Shih Tzu
Non Sporting

Group:

Non sporting

Size:

small

Lifespan:

11-14 years

Exercise:

very low

Grooming:

high

Trainability:

low

Watchdog ability:

medium

Protection ability:

very low

Area of Origin:

China

Date of Origin:

1800's

Other Names:

Chrysanthemum Dog

Original Function:

lap dog

History

The Shih Tzu descends from the Tibetan temple dogs which were bred over 2000 years ago. Tibetan rulers often presented Chinese rulers with these "tribute gift dogs" and once in China, the dogs, which resembled the Lhasa Apso, were most likely crossed with the Pekingese. For this reason, many people mistakenly assume that the Shih Tzu, meaning "lion dog," is Chinese in origin. The dogs lived luxurious lives behind palace walls and remained unknown until after China became a republic in 1912. This elegant little dog makes a well-mannered pet and quite enjoys apartment or city life as long as he is taken for occasional walks.

Temperament

This breed especially enjoys people and is a lively, alert, and active little dog. Although small, he carries himself with a great deal of pride and confidence. This affectionate breed is good with people and considered a family dog.

Upkeep

Despite its small size, the Shih Tzu needs daily exercise. Because of its small size, it can meet its requirements with vigorous indoor games or short frolics outside or with short walks on leash. It does not do well in hot humid weather, and it should never be expected to live outdoors. Its luxurious coat needs brushing or combing every other day; puppies should be taught to accept grooming from a young age. Pets may be clipped.

Official Breed Standard

GENERAL APPEARANCE:
Very active, lively and alert with a distinctly arrogant carriage. The Shih Tzu is neither a terrier nor a toy dog.

Head and Skull:
Head broad and round; wide between the eyes. Shock-headed with hair falling well over the eyes. Good beard and whiskers, the hair growing upwards on the nose gives a distinctly chrysanthemum-like effect. Muzzle square and short, but not wrinkled like a Pekingese; flat and hairy. Nose black for preference and about 2.5 cm from tip to stop.

Eyes:
Large, dark and round but not prominent.

Ears:
Large, with long leathers, and carried drooping. Set slightly below the crown of the skull; so heavily coated that they appear to blend with the hair of the neck.

Mouth:
Level or slightly underhung.

Forequarters:
Legs short and muscular with ample bone. The legs should look massive on account of the wealth of hair.

Body:
Body between withers and root of tail should be longer than height at withers; well-coupled and sturdy; chest broad and deep, shoulders firm, back level.

Hindquarters:
Legs short and muscular with ample bone. They should look straight when viewed from the rear. Thighs well-rounded and muscular. Legs should look massive on account of the wealth of hair.

Feet:
Firm and well-padded. They should look big on account of the wealth of hair.

Tail:
Heavily plumed and curled well over back; carried gaily, set on high.

Coat:
Long and dense, but not curly, with good undercoat.

Colour:
All colours permissible, but a white blaze on the forehead and a white tip to the tail are highly prized. Dogs with liver markings may have dark liver noses and slightly lighter eyes. Pigmentation on muzzle as unbroken as possible.

Weight and Size:
4.5 to 8.2 kg (10-18 lb). Ideal weight 4.5 to 7.3 kg (10-16 LB). Height at withers not more than 26.7 cm ( 10.5 in); type and breed characteristics of the utmost importance and on no account to be sacrificed to size alone.

Faults:
Narrow heads, pig-jaws, snipyness, pale pink noses and eye-rims, small or light eyes, legginess, sparse coats.

Note:
Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.