Shih Tzu Dog Breed: The Complete Guide

The Shih Tzu, an ancient toy breed with roots in imperial China, continues to capture hearts worldwide with its charming personality and distinctive appearance. These small but sturdy companions combine a regal bearing with a friendly, outgoing temperament that makes them ideal family pets. Whether you’re considering adding a Shih Tzu to your home or already share your life with one of these delightful dogs, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the breed’s characteristics, care requirements, and rich history.

Breed Overview

The Shih Tzu (pronounced ‘sheed-zoo’ or ‘sheet-su’) is a small, solid dog with a luxurious double coat and distinctive flat face. Despite their diminutive size, these dogs carry themselves with confidence and dignity, reflecting their noble heritage as companions to Chinese royalty. Their name translates to ‘little lion,’ though their temperament is far from fierce – Shih Tzus are known for their friendly, affectionate nature and make excellent companions for people of all ages.

Physical Characteristics

The Shih Tzu is a compact, solid little dog with a distinctive appearance that has changed very little over centuries. These dogs have a unique charm that combines an air of dignity with an irresistibly sweet expression.

Size and Body Type

Shih Tzus are classified as a toy breed, weighing between 9 and 16 pounds when fully grown, with an average height of 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder. Despite their small size, they have a sturdy build with a body that’s typically slightly longer than tall. They reach their adult size at approximately 10 months of age.

Their chest is broad and deep, and they have a level back that gives them a solid appearance. One of the breed’s most distinctive features is their tail, which is set high and carried in a jaunty curl over their back, adding to their proud bearing.

Head and Facial Features

Shih Tzus are brachycephalic dogs, meaning they have a shortened skull shape with a flat face and short muzzle. Their head is round and broad with a short, square muzzle. The breed typically has a slight to moderate underbite, where the lower jaw extends slightly beyond the upper jaw.

Their large, round, dark eyes are set wide apart and contribute significantly to their appealing expression. The ears are long, heavily feathered, and hang down beside the head. These facial features combine to give the Shih Tzu their characteristic sweet, warm expression that has endeared them to dog lovers for generations.

Coat and Colors

The Shih Tzu’s crowning glory is undoubtedly its luxurious double coat. The outer coat is long, straight, and flowing, while the undercoat is soft and dense. When allowed to grow to full length, the coat can reach the ground, creating the impression of a moving cascade of hair.

These dogs come in a wide variety of colors and color combinations. Any coat color is acceptable according to breed standards, including solid colors, two or more colors, or various shadings. Common colors include gold, white, black, blue, liver, and combinations such as black and white, gold and white, and tri-colors. Many Shih Tzus have distinctive facial markings, including a white blaze on the forehead and a white tip on the tail.

Temperament and Personality

The Shih Tzu’s personality is as appealing as their appearance. Bred specifically to be companions, these dogs excel in their role as affectionate family members with a cheerful outlook on life.

Friendly and Affectionate Nature

Shih Tzus are renowned for their friendly, outgoing temperament. They form strong bonds with their human family members and typically get along well with people of all ages, including children. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent lap dogs, always ready to cuddle and provide companionship.

Unlike some small breeds that may be nervous or snippy, most Shih Tzus are sweet-tempered and trusting. They generally socialize well with other dogs and pets when properly introduced, making them adaptable additions to multi-pet households.

Alertness and Playfulness

Despite their relaxed demeanor, Shih Tzus maintain the alertness that once made them valuable palace sentinels. They will often bark to announce visitors or unusual activities, making them good little watchdogs. However, they are not typically excessive barkers if properly trained.

These dogs have a playful spirit that lasts well into adulthood. They enjoy interactive games with their humans and short play sessions, though they don’t require the extensive exercise that larger or more athletic breeds might need. Their playful antics and comical expressions bring joy to their families.

Adaptability and Sociability

One of the Shih Tzu’s greatest strengths is their adaptability. They can thrive in various living situations, from spacious homes to apartments, as long as they receive adequate attention and care. Their moderate exercise needs make them suitable for owners with different activity levels, including seniors and those with limited mobility.

