Overview: The Shih Tzu is a playful and energetic breed that loves being with its master. It gets along well with other dog breeds, other pets, and even strangers if given enough time around them. It may be a little difficult to train as it is not very responsive to learning new things. It has moderate watchdog potential and wouldn't make a good guard dog. Grooming can be somewhat involved and the owner needs to be dedicated to the work that this dog needs. It is slightly resistant to cold temperatures but can't stand to be in hot weather. It is a favorite lap dog.

Temperament: The Shih Tzu is a spunky dog that can be good as a lap dog and a playful friend. It is very affectionate towards its master and is good with children of any age. It can act pretty tough when it needs to and seems to be quite stubborn at times.

History: The Shih Tzu Kou was the true name of this breed, although in modern times it has been shortened to Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu Kou means Lion Dog in Chinese. This canine was one of the most admired breeds in China for its association with the Buddhist religion. Several theories of its origin exist. One such theory states that it probably first originated in Tibet around the 17th century were it was regarded as a holy dog. What is considered to be the modern Shih Tzu was developed in China during the reign of Empress Dowager Cixi during the late 19th century and into the early 20th century. Although the Shih Tzu and the Pekingese do share similar histories, there is a difference that is evident in Chinese art. The Shih Tzu was usually described by having a topknot on its head, called the Pien-ji. The breed was faced with near extinction during the Chinese Communist Revolution. Eventually, it was first introduced to the dog show world (in China) as the Lhassa Terrier, or the Tibetan Poodle, which introduced some confusion as to what breed it actually was. In 1935 it was called the Lhassa Lion Dog and was becoming quite popular. Similar confusion was happening in England as this breed was lumped together with the Lhasa Apso, Apso meaning shaggy. Soon after this breed had made its appearance it was divided into two breeds. The smaller, wider-skulled and shorter-nosed strain took on the name Shih Tzu. The popularity of this breed rose dramatically in the United States during the 1960s and continues today as one of the most popular toy breed companion dogs.

Names: The Shih Tzu is also known as the Chrysanthemum Dog.

Groups: The Shih Tzu was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and assigned to the Toy Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Shih Tzu can be 8 to 11 inches in height and can weigh between 9 and 16 lb. The coat of this dog is considered to be luxurious, thick, and long. The colors the breed can be gold and white, red and white, gold with a black mask, red, black and white, black, liver, liver and white, blue and white, brindle and white, or silver and white.

Care: The Shih Tzu is an inside dog. Daily exercise is needed though it doesn't need very muc. Playing games indoors should be enough, or even just a short walk. It doesn't like humid weather and it should never have to live outside. The coat should be combed every other day to keep it looking luxurious. Puppies need to be taught to accept grooming from a young age.

BreedersClub.net does not pre-screen the Shih Tzu dog breeders who advertise their puppies and dogs for sale in the BreedersClub.net breeder directory and in the classified ads. We require all advertisers to agree to our advertising terms. You should ask the Shih Tzu dog breeders you talk with for references from past buyers and veterinarians.

Shih Tzu dog breeders, you may place an ad for your Shih Tzu puppies and/or adult Shih Tzu dogs for sale on BreedersClub.net to find qualified buyers