Pawpedia: All you need to know about Shih Tzus

Features of shih tzus

 

This time at Pawpedia, we have decided to talk about these cute little adorable creatures called Shih Tzus. They are extremely popular for their tiny size, the very cuddly demeanor and their ability to be very adjustable to modest sized apartments. Shih Tzus are also known for having extremely adorable eyes that melts the hearts of anyone who engages with it. They are playful, and at the same time easy to manage since they do not take up a lot of space. Due to their small size, they can also be carried around easily and can be loved for with ease. So let us look at some facts about Shih Tzus ranging from the history of their breed to their temperament – 

 

• History and Origin:

This dog is said to have been of Chinese descent. It is said that it might be a cross between Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. Shih Tzus are said to have been the favorite and one of most loved breeds among the Chinese royals, so much so that for the longest time, they did not want to trade the Shih Tzus and keep it exclusive to China. It is also known as “Xi Shi Dog” – Xi Shi being known as one of the most beautiful women in China. In England it is also known as Chrysanthemum dog. The origin birthplace of the dog is often a cause of debate – some believe that it originated in Tibet while some strongly believe that Shih Tzus’ origin was in China. Regardless, the name is derived from mandarin – Shih Tzu roughly translates to “lion dog” presumably because of its appearance where the fur looks like a lion’s mane. 

 

• Description:

Shih Tzus are generally classified under the ‘toy breeds’. That is, they are super small in size even after they are full grown. Theory is favoured by many pet owners in urban landscapes due to their adaptability to moderately small spaces. They have short snouts and round eyes (usually black). Their posture is also usually short and stout. They have floppy ears and their coat of fur can grow to be extremely long. If not groomed regularly, Shih Tzu’s face can be covered with their lengthy mane.

 

• Average weight:

                  Males: 4.5 to 7 kgs

                  Females: 4.5 to 6 kgs

 

• Average size:

      Females: 8 to 11 inches

      Males: 9 to 12 inches 

 

• Average lifespan: 10 to 16 years

However, the longest living Shih Tzu is known to have lived for over 17 years. Just like humans, the healthier food they eat and the more exercise they do, the longer their life span is. 

 

• Activity: Shih Tzus, as you might have guessed from the size, do not enjoy intense levels of physical activity. Although like any other breed, walks are necessary for their general well-being, Shih Tzus can do with short walks and moderately-tiring physical exercises. They need to be properly hydrated and cannot be exposed to sunlight for too long as it might endanger them to having heat strokes.

• Temperament: Shih Tzus are considered extremely friendly dogs and are playful with everyone. Despite their size, they do not shy away and are considered quite courageous. They are also quite adaptive to new spaces and are more comfortable meeting strangers than a lot of breeds. They are cuddly, caring and enjoy receiving attention from their loved ones.

• Vocalness: Sometimes, they can be quite shrill and vocal with their barking due to their natural tendencies. However, they can be moderately trained to keep this in check.

• Shedding and grooming: Shih Tzus are aggressive shedders and they do have a lot of fur to shed. They definitely need a good trimming regularly to make sure that their mane does not get out of hand. They also benefit largely from regular grooming.

• Training: Shih Tzus cannot take hardcore training and do not enjoy too much physical activity. They might also be a little hard to train as they concentrate less and are hard to tame. However, the right trainer can do wonders for your Shih Tzu and discipline them the right way.