What kind of dog is a Shih Tzu?
The shih tzu is often slightly longer than tall, with a sturdy body and a good-sized head. The muzzle is quite short, with an undershot bite. The head is rounded and the eyes are quite prominent. The tail is carried gaily curled up over the back. The gait is long and swift for such a small dog.
When did the Shih Tzu come to power?
Dog historians believe that after Empress Tzu Hsi came to power in the 1860s, the Dalai Lama at the time presented her with a breeding pair of extraordinary Shih Tzus. These magnificent dogs were the foundation of her pure line.
Why was the Shih Tzu called a lion dog?
Called Shih-tzu Kou in traditional Chinese, which literally means “Lion Dog,” the breed’s lion-like facial features were revered in Imperial courts because Buddha was said to have ridden to earth on the back of a lion. During the Ming and Manchu Dynasties, the little lion dogs were bred…
Why is the Shih Tzu considered a lap dog?
The Shih Tzu has always been known as a house pet and lap dog, never having been bred for any other known purposes. This differentiates the breed from the Lhasa apso, which served as temple guards. Perhaps this is why it remains, to this day, one of the most pampered and popular of the toy breeds.
How big is the muzzle of a Shih Tzu?
The shih tzu is often slightly longer than tall, with a sturdy body and a good-sized head. The muzzle is quite short, with an undershot bite. The head is rounded and the eyes are quite prominent. The tail is carried gaily curled up over the back.
How old do Shih Tzus usually live to be?
Shih tzu tend to be fairly hardy little dogs and often live to 14 or 15 years of age. Shih tzu are renowned for their perky, happy temperaments. They are lively and friendly.
Is the Shih Tzu dog prone to heat stroke?
Beware of exercising a shih tzu in hot, humid weather with the short muzzle, the breed is prone to heat stroke. Hair is a four-letter word when it comes to the shih tzu. Most pet owners resort to a short year-round body clip, which looks quite nice and is very easy to care for.