Content
- Origin of Shih Tzu
- Shih Tzu Physical Characteristics
- Shih Tzu Character
- Shih Tzu Care
- Shih Tzu Education
- Shih Tzu Health
O Shih Tzu he is one of the most sociable and playful companion dogs. This, added to its beautiful fur and sweet appearance, explains why it is one of the favorite breeds of the moment. These types of puppies are very affectionate and intelligent and need constant attention from their owners, so they are not recommended to live outside the home or to be left alone for a long time.
If you want to know more about this delightful puppy, in this PeritoAnimal article we will tell you everything you need to know about its physical characteristics, its origin, its character, its care, its health and its education, to to know everything before adopting a Shih Tzu dog.
Source
- Asia
- China
- Group IX
- provided
- long ears
- toy
- Small
- Medium
- Great
- Giant
- 15-35
- 35-45
- 45-55
- 55-70
- 70-80
- more than 80
- 1-3
- 3-10
- 10-25
- 25-45
- 45-100
- 8-10
- 10-12
- 12-14
- 15-20
- Low
- Average
- High
- Sociable
- Intelligent
- Active
- Tender
- Kids
- floors
- Houses
- Cold
- Warm
- Moderate
- Long
- Fried
- thick
Origin of Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu story shares many things with the Pekingese story.Like this dog, the Shih Tzu originates from Buddhist monasteries, where it was considered a holy dog. In addition, it was an exclusive dog of the Chinese nobility, where they also had him as a sacred dog and provided him with the care worthy of royalty.
When the first Shih Tzu arrived in England in the 1930s, they were confused with the Lhasa apso. They were so alike that at that time both dogs were considered just one breed. However, in the same decade it was decided to separate both races as we know them today.
Nowadays, the Shih Tzu is a very appreciated dog. for the company as for the exhibition. His magnificent fur and small stature have made him a star in dog shows, while his sweet character has made him one of today's most popular pets.
Shih Tzu Physical Characteristics
According to the FCI standard for the breed, the height at the cross must not exceed 26.7 centimeters, regardless of whether it is a male or a female. The ideal weight is between 4.5 and 7.3 kilos. This is a small dog and longer than tall in body. The entire body is densely covered with hair. The back is straight and the chest is broad and deep.
The head is large and round in shape. This covered with from what falls on the eyes and that forms a beard and mustaches on the muzzle. A characteristic of the Shih Tzu is that the hair on the nose grows straight up. The stop is well defined and the nose is black in most puppies, but it can be liver-colored in puppies of that color or that have patches of that color. The muzzle is short, square and broad. The eyes, with an affectionate expression and wide apart, are large, round and dark. The Shih Tzu's ears are large, drooping and covered with very dense fur. The tail of this dog is tall and is completely covered in dense feather-shaped fur. The Shih Tzu happily carries it on its back.
Fur is one of the most notorious characteristics of this breed. It is long, very dense and has a good layer of inner hair. It is not curly and is usually straight, although it sometimes has a slight undulation. According to the breed standard published by the International Cynological Federation (FCI), by Shih Tazu can be any color.
Shih Tzu Character
these dogs are very smart, sociable and cheerful. Shih Tzu like to be with people a lot, so they are ideal to have with your family. They are also playful and active as long as you keep them in shape. Shih Tzu are easier to socialize than other dog breeds, as these furry little ones are usually very friendly and sociable by nature. When they receive adequate socialization, they usually get along well with people, dogs and other animals. However, it is important to carry out the socialization of puppies from an early age to achieve that adult-friendly character.
These puppies make excellent pets for people who are alone, couples and families with children of different ages. They usually get along very well with children whenever they know how to respect the dog and do not mistreat it. They are also excellent pets for first-time owners. However, they are not good pets for families and people who spend most of the day away from home, unless you can take dogs to work.
Shih Tzu Care
Shih Tzu's fur tends to untangle easily, being necessary brush and comb it daily. Although you don't need a canine hairdresser, many owners of these puppies prefer to keep them shorter for easier care.
Shih Tzu need a good dose of physical exercise, but due to their small size they can exercise indoors. Still, it's important to provide them with a daily walk and playtime to exercise and socialize. These puppies tend to gain weight easily, so it's good to give them enough exercise to keep them in shape. But you should take into account your size and you shouldn't overdo the exercise. You should also not force them to exercise in hot, humid climates, as their short muzzle makes it difficult for them to breathe in those environments.
At companionship needs Shih Tzu's are very tall. These puppies are not suitable for living in a garden or on a patio. On the contrary, they need to spend most of their time together and must live indoors with the rest of the family. They adapt very well to life in densely populated cities and living in small apartments.
Shih Tzu Education
When it comes to dog training, Shih Tzu are a joy to their trainers. these dogs learn easily and quickly, so it's simple to teach them many different things. However, this is only true if positive training is carried out, as Shih Tzu do not respond well to traditional training based on dominance. You should keep in mind that these puppies are easily distracted, so it's best to train them in short but fun sessions.
In general, Shih Tzu do not have major behavior problems when they have been properly socialized and given sufficient exercise and company. However, when they are alone for long periods or do not get enough exercise, they can become destructive and barking dogs. They can even develop separation anxiety quite easily if they are alone for a long time each day.
Shih Tzu Health
This breed does not have alarming incidents of dog disease, but is prone to renal hypoplasia, entropion, trichiasis, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, external otitis, and inguinal hernias. It is also a breed prone to ear and eye infections, so it is recommended to have periodic veterinary check-ups.