Shih-Tzu Dog Breed...
A Dog Fit for an Emperor


My Breed Bio

I'm the Shih-Tzu, (pronounced "Shee Tzoo") with ancestral roots from Tibet and China, and my origin dates back over 1,000 years. Shih Tzu puppy, a member of the AKC Toy Group My ancestors are said to have been the Tibetan Lion Dogs who journeyed long distances from Tibet over rugged terrain to China and were presented as a gift to the Emperor.

It's also been said that the Chinese empresses bred my ancestors with the Llasa Apso and the Pekingese to produce the Shih-Tzu!

For many years I was the dog of the emperors, and lived exclusively in the Forbidden City of China. Yes, those were the days when I had the run of the Imperial Palace, during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Oh, how I was pampered!


It was not until the mid 1900's that I was finally introduced to the Western world. My first stop was England in the 1930's where only a small number of my dog breed was brought over from China. In the 1940's and 1950's military personnel eventually brought Shih-Tzu dogs from England to the United States, where breeding kennels were established.


I'm looking for an owner who... wants a glamorous, lovable companion, and whether you live in a small city apartment or a large suburban house, it will feel like a palace to me.

Even if you have older children, and small dogs or cats, I'll fit right in. But no small children please, I don't like to play rough, and need to be handled gently.



Quick Dog Facts

My Breed Stats
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Height: 10-11 inches
Build: Sturdy & Compact 
Coat: Long silky doublecoat 
Color: All colors
Size: Small
Lifespan: Approximately 11-14 yrs
Breed Group: Toy
AKC & KC Recognized   


My Traits and Needs
Exercise Need: Love walks 
Grooming: High Maintenance 
Housetraining: No problem
Temperament: Lovable, with a good disposition
Smarts: Very intelligent
Common Health Troubles: Respiratory, kidney, ear infections 
Trainability: I learn well, pretty easy to train
Noise Factor:  Can bark, but not true watchdog

My Likes
Hobbies: Sitting in your lap
Other Pets: Small dogs and cats
 People: Older children and adults 

My Dislikes 
  Weather: Very warm weather
Children: No small kids please

My Breed Read
 You can read more about me at:
American Shih-Tzu Club
 

Why Should You Pick
My Breed?

As the Shih-Tzu dog breed, I'm a member of the Toy Group, and a good choice for someone who wants a luxurious lap dog. I'm suitable for first-time dog owners, love to snuggle, be spoiled, and will be very devoted to you.

I'm an intelligent dog and will be easy to train. Don't worry too much about housetraining if you can't always take me outside. I can use newspapers, and even litter boxes. I have modest exercise needs. You can take me for short walks, and toss me a toy or two indoors-I'm easy!

We Shih-Tzu's tend to have long flowing hair. And you know what that means...plenty of brushing, regular baths, and professional grooming. And a daily face wash to keep me looking fresh and lovely. But I am worth it!

One thing to note-I don't do well in the hot weather. As a Shih- Tzu dog breed, I'm also a snub-nose dog type, and so am vulnerable to high temperatures.

Who Are My Best Friends?

Adult Shih-Zhu dog, a member of the AKC Toy Group

My best pals are my alleged ancestors-the Tibetian Llasa Apso and the Pekingese. We all hail from Tibet and China, where we roamed palaces and temples. Not a bad start at all!






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