This submit might comprise affiliate hyperlinks. We might earn cash or merchandise from the businesses talked about on this submit.
So that you’re fascinated about getting a shih tzu however ponder whether it’s the correct breed for your loved ones.
Shih tzus are candy, pleasant canine and might be nice even for first-time pet mother and father.
However, earlier than you make your resolution, that you must know one thing about them, akin to potential well being issues and grooming wants.
I’ve had three shih tzus and have educated many for different folks.
They’re lovely and appear like stuffed toys. And they’re stuffed with persona and spunky.
Though they’re sensible canine, shih tzus aren’t the simplest to coach.
My first shih tzu, Cuddles (appropriately named as she was cuddly), was a tan-and-white ball of fur. She liked everybody and realized many cues and tips.
My second, a black-and-white tzu, named China turned a remedy canine and obedience canine.
Trevor, my third, was a rescue who additionally turned a remedy canine and was proven in obedience and rally.
36 Info About Shih Tzus: What’s Good About Them and What’s Unhealthy About Them
1. Shih Tzus Are Labeled as Toy Canines by the American Kennel Membership (AKC)
They’re small, sturdy canine for his or her dimension. The breed is pronounced “sheed-zoo.”
2. Shih Tzus Are Tremendous for Novice House owners
So long as you’ll be able to meet their wants (mentioned beneath), shih tzus are positive for novice homeowners.
They’re pets who have been bred to be lap canine. So that you don’t have to satisfy any wants that you’d for working canine akin to herding or sporting breeds.
3. Shih Tzus Are an Historic Breed Who Are Companions, Not Working Canines
One of many 14 oldest canine breeds, they’ve existed as early as 8,000 B.C.
Imperial breeders within the palace of the Chinese language Emperor developed the shih tzu many centuries in the past from Tibetan breeding inventory.
Though there’s some thriller how the breed developed, it’s thought that shih tzus have been initially bred from two Sino-Tibetan breeds, the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese.
Cherished lap canine of Chinese language emperors and their households, shih tzus have been hidden behind palace partitions till the Nineteen Thirties.
Then breed golf equipment started forming in Peking and England. The primary shih tzu was registered by the AKC in 1969.
4. Shih Tzus Are Often called Lion Canines
Though they’re removed from fierce, shih tzus are often known as “lion canine.”
- In Mandarin, “ shih tzu” means “little lion,” which is an animal thought-about to be sacred within the Buddhist faith. Lions symbolize royalty, energy, and bravado. And shih tzus are courageous canine with an aristocratic air.
- Pairs of statues of lions or lion canine–referred to as Foo (or Fu) Canines– are situated exterior guard palace doorways, tombs, temples, and public buildings to guard these buildings from dangerous people and religious influences.
- Fu interprets to “pleased” in Manchurian. Legion has it that pleased Foo (Fu) canine are shih tzus who ceaselessly guard the temple of Buddha.
- Legend has it {that a} shih tzu accompanied the Buddha of knowledge, Manjushri, and will develop into a lion and carry the Buddha on its again. The story is that a number of robbers surrounded Buddha to rob and homicide him. It’s mentioned that the shih tzu reworked right into a ferocious lion, scaring the robbers who shortly fled the scene. Buddha blessed the shih tu, who had returned to the type of a canine. So there’s an extended, everlasting custom linking shih tzus with the Buddha.
5. Some Shih Tzus Are Well-known
- A shih tzu was a major canine character named Miss Agnes within the film Greatest in Present
- The online game character Isabelle’s design (from the favored online game franchise Animal Crossing) is predicated on the options of a Shih Tzu. And her authentic title in Japanese, Shizue, appears to be based mostly on the title of the canine breed
- Many well-known folks have owned–or have been owned by–shih tzus, akin to: Nicole Richie, Kelly Ripa, Queen Elizabeth, Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Invoice Gates, the Dalai Lama, Phyllis Diller, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Colin Farrell, Oleg Cassini, Vidal Sassoon, Andie MacDowell, Jane Seymour, and Colin Farrell–to call just a few
- The Instagram Sensation Marnie, a rescued shih tzu who was identified for her extraordinary lengthy tongue, has charmed many celebrities
6. Shih Tzus Don’t Require A lot Train
Not like working breeds, shih tzus don’t require lots of train. A brief stroll and some play classes meet the canine’s wants.
