Shih - Tzu
Compiled and researched by Izelle de Klerk (BSc) - Dodgy Dogs & Crazy Cats
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Their origin and ancestry is fairly unknown, but there are written records and paintings of the breed dating from the year 624 A.D. There are various theories of the origins of today's breed; one being that it dates back to ancient China and Tibet where they were developed specifically as a house pets and companions. It is thought that the breed developed by crossing miniature Chinese breeds with small Tibetan breeds - in particular Lhasa Apsos with the Pekingese - in the 17th century. The dogs were favourites of the Chinese royals and were so prized that for years the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give away any of the dogs. It was not until the 1930s that the first pair was imported to England, when it was discovered by English soldiers during World War II. They are now found in many parts of the world.
The Shih Tzu is a small compact dog with a short muzzle, large dark expressive round eyes and a soft, long double coat. Their drop ears are covered with long fur, and the heavily furred tail is carried curled over the back. The coat may be of any colour, though a blaze of white on the forehead and tip of the tail is frequently seen. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall, and a very noticeable feature is the under-bite, which is required in the breed standard.
Personality
The temperament of a Shih Tzu can vary widely from dog to dog; some are calm, gentle and quiet while a puppy from the same litter could be feisty, dominant and partial to zooming all about the house. But generally they are happy, friendly, affectionate, trusting and loyal little dogs that love to play. They have an outgoing side as well that is alert, extroverted, vivacious, confident, dignified and somewhat cheeky. They are by no means the delicate little dog that some people would have you believe.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
The Shih Tzu will adapt to whatever living arrangement you provide, be it a mansions or apartment. However they are too small, too human oriented, and too heat/cold sensitive to live outdoors, thus they are definitely indoor dogs. They are also one of the best all-around breeds as they make excellent pets for families, single people and make ideal companions for the elderly
These little dogs are very alert, vigilant and will reliably bark when someone approaches the house. This makes them excellent watch dog, but because of their friendly nature they tend not to make great guard dogs.
This breed has been bred for one thing - as companion dogs who give love to the world and soak it back in, and they do this very well. They are true sweethearts that crave human companionship and loves nothing more than to cuddle and kiss and sit on your lap, they believe that everybody should pay them attention, make a fuss over them and be their closest friends - even if they have just met them. Because they are so human orientated and always wants to be close to you they are susceptible to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.
Shih Tzus are by no means an active, outdoorsy dogs but they still need a certain amount of exercise. If you have a yard a good game of fetch will help burn some energy, however it is always recommended to take them on daily walks around the block or to a dog park where they can run off lead. This will not only burn energy but also stimulate them mentally.
Like a lot of small breeds the Shih Tzu is prone to developing Small Dog Syndrome, this is where the dog believes that they are boss and is due to the fact that the owner is too lenient with them and lets them get away with more that they should because they are so small and cute. His can lead to behavioural problems such as separation anxiety, guarding, growling, snapping, biting, excessive barking and untrusting of children and sometimes adults. To prevent this you need to give this dog rules, and limits to what they are and are not allowed to do; be firm and consistent.
In a nutshell, the Shih Tzu is for you if you:
The Shih Tzu is a small compact dog with a short muzzle, large dark expressive round eyes and a soft, long double coat. Their drop ears are covered with long fur, and the heavily furred tail is carried curled over the back. The coat may be of any colour, though a blaze of white on the forehead and tip of the tail is frequently seen. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall, and a very noticeable feature is the under-bite, which is required in the breed standard.
Personality
The temperament of a Shih Tzu can vary widely from dog to dog; some are calm, gentle and quiet while a puppy from the same litter could be feisty, dominant and partial to zooming all about the house. But generally they are happy, friendly, affectionate, trusting and loyal little dogs that love to play. They have an outgoing side as well that is alert, extroverted, vivacious, confident, dignified and somewhat cheeky. They are by no means the delicate little dog that some people would have you believe.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
The Shih Tzu will adapt to whatever living arrangement you provide, be it a mansions or apartment. However they are too small, too human oriented, and too heat/cold sensitive to live outdoors, thus they are definitely indoor dogs. They are also one of the best all-around breeds as they make excellent pets for families, single people and make ideal companions for the elderly
These little dogs are very alert, vigilant and will reliably bark when someone approaches the house. This makes them excellent watch dog, but because of their friendly nature they tend not to make great guard dogs.
This breed has been bred for one thing - as companion dogs who give love to the world and soak it back in, and they do this very well. They are true sweethearts that crave human companionship and loves nothing more than to cuddle and kiss and sit on your lap, they believe that everybody should pay them attention, make a fuss over them and be their closest friends - even if they have just met them. Because they are so human orientated and always wants to be close to you they are susceptible to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.
