Shih Tzu

Breed Description

The Shih Tzu, also known as the lion dog or chrysanthemum dog (in Russian, it can be written as ши-тсу or шитцу), is often associated with China; however, its origins can be traced back to Tibet, which was an independent state and a western neighbor of China until the 1950s. It is likely that Tibetans gifted these dogs to the family of the Chinese Emperor. In China, they were crossbred with Pekingese or Pugs to create the modern Shih Tzu. The history of the Shih Tzu dates back to ancient times. Over two thousand years ago, their ancestors lived in monasteries in the highlands of Tibet, where they were called “apso.” For the monks, they were talismans and were held in great respect. Apsos also served as faithful companions to nomads and farmers, guarding tents and yards, protecting against pests, and helping to herd livestock. Their fur developed resilience to harsh winter weather. For ages, apsos were considered desirable gifts, which led them to the Chinese imperial court, where they were named Shih Tzu Kou, meaning “dog from Tibet.” Larger varieties of Tibetan apsos later became Tibetan Terriers, while the smaller ones evolved into Shih Tzus an

Appearance

The Shih Tzu is a miniature dog breed originating from Tibet and China. These dogs have short muzzles and luxurious coats, boasting an ancient history. The ancestors of the Shih Tzu lived in Tibetan monasteries over two thousand years ago, where their fur protected them in the extreme conditions of the Himalayas. Today, this trait is sometimes exaggerated by breeders, although the breed standards do not require it.

According to the standard, Shih Tzus are fairly sturdy dogs with dense coats, a proud posture, and a face resembling a chrysanthemum. The fur should not obstruct the dog’s vision or movement, and the hair on the head should be gathered in a topknot without any adornments. The length of the muzzle should be approximately 2.5 cm from the tip of the nose to the base.

However, excessive fluffiness, which has become fashionable, can hinder the dogs’ ability to run and see properly, as well as lead to skin irritations and other diseases. The abundance of fur worsens thermoregulation, leading to overheating, and the shortened muzzle adds to the problems.

Shih Tzus are attractive and sturdy companions with a long lifespan. They have an oval skull and a short, square muzzle. The Shih Tzu’s coat should be long, dense, but not curly, with a moderate undercoat. Slight waves are permissible. The ears should be large and hanging, while the tail is set high and arches over the back with a thick tuft of fur. The fur can come in various colors.

The height of a Shih Tzu at the withers is about 27 cm, and the weight ranges from 4.5 to 8 kg. According to the American Kennel Club, Tibetan dogs bred in good conditions from reputable breeders can live up to 18 years, while those subjected to excessive breeding often have their lifespan reduced to around 10 years.

Отличительные черты

Голова

Голова ши-тсу широкая и округлая, с большим расстоянием между глазами. Короткая морда украшена густой бородой и бакенбардами, а шерсть на ней растет вверх, создавая характерный эффект "хризантемы". Это не мешает зрению собаки. Шея хорошо сложена и красиво изогнута, достаточно длинная, чтобы позволить собаке гордо держать голову.

Морда

Морда широкая, квадратная и короткая, плоская и хорошо покрыта шерстью. Нос черный, но у собак с печеночным окрасом он темно-коричневый, и его длина составляет примерно 2,5 см от кончика до упора. Нос ровный или слегка вздернутый, верхняя его часть находится на уровне нижнего края глаз или чуть ниже. Ноздри широко раскрыты, что обеспечивает хорошую вентиляцию. Нос, сужающийся к низу, и узкие ноздри крайне нежелательны. Пигментация морды должна быть максимально однородной.

Уши

The ears are large, with elongated skin, drooping, positioned slightly below the crown, thickly covered with fur, and seem to merge with the fur on the neck.

Глаза

The eyes are large, dark, round, and widely spaced, but not bulging. The expression is warm and friendly. In dogs with liver coloring, a lighter eye color is allowed. The whites of the eyes are not visible.

Зубы

The jaws are wide, with a slight overbite or even. The lips are at the same level.

Корпус

The body of the Shih Tzu is strong and well-proportioned, with the length between the withers and the base of the tail being greater than the height at the withers. The chest is broad and deep, the shoulders are sturdy, and the back is straight.

Конечности

Конечности сильные и мускулистые. Передние конечности с хорошо отведенными назад плечами, короткие и прямые, с широким костяком. Задние конечности также короткие и мускулистые, с широким костяком и округлыми бедрами. Лапы округлые, упругие, с хорошей набивкой и густо покрыты шерстью. Движения грациозные и плавные, с хорошей амплитудой передних и задних лап.

Хвост

The tail is densely covered with fur and elegantly arched over the back, set high at the level of the skull, which gives the dogs a balanced appearance.

Шерсть

The Shih Tzu's coat is luxurious, long, thick, and straight, with a moderate undercoat, and a slight wave is acceptable. The coat should not obstruct the dog's vision or limit its movements. It is recommended to tie the hair on the head in a bun without decorations.