So, in case you’re in search of a sofa potato and lap canine, a shih tzu is a superb companion.
7. They Don’t Make Good Mountaineering, Jogging, Biking, or Swimming Buddies
When you’re involved in having a canine who will accompany you on hikes or whereas biking or jogging, a shih tzu isn’t for you.
They don’t have the stamina. With their quick legs and lengthy our bodies, they couldn’t sustain. And a shih tzu would overheat on such ventures.
Due to their physique conformation, shih tzus additionally don’t typically swim very properly.
8. Socialization Is Essential for a Pleasant, Assured Canine
Shih tzus are naturally pleasant, assured canine. However they nonetheless require socialization in order that they develop into all that they need to be.
And, in the event that they aren’t correctly socialized, they might develop into afraid of the world.
Or, they’ll doubtlessly develop “small canine syndrome” and develop into protecting and aggressive.
9. Obedience Coaching Ought to Be Enjoyable With Brief Periods
Though shih tzus are clever, they’ll shortly tire of robotic obedience drill classes.
Persistence is a advantage when coaching a shih tzu.
They have been bred to be pets, not tireless employees. And so they have an unbiased, cussed streak.
So hold coaching classes quick with just some repetitions of every cue, then transfer on. Play in between.
Use constructive reinforcement of yummy treats, reward, petting, and play.
Shih tzus are very bonded to their homeowners and can love to coach in case you make the session enjoyable.
Though many individuals have famous that they might require many repetitions to study a command, I’ve discovered that they’re prepared learners when educated correctly.
No, they’re not going to be border collies or Aussies, however they’ll study many instructions.
You could have to interrupt down some extra sophisticated behaviors and educate them in additional steps than you’ll for a working breed.
And you will have to, over time, do extra repetitions for reliability, however they’ll study even sophisticated duties.
My shih tzu Cuddles gained trick contests and even realized sophisticated behaviors. For instance, I taught her to “reply” a baby’s telephone.
After I mentioned “reply the telephone,” she picked up and dropped the receiver, then spoke.
After I taught it, I broke the trick down into 4 behaviors: take the receiver; maintain it; drop it; and converse. It took weeks for reliability.
My shih tzu China was a prime obedience shih tzu who realized many tips and to take and retrieve a dumbbell, go over jumps, heel, scent work, lengthy sit and down keep, and way more.
Trevor, my rescued shih tzu, additionally realized tips, formal obedience, and rally obedience.
So, sure, shih tzus are able to studying sophisticated behaviors when you have the endurance to show them.
10. They Require Psychological Stimulation
In order that they don’t develop into bored and to increase their minds, play video games with them.
Have your shih tzu fetch. Present enrichment actions akin to puzzle toys.
11. They Are Nice Trick Canines and Remedy Canines
Since shih tzus are very pleasant and have a steady temperament when bred, educated, and socialized correctly, they’ll make nice remedy canine.
They shouldn’t be skittish. A shih tzu shouldn’t be fazed by the gear present in nursing houses and hospitals.
Two of my shih tzus have been remedy canine who go to hospital sufferers on a weekly foundation. They liked it as a lot because the sufferers and workers loved assembly with them.
Shih tzus may also be distinctive trick canine. They get uninterested in repetitive instructions.
So studying new tips ought to be a enjoyable studying expertise. Dance, beg, roll over, and converse might be nice social gathering tips for a shih tzu.
12. Not Simply One other Fairly Face: Shih Tzus Can Excel at Canine Sports activities
When educated utilizing constructive reinforcement, shih tzus can do properly in lots of canine actions, akin to:
- Obedience
- Rally
- Agility
- Canine musical freestyle (aka dancing with canine)
- Tips
Two individuals who I turned pleasant with at canine exhibits achieved superior titles with their shih tzus in agility and rally.
And mine have been very completed in tips and aggressive obedience and rally.
