Shih Tzu
Also known as: Chrysanthemum Dog
The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet and weighs 4-7.5 kilograms. The Shih Tzu comes from Tibet, typically weighs 4–7.5 kilograms, and has a see coat colors section below coat. Individual Shih Tzus vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Tibet
- Weight
- 4–7.5 kilograms (8.8–16.5 lb)
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- See coat colors section below
- Litter size
- 2–9
- Other names
- Chrysanthemum Dog
About the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet and weighs 4-7.5 kilograms. Males typically reach a height of 20-28 centimeters.
Overview
The Shih Tzu ( .mw-parser-output .IPA-label-small{font-size:85%}.mw-parser-output .references .IPA-label-small,.mw-parser-output .infobox .IPA-label-small,.mw-parser-output .navbox .IPA-label-small{font-size:100%} UK : / ˌ ʃ iː ˈ t s uː / , US : / ˈ ʃ iː t s uː / ) is a toy dog or pet dog breed originating from Tibet and believed to be bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso .
Health
A number of health issues, some of them hereditary , have been found in individual Shih Tzu, and are listed below. The popularity of the breed has allowed for extremely poor breeding in general, leading to generalized and lifelong diseases, often from a fairly early age.
History
One theory is that the Shih Tzu descended from a cross between the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso . The dogs were favorites of the Chinese royals during the Ming Dynasty and were so prized that, for years, the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give any away. Empress Dowager Cixi developed a program dedicated to breeding Shih Tzus. Many court eunuchs also bred Shih Tzus to win favor with the Emperor. The first dogs of the breed were imported into Europe ( England and Norway ) during the 1920s and 1930s. Lady Brownrigg, an Englishwoman living in China, first brought two Shih Tzus to England in 1928. These dogs were classified by the Kennel Club as "Apsos". The first European standard for the breed was written in England in 1935 by the Shih Tzu Club, and the dogs were categorised again as Shih Tzu. This was the result of the first congregation of these dogs from China at Crufts in 1933 at which it was realised that the Tibetan Terrier, Apso and Shih Tzu were distinctly different breeds. The breed spread throughout Europe and was brought to the United States after World War II , when returning members of the U.S. military brought back dogs from Europe and Asia, in the mid-1950s. The Shih Tzu was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 in the Toy Group . In 1934, the Shih Tzu Club of England was founded and the breed was officially recognised by the Kennel Club (UK) on 7 May 1940. When it became eligible for Challenge Certificates, none were awarded until 1949. The breed is now recognized by all of the major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world. It is also recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale for international competition in Companion and Toy Dog Group, Section 5, Tibetan breeds. Controversially, breeder Freda Evans of England introduced a black and white Pekingese into the breed in 1952. Today, both the U.K. and U.S. Kennel Clubs recognize the descendants of the Shih Tzu and Pekingese cross as purebred Shih Tzus. In the United States, the Shih Tzus were ranked the 20th most popular breed in 2024, falling slightly in popularity since 2012 when it was placed in 11th position. In Israel the Shih Tzus were ranked as the most popular breed in 2019.
Etymology
The name comes from the Wade–Giles romanization of the Mandarin Chinese word for "lion" ( 狮子 ; shīzi ), because this kind of dog was bred to resemble "the lion, as in traditional oriental art". (The Pekingese breed is also called "lion dog" in Chinese.) In contemporary Mandarin, the Shih Tzu is generally known as the "Xi Shi dog" ( 西施犬 ; Xī Shī quǎn ), Xi Shi being regarded as one of the most beautiful women of ancient China . Shih Tzu was nicknamed the " chrysanthemum dog" in England in the 1930s. The dog may also be called the Tibetan Lion Dog, but whether the breed should be referred to as "Tibetan" or "Chinese" is a source of both historical and political contention, and dog historians tend to have very strong opinions on the subject.
Ear issues
A very common issue for Shih Tzus is the development of ear infections, as they have a long coat and hair grows in their ears. If ears are not plucked and cleaned often, ear infections will reoccur and cause more serious health issues.
Eye issues
It is very common for Shih Tzus to develop eye problems at any age, and even more so once they are older. Most veterinarians will recommend eye drops to assist with any eye irritations. Some dogs have allergies which cause excess discharge around the eye. Older Shih Tzu are known to develop cataracts which can be corrected with surgery. If not treated, the dog may become blind in the eye that has the cataract . The distinctive large eyes can easily be scratched which may cause an ulcer. The dog will normally have the injured eye closed or half closed and may have excessive tears. The most common problem of Shih Tzus concerning eye conditions is the formation of epiphora caused by the fur on the eyelids scratching the conjunctiva and the cornea. However this can be medicated by the application of prescribed eye drops from a certified veterinarian such as eyevita. Shih Tzus are also prone to excessive tear production which in turn cause tear stains around the eyes. A study from Japan reviewing cases of dogs presented for ophthalmologic examination found the Shih Tzu to make up 16% of all glaucoma cases whilst only making up 8.2% of the total population used in the study.
Coat colors
The Shih Tzu comes in many colours. The following colours are recognised by The Royal Kennel Club : Additionally, the following colours are recognised as existing within the breed but not being part of the standard: blue, cream, lilac, lilac & white, white, particolour.
Description
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy little dog with a small snout and normally has large dark brown eyes. They have a soft and long double coat that will tangle and mat easily if not brushed at least every 2 or 3 days. A Shih Tzu should stand no more than 26.7 cm (10 .mw-parser-output .frac{white-space:nowrap}.mw-parser-output .frac .num,.mw-parser-output .frac .den{font-size:80%;line-height:0;vertical-align:super}.mw-parser-output .frac .den{vertical-align:sub}.mw-parser-output .sr-only{border:0;clip:rect(0,0,0,0);clip-path:polygon(0px 0px,0px 0px,0px 0px);height:1px;margin:-1px;overflow:hidden;padding:0;position:absolute;width:1px} 1 ⁄ 2 ") at the withers and with an ideal weight of 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. The coat may be of any color, though white and with blazes of grey are frequently seen. A very noticeable feature is the underbite , which is required in the breed standard . The Chinese have described their head shapes as "owl head" and "lion head", and their mouth as "frog mouths" and their lips as "earthworm lips".
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu is a small, friendly dog breed with a long, flowing coat and a flat face. They typically weigh between 9-16 pounds and stand 8-11 inches tall. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Shih Tzus are outgoing, loyal, and affectionate dogs that make great companions.
Is the Shih Tzu a good family dog?
Shih Tzus can make good family pets for families with older children who understand how to handle them gently. However, they may not be suitable for families with very young children due to their small size and delicate nature. They require regular attention and care from their owners.
What health problems do Shih Tzus have?
Shih Tzus are prone to various health issues, including respiratory problems, eye problems, and joint issues. They can also be susceptible to obesity and dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions.
How much does a Shih Tzu puppy cost?
The cost of a Shih Tzu puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a Shih Tzu puppy can cost between $500-$1,500. It's essential to find a reputable breeder and research the costs involved in owning a Shih Tzu before making a purchase.
Where do Shih Tzus come from?
The Shih Tzu comes from Tibet. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Shih Tzu, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.