Shih Tzu

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Description:

The Shih Tzu is one of the most popular of the Toy breeds. It is well known for its long, flowing, luxurious hair, which covers all of its body. It has a round head, pleasant expression, and large, round, dark eyes. Its ears are large and covered by the coat. Shih Tzus are very small and compact in size, with a broad, deep chest. Their tails are curved and covered with fur. Shih Tzus can be any color, and tend not to shed. Their hair is in fact a double layer, with a woolly undercoat below the longer hair. Shih Tzus are small dogs, and are slightly longer than they are tall.

Temperament:

Shih Tzus are known for being sturdy, attentive, energetic, and responsive dogs. They are best suited to being companion dogs, and are generally easy-going and affectionate. When in a playful mood, Shih Tzus can be feisty and mischievous. Because they are alert and attentive dogs, they make good watchdogs who are fond of barking. If surprised or startled, they can be snappish. Shih Tzus love attention and being spoiled. They are very clever and can be trained, although they are known to be stubborn and a trainer consequently needs to be very patient. Shih Tzus generally get along well with other pets and older children. They do not do well with babies or toddlers, as they have a strong sense of self-importance and can be jealous of little children.

Caring for a Shih Tzu:

Shih Tzus are fairly easy to take care of, as they do not require a great deal of exercise. If the owner chooses to keep the hair long, it will require careful daily grooming. If not groomed regularly, tangles and painful mats can develop. Many owners tie the hair on the top of the Shih Tzu’s head into a distinctive topknot so that the dog can see more easily. The hair can, however, be trimmed in order to keep grooming needs to a minimum. Most Shih Tzus enjoy outside exercise or simply running around inside a house or yard. Their eyes are sensitive and need to be cleaned regularly. Known health issues in this breed include canine hip dysplasia, renal dysplasia, entropion, progressive retinal atrophy, trichiasis, patellar luxation and portacaval shunt.

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