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Introduction

The Shih Tzu is a sturdy little dog with a short muzzle and large dark eyes known for its friendly disposition and cute expression. They are an extremely popular apartment dog and get along with children and adults alike.

History

The origins of this dog is usually accepted to be Tibet. The more modern dog was further developed in China where it became known as the Lion Dog and was associated with royalty. In the 1930s it made its way to the United Kingdom where it was also known as the Chrysanthemum Dog. Both the Tibetans anc chinese lay claim to origintating this breed.

Temperament

The Shih Tzu is renowned for its friendly disposition and ability to make friends with both adults and children, although it has been said that they can be jealous towards other dogs when near their owner.

Coat

The Shih Tzu is a double coated dog with fast growing hair. If left to grow it will develop a long silky coat that will touch the ground, although a lot of owners will cut their hair regularly to keep it more managable. The coat can be in a variety of colors including Gold Dark/Light Brown White Black and White Grey.

Do Shih Tzus do well in Apartments?

This breed makes an excellent apartment dog. It has low exercise needs and does not require a lot of space.

Barking

They are not known for barking problems.

Do Shih Tzus Get Along With Children & Other Pets?

The Shih Tzu has a friendly nature and is known to get on well with children. This breed usually does well with other pets, but does require attention from its owner so may get jealous in the presence of another dog.

Exercising a Shih Tzu

They do not require that much exercise as most breeds, but still need to be taken for a walk regularly.

How to Groom a Shih Tzu

They have fast growing coats and whether you decide to grow the long silky coat or cut it regularly daily brushing is a must to keep the coat from getting matted.

Shih Tzu and Shedding

The Shih Tzu does not shed much but still has high grooming needs due to its fast growing coat.

Shih Tzu Health Problems?

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland malfunctions and stops producing a hormone responsible for proper metabolism.
Intervertebral disk disease in the dog is a common chondrodystrophic disorder manifested by acute back pain.
Shih Tzu have a number of respiratory problems related to the shape of their face and head.
It is very common for Shih Tzus to develop eye problems at any age, and even more so once they are older.

Are Shih Tzus Intelligent?

In most literature the Shih Tzu is not rateed very highly on intelligence tests, although most owners of this breed would be dispute this.<br>

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu can be stubborn and times and may require more effort than other dogs to train.