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16 Interesting Facts About Shih Tzu

Published: · Modified: by Ekaterina Sova · This post may contain affiliate links

The name of the breed literally translates as "little lion." But this dog has little in common with a lion. Shih Tzus were bred as gentle and kind companion dogs who like to spend time in the room with family. Recently, however, Shih Tzu is increasingly taking part in various sports competitions. We present you 16 facts about this wonderful breed:

#1 Beauty.

Shih Tzu lying down on a wooden floor wear a cute pink ribbon pony tail and yellow lace dress
These dogs are described as very beautiful small animals with long hair that are distinguished by their majestic appearance and friendly character. The growth of females and males of this breed is not different, on average it is 20-25 cm, and the weight varies from 4.5 to 5 kg. Dogs of this breed can boast that they were court dwellers of the Chinese monarchs of the Ming family.

#2 Unpretentiousness.

fluffy Shih Tzu on the floor
Shih Tzu is unpretentious. The pet will feel comfortable in a small city apartment, and in a vast farm.

#3 Small size.

Shih Tzu inside a bag placed on top of the table
The size of the dog requires special attention of the owner, especially if the animal is on the street. The fact is that often these dogs are victims of attacks by larger relatives.

#4 They are great companions.

medium cut hairstyle Shih Tzu with a pony tail on top of its head
The Shih Tzu was bred to become a consummate companion dog. The main desire of a pet is to be near its owner. You can not count on the fact that the Shih Tzu will be a guard or, for example, a hunter. The main trait of character is devotion. These dogs are very attached to their family. Dogs of this breed are very funny and active, strangers, as a rule, react by barking, but they always find a common language with guests.

#5 They are easy to train.

Shih Tzu wearing a green shirt yawning while lying in a car seat
Starting to train Shih Tzu is quite difficult. But as soon as these dogs understand that for each performed command they get a treat, everything gets better at once. Training must begin as early as possible. The classes themselves should be short-lived in order to always maintain the interest of the animal. Most often, the entire course of training lasts from six to eight months. Sometimes some owners decide to give the puppy in the hands of a professional trainer, which is also not bad.

#6 To their appearance should be a special approach.

black and white fur Shih Tzu on top of the table
Grooming Shih Tzu is quite time-consuming exercise. To remove tangles and prevent tangling of wool, you will have to comb your pet every day. At the same time it is necessary to comb carefully. Those dog owners who are not going to participate in exhibitions often decide to cut their pet. This, of course, greatly facilitates the process of grooming. If you decide to cut Shih Tzu, then it will have to be done about once every two months.

#7 This breed is very old.

Shih Tzu with a long hair up to the ground and a cute ribbon ponytail on top of its head
Some documents mention that during the rule of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), the imperial court contained “lion dogs” with a muzzle resembling a chrysanthemum at the imperial court. Most likely, we are talking about Shih Tzu. In the documents dated 1770-1900 years there are not too many references to such dogs. Yet in the works of art of the time, you can find images of Shih Tzu.

#8 They have a special bite.

smiling Shih Tzu
The fact is that the structure of the jaw (the lower jaw is somewhat wider than the upper) in these dogs is such that when the teeth are closed, the jaw does not close completely, forming a kind of “overshot mouth”.

#9 There are many legends about this breed.

Shih Tzu taking a walk while licking its nose
One of them says that the Buddha traveled with a small dog, the description of which is completely similar to a Shih Tzu. One day, robbers came to Buddha to rob and kill him. Then the little dog turned into a ferocious lion and drove the robbers away. After the lion again turned into a kind and affectionate dog.

#10 They are difficult to teach to the toilet.

Shih Tzu wearing a cute pink sweater lying on the bed
Shih Tzu are difficult to teach to the toilet. Stick to the sequence and don't let the puppy walk around the house unattended until you teach him to use the toilet.

#11 They do not tolerate heat.

two Shih Tzu outdoors wearing a green raincoat and its hair against the wind
The flattened shape of the Shih Tzu's head is the reason why the dog does not tolerate heat very well. Inhaled hot air does not have time to cool and can lead to thermal shock. During the heat, it is better to avoid walking. In the apartment, the air temperature also should not be very high.

#12 You need to be attentive if you have small children.

Shih Tzu lying on top of its pillow with its hair in a ponytail on the side and hair clip on top of its head
Despite the fact that Shih Tzu gets along well with children, you should not get this dog to families with very young children, as this can lead to injuries to the pet.

#13 Problems with teeth.

Shih Tzu in a medum length bob cut with a hairpin on top of its head
Shih Tzu is prone to dental problems, wheezing, and snoring.

#14 Grooming.

Shih Tzu inside a yellow ring lifesaver by the sea
Be prepared to brush your pet every day, otherwise, your hair will become tangled.

#15 Relationship.

Shih Tzu on the floor with a cat
They get along well with other animals.
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