13. Shih Tzus Love Everybody: Adults, Kids, and Different Canines
A shih tzu who has been well-bred, educated, and socialized ought to be pleasant to everybody.
So, when you have youngsters who respect a canine and aren’t tough, it may very well be an awesome match.
However you must guarantee your shih tzu’s security from toddlers and different canine.
14. They Are Playful and Love Consideration
When you’re in search of a pleasant companion who needs to be with you, a shih tzu is usually a nice companion.
Though they like to be with you, they aren’t needy like some breeds and might be left to occupy themselves.
So long as a shih tzu’s socialization, train, and coaching wants are met, he’s not more likely to develop separation anxiousness.
15. Shih Tzus Are Nice Lap Canines
Not like their cousin, the Lhasa apso (for which they’re typically mistaken), shih tzus love being a lap canine.
16. They Are Tough to Home Practice
Shih tzus are notoriously exhausting to home practice. Another small breeds are a lot simpler regardless that each have small bladders.
I bought fortunate with my first shih tzu pet, Cuddles. She home educated fairly shortly and was fairly dependable inside weeks.
However my second, China, was the conventional shih tzu. It took months for her to be dependable. I even took a while off to assist her alongside the method.
However, with endurance and persistence, I haven’t met a wholesome shih tzu who couldn’t be reliably home educated. Additionally, you’ll be able to practice them to use potty pads on your comfort and in case they should go to the toilet whenever you’re away.
17. They Adapt To Most Locations
Shih tzus are nice in flats or homes. They adapt to the place you reside.
18. They Don’t Do Effectively in Temperature Extremes
Shih tzus are a brachycephalic breed. Their flat face makes them susceptible to warmth exhaustion.
So, in case you stay the place it will get very popular, make it possible for your shih tzu isn’t taken exterior aside from a fast potty break through the hottest a part of the day.
Have him stay in air con, stress-free. In spite of everything, they have been bred as treasured companions who lived in Imperial palaces.
And when it’s too chilly, a shih tzu shouldn’t be taken out for greater than a potty break.
In chilly climate, you’ll be able to put a coat or sweater in your shih tzu.
19. They Are Quiet Canines
Though shih tzus might bark often, they aren’t a loud breed.
20. They Are Small
Shih tzus measure 9 to 10.5 inches on the shoulder and weigh between 9 and 16 kilos.
21. There Is No Teacup or Imperial Shih Tzu
Shih tzus ought to be between 9 and 16 kilos. Run from unscrupulous breeders who attempt to promote miniature or bigger variations.
22. Shih Tzus Are Moveable and Nice Journey Companions
Get your shih tzu used to touring when he’s younger in order that he doesn’t develop into automobile sick. Then you’ll be able to take him with you in your adventures.
There are a lot of automobile seats for small canine that will likely be good for a shih tzu.
And there are small kennels and tender journey baggage to move him. You may even carry him in a pouch made for that goal.
I used to take my shih tzus in shops in a purchasing cart. I’d place a canine mattress within the backside of the cart, and my canine would fortunately accompany me on my spending spree.
23. Take Your Shih Tzu Out on a Harness
It’s greatest to take your shih tzu for walks in a well-fitting harness. Their necks are susceptible to tracheal harm if an excessive amount of strain is placed on their neck as can happen in a collar.
24. Shih Tzus Require Common Grooming, Which Can Be Costly
A shih tzu who’s stored in an extended, flowing double coat that isn’t reduce requires each day brushing and brushing that lightly reaches to the pores and skin.
Grooming is for his well being in addition to his look.
You should utilize a pin brush, slicker brush, and greyhound comb. The facial hair and topknot should be combed each day.
If not correctly groomed, a shih tzu can develop into a matted mess.
Every day cleansing of the corners of the eyes is required.
And don’t neglect to brush the closely plumed tail that’s carried in a curve over his again.
You may select to maintain your shih tzu in a pet reduce for simpler coat care.
You continue to have to brush the coat and facial hair. However the brushing and brushing are a lot simpler on you–and the canine.
A pet reduce retains your shih tzu wanting younger and classy.
