Shih Tzu Facts: Complete Guide to Ownership and Care

Shih Tzus are known for their long, flowing coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

They're also prone to eye problems, so it's essential to keep an eye out for any signs of issues.

Shih Tzus are generally friendly and outgoing, making them a great addition to families with children.

Their small size, typically weighing between 9-16 pounds, means they're well-suited for apartment living.

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The Shih Tzu breed has a rich and ancient history that spans over 1,000 years. The breed's ancestry dates back even further, with records showing that short, square dogs existed in China as early as 1000 B.C.

These early dogs were likely the ancestors of the Shih Tzu. They were often kept as companions and were highly valued by Chinese royalty.

The Shih Tzu was a favorite of Chinese royalty, particularly during the Ming Dynasty. They were so prized that the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give any away.

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The breed was first introduced to Europe in the 1920s and 1930s. The first dogs of the breed were imported into England and Norway, with Lady Brownrigg bringing two Shih Tzus to England in 1928.

The breed was initially classified as an "Apsos" by the Kennel Club, but was later recognized as a distinct breed in 1935. The first European standard for the breed was written in England in 1935 by the Shih Tzu Club.

The breed spread throughout Europe after World War II, when returning members of the U.S. military brought back dogs from Europe and Asia. The Shih Tzu was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 in the Toy Group.

The breed is now recognized by all major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world, including the Kennel Club (UK) and the American Kennel Club.

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Shih Tzus are quite sturdy little dogs despite their small size. They have a soft and long double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats.

Their head shape is often described as an "owl head" or "lion head" and they typically have large dark brown eyes. The Shih Tzu's mouth is also notable for its underbite, which is a required feature in the breed standard.

They come in a variety of colors, but white with blazes of grey is a common combination.

Shih Tzus are sturdy little dogs with a small snout and large dark brown eyes. Their head shape is often described as an "owl head" or "lion head".

They have a soft and long double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. This means you should brush your Shih Tzu at least every 2 or 3 days.

Shih Tzus typically stand no more than 26.7 cm (10 1/2") at the withers and weigh between 4.0 to 7.5kg (9 to 17 lbs). Their floppy ears are covered with long hair, and their heavily hair-covered tail is carried curled over the back.

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The coat may be any color, but white with blazes of grey are frequently seen. A very noticeable feature of the breed is the underbite, which is actually required in the breed standard.

Their hair on their faces grows in every direction, earning them the nickname "chrysanthemum-faced dogs". This means that even if you keep their coat clipped short, their face hair will grow back quickly.

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The Shih Tzu's temperament and personality are truly one-of-a-kind. They're bred to be companions, which means they thrive on human interaction and attention.

Shih Tzus are known to be affectionate, playful, and extroverted, making them a joy to be around. However, they can be a bit stubborn at times, so consistency and patience are key when training them.

They relish human company and are happiest when they're at your feet or side, which means they're best suited for owners who can be home most of the time. This is especially important for Shih Tzus, as they can get anxious or destructive if left alone for too long.

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Shih Tzus tend to be wary of strangers and prefer getting to know people on their own terms, which is why proper socialization as a puppy is crucial. This means exposing them to new sights, sounds, people, dogs, and other animals from an early age.

With proper socialization, Shih Tzus can be comfortable with other dogs and pets, as long as introductions are careful. However, they don't tolerate rough play, so it's essential to keep an eye on playtime with small children.

Here are some key personality traits to keep in mind when considering a Shih Tzu as a pet:

The Shih Tzu's coat is truly one of its most distinctive features. It comes in many colors, thanks to its two distinct layers.

One thing to keep in mind is that not all coats are the same, so it can take some trial and error to perfect a grooming routine. This is especially true for Shih Tzus, as their coats can change when they're around 10 to 12 months old.

The Royal Kennel Club recognizes a wide range of coat colors in the Shih Tzu breed. These include black & white, brindle, brindle & white, and gold & white, among others.

Here are some of the recognized coat colors, as listed by the Royal Kennel Club:

Additionally, the Royal Kennel Club notes that blue, cream, lilac, lilac & white, white, and particolour are also recognized as existing within the breed, even if they're not part of the standard.

