The Shih Tzu is a wonderful miniature dog; abut 8 to 11 inches in height and 9 to16 pounds in weight. Whoever sees a Shih Tzu dog appreciates it is extremely beautiful. These dogs are double coated: they have a soft and wooly inside fur covered by a luxuriant long-haired coat on the outside. Because the lenght of the hair on their heads, that could cover their eyes, the owners must comb it into a top knot.

The Shih Tzu or the Small Lion (the Chinese meaning of its name), as it is popularly known, originates from Tibet. When learning about the history of the Shih Tzu, we see that it was a favorite pet of the Emperors of Manchu Dynasty of China around 19th century where they flourished. They were sent in China by the monks of Tibet, as gifts for the emperors reigning in those times. Since they looked like lions, they were named as the Tibetan Shih Tzu, or the Tibetan Lion. The first dogs of this breed arrived in England around 1930 and they were imported in the United States after the Second World War by American soldiers. Beeing so beautiful and having a friendly attitude, these dogs were instantly accepted by both English and American people.

Why Is the Shih Tzu Breed So Loved By All People?

The Shih Tzu is a people’s dog. They can only be happy if they are with someone or, at least, if people are around. Needing the presence of people, these dogs may act distructively or become cranky if they are left alone for long time. Without making any effort, everybody, people, dog or any other animal, can go along with a Shih Tzu dog, due to their calm and sweet temper. But small children should be supervised in the presence of a Shih Tzu dog, so that no one gets harmed.

Both Shih Tzu puppies and adult dogs require frequent grooming, because of their double coat. The hair has to be combed daily to keep it from tangling and matting. They need to be bathed often and they fall easily sick if exposed to high humidity content in the air, hence should be brought to live in climates, which are not too humid. These dogs begin to lose their teeth starting with their 9th year.

Having short and flat faces, their breathing is troubled by wheezing sounds and they snor loudly. Shih Tzu dogs tend to get obese so owners must not overfeed them. They tend to become and behave like spoiled brats easily.

Due to their stabborn character, the Shih Tzu dogs are difficult to train. House training has been a problematic aspect in many cases – and it takes a lot of perseverance to get them do what you want. Patience and not harshness makes efficient training.

Shih Tzu are indoor dogs and can live in apartments. They require only little exercise. But as many possible games, both into the house and outdoors. There is a lot more to learn about the Shih Tzu dogs. And a great part of their history waits to be discovered.

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The Shih Tzu breed originates in Tibet, but was first documented at the Imperial Court in China, in the 19th century, during the Manchu Dynasty. They are small dogs, up to 11 inches in height and 16 pounds in weight and have two coats, one long-haired luxuriant coat covering the soft and wooly fur. Shih Tzu are indoors dogs, they can be hold in apartments and need little outdoors exercise, but a lot of game playing.