Окрас

The fur color can be any, except for merle. For multicolored coats, white markings on the forehead and a white tip on the tail are desirable.

Character

Shih Tzus are known for their cheerful and sociable nature. These decorative dogs get along well with people of all ages and thrive alongside children if introduced from a young age. However, one should not rely on a Shih Tzu for home protection; they are likely to greet a stranger with a friendly demeanor.

The Tibetan Terrier is a loving, playful, and intelligent breed. They adore children, although they possess an independent spirit and may be wary of strangers. Despite possible behavioral issues, “chrysanthemum dogs” are very loyal and get along well with kids. However, it’s crucial to supervise their interactions with small children, as Shih Tzus may react strongly to rough handling. It’s recommended for children to play with the puppy on the floor to avoid lifting it and risking loss of control, and to teach them to keep their fingers away from the dog’s large, delicate eyes.

Shih Tzus generally coexist well with other dogs and pets of any breed. While some may be irritable, most are friendly. If introduced to other animals from an early age, they usually accept them well. Despite individual personality differences, Shih Tzus are overall known for their loyalty, affection, sociability, kindness, and alertness. They can show possessive tendencies towards other puppies, and may be a bit finicky around hyperactive or large dogs, but generally get along with them.

The Tibetan Terrier is a lively and friendly companion. This breed is distinguished by its energy, confidence, intelligence, and cleverness, which are often underestimated. Shih Tzus require loving but consistent guidance, which they happily accept. They make great friends and family pets, desiring a close bond with their owners while also maintaining a degree of independence.

According to the standard, Tibetan Terriers are characterized as intelligent, lively, attentive, friendly, and independent. They are active animals with high intelligence and self-assurance, which they often display with a certain “arrogant” charisma. Shih Tzus are capable of participating in dog sports like agility, although they are not particularly active.

Shih Tzus love to play and easily adapt to elderly individuals. They are beneficial for our mental well-being and fit well into modern life. Of course, this adorable dog also needs to be trained from a young age. Consistency in training is important, as Shih Tzus quickly notice any discrepancies in their owners’ behavior. Despite this, they are suitable even for novice dog owners.

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of Shih Tzus requires special attention to their unique characteristics and needs to ensure their health and happiness. One of the most important aspects of Shih Tzu care is grooming. These dogs have long, thick coats that require regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Daily or every-other-day brushing helps keep the coat in excellent condition and reduces shedding.

Shih Tzus are one of the few dog breeds that have hair instead of fur, which is one of the main reasons they shed minimally. Their hair growth cycle is long, meaning it grows, dies, and falls out more slowly. Similar breeds include the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, and Afghan Hound.

Shih Tzus have an undercoat that keeps them warm in winter and cool in summer, and it is this undercoat that sheds. Therefore, while Shih Tzus can be suitable for allergy sufferers, it would be incorrect to call them entirely non-shedding dogs.

The Shih Tzu’s coat is long, fluffy, and thick, with a lot of undercoat. To maintain it properly, regular grooming is essential. The coat should be oiled weekly and brushed regularly to prevent foreign objects from getting stuck. It’s best to start grooming a dog at an early age. The fur on their face grows upward from the nose and often forms a topknot on the head. If the hair becomes too long, it should be trimmed or kept short, which is best decided by a groomer or breeder.

Shih Tzus have large eyes that are prone to various issues like irritation and infections. Regularly clean your dog’s eyes using a soft cloth or cotton pads to remove accumulated mucus and debris. Also, keep their ears clean and check them as needed to prevent infections and inflammation.

To maintain their health and good physical condition, Shih Tzus require moderate daily walks and playtime. These dogs enjoy outdoor activities but do not need intense physical exercise. Regular walks and play help them burn off energy and maintain muscle tone.Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in the overall health of Shih Tzus. Choose quality dry or canned food that suits their age, size, and activity level. Consult a veterinarian for recommendations on the optimal diet and feeding schedule.Shih Tzus should be socialized from a young age to become confident and friendly with people and other dogs. Besides socialization, regular training and education will help shape appropriate behavior and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.Don’t forget regular vet visits for preventive check-ups, vaccinations, and health screenings. A veterinarian can identify and treat any health issues early, helping keep your dog in great shape throughout its long life.Shih Tzus are wonderful companions who appreciate the attention and care of their owners. By providing them the proper care and attention, you ensure them a long and happy life.

Training and Education

Training and education of Tibetan dogs require patience, consistency, and an understanding of their characteristics. Shih Tzus love being the center of attention and enjoy learning tricks. They like to learn and please their owners. Sometimes they can be stubborn, and their proud behavior may create the impression that they are incapable of performing certain tasks. However, with patience and persistence, they become quite loyal.

Due to their tendency to be stubborn, Shih Tzus need careful socialization and training from an early age. This will help them follow simple commands. It’s important for children to understand the necessity of proper and attentive interaction with dogs. Shih Tzus may bite or bark at small children, so the tendency to growl, kick, and yap can develop quickly without proper training and discipline.

