SHIH-TZU Breed Standards
The exact origin of the Shih Tzu is unknown but likely dates back to ancient times. Their first recorded appearance occurred around 1650 in China. Shih Tzus were brought to the Chinese Court from Tibet, and later bred in the Forbidden City, in the heart of Peking. It is believed that Shih Tzus were bred by crossing the Lhasa Apso with the Pekingese. Since they resemble lions, they were given the name Shih Tzu, which means “little lion.” Shih Tzus soon became favorites in the Chinese Courts, and were used as watchdogs.
In 1908, the Dalai Lama sent Shih Tzus to Tzu Hsi, Dowager Empress of the Manchu Dynasty, who was known to be a passionate dog breeder. The Empress herself supervised the breeding of the Shih Tzus to ensure that they would remain distinct from the Pekingese which she already owned. After her death that year, however, their breeding was not closely monitored and it is suspected that cross breedings occurred.
During the Communist Revolution the Shih Tzu was on the brink of extinction. At one point, only 14 remained in the world—7 males and 7 females. Some of these 14 were by that point located in England, which imported its first pair of Shih Tzus in 1930. The Shih Tzu Club of England was formed in 1935, after which the Shih Tzu was exported all across the world. They were introduced to the US by soldiers during World War II.
SKILLS: The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with long flowing double coat. Befitting his noble Chinese ancestry as a highly valued, prized companion and palace pet, the Shih Tzu is proud of bearing, has a distinctively arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back. Although there has always been considerable size variation, the Shih Tzu must be compact, solid, carrying good weight and substance.
SIZE: Size - Ideally, height at withers is 9 to 10½ inches; but, not less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches. Ideally, weight of mature dogs, 9 to 16 pounds. Proportion - Length between withers and root of tail is slightly longer than height at withers. The Shih Tzu must never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty. Substance - Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact, solid and carries good weight and substance.
COAT: Coat - Luxurious, double-coated, dense, long, and flowing. Slight wave permissible. Hair on top of head is tied up. Fault: Sparse coat, single coat, curly coat. Trimming - Feet, bottom of coat, and anus may be done for neatness and to facilitate movement. Fault: Excessive trimming. Color and Markings - All are permissible and to be considered equally.
CARE REQUIRED: These little dogs require a good daily grooming using a bristle brush. A topknot is usually tied with a bow so that the dog can see properly. Some owners prefer to have them trimmed to make the coat easier and less time consuming to care for. Keep the ear passages and area around the eyes clean. Shih-Tzu's have sensitive eyes that should be keep clean. There is special drops you can buy to put in them if needed. Ask your vet what to use on your dog. This breed sheds little to no hair and are good for allergy suffers if their coats are kept very well groomed.
CHARACTER: As the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is that of a companion and house pet, it is essential that its temperament be outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all.
EXERCISE: The Shih Tzu is a naturally active dog but if it is allowed it will lay around in its favorite spots. They should be encouraged to get out and about to say fit. Daily walks are a good idea. Do not over feed this breed or it will quickly become fat
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: This breed does well with polite, careful children. The gentle loyal Shih-Tzu makes friends easily and although obstinate can respond well to consistent patient training. A very alert watch dog, the Shih-Tzu likes to bark, but is usually quiet inside the house. They are stubborn and clever. Shihs can get snappish if they are surprised or peeved. Playful and lively, this affectionate little dog needs to be with people and are generally good with other pets. Some can be difficult to housebreak.
TRAINING: The Shih Tzu is good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is sensitive to the heat.
