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Shih Tzu - Purebred
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of noble Chinese ancestry, is a true companion and makes an ideal family pet. Primarily a lap dog, they have a long history of being a watch dog.
However, even though this dog breed is typically associated with China, research shows that their origins really date back to 17th century Tibetan monks.
The Shih Tzu is sometimes called the "chrysanthemum-faced dog" because the hair grows about the face in all directions, and it is also known as the Chinese/Tibetan Lion Dog or the Chrysanthemum Dog.
His happy, outgoing, and affectionate temperament coupled with his friendly and trusting nature make him a great house pet. In fact, these dogs are known to be very playful and spunky, but still extremely sweet overall.
These dogs are very lovable and enjoy playing with their owner. These dogs make wonderful house pets and are great with children. In fact, this breed scores high on the friendliness scale even when it comes to other dogs, other pets or even strangers.
They are proud of bearing and have a distinctively arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back. Most often, they are groomed with their jaunty topknot tied in a ribbon.
Enjoy a short dog breed video
Although there has always been considerable size variation, they must be compact and solid, carrying good weight and substance overall, usually weighing in at around 9 to 16 pounds.
Even though this is a fairly small dog, it still needs a good bit of daily exercise. A 15 to 20 minute brisk walk on a leash is ideal, yet because it is so small, a good romp around the house from room to room is also an excellent way for this dog to get his daily physical requirements.
Shih Tzus are not meant to live outside - anywhere. Instead, these are strictly house dogs who cannot deal with hot or humid weather. And because of its long, luxurious coat, grooming the Shih Tzu should be done on a daily basis.
They are a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with long flowing double coat. Their hair grows continuously and needs to be trimmed often - suggested, every 4-8 weeks. The coat requires at least a half an hour grooming per day, which should be a big consideration before bringing one of these dogs into your home. It is a toy dog that can be groomed with long flowing locks or groomed with a puppy cut.
Country of origin: Tibet
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Colors: Any color or pattern acceptable
Known health problems: Ear problems, eye problems, respiratory problems, Hyperthermia, Tear staining, kidney or bladder problems, early tooth loss, disc problems
Return from Shih Tzu to Toy Dog Group