Shih Tzus are known for their stubbornness, which can make training a bit more challenging. They prefer to act at their own discretion and may show independence when following commands. It’s crucial to be patient and persistent, recognizing that training may take time.

Positive reinforcement is an effective training method for Shih Tzus. They respond better to praise, treats, and play than to strict punishment. Encourage desired behavior and ignore undesirable behavior to motivate the dog for further learning.

It is important to start socialization of Shih Tzus from a very young age. Introduce them to different people, animals, and situations so they become confident and friendly in various circumstances.

Shih Tzus can get tired quickly from long training sessions, so it’s better to have short but frequent training sessions. Ten minutes two or three times a day will be more effective than one long session.Incorporate play elements into the training process for Tibetan dogs. They love to play and have a high level of intelligence, so play tasks and tricks can be effective ways to stimulate their minds and motivation.Consistency and patience are essential when training Shih Tzus. Training may take time, and there may be difficulties at times. However, with ongoing training and a positive approach, you will achieve success and strengthen your bond with your dog.Shih Tzus do not have special exercise requirements, but they are quite ready to participate in dog sports like agility or dog dancing. Shih Tzus bred in reputable kennels feel great as companions even during long hikes.Shih Tzus do well with obedience and agility tasks. However, it’s important to avoid training in hot and humid weather, as their short snouts make them susceptible to heatstroke. They need physical exercise, but they are also happy playing at home. Short walks are sufficient since Shih Tzus were bred as

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Shih Tzu puppy is an important step that requires careful consideration of several key factors. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice.

Study the Breed. Before you begin your search for a puppy, familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the Shih Tzu breed. Learn about their typical temperament, care needs, health, and training specifics. This will help you understand if this breed suits you and your lifestyle. You can find more interesting information about this and other decorative dog breeds on the federal portal Zoonica.

Find a Reliable Breeder in Russia. Look for a decorative dog breeder who specializes in Shih Tzus and has a reputation for responsible breeding. Visit their kennel (prices for puppies can be checked on the website) to see the conditions in which the dogs are kept and to meet the puppy’s parents.

Inspect the Puppies and Their Parents. Pay attention to the puppies’ behavior and appearance: healthy puppies should be active, playful, and well-socialized. It’s also important to meet the puppy’s parents to assess their temperament and physical traits.

Check the Documents. Ensure that the breeder provides all necessary documents for the puppy, including veterinary certificates, vaccination records, and pedigree. This will guarantee that the puppy has received all necessary medical procedures and comes from a clean lineage.

Discuss the Purchase Conditions. Talk to the breeder about the terms of acquiring the puppy, including the price, health guarantees, and the possibility of returning the puppy in case of issues. Make sure you fully understand all terms of the deal before finalizing it.Prepare for Puppy Care. Before bringing the puppy home, prepare everything necessary for their comfortable stay: food, water bowl, toys, sleeping area, etc. Also, don’t forget to schedule an initial visit to the veterinarian for a complete health check and care consultation.Choosing a Shih Tzu puppy is a responsible process that requires time, patience, and careful consideration. By following these tips, you can find the perfect companion for yourself and your family. Visit Zoonica to choose the puppy of your dreams.

Health and Illnesses

Chrysanthemum dogs are generally a healthy breed, but their well-being is an important topic among owners and breeders. Here are some key aspects to consider.

Vision Problems. Due to their anatomy-large eyes and small eye sockets-Shih Tzus are susceptible to various vision issues. They often suffer from corneal ulcers, and their eyelids and eyelashes can become elongated, causing eye irritation. There may also be issues with tear ducts producing either too much or too little tear fluid. It’s important to watch for any signs of unusual discharge from the eyes or constant scratching, as these may indicate vision problems.

Musculoskeletal Issues. As a small decorative breed, Shih Tzus are prone to patellar luxation due to their short legs. This genetic condition can lead to limping and pain for the dog. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify this issue and determine appropriate treatment (surgical intervention or medication).

Respiratory Issues. Due to their short muzzles, Shih Tzus can experience breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather. This can lead to thermoregulation problems and an increased risk of heatstroke. Owners should be particularly mindful of the conditions in which they walk their dogs and ensure access to cool water and shady spots in hot weather.

Allergies and Skin Problems. Shih Tzus may be prone to allergic reactions to certain foods or environmental factors. This can manifest as itching, rashes, and skin irritation. It’s important to monitor your dog’s reactions to food and surroundings and consult with a veterinarian if necessary for optimal management of allergic symptoms.

Shih Tzus are wonderful dogs, but they have specific health considerations that need to be addressed. Ensure that your dog has a standard coat length that does not impede its vision or movement. Pay attention to the length of the muzzle (no less than 2.5 centimeters, as per standard) and the presence of large nostrils to facilitate breathing. Regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition, and moderate exercise will help keep your Shih Tzu healthy and extend its life.