighter colorations on liver or blue dogs. The ears are large, low set, and pendant. The tail is high-set, abundant in hair, and carried over the back.
The dog has a double layered coat, long and dense. The hair above the dogs eyes is sometimes tied in a topknot. The dog has a profuse mustache and beard, with the muzzle hair short. The coat comes in various shades of white, gold, red, brown and blue. Other colorations include black and white, solid liver, solid black, black mask gold, gray and white, brindle and white, or liver and white. The dogs typical coat is proven to be hypoallergenic.
The little dogs require a daily grooming with a bristle brush. The dogs coat can be trimmed, in order to make the grooming operation more simple.
This is a lively, alert breed, always packed with character. They will always be very friendly and respond extremely well to training. They can be very good watch dogs. The playful little dog is always happy to be around people, as well as other pets and dogs. Like any dogs of this size, they can develop Small Dog Syndrome, if the owner doesnt impose himself as the pack leader. This is not a breed characteristic, it is a behavior caused by the owners.
The breed is very good for living in an apartment, being rather inactive indoors, and will do ok without a yard. Keep in mind that these canines are sensitive to heat, so always provide a cool place and plenty of water in the summer. To what exercise is concerned, a daily walk will do for these small dogs. Playing will also provide most of the exercise needed. You must make sure to exercise your little friend constantly, because the breed tends to gain a lot of weight otherwise.
This breed can live 15 years or even more, so you will have them by your side for a long time to come. A Shih Tzu is a small dog, but with a huge heart, always eager to give you back tons of love and affection.