Shih Tzus have a long and dense double coat that requires consistent upkeep to prevent matting. Daily brushing, especially of the top knot and beard hair, is essential to keep the coat clean.

Their coats are high maintenance and need regular bathing to prevent dirt from building up and causing tangles. This is especially important for the top knot and beard hair, which can become matted if not properly cared for.

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Shih Tzus can shed less often than their long locks might suggest, but they still require extra grooming time. Some owners choose to have their Shih Tzu's hair cut short to simplify maintenance.

The breed has a slight underbite which can lead to overcrowded teeth and a higher risk of issues like abscesses and gum disease. Regular tooth brushing can help prevent these problems.

To keep your Shih Tzu's coat looking its best, it's best to use the right tools. A pin comb, pin brush, or slicker brush are all good options for grooming their long, dense coat.

Here are some recommended grooming tools for your Shih Tzu:

Shih Tzus are generally a robust and long-lived breed, but like all dogs, they're prone to certain health concerns. One notable issue is brachycephalic syndrome, a condition common in flat-faced breeds that can lead to breathing difficulties.

Regular eye examinations by a veterinarian are crucial to catch and manage ocular issues such as corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). These conditions can cause pain and vision loss if left untreated.

Dental problems are another concern for the breed, as their small mouths can put them at higher risk of tooth overcrowding and be challenging to clean. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, can help prevent issues like dental decay and gum disease.

Here are some common health issues to watch out for in Shih Tzus:

To keep your Shih Tzu healthy, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen. Feed them a breed-appropriate food twice a day, sticking to the portion size guidelines, and consider their age, lifestyle, and activity level.

When you're thinking about your furry friend's health and wellness, it's essential to consider their daily needs. A small to medium-sized dog requires regular exercise, which should be up to 30 minutes per day.

This can be achieved through a combination of walks, playtime, and even short training sessions. I've found that a daily routine helps ensure my own dog gets the exercise they need to stay happy and healthy.

A dog's coat also plays a significant role in their overall health. A long and silky coat, like that of the breed mentioned, requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Regular grooming sessions can help reduce shedding and prevent hairballs.

Here's a quick rundown of the breed's vital stats:

As you can see, this breed has a lifespan of 10+ years, which means they require a long-term commitment to their care.

Shih Tzus are prone to brachycephalic syndrome, a condition that can lead to breathing difficulties due to their shortened airways, manifesting as snoring, wheezing, or respiratory distress, particularly in hot or humid weather.

Their prominent eyes are susceptible to a range of ocular issues, including corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), making regular eye examinations crucial to catch and manage these conditions early.

Dental problems are another concern for the breed, as their small mouths can put them at higher risk of tooth overcrowding and be challenging to clean, making regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, essential to prevent issues like dental decay and gum disease.

Shih Tzus are also prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss, and can be managed by identifying and avoiding potential allergens, such as certain foods or environmental triggers, along with appropriate veterinary treatment.

Maintaining a healthy weight and providing regular, low-impact exercise can help reduce the risk of orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia and luxating patella (dislocated kneecap), and genetic screening of breeding stock can also minimize the inheritance of predisposing factors.

Shih Tzus are also prone to ear infections, as their long coat and hair growth in their ears can trap moisture and create an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal growth, making regular ear cleaning essential to prevent infections.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and regular exercise regimen are essential for keeping Shih Tzus happy and healthy throughout their lives, and can help prevent or manage many of the breed's common health concerns.

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Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining your Shih Tzu's overall health and wellness. It's essential to feed them a breed-appropriate food twice a day.

Shih Tzus can be prone to heart disorders and spinal problems, which can be made worse by obesity, so a healthy diet is especially important. Obesity is a serious concern for this breed.

To ensure your Shih Tzu is getting the nutrients they need, it's best to stick to the portion size guidelines. This will help prevent overeating and obesity.

A combination of dry kibble and a moist food can give your Shih Tzu some variety and help keep them healthy. This is especially true for fussy eaters, as it can help stimulate their appetite.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when feeding your Shih Tzu: