Shih Tzu

The history of the Shih Tzu is rooted in ancient Tibet, where small dogs of this type lived in monasteries. It’s believed they were developed by crossing the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. The most common version, supported by historical records, suggests that in the 17th century (around 1643-1653), the Tibetan Dalai Lama gifted several of these valuable dogs to the Chinese emperor.

In China, these dogs became the darlings of the imperial court and a “forbidden breed” that only members of the imperial family could own and breed. They were believed to bring good luck. Kept in the lap of luxury within the Forbidden City, their breeding was carefully overseen by the palace eunuchs. Occasionally, an emperor would present a Shih Tzu puppy to a high-ranking official as a sign of special favor. Because of the long hair on their faces that resembled flower petals, they earned the nickname “chrysanthemum dogs.”

There is also a beautiful legend connected to Buddha. It tells of a small dog named “Ha-Pa” who accompanied Buddha on his travels and could instantly transform into a massive lion to protect its master or carry him. Many believe this legendary dog was the Shih Tzu.

After the fall of the empire and the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912, the breed was on the verge of extinction. A few dogs were smuggled out of the country by enthusiasts. The first official import to Great Britain took place in the 1930s. It was British and Scandinavian breeders who played a key role in preserving and developing the breed. In 1934, the breed was recognized as a distinct one, and in 1940 it was registered with the British Kennel Club. Championship certificates began to be issued in 1949. Today, the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular toy breeds in the world.

The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, compact dog with a luxurious, long coat that is one of the breed’s main distinguishing features. Despite their small size, Shih Tzus carry themselves with a dignified, confident air.

Key Physical Traits of the Shih Tzu:

• Head: Broad and round, with a wide space between the eyes. A characteristic feature is the hair on the bridge of the nose growing upward, creating a “chrysanthemum” effect. The muzzle is short, square, and flat, without wrinkles. The stop is well-defined.
• Eyes: Large, dark, and round, not bulging, and set wide apart. Their expression is warm and friendly.
• Ears: Large, long, and pendulous, set slightly below the top of the head and heavily coated with hair that blends into the neck coat.
• Nose: Black (dark liver in liver-colored dogs), with well-opened nostrils. The top of the nose leather is on or slightly below the level of the lower eyelid.
• Bite: Level or tight undershot.
• Body: The body is slightly longer than the height at the withers (an important proportion). The back is level. The chest is broad and deep.
• Tail: Set high, heavily coated, and carried gaily over the back.
• Coat: Very dense, long, and flowing, with a well-developed undercoat, not curly. A slight wave is permissible. The length of the coat should not hinder the dog’s movement. This is one of the breeds with the longest hair relative to its body size.
• Color: All colors are permitted. For particolored dogs, a white blaze on the forehead (the “Kiss of Buddha”) and a white tail tip are desirable. The most common color combinations are white with black, red, gold, or brown. Solid colors are rarer.

Overall, the Shih Tzu gives the impression of an elegant yet sturdy dog with a unique “aristocratic” look.

The Shih Tzu is the embodiment of positivity and friendliness. Beneath their somewhat haughty, aristocratic exterior lies an incredibly gentle, devoted, and playful nature. These dogs were bred to be human companions and do not handle being left alone well. They adore being the center of attention, following their owners around, and participating in all family activities.

Key Character Traits:

1. Friendliness: Shih Tzus generally get along well with everyone: family members, children, strangers, and other animals (provided they are properly socialized). They are not prone to aggression and see a friend in everyone. This makes them poor guard dogs but wonderful companions.
2. Devotion: They are very attached to their families and want to be close at all times. Solitude is a real challenge for a Shih Tzu and can lead to stress and destructive behavior.
3. Playfulness and Activity: Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are quite energetic and love to play. They enjoy short walks and games at home. They remain playful well into their senior years.
4. Intelligence and Wit: Shih Tzus are smart dogs capable of learning. However, they can also be quite stubborn and independent, which sometimes makes the training process difficult. They need a patient and consistent approach.
5. Alertness: They are always aware of what’s happening around them and may alert you to guests or unusual sounds with a loud bark. While not aggressive, their barking can be quite persistent if not managed from a young age.
6. Affection: Shih Tzus adore affection and cuddles. They are a great fit for people seeking a gentle and loving friend.
7. Adaptability: They adapt well to living in an apartment or a house, as long as they get enough attention and moderate physical activity.