Shih Tzus are social creatures who crave human companionship. They prefer to be where their family is and can become unhappy if left alone for extended periods. Their desire to be with people makes them poor candidates for outdoor living or isolation from family activities.

History and Origins

The Shih Tzu boasts an ancient and noble lineage that traces back over a thousand years to imperial China. Understanding their history helps appreciate how they developed their distinctive traits and temperament.

Ancient Chinese Beginnings

The exact origins of the Shih Tzu are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but they are believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. Historical records and artwork suggest that dogs resembling the Shih Tzu existed in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). These small dogs were highly valued in the Chinese imperial court and were kept exclusively by royalty.

The breed is believed to have developed from crosses between the Lhasa Apso from Tibet and the Pekingese from China. The name ‘Shih Tzu’ means ‘lion dog’ in Chinese, referring to the breed’s resemblance to the traditional Buddhist depictions of lions. Chinese emperors treasured these dogs not only for their companionship but also for their believed mystical properties and ability to bring good fortune.

Journey to the Western World

For many centuries, Shih Tzus remained exclusively within China, unknown to the Western world. It wasn’t until the 1930s that the first Shih Tzus were imported to England, where they quickly gained popularity among dog enthusiasts. The breed’s introduction to the United States followed shortly thereafter.

During the Communist Revolution in China, the breed nearly became extinct in its homeland. Fortunately, the dogs that had been exported to Western countries ensured the breed’s survival. Today’s Shih Tzus are descendants of just fourteen dogs that formed the foundation stock in England.

The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969, and the breed has consistently ranked among the most popular companion dogs in the United States and worldwide ever since.

Care Requirements

Providing proper care for a Shih Tzu requires understanding their specific needs for grooming, exercise, nutrition, and health maintenance. While caring for these dogs can be time-intensive, particularly regarding coat maintenance, their loving nature makes the effort worthwhile.

Grooming Needs

The Shih Tzu’s magnificent coat requires significant grooming attention to keep it clean, mat-free, and healthy. Owners have two main options for coat maintenance: keeping the traditional long coat or opting for a shorter ‘puppy cut’ that simplifies care.

For long coats, daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Use a pin brush followed by a comb that can reach through to the skin. Regular baths every 3-4 weeks with appropriate dog shampoo and conditioner help keep the coat clean and manageable. Many owners use coat sprays or conditioning mists between baths to prevent dryness and breakage.

Those preferring easier maintenance often choose a shorter cut, which typically requires professional grooming every 4-8 weeks and less intensive at-home care. Regardless of coat length, regular attention to the eyes, ears, teeth, and nails is necessary:

• Eyes: Clean around the eyes daily with a damp cloth to prevent tear staining
• Ears: Check weekly and clean as needed to prevent infections
• Teeth: Brush several times weekly to prevent dental disease
• Nails: Trim every 3-4 weeks or as needed

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Despite their royal bearing, Shih Tzus have moderate exercise needs that are easily satisfied. They typically require 20-30 minutes of activity daily, which can be fulfilled through short walks, indoor play sessions, or exploring a safely fenced yard. Their exercise requirements make them well-suited to various living situations, including apartments.

While not athletic dogs, Shih Tzus enjoy interactive play with their owners. Simple games of fetch with soft toys, gentle tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek can provide both physical activity and mental stimulation. It’s important to avoid strenuous exercise in hot or humid weather due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, which can make breathing difficult under these conditions.

Nutrition and Feeding

Providing proper nutrition is essential for maintaining your Shih Tzu’s health and longevity. These small dogs typically require high-quality dog food appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. For most adult Shih Tzus, this means approximately 1/2 to 1 cup of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals.

Due to their small size and relatively low activity levels, Shih Tzus can be prone to obesity if overfed. Carefully measure food portions rather than free-feeding, and limit treats to no more than 10% of daily caloric intake. Fresh water should be available at all times.

Some Shih Tzus have food sensitivities or allergies that may require special diets. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice symptoms such as excessive itching, digestive issues, or ear infections, as these could indicate food intolerances.

