The Shih Tzu is a little dog that is strong and has a thick, long double coat. This breed is favored by fans of toy dogs because of its alert, self-assured, lively, and brave nature. Shih Tzus are an ancient breed that have a long history of serving as nobles’ lap dogs. Shih Tzus may be amazing companions if trained and cared for properly. This breed is perfect for flats and other tiny living places due to its little stature.

History

The canines were cherished so highly by the Chinese royals since they were their favorites that they forbade trading, exchanging, or giving any away for many years. The Kennel Club identified the first dogs of the breed brought into Europe in 1930 as “Apsos.” The Shih Tzu Club wrote the first European standard for the breed in England in 1935, and the dogs were once again categorized as Shih Tzu. After World II, returning U.S. servicemen brought back dogs from Europe and Asia, and by the mid-1950s,War  the breed had expanded throughout Europe and reached the United States. The AKC classified the Shih Tzu as a toy dog breed in 1969.

Size

Shih tzu mature quickly, attaining full size in around 10 months, like other toy breeds do. The shih tzu has a robust body, a good-sized head, and is frequently somewhat shorter than tall. The eyes are extremely large, and the head is rounded. The tail is carried over the back in a funny curl. The gait is very lengthy and quick for a dog of its size. Most nations classify Shih Tzus, which range in height from eight to eleven inches and weight from nine to sixteen pounds, as toys. They frequently live to be 14 or 15 years old and seem to be pretty tough tiny canines.

Personality

The Shih Tzu Dog should have a friendly, cheerful, tolerant, and trusting nature because it was raised primarily to be a domestic and family pet. This breed is nice and gentle with youngsters and will show devotion to its family when they treat it well. It should be noted that Shih Tzu can become timid if they are abused, and a dog introduced to young children later in life might not be as tolerant of high-energy play as it would be if it had been nurtured with young children from the beginning. Although impressive, its resilience occasionally appears as stubbornness.

Food

The Shih Tzu should thrive on a premium dog food, whether it is made commercially or at home under the guidance and consent of your vet. Any diet should be suitable for the age of the dog. Watch your dog’s calorie intake and weight level because certain dogs are prone to obesity. Treats can be a valuable training tool, but offering them in excess might lead to obesity. Discover which foods fit the bill for canine consumption and which don’t. If you have any worries about your dog’s weight or diet, consult your veterinarian. Fresh water that is clean should always be accessible.

Grooming

The Shih Tzu is widely regarded as a hypoallergenic dog breed because of its continuously growing coat and very little shedding. Professional grooming as well as daily home combing are frequently necessary to keep your Shih Tzu looking lovely and clear of mats and skin issues. Bathe your Shih Tzu as frequently as you’d like, but be sure to brush off any tangles first. Nail trimming is normally done once or twice a week as needed. To reduce stains, wipe the inner corners of the eyes with a moist washcloth every day. Trim the fur around the anus to keep the back end tidy. For overall health and fresh breath, use a quality pet toothpaste while brushing the teeth.

Training

Shih Tzu dog training may be entertaining and frustrating at the same time. The breed has a propensity to persuade his owner to let him have his way, which can lead to a fat, imperfectly housebroken companion that is challenging to groom. Shih Tzu are such people dogs, so praise and reward-based training techniques are the most effective. With this breed, harsh corrections ought to be avoided. Be firm, introduce new habits gradually, and never give in to the dog’s misbehavior. If he jumps up or nips you, ignore him until he calms down, then give him praise. Basic training and puppy socialization lessons are advised to help the Shih Tzu develop into a well-mannered, well-adjusted pet. Make sure the puppy class’s training techniques are based on positive reinforcement before registering.

Health

Similar to many other breeds, the Shih Tzu dog may experience certain inherited eye issues and temporary kneecap misalignment (luxating patella). Additionally, they are more vulnerable to spinal disc disorders and ear infections. Due to their brachycephalic breed, they are susceptible to the health issues and breathing problems brought on by a shortened skull and flattened face. The price of a diagnostic or treatment may be covered by a dog insurance policy.

Bottom Line

Shih Tzus make excellent family pets. They get along with other dogs and animals, and because of their submissive nature, they are wonderful playmates for kids.

A Shih Tzu might make a fantastic first dog for a beginner. They can be an excellent choice because of their pleasant attitude and want to be near their humans. That doesn’t imply that raising and training these puppies isn’t labor-intensive.