Of course, every dog is an individual, but generally, Shih Tzus are known for their balanced, cheerful, and companionable nature. They get along wonderfully with children, viewing them as play partners, but it’s important to teach children how to handle the dog gently due to its small size. They may express displeasure by barking, but biting is not typical for them. Unlike some other toy companions like the spirited Pomeranian or the independent Yorkshire Terrier, Shih Tzus are more content spending time quietly by their owner’s side, though they are always up for a good play session.

Shih Tzus are generally considered a healthy breed with a lifespan of 10-16 years, and many live to be seniors. However, like any breed, they are prone to certain genetic and acquired health issues. Being aware of these “weak spots” will help owners ensure their pet has a long and happy life.

Most Common Health Problems in Shih Tzus:

• Brachycephalic Syndrome: Due to their short muzzles, Shih Tzus can have breathing issues. Narrow nostrils (stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, and tracheal problems can cause snoring, snorting, and labored breathing, especially in hot weather or during physical exertion. This puts extra strain on their heart and lungs. It is crucial to prevent overheating and to keep your dog at a healthy weight.
• Eye Problems: The Shih Tzu’s large, somewhat prominent eyes are susceptible to injury, irritation, and infections. Common issues include:
  • Proptosis (eyeball luxation): Can occur with even minor trauma.
  • Cataracts: Clouding of the lens that leads to impaired vision.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative disease that leads to blindness.
  • Distichiasis: Abnormal growth of eyelashes that irritate the cornea.
  • Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye Syndrome): Insufficient tear production.
  • Entropion/Ectropion: Inward/outward turning of the eyelids.
• Dental Problems: Due to their small jaw and crowded teeth, Shih Tzus are prone to plaque buildup, tartar, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, which can lead to early tooth loss. Regular teeth brushing is essential.
• Patellar Luxation: A common problem in small breeds. The kneecap slips out of its normal position, causing limping. It may require surgical intervention.
• Allergies: Shih Tzus can suffer from food or environmental allergies, which manifest as itching, skin redness, rashes, and ear problems.
• Ear Infections (Otitis): The Shih Tzu’s floppy ears create a favorable environment for bacteria and fungi to grow, especially if water or dirt gets inside. Regular ear cleaning helps prevent problems.
• Reverse Sneezing: While it looks alarming (the dog suddenly starts to make a loud snorting sound), it is usually not a dangerous condition and resolves on its own. It is caused by irritation of the throat or soft palate.
• Hip Dysplasia: Although more common in large breeds, it can also occur in Shih Tzus.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.

Preventing Disease:

• Regular Vet Checkups: Annual (and twice a year for senior dogs) checkups help detect problems early.
• Vaccination and Parasite Control: Keeping up with a vaccination schedule and regular prevention against fleas, ticks, and worms is a must.
• Proper Grooming: Daily care of the coat, eyes, ears, and teeth.
• Balanced Nutrition: High-quality food in the right amount to maintain an optimal weight.
• Weight Management: Excess weight increases the load on joints, heart, and respiratory system.
• Avoid Overheating: Especially important for brachycephalic breeds.
• Be Careful: Prevent eye injuries and falls.

A responsible approach to your Shih Tzu’s health, including choosing a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for genetic diseases, will help minimize risks and ensure your pet has a long and active life.

The Shih Tzu’s luxurious long coat is the breed’s calling card, but it requires regular and meticulous care. Without proper attention, the coat can quickly tangle and form mats, leading to skin irritation and discomfort for the dog. Shih Tzus shed minimally, but the dead hairs remain in the coat, contributing to matting, which is why brushing is key.

Main Stages of Coat Care:

• Daily Brushing: This is the most important step. Use a high-quality brush (a slicker brush with long, pin-less bristles or a metal comb with varying tooth spacing). Brush thoroughly, section by section, from the roots to the tips, lightly touching the skin to remove dead hair and prevent mats. Pay special attention to areas where the coat tangles most often: under the armpits, on the belly, behind the ears, and on the “pants.” You can use a special detangling spray to make brushing easier.
• Bathing: It’s recommended to bathe your Shih Tzu about once every 3-4 weeks or as needed, using a special shampoo and conditioner for long-haired dogs. Before bathing, the dog must be thoroughly brushed. After bathing, carefully towel dry the coat and then blow-dry (with warm, not hot, air) while brushing.
• Haircuts: Many owners opt for regular haircuts to make grooming easier. There are many options:
  • Sanitary Cut: An essential procedure that includes trimming the hair around the anal area, genitals, and between the paw pads.
  • “Puppy Cut”: The hair is trimmed to a uniform short or medium length all over the body. This is the most practical option.
  • Show Cut: Requires maintaining the maximum length of the coat, which demands significantly more grooming effort.
  Haircuts are usually done every 6-8 weeks by a professional groomer or by the owner if they have the skills.
• Top Knot Care: The hair on the top of the head is long and can get into the eyes, causing irritation. It should be gathered daily into a ponytail (a top knot) with a soft band or a special clip, or trimmed short.
• Eye Care: Daily wipe the area around the eyes with a damp cloth or special lotion to remove tear stains and prevent infections.
• Ear Cleaning: Weekly inspect the ears for redness, dirt, or a bad odor. Clean the ear canal with a special lotion as needed. The hair inside the ear canal sometimes needs to be removed (plucked or trimmed) to ensure proper ventilation.
• Nail Trimming: Trim nails every 2-4 weeks so they don’t interfere with walking or deform the paw.
• Teeth Brushing: Brush your dog’s teeth daily or at least several times a week with dog-specific toothpaste and a brush to prevent dental diseases.

