Introducing the Shih Tzu
Find out everything you need to know about the Shih Tzu: its characteristics, its behavior, its education, its price.
The Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, a regal companion
The Shih Tzu, originating from ancient Chinese royalty, is now a beloved breed worldwide, especially in Great Britain.
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are brave and versatile, excelling as loyal companions and therapy dogs. They adapt well to both apartment living and homes with yards.
Known for their loyalty and affection, Shih Tzus form strong bonds with their owners, enjoying the company of people and other pets, and constantly showing their love.
SHIH TZU FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Shih Tzu.
Group
The Shih Tzu belongs to the Toy Group, which includes small, companionable dogs. These breeds are cherished for their companionship and affectionate nature and they are known for their friendly temperament.
Size
The Shih Tzu is a small breed. They typically measure between 9 to 10.5 inches at the withers and weigh between 9 to 16 pounds.
Coat length
Shih Tzus have a long, flowing double coat. Their fur is luxurious and requires regular grooming to maintain its condition.
Coat color
Shih Tzus' coats can vary in color. The dominant colors are often gold, white, and brown, with many possible shade combinations within these colors.
Living environment
Shih Tzus adapt well to apartment living but also enjoy houses with yards. They thrive in environments where they can be close to their family.
Sociability
Shih Tzus are friendly and sociable dogs. They are great with children and can get along well with other animals, making them ideal family pets.
Health
Shih Tzus are generally healthy but can be predisposed to allergies and joint diseases. Regular vet check-ups are essential to maintain their health.
Training
Shih Tzus are intelligent and can be easy to train with patience and kindness. Positive reinforcement and gentle handling are key to successful training.
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Physical characteristics
The Shih Tzu, a regal and charming companion
Shih Tzus are small, well-balanced dogs with a sturdy build. Their long, flowing coat, often seen in shades of gold, white, and brown, adds to their regal appearance. A distinctive feature of the Shih Tzu is its charming face, adorned with large, dark eyes and a short muzzle, giving it a sweet, expressive look.
Size and weight of the Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small dogs, with females typically measuring between 9 to 10 inches and males slightly larger, up to 10.5 inches.
The weight of Shih Tzus ranges from 9 to 16 pounds, regardless of gender.
Shih Tzus grow relatively quickly, reaching most of their adult size by 10 months. However, they usually achieve their full weight and height by the time they are one year old.
The coat of the Shih Tzu
Coat length
Shih Tzus have a luxurious, double-layered coat that is long and flowing. The fur is typically straight and silky, with a dense undercoat that adds volume. The hair can form charming waves and fringes, particularly around the ears and face.
Coat color
The Shih Tzu's coat comes in a variety of colors. Common shades include gold, white, brown, and black, often in combinations that create striking patterns unique to each dog.
Coat care
The Shih Tzu's long and thick coat requires regular maintenance. They shed minimally throughout the year, but regular grooming is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Daily brushing is recommended to keep their coat in top condition. Shih Tzus should be bathed every three to four weeks to maintain their coat's cleanliness and softness. Regular grooming also helps in monitoring their skin health and keeping them comfortable.
Other characteristics of the Shih Tzu
Physical features
The Shih Tzu is a balanced, well-proportioned dog with a distinctive and charming appearance. The head is broad and rounded, with a short muzzle and a prominent stop. Their eyes are large, round, and dark, giving them an expressive and sweet look. The ears of the Shih Tzu are set slightly below the crown of the skull, covered in long, flowing hair that blends seamlessly with the rest of the coat. The body is compact and sturdy, with a level back and a deep chest. Despite their small size, Shih Tzus possess well-developed musculature, particularly in their legs, which contributes to their graceful and confident gait.
Temperament & behavior
What is the temperament of the Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are known for their loyalty, affection, and friendly nature. They are devoted companions and are easy to live with.
Shih Tzu category
There are around 400 dog breeds divided into 10 groups. The Shih Tzu belongs to the Toy Group, which includes small, companionable dogs like the Pomeranian and Maltese. Toy Group breeds are known for their affectionate nature, gentleness, and love of human companionship. Shih Tzus are particularly intelligent, gentle, and form strong bonds with their owners. Their primary role is to be a loyal and loving companion.
Behavior of the Shih Tzu
A loving companion
Shih Tzus are delightful, affectionate dogs that are known for their friendly and loving nature. They thrive on human companionship and show their affection by being close to their owners. A present and attentive owner is crucial for their well-being and development.
Sociable and generous
Shih Tzus are incredibly sociable and generous dogs. They get along well with humans and are excellent companions for children. Early socialization is important to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults who are comfortable with new experiences and other animals.
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The Shih Tzu's living environment
Adaptable and loving
Shih Tzus adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, houses, urban, and rural environments. The key to their happiness is the love and attention they receive from their owners. They need at least two walks a day, each lasting about 20 to 30 minutes.
Thriving outdoors
Although adaptable, Shih Tzus benefit greatly from outdoor environments where they can explore and expend energy. An outdoor space allows them to satisfy their curiosity and stay active, promoting overall health and well-being.
Training the Shih Tzu
Intelligent and eager to learn
Shih Tzus are intelligent and eager to learn, making them relatively easy to train. Their training should focus on positive reinforcement, using treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Due to their curious nature, equipping a Shih Tzu with a GPS collar can prevent losses or escapes.
Attentive and responsive
Shih Tzus are attentive and responsive to their owners, but they can also be a bit stubborn. Early socialization and consistent, gentle training are essential. Despite their small size, they have strong personalities, so patience and understanding are key to effective training.
Health & nutrition
How to take care of the Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but they need daily care to stay well. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and routine vet visits are essential.
The health of the Shih Tzu
Illnesses
Shih Tzus are usually robust but can be prone to brachycephalic syndrome, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Symptoms may include breathing difficulties, lameness, and vision issues. They typically live between 10 to 16 years.
Routine care
Regular vet check-ups are crucial for vaccinations, deworming, and parasite treatments. Daily care includes brushing their coat, cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and trimming their nails. Shih Tzus are not hypoallergenic, so be aware of any allergies and consult a vet as needed.
Feeding the Shih Tzu
Daily requirements
Every dog breed, including the Shih Tzu, has specific nutritional needs. A balanced diet is essential to maintain their vitality and strength. Proteins and vitamins play a crucial role in meeting these nutritional requirements.
It's recommended to feed your Shih Tzu premium kibble that is specifically formulated for small breeds. This ensures they get a balanced dietary foundation. If additional protein is needed, you can supplement their diet with lean white and red meat, but it's important to limit fats to avoid weight gain.
Breeding or adoption & cost
What does a Shih Tzu cost?
The Shih Tzu is a well-regarded breed with several breeders available. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.
How to choose your Shih Tzu
Finding the right breeder
When adopting a Shih Tzu, choose a reputable breeder. Visit the breeder to check the living conditions and health of the dogs. Ensure the puppy and its parents are healthy, and ask about any health issues in the lineage.
Ensure your dog is microchipped by 8 weeks old and registered with a database like Petlog or Animal Tracker, as required by law in Great Britain. Non-compliance can result in a
fine. Your vet or any Blue Cross center can perform the microchipping.
The price of a Shih Tzu
The cost of acquiring a Shih Tzu can vary based on factors such as lineage, pedigree, breeder reputation, and the age of the dog. Shih Tzu puppies typically cost between
and
Additionally, maintaining a Shih Tzu involves annual costs for veterinary care, grooming, food, and other necessities, which can amount to approximately
to
per year.
Which dog breed is right for you?
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Take the test to find out!
Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!