Shih Tzus are by no means an active, outdoorsy dogs but they still need a certain amount of exercise. If you have a yard a good game of fetch will help burn some energy, however it is always recommended to take them on daily walks around the block or to a dog park where they can run off lead. This will not only burn energy but also stimulate them mentally.
Like a lot of small breeds the Shih Tzu is prone to developing Small Dog Syndrome, this is where the dog believes that they are boss and is due to the fact that the owner is too lenient with them and lets them get away with more that they should because they are so small and cute. His can lead to behavioural problems such as separation anxiety, guarding, growling, snapping, biting, excessive barking and untrusting of children and sometimes adults. To prevent this you need to give this dog rules, and limits to what they are and are not allowed to do; be firm and consistent.
In a nutshell, the Shih Tzu is for you if you:
- Want an indoor dog
- Want a dog that is good for allergy suffers
- Want a dog that is more than happy to go anywhere with you
- Have enough patience to properly train them, they do take more time to train
- Are willing to spend time and money on their grooming, especially if you want to show them
- Are not very active and would prefer to snuggle up on the couch with your dog and watch a movie
- Don’t mind having a dog that craves human attention and love
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA) . They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or a KUSA affiliated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Shih Tzu?
As mentioned below they will get along with almost any dog - as long as they get enough attention and love they don’t mind other pets.
If you are looking for a larger breed avoid breeds that can be rough, like Boxers, as they can accidently hurt Shih Tzu’s during play. Choose a calmer breed like the deerhound or gray hound, Labradors are also a good choice but they can be quite boisterous up until the age of 3 before they calm down.
A smaller breed might be a better choice, this gives them a playmate of the same size to keep them busy. Some good smaller breeds to go for is another Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Italian Greyhound, Maltese, Pekingese, Yorkshire terrier or Toy/Miniature Poodle
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA) . They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or a KUSA affiliated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Shih Tzu?
As mentioned below they will get along with almost any dog - as long as they get enough attention and love they don’t mind other pets.
If you are looking for a larger breed avoid breeds that can be rough, like Boxers, as they can accidently hurt Shih Tzu’s during play. Choose a calmer breed like the deerhound or gray hound, Labradors are also a good choice but they can be quite boisterous up until the age of 3 before they calm down.
A smaller breed might be a better choice, this gives them a playmate of the same size to keep them busy. Some good smaller breeds to go for is another Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Italian Greyhound, Maltese, Pekingese, Yorkshire terrier or Toy/Miniature Poodle
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Two females will also get along as long as they are introduced as puppies. An older female will get on with a puppy female but it is not advisable to introduce two fully grown females. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
- Bond with each other to the exclusion of you
- Will stress without the other dog being around
- Fight with each other
- Be more destructive and boisterous
- Two pups together often leads to one being more assertive and the other more submissive. This could well end up in a situation where the more submissive dog will never develop its full potential.
- Mature later
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Due to their friendly nature, the Shih Tzus tends to interact well with other dogs and non-canine pets. Although it should be said that because the Shih Tzu so badly craves love and attention from its humans, it is suggested to limit other pets if your time at home is limited.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly of how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
They love humans and will get along with almost anyone - stranger or not - including children. However, because of their size toddlers and small children can get rough and treat them like toys, which the dogs don’t like and this can cause them to become snappy. They get along very well with older children who have learnt to handle them gently and lovingly.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
The Shih Tzu has a bit of a stubborn streak and therefore they will need a bit more time to train. They are intelligent little dogs and love to learn so with patience and consistency, this dog is very trainable to the level of dog show agility and obedience competitions.
Housebreaking a Shih Tzu can be difficult, it can take six to eight months, or longer depending on the dog. Crate training can help speed the process.
Training should begin early, sessions should be kept short, and activities should be varied in order to keep the dog interested in what is going on. Lots of excited praise and treats can help motivate a Shih Tzu to learn new behavior. Puppy class is a must as well as basic obedience, if not properly trained a Shih Tzu's barking can quickly get out of hand.
Grooming
There are two types of grooming methods - for show dogs and for pet dogs.
For show dogs the coat must be left in its natural state, though trimming for neatness around the feet and anus is allowed and a topknot is tied to keep the hair out of the dog's eyes. Maintaining this coat is a time-consuming endeavor. Daily brushing and combing is a must to remove tangles, and bathing is usually necessary once per week. Brushing must reach all the way down to the skin in order to properly prevent tangles and mats. Professional grooming is needed on a regular basis to keep their coat to the breed standard.
Dogs that are kept as pets can have their coats clipped by professionals every six to eight weeks. These dogs need very little maintenance and only needs to be brushed every so often.
Other grooming requirements include keeping the ear passages and area around the eyes clean, check for signs of infection or irritation. Brush the teeth at least once a week to prevent tartar build-up and gum disease, and trim their nails once a month if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally.
