SHIHTZU

Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Outgoing

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 20 of 197

Height: 9-10.5 inches

Weight: 9-16 pounds

Life Expectancy: 10-18 years

Group: Toy Group

ABOUT THE SHIHTZU

The name “Shih Tzu” means little lion, but there’s nothing fierce about this dog breed.

One unique characteristic of the Shih Tzu is their undershot bite. Their lower jaw is slightly wider than the upper, and the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, rather than outside, when their mouth is closed.

Many also believe that Fu Dogs, the guardians of Buddhist temples, are representations of the Shih Tzu.

PERSONALITY

Historically, the purpose of the Shih Tzu was to be a companion–and that’s just what they want to be. They simply desire to be with you. So don’t expect them to hunt, guard, or retrieve; that’s not their style.

Affection is their dominant characteristic, and your lap is their favorite destination. They’re happiest when they’re with their family, giving and receiving attention.

That said, the Shih Tzu is not a total couch potato. They’re alert and lively and may bark at newcomers to their home. Don’t worry, though; they’ll make friends with your guests the minute they walk inside.

NUTRITION

The Shih Tzu should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval.

HEALTH

Shih Tzus are generally healthy, but like all breeds of dogs, they’re prone to certain conditions and diseases:

• Allergies
• Canine hip dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Juvenile renal dysplasia
• Bladder stones and bladder infections
• Eye problems
• Ear infections
• Retained baby teeth and tooth and gum problems
• Umbilical hernias
• A portosystemic liver shunt
• Snuffles
• Reverse sneezing

CARE

The Shih Tzu was bred to be a house companion. As such, they require minimal exercise. Short daily walks with their owner and indoor playtime will satisfy the activity needs of this small, short-legged companion.

GROOMING

A Shih Tzu with a long coat requires daily brushing. Use a good-quality wire brush with flexible pins, and layer the hair to be sure you reach to the skin. A bath about every three or four weeks will help to keep the coat clean and at its best.

Remember to comb the mustache and topknot daily, and gently clean the corner of the eyes with a damp cloth. To protect the Shih Tzu’s eyes from being irritated, the hair on the top of the head should be trimmed short or tied up into a topknot.

Trimming nails and cleaning ears should be part of the Shih Tzu’s grooming routine.

Source: dogtime, akc.