You may have knowledgeable groomer carry out a pet clip. However I gained’t idiot you: a great groomer is dear however value it.
Your shih tzu will must be clipped each six to eight weeks, relying on how briskly his coat grows.
You continue to have to brush and comb each day, however the classes will likely be shorter than when a shih tzu is stored in full coat.
I’ve stored my shih tzus in pet cuts, with the facial beard and tail hair stored longer to keep up the look of the breed. I realized how you can groom them from breeders and groomers I do know.
After all, you additionally have to trim their nails each week or two and verify–and clear if essential–their ears on a weekly foundation.
As a result of they require such routine, in depth grooming, get them used to being dealt with and groomed as puppies.
25. They Don’t Shed and Are “Hypoallergenic”
Though no canine is really hypoallergenic, shih tzus come shut.
They’ve hair, not fur. And, if groomed and bathed commonly, they might be positive for some people who find themselves allergic to canine.
26. Shih Tzus Are available a Broad Number of Colours
- Black
- Black and white
- Brindle
- Brindle and white
- Gold
- Gold and white
- Purple and white
- Silver
- Silver and white
- Blue
- Blue and white
- Liver
- Liver and white
- Purple
- Black, gold, and silver
- Black, white, and silver
- White
- Silver, gold, and white
- Black, gold, and white
Shih tzus can even have a black facial masks or black, tan, or white markings.
27. Shih Tzus Have Lengthy Lives
If you need a canine companion who will likely be with you on many adventures, a shih tzu might match the invoice.
They’ve a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years.
Two of my shih tzus lived to be 13.5 years previous. My rescued shih tzu lived to be about 16.
The oldest recorded shih tzu lived to be 23 years previous.
28. Their Flat Faces Trigger Them To Be Vulnerable to Sure Issues
Shih tzus are a brachycephalic breed, which signifies that their head is each broad and quick, leading to small nostrils, lengthy palates, and a slender trachea.
This will result in brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome, which can lead to extreme respiratory misery.
They’re additionally in danger in extremes of temperature and humidity.
Shih tzus can also have a reverse sneeze, through which he’ll snort and gag to take away mucuous, for a minute or two at most. Though not dangerous, listening to a shih tzu with a reverse sneeze might be horrifying.
When you’re a lightweight sleeper, be ready to sleep with ear plugs. Due to their flat muzzles, shih tzus are likely to snore.
My shih tzu China weighed solely 11 kilos. However she gave the impression of a freight practice coming by when she was soundly sleeping.
As a result of their lovely, massive, spherical eyes are very distinguished, shih tzus are susceptible to eye accidents. So, though shih tzus are sturdy for his or her dimension, take care in taking part in with them.
29. They Are Additionally Susceptible To Different Well being Points To Be Conscious Of
All breeds can have sure well being issues. Due to their lengthy again, quick legs, and flat muzzle, shih tzus are susceptible to some well being points.
So watch out that your shih tzu doesn’t soar on or off furnishings that’s too excessive. If you need him to be on the furnishings, educate him to make use of stairs or a ramp made for that goal.
Just remember to get your shih tzu from a respected breeder or rescue group.
Potential well being points in embody:
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation (a slipped kneecap)
- Eye anomalies together with cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, and corneal dryness and irritation from extreme publicity to the air due to improperly closing eyelids
- Coronary heart points
- Ear infections
- Pores and skin sensitivities
- Bladder stones and infections
- Retained child tooth and gum issues
- Umbilical hernias
- A portosystemic liver shunt, which is a congenital abnormality through which blood vessels permit blood to bypass the liver
- Snuffles, through which the gums swell when a pet is teething at about 4 months previous. Due to their flat muzzle through which there isn’t a lot room, a shih tzu pet might snort, snuffle, snore loudly, or wheeze throughout this time, and should actually have a clear nasal drainage
- Glomerulonephropathy, a kidney illness
- Congenital dyshormonogenic hypothyroidism with goiter
- Prekallikrein deficiency, which is a dysfunction that causes blood to take longer to clot
30. Shih Tzus Can Be Beggars and Placed on Too A lot Weight
Despite the fact that their human baby-like lovely face stares up at you whenever you’re consuming, don’t give in to temptation and share your meal.
