Quick Facts
- Weight: 9 – 16 kilos (4.08 – 7.26 kg)
- Height: 10 – 11 inches (25.40 – 27.94 cm)
The Look of a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu are coated in flowing lengthy hair, together with a tuft above the nostril which supplies its trademark “chrysanthemum” (i.e., floral) face. On a typical Shih Tzu, the rounded head has an extended beard and moustache, a brief muzzle and a black nostril (besides in reddish brown canine which have a reddish-brown nostril). Most Shih Tzu have spherical, darkish, wide-set eyes with pendant (hanging) ears which can be engulfed in hair. The body is longer than tall, and the tail curls over the again. Shih Tzu can are available in virtually any colour.
Photography by Kayla Bertagnolli, as captured on the 2018 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Traits
- Long, elegant coat
- Cute “chrysanthemum” face
- Lively
- Loves to be pampered
- Playful
- Dainty and valuable
- Noble and aloof
Ideal Human Companion
- Singles
- Seniors
- Families with older kids
- Hair stylists
What They Are Like to Live With
Shih Tzu are full of life and energetic companions. Yet, they’re additionally amazingly low-key and happy—assuming they get an enough quantity of consideration. They like nothing higher than to be held, stroked, petted and pampered by their house owners, and are completely pleased sitting on the sofa with you for hours whilst you dote on them. This is a noble breed—generally translating into conceitedness and haughtiness, different instances into courageousness and politeness—however they’re by no means too proud for a roll on the ground with a treasured squeaky toy.
household canine and extremely interactive, Shih Tzu normally adapt properly to adults and youngsters alike. Not particularly suspicious of strangers, they nonetheless make an alert and constant watchdog, barking heartily when individuals method the home.
Things You Should Know
As you’ll be able to see by one, Shih Tzus require extra care than different breeds, particularly when the hair is stored lengthy. They want day by day brushing and common haircuts to keep away from tangles. However, they shed little or no dander, making them an awesome pet selection for individuals with allergic reactions.
Though good household canine, Shih Tzu aren’t particularly good with very younger kids. They can’t be dealt with roughly or awkwardly and have a tendency to get snappish when their persistence wears skinny.
Feeding word: Keep a watch on Shih Tzu whereas they’re ingesting. Because their noses are so centrally positioned, water can simply block their respiration.
A wholesome Shih Tzu can reside so long as 15 years. Common well being points embrace hip dysplasia, ear and kidney infections, and eye issues. Check their ears and eyes frequently for cleanliness. (You may even discover particular eye drops for them).
They are nice condo dwellers, however not pleased in scorching climates. And whereas they don’t require as a lot train as a Lab, a day by day stroll is critical.
Shih Tzu History
The Shih Tzu is undoubtedly one of many world’s oldest canine breeds. Chinese work from the sixth century A.D. present Shi Tzu-like canine, whereas paperwork from the interval declare these pets had been a present to the Chinese court docket from the Byzantine Empire. Shih Tzu had been home pets throughout the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 A.D.) and since that point they’ve been extremely prized and fiercely guarded by the Chinese. In 1908, they made their method to England, the place they had been bred and dispersed to Europe and Australia. The AKC licensed the breed in 1969, and it has been a preferred competitor and pal ever since.
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