Shih Tzu Dog Breed Guide

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The Shih Tzu, a small companion breed from Tibet, is known for its friendly nature and adaptability to various living environments. Known for their small size, devoted temperament, and silky coat, they have become popular in dog sports like obedience and agility competitions.

Shih Tzu’s are also great family pets, making them perfect companions for children and other animals.

Keep reading this Shih Tzu Breed guide to learn more about this beautiful dog.

History of Shih Tzu’s

The Shih Tzu, also known as the “lion dog,” has a mysterious origin, possibly descended from ancient Tibetan holy dogs. During the Ming Dynasty, Shih Tzu’s were favored companions of Chinese royalty and nobility, with court eunuchs competing to produce specimens that caught the Emperor’s eye.

Dowager Empress Cixi played a crucial role in preserving the breed, maintaining a kennel of pugs and Pekingese. After the 1949 Communist revolution in China, all Shih Tzu’s were killed due to their association with wealth. However, a few surviving dogs were imported to England by an Englishwoman, who established programs to promote and preserve the breed.

The breed spread globally, with some U.S. Armed Forces personnel introducing it to the United States.

Shih Tzu’s Characteristics

The Shih Tzu, a breed known for its elegance and charm, is often referred to as a “little lion” due to their long, silky double coat and short, “smooshed” face. They have large, soulful eyes and floppy ears, stand around 8 to 11 inches at the withers and weigh between 9 and 16 pounds.

These intelligent and alert dogs are known for their ability to pick up on cues and respond well to positive reinforcement. However, their independent streak can make training challenging. Shih Tzu’s are hypoallergenic, producing fewer allergens, making them a potential match for allergy sufferers.

DNA analysis reveals that they share a more direct lineage from wolves than many other dog breeds. They have been cherished companions for over a thousand years, particularly during the Ming Dynasty in China.

Shih Tzu’s Coat and Color

Shih Tzu’s are a unique breed of dogs known for their vibrant coat colors and patterns. They come in solid white, jet-black, and golden coats, each with its own unique pattern. Brindle Shih Tzu’s have dark streaks on a lighter background, while saddle-patterned Shih Tzu’s have a saddle-shaped patch of color on their back.

Tuxedo Shih Tzu’s have a white chest and belly, contrasting with their darker back and sides. Flare-patterned Shih Tzu’s have a splash of color on their ears, tail, or paws. Parti-color Shih Tzu’s flaunt patches of two or more colors, creating playful patterns. Markings include a white blaze on the forehead, a dark mask around the eyes, and tan markings on the cheeks, eyebrows, and legs.

While coat color is captivating, it’s the Shih Tzu’s personality, health, and temperament that truly matter. It’s important to cherish the love they bring, whether they wear a tuxedo or a brindle coat.

Shih Tzu’s Temperament

The Shih Tzu breed is known for its combination of elegance, playfulness, and a touch of feistiness. They are known for their friendly disposition, affectionate nature, and loyalty to their owners. They form strong bonds with their owners, showering them with affection and following them from room to room.

Shih Tzu’s are alert and watchful, taking their watchdog duties seriously. They are versatile companions, adapting to both cozy apartments and spacious houses.

They are content cuddling on soft pillows or trotting alongside you during leisurely walks. Despite their stubborn nature, Shih Tzu’s can learn tricks, commands, and good manners with patience, positive reinforcement, and tasty treats.

Their loyalty is their middle name, and they are known for that and affection. Despite their small size, Shih Tzu’s are devoted and adaptable companions.

Grooming Your Shih Tzu’s

Grooming your Shih Tzu is crucial for maintaining their luxurious coat and comfort. To achieve this, brush regularly, remove tangles and mats, bathe them regularly, dry thoroughly, and use a dog-specific shampoo.

Dry your Shih Tzu thoroughly after bathing to prevent moisture trapping and skin issues. Consider using a dry shampoo for quick freshening between baths.

Regular trims are essential for maintaining coat length, focusing on areas like the face, paws, and around the eyes. You can do this at home or visit a groomer for professional trims.