Given the length of their coat, Shih Tzus are not suited for outdoor living, especially in wet or muddy weather. Walks are best on clean paths, avoiding bushes and dirt. Many Shih Tzus can be successfully potty-trained to use a litter box or puppy pads, which can be a convenient alternative to outdoor walks in bad weather.

Although the Shih Tzu is a toy breed and a companion dog, not a working dog, training and socialization are crucial for raising an obedient and well-adjusted pet. Shih Tzus are smart, but their natural stubbornness and independence can be a challenge for an owner.

Key Aspects of Training and Socialization:

• Early Socialization: It is very important to introduce a Shih Tzu puppy to different people, sounds, places, and other (vaccinated and healthy) animals from a young age (after appropriate vaccinations). This will help them grow into a confident and well-balanced dog who isn’t afraid of new things or aggressive. Like other small breeds, Shih Tzus need early and positive socialization.
• Positive Reinforcement: Shih Tzus respond best to training methods based on rewards (treats, praise, toys). Avoid yelling, punishment, and harshness—this can scare the dog or cause even more stubbornness. Be patient and consistent.
• Short and Engaging Sessions: Training sessions should be short (10-15 minutes) and done in a playful manner so the dog doesn’t get tired and lose interest. Focus on one or two commands per session.
• Basic Commands: Teach your Shih Tzu basic commands (“Sit,” “Stay,” “Come,” “Leave It,” “Drop It”). This is important for the dog’s safety and your control. Responding to their name and the “Come” command are top priorities.
• Potty Training: This can be one of the most challenging aspects of training a Shih Tzu. They have small bladders and may need to go out frequently, especially as puppies. Consistency, a regular potty schedule (especially after sleeping, eating, and playing), and lots of praise for success are key. Training them to a litter box or puppy pad is also a possible option.
• Grooming Desensitization: From a young age, get your puppy used to brushing, bathing, ear and eye checks, teeth brushing, and nail trimming. Do this calmly and reward them for their patience.
• Barking Control: Shih Tzus can be vocal. Teach them a “Quiet” command and don’t encourage unnecessary barking.
• Don’t Spoil Them: No matter how cute they are, don’t let Shih Tzus manipulate you. Set clear rules and boundaries. Don’t feed them from the table or pick them up at the slightest sign of danger (unless it’s real).

Remember, training is a continuous process. Consistency, patience, and love will help you raise a wonderful companion.

Proper nutrition is the foundation of your Shih Tzu’s health, well-being, and longevity. Since this breed is prone to certain health issues (obesity, allergies, dental problems), choosing the right diet requires attention.

Feeding Options:

• Dry Kibble: The most convenient option. Choose high-quality kibble in the premium, super-premium, or holistic class, formulated specifically for small breed dogs. Pay attention to the ingredients: the first positions should be meat-based, not grains. The size of the kibble should be small, easy for a Shih Tzu’s tiny jaws to chew.
• Wet Food (Canned): Can be used as a supplement to dry food or as the main diet (choose complete and balanced canned food). It’s usually more appealing to dogs but less beneficial for their teeth.
• Natural Diet: Requires careful planning and consultation with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it’s balanced. The diet’s foundation (about 50-70%) should be lean raw or cooked meat (beef, veal, turkey, chicken—if there are no allergies) and high-quality organ meats (heart, liver—in limited amounts). The diet is supplemented with:
  • Grains (about 20-30%): Buckwheat, rice, and occasionally oatmeal. Cooked in water or lean broth.
  • Vegetables (about 10-20%): Carrots, pumpkin, zucchini, broccoli (raw and shredded or lightly cooked).
  • Fermented Dairy (low-fat): Kefir, plain yogurt, cottage cheese—several times a week.
  • Eggs (cooked): 1-2 times a week.
  • Fish Oil or Salmon Oil: As a source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: As prescribed by a veterinarian.