Health concerns
These dogs are generally very healthy and commonly live happy long lives. But like all breeds they are prone to certain health issues including cleft palate, slipped stifle and spinal disc disease caused by a long back and short legs, ear infections, eye problems, dental problems, respiratory problems. They also tend to gain weight easily so their food portions should be watched.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
The average life span of the Shih Tzu is 10 to 18 years.
Interesting Facts
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another. Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Due to their friendly nature, the Shih Tzus tends to interact well with other dogs and non-canine pets. Although it should be said that because the Shih Tzu so badly craves love and attention from its humans, it is suggested to limit other pets if your time at home is limited.
Keep in mind that, like with all dogs, the level at which these dogs get along with other animals depends greatly of how well they were socialized as pups
Are they good with children?
They love humans and will get along with almost anyone - stranger or not - including children. However, because of their size toddlers and small children can get rough and treat them like toys, which the dogs don’t like and this can cause them to become snappy. They get along very well with older children who have learnt to handle them gently and lovingly.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
The Shih Tzu has a bit of a stubborn streak and therefore they will need a bit more time to train. They are intelligent little dogs and love to learn so with patience and consistency, this dog is very trainable to the level of dog show agility and obedience competitions.
Housebreaking a Shih Tzu can be difficult, it can take six to eight months, or longer depending on the dog. Crate training can help speed the process.
Training should begin early, sessions should be kept short, and activities should be varied in order to keep the dog interested in what is going on. Lots of excited praise and treats can help motivate a Shih Tzu to learn new behavior. Puppy class is a must as well as basic obedience, if not properly trained a Shih Tzu's barking can quickly get out of hand.
Grooming
There are two types of grooming methods - for show dogs and for pet dogs.
For show dogs the coat must be left in its natural state, though trimming for neatness around the feet and anus is allowed and a topknot is tied to keep the hair out of the dog's eyes. Maintaining this coat is a time-consuming endeavor. Daily brushing and combing is a must to remove tangles, and bathing is usually necessary once per week. Brushing must reach all the way down to the skin in order to properly prevent tangles and mats. Professional grooming is needed on a regular basis to keep their coat to the breed standard.
Dogs that are kept as pets can have their coats clipped by professionals every six to eight weeks. These dogs need very little maintenance and only needs to be brushed every so often.
Other grooming requirements include keeping the ear passages and area around the eyes clean, check for signs of infection or irritation. Brush the teeth at least once a week to prevent tartar build-up and gum disease, and trim their nails once a month if the dog does not wear the toenails down naturally.
Health concerns
These dogs are generally very healthy and commonly live happy long lives. But like all breeds they are prone to certain health issues including cleft palate, slipped stifle and spinal disc disease caused by a long back and short legs, ear infections, eye problems, dental problems, respiratory problems. They also tend to gain weight easily so their food portions should be watched.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
The average life span of the Shih Tzu is 10 to 18 years.
Interesting Facts
- Shih Tzus are often called chrysanthemum dogs because of the way their hair grows up from the nose and around the face in all directions.
- The Shih Tzu may have originated in Tibet, bred by Tibetan lamas to be a tiny replica of a lion, which is associated with Buddhist mythology.
- The name is pronounced SHEED-zoo.
- The name Shih Tzu means “little lion,”
- The name is both singular and plural
- The breed almost became extinct in 1949 due to the communist takeover. Thankfully, several breed fanciers kept their dogs, and it is thought that only 7 dogs and 7 bitches are the foundation of all Shih Tzus today.
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
Don’ts
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/shih_tzu.htm
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/shihtzu.htm
http://www.allshihtzu.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shih_Tzu
http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/shih-tzu-training.html
http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/shih-tzu
http://www.justdogbreeds.com/shih-tzu.html
http://www.petwave.com/Dogs/Dog-Breed-Center/Toy-Group/Shih-Tzu.aspx
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100623123914AAN9jUY
Do’s
- Give them lots of attention and love as often as possible
- Be firm and consistent with them when it comes to what they can and cannot do, otherwise they can become difficult to handle.
- Treat them like part of the family and include them in family activities
- Ensure that they attend puppy school for a good basic social foundation
Don’ts
- Leave them outside, this breed can overheat or get cold very easily so they should always have access to water and a nice warm bed indoors
- Leave them alone for long periods of time without human company
- Leave them unsupervised with small children
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/shih_tzu.htm
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/shihtzu.htm
http://www.allshihtzu.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shih_Tzu
http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/shih-tzu-training.html
http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/shih-tzu
http://www.justdogbreeds.com/shih-tzu.html
http://www.petwave.com/Dogs/Dog-Breed-Center/Toy-Group/Shih-Tzu.aspx
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100623123914AAN9jUY