Trim nails regularly to avoid discomfort and avoid cutting too close to the quick.

Patience and positive reinforcement are essential during grooming sessions. Remember to focus on areas like the face, paws, and around the eyes, and avoid cutting too close to the quick.

Training Your Shih Tzu

To train your Shih Tzu, start early and use positive reinforcement such as praise, treats, and affection to encourage desired behaviors. Keep training sessions upbeat and enjoyable, avoiding harsh corrections and focusing on rewarding good behavior.

Ignore negative attention when your Shih Tzu misbehaves to prevent reinforcement. Offer alternative activities like toys and puzzles to keep their minds engaged. Reward desired behaviors with praise or treats, celebrating successes. Consistency is key, using the same cues and commands to avoid confusion.

Provide a variety of toys, including soft plushies, chew toys, and interactive puzzles, to keep them entertained. Physically, aim for at least 30 minutes of activity per day, including brisk walks, short runs, or playing fetch in a safe area.

Exercising Your Shih Tzu

To keep your Shih Tzu active and healthy, establish a routine with specific times for walks, play, and training. Teach basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down for off-leash activities. Aim for two daily walks, each lasting 20-30 minutes, providing cardiovascular exercise, mental stimulation, and a chance for exploration.

Consider adding supervised cardio sessions to your routine 1 to 3 times per day. Engage in activities like short runs, playtime in a secure area, or interactive games like fetch. Start early with puppy shots and check with your vet before venturing outside.

Walking tips include controlled duration and a consistent pace. Enjoy the journey and let your Shih Tzu explore and sniff. Exercise is not just about physical health; it also contributes to their emotional well-being.

Common Health Problems in Shih Tzu’s

Shih Tzu’s, a beloved breed, can be susceptible to various health issues. These include brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can cause breathing problems due to their short faces, and collapsing trachea, which can lead to a persistent dry cough. Treatment options include surgery and medication.

Hip dysplasia, a condition causing discomfort and pain due to improper growth, can lead to arthritis. Management includes moderate exercise, weight control, joint supplements, and sometimes surgery.

Eye conditions like cataracts, corneal ulcers, and dry eye are common.

Joint problems like luxating patella’s can also be managed with proper weight management and joint support.

Ear infections can be prevented by regular cleaning and drying. Dental issues like tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss can be managed with regular brushing and professional dental cleanings.

Liver and kidney problems can be managed with regular vet visits and a balanced diet. Proactive care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle can help keep Shih Tzu’s happy and thriving.

Shih Tzu’s Nutritional Needs

Shih Tzus are excellent companions, and their nutritional needs are crucial for their overall health. A balanced diet should include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals, and water. Shih Tzu’s need more calories and nutrients than adult dogs, so it’s essential to choose high-quality puppy food designed for their growth.

Active dogs may require more calories than those who prefer lounging. If your Shih Tzu has health issues, consult your vet to determine the best food for their specific needs.

Choosing a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is essential, and reputable brands with balanced formulations are recommended.

How Much Food Should an Shih Tzu’s Eat Per Day?

Shih Tzu’s require 3 to 4 small daily meals due to their short digestive tract. Adult Shih Tzu’s should aim for 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals. Puppies may require more frequent feedings and a higher-calorie diet for growth and development.

The right amount of food depends on factors like age, weight, activity level, and overall health. For adult Shih Tzu’s, 1/2 to 1 cup of dry kibble is recommended, which is beneficial for dental health and easier on their stomachs. For adults, 2 to 3 meals per day are recommended, with at least two meals for toys like Shih Tzu’s.

Quality matters when choosing dog food, and reputable brands with balanced formulations are recommended. Feeding guidelines on food labels are often based on weight, and serving sizes are usually per day, assuming several snacks are also given.

Are Shih Tzu’s a Good Family Dog?

Final Thoughts

Shih Tzu are a friendly, active breed that requires regular grooming and a healthy weight to maintain their health. Originally bred to alert monarchs, they have since become great companions due to their affectionate personalities.