The Shih Tzu is a lively, alert toy dog that anyone would be proud to call there pet. The Shih Tzu has a very proud arrogant walk, with their head held high and their tails curved over their back.
Our Shih Tzu's height ranges from 8-11 inches and weigh between 9-16 pounds full grown. Their hair as puppies is soft and straight. The hair varies in color from mostly white, brown and white, black and white, and everything in between. Shih Tzu's hair as adults should be long, double coated, and luxurious. Though, not everyone has the time, talents, or money to get their Shih Tzu's hair show quality, a shorter trim is just as cute.
The Shih Tzu is very gentle and loyal. They make friends easily with other animals, and also other people. Shih Tzus are loving little dogs that like the company of people on a regular basis. They do well with children, especially ones that are calm and careful. Overall, the Shih Tzu is compact, playful and has loads of character and would be a very nice pet for any type of family.
The Shih Tzu is arguably one of the smallest, most adorable dogs there is.
Interesting facts about the Shih-Tzu:
Also known as the Lion Dog, these puppies’ origins date back to the 7th century. Back then, by order of the Imperial Court, the Shih Tzu could not be exported from its native China. It wasn’t until 1930 – yes, 1930! – that the first Shih Tzu was seen outside that country, in England, and it wasn’t until the late 1960s when the American Kennel Club designated it as an official breed.
During the Ming dynasty, the Shih Tzu was the most common house pet. Up until that point, they had lived only in the royal palace.
What’s the attraction?
Shih Tzus really are beautiful dogs. They have a full double coat consisting of a long, silky topcoat and a fleecy, feathery undercoat. Its adorable face is marked by what looks like a moustache and beard – the only masculine markings of an otherwise feminine looking breed. Their eyes are round, wide-set and large, and their ears seem to blend right into their body, thanks to their furry appearance.
Shih Tzu dogs generally weigh about 10 to 15 pounds at full growth, and can reach about 11 inches at the withers.
Shih Tzus are ideal family dogs. This is because they were bred, first and foremost, to be pets. They were not bred to be working dogs, guard dogs, or to pull a sled. They were bred for the sole purpose of being family dogs, and they are still an ideal choice for families. Shih Tzu puppies and adult dogs alike enjoy companionship and being indoors, and they love to be around people. Note that they can be jealous of other pets in the house or of children, but this can be overcome with lavish attention. If you are looking for a dog to spoil, this breeder has the puppy for you!
The Shih Tzu is closely related to the Lhasa Apso, the Tibetan Spaniel and the Pekingese. They are described as being attentive, jubilant, enthusiastic, vigorous, and blissful – and they can even be a little stubborn, but on a dog this cute you won’t mind!
They have a lifespan of about 15 years or more, making it the ideal family pet even if your children are very young.