Health Considerations

While Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs with a good lifespan of 12-16 years, they are predisposed to certain health conditions that potential and current owners should be aware of. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help ensure your Shih Tzu lives a long, healthy life.

Common Health Issues

As a brachycephalic breed, Shih Tzus can experience breathing difficulties, particularly in hot or humid weather or during intense activity. Their shortened airways make them more susceptible to heat stress, so care should be taken to keep them cool during warm weather.

Eye problems are relatively common in the breed due to their prominent eyes and facial structure. Conditions such as corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts can occur. Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian are important for early detection and treatment.

Other health concerns that may affect Shih Tzus include:

• Dental issues due to overcrowded teeth
• Patellar luxation (slipped kneecaps)
• Hip dysplasia
• Ear infections
• Allergies and skin problems

Preventative Care

Responsible ownership includes providing preventative healthcare to minimize the risk of illness and catch any problems early. Establish a relationship with a trusted veterinarian and follow their recommendations for:

• Vaccination schedules
• Parasite prevention (fleas, ticks, heartworm)
• Dental cleanings
• Regular check-ups (semi-annually for seniors)

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for preventing joint issues and other health problems. Regular grooming sessions also provide an opportunity to check for any unusual lumps, skin problems, or other changes that might warrant veterinary attention.

Training and Socialization

Training and proper socialization are essential aspects of raising a well-adjusted Shih Tzu. While these dogs are intelligent, they can also display an independent streak that requires patient, consistent training approaches.

Training Approaches

Shih Tzus respond best to positive reinforcement training methods that emphasize rewards rather than punishment. Short, engaging training sessions using treats, praise, and play as motivation will yield the best results. Harsh corrections or training methods based on dominance are likely to damage the trust between you and your dog without improving behavior.

House training can sometimes be challenging with this breed, requiring consistency and patience. Crate training is often effective, combined with a regular schedule and positive reinforcement for successful outdoor elimination. Some owners find that indoor potty options such as pee pads are helpful alternatives, particularly in extreme weather conditions.

Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it should be taught early and reinforced regularly. Training should begin in puppyhood but continue throughout the dog’s life to maintain good behaviors and mental stimulation.

Socialization Needs

Early and extensive socialization helps Shih Tzus develop into confident, well-mannered companions. During the critical socialization period (between 3 and 14 weeks of age), puppies should be exposed to a variety of people, animals, environments, and situations in a positive, controlled manner.

Continued socialization throughout adolescence and adulthood helps prevent the development of fearful or reactive behaviors. Regular positive interactions with different types of people, including children, men, and people wearing hats or uniforms, help create a dog who is comfortable in various social situations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are Shih Tzus good apartment dogs?

A: Yes, Shih Tzus make excellent apartment dogs. Their small size, moderate exercise needs, and adaptable nature make them well-suited to apartment living. They don’t require a yard to run in and are generally not excessive barkers when properly trained and exercised.

Q: How much grooming do Shih Tzus need?

A: Shih Tzus with long coats require daily brushing and regular bathing (every 3-4 weeks). Those with shorter ‘puppy cuts’ need less frequent brushing but still require professional grooming every 4-8 weeks. All Shih Tzus need regular attention to eyes, ears, teeth, and nails regardless of coat length.

Q: Are Shih Tzus good with children?

A: Shih Tzus are typically very good with children, especially when raised with them. They are generally patient and affectionate with kids. However, due to their small size, interactions between young children and Shih Tzus should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury to the dog.

Q: Do Shih Tzus shed?

A: Shih Tzus shed very little compared to many other breeds. Their hair grows continuously, similar to human hair, rather than growing to a certain length and falling out seasonally. While they’re often considered a good choice for people with mild allergies, no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

Q: How much exercise do Shih Tzus need?

A: Shih Tzus require moderate exercise, typically about 20-30 minutes daily. This can be fulfilled through short walks and play sessions. They don’t need strenuous activity and should avoid vigorous exercise in hot weather due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

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