General Recommendations:

• Feeding Schedule: Adult dogs are fed twice a day (morning and evening), while puppies are fed more often (3-5 times depending on age).
• Portion Size: Follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging or as calculated by a veterinarian for a natural diet. Adjust the portion based on the dog’s age, weight, activity level, and individual needs. Shih Tzus are prone to gaining extra weight, so portion control is very important.
• Fresh Water: Provide constant access to clean drinking water.
• Treats: Give treats in limited amounts (no more than 10% of the daily diet) and only as a reward during training or occasionally. Choose healthy treats.
• Avoid Overfeeding and Table Scraps.

Foods Prohibited for Shih Tzus:

• Chocolate
• Onions, garlic
• Grapes, raisins
• Xylitol (sweetener)
• Alcohol, coffee, tea
• Fatty, fried, smoked, salty, spicy foods
• Hollow bones (chicken, fish)
• Pork
• Legumes, corn (can cause bloating)
• Pasta, baked goods, sweets
• Raw freshwater fish
• Milk (in adult dogs, often causes digestive upset)

Approximate Shih Tzu feeding schedule and dry food amounts (*amounts may vary depending on the manufacturer and food ingredients, always check the instructions on the package)

Like any breed, the Shih Tzu has its advantages and disadvantages. Before getting one, it’s important to weigh all the pros and cons.

• “Little Lions”: The name “Shih Tzu” translates from Chinese as “lion.” They were named this not only for their resemblance (a lush mane) but also for their connection to Buddhist legends about guardian lions.
• Imperial Darlings: For centuries, Shih Tzus were the exclusive property of Chinese emperors and lived in the luxury of the Forbidden City. Stealing one of these dogs was punishable by death.
• “Chrysanthemum Dog”: The breed earned this nickname due to the characteristic hair growth on its face, which resembles a chrysanthemum flower.
• Close to Wolves: Some DNA studies show that Shih Tzus, along with other ancient Asian breeds, are among the closest living relatives of wolves among modern dogs.
• Rescuing the Breed: After the communist revolution in China, the breed was nearly destroyed. It is believed that all modern Shih Tzus descend from just 14 dogs (7 females and 7 males) that were smuggled out of China and used in Western breeding programs.
• “Kiss of Buddha”: The white mark on the head of particolored Shih Tzus is sometimes called the “Kiss of Buddha” and is considered a sign of good fortune.
• Not Athletes: Due to their build (short legs, long body, flat face), Shih Tzus are not suited for intense dog sports like agility or flyball, but they can participate in obedience or nose work competitions.

Do Shih Tzus Shed Much?
Shih Tzus shed minimally compared to other breeds. However, their long hair requires daily brushing, as dead hairs get tangled in the main coat, forming mats instead of falling on the floor or furniture.

Are Shih Tzus Good with Kids?
Yes, Shih Tzus generally get along well with children; they are patient and playful. However, due to their small size, it’s important to teach children to handle the dog gently to avoid accidental injuries. Always supervise interactions between small children and the dog.

Do Shih Tzus Bark a Lot?
Shih Tzus can be prone to barking. They are alert and will let you know when guests arrive or when they hear unusual sounds. They may also bark out of boredom, anxiety, or to get attention. Proper training and sufficient mental and physical exercise can help control excessive barking.

How Much Exercise Do Shih Tzus Need?
Shih Tzus don’t require intense exercise. One or two short (15-20 minute) walks a day and active play at home are sufficient. It is important not to overexert them, especially in hot weather.

Are Shih Tzus Easy to Train?
Shih Tzus are smart but can be stubborn. Training requires patience, consistency, and the use of positive reinforcement methods. Potty training can take more time than with some other breeds.

What are the Most Common Health Problems in Shih Tzus?
The most common issues are with their eyes (dryness, infections, injuries), breathing (brachycephalic syndrome), teeth (tartar, periodontitis), skin (allergies), and musculoskeletal system (patellar luxation).

Can I Leave a Shih Tzu Alone for a Long Time?
No, Shih Tzus do not handle being left alone well. They are very people-oriented and can suffer from separation anxiety if left by themselves for extended periods. This breed is best for people who spend a lot of time at home or can take their dog with them.