Shih tzus can are likely to develop into overweight.
31. They Have a tendency To Have Dental Issues
Brachycephalic breeds are likely to have extra dental issues than different breeds.
So common tooth brushing and veterinary care is vital.
32. Test Their Eyes Commonly To Keep away from Issues
Due to their distinguished eyes, issues might happen from mud, pollen, humidity, or brushing towards a floor, So verify your shih tzu’s eyes for indicators of redness or irritation.
Be sure that the facial hair in your shih tzu doesn’t rub towards his eyes, which may additionally trigger harm to his eyes.
33. They’re Fashionable
Shih tzus rank twentieth out of 284 breeds based on the AKC.
34. A Effectively-Bred Shih Tzu Isn’t Low-cost
As a result of the breed is so standard, there are various unscrupulous pet mill and again yard breeders promoting the canine at varied costs, each excessive and low.
However a shih tzu from a good breeder can value from $1,500 and up, relying on the place you reside and whether or not the canine is present or pet high quality.
35. They Have a tendency To Eat Poop Extra Than Some Breeds Do
This is named coprophagia. Simply be sure to wash up any feces in order that this doesn’t develop into a behavior.
36. There Are Priceless Assets To Discover a Nice Shih Tzu
It’s possible you’ll determine to get a shih tzu from a good breed or rescue group.
For rescue details about shih tzus, contact the American Shih Tzu Membership, Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc., or Tzu Zoo Rescue
For breeder referrals, contact the American Shih Tzu Membership or the American Kennel Membership
FAQs
I stay in an residence and wish a canine who doesn’t bark typically or want a fenced yard. Would a shih tzu be a sensible choice?
Sure! They’re quiet canine who aren’t extreme barkers. In addition they don’t require tons of train. A stroll or two and a few play ought to meet their bodily train wants.
You should be prepared to commonly groom a shih tzu (or rent knowledgeable groomer). However bear in mind it could take longer than some breeds to deal with practice a shih tzu.
I like to journey. Would a shih tzu be a sensible choice?
Sure. When you get a well-bred shih tzu who is correctly educated and socialized, a shih tzu is usually a nice journey buddy.
Shih tzus are transportable and love everybody and adapt to new environments.
Plus, they’re very bonded to their pet mother and father and like to accompany them on new adventures.
I really like canine however don’t love grooming. I’ve solely had solely short-coated breeds. My buddy has a shih tzu who I really like. Would a shih tzu be a sensible choice?
Most likely not.
They require common–each day–grooming. However in case you hold the canine in a brief pet clip and are prepared to groom him, it will possibly work out.
Ultimate Ideas
Shih tzus are pleasant, spunky, outgoing lovely canine. They don’t require lots of train and are transportable lap canine.
However they’re tough to deal with practice and wish each day grooming.
When you’re in search of a candy, charming canine to accompany you all over the place, a shih tzu is usually a nice selection.
Do you’ve gotten a shih tzu?
In that case, what made you select the breed?
In case you are fascinated about getting a shih tzu, did this text make it easier to to determine?
Inform us about it within the feedback part beneath.
Save To Pinterest
Prime Picks For Our Puppies
- BEST PUPPY TOY
We Like: Calmeroos Pet Toy w/ Heartbeat and Warmth Packs – Excellent for brand new puppies. Helps ease anxiousness of their new house. - BEST DOG CHEW
We Like: Mighty Paw Naturals Bully Sticks – All of our puppies like to chunk, nip, and chew. We love utilizing Bully Sticks to assist divert these undesirable behaviors. - BEST DOG TREATS
We Like: Loopy Canine Practice-Me Treats – We use these as our high-value treats for our information canine puppies. - BEST FRESH DOG FOOD
We Like: The Farmer’s Canine – A pair months in the past we began feeding Raven recent pet food and she or he loves it! Get 50% off your first order of The Farmer’s Canine.
Try extra of our favorites on our New Pet Guidelines.
