Other names: Chrysanthemum dog, lion dog
The Shih Tzu is a dog very attached to his family and with a strong personality. Small in size and light in weight, he has a keen intelligence. These qualities make him a most enjoyable pet.
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Hypoallergenic breed
 Hair type |
Long |
|---|---|
 Origin |
China |
 Template |
Small |
 Head shape |
Round |
 Weight and size |
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| Sex | Weight | Cut |
|---|---|---|
| Female | From 4 kg to 8 kg | From 20 cm to 25 cm |
| Male | From 4 kg to 8 kg | From 22 cm to 27 cm |
History of the breed
And it was after 1912 and the transformation of the country into a Republic that this breed gradually migrated to the West and Europe. However, it was not until 1931 that the breed arrived in Britain. She was not allowed to compete for exhibitions until after World War II. The breed was subsequently introduced in 1930 in England and then in 1953 in France.
Shih Tzu Pictures
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Physical features
Its coat : is long, silky and no hair loss occurs, whatever the season.
Its color : predominantly black, white or fawn and spots (ranging from lightest to darkest). There are also Shih Tzus with monochrome coats, but often adorned with wicks that modify the initial colors.
His head : his skull is flat and narrow, the muzzle of a medium to small size.
His ears : fall to the sides of the head. They have the color of the hairs that surround and cover them.
His eyes : large, round and dark.
His body : the physiognomy is balanced. It is however longer than tall.
Its tail : according to the variants of the breed, drooping or erect. The end can roll up on itself.
Behavior and character
| Affectionate | |
|---|---|
| Calm | |
| Protective | |
| Independent | |
| Hunter | |
| Barks / howls |
Behavior with others
| Cohabitation with children | |
|---|---|
| Sociable with other animals | |
| Love strangers |
The Shih Tzu has many qualities as a companion dog. He is very cute , always jovial and playful . He is sometimes blundering but, because of his adorable face, it is impossible to blame him. He is very intelligent and does not appreciate when his master is not fair to him. This canine is very sociable , gentle and very calm . He loves to play with children as long as they respect him. He is able to sulk in the event that his master argues with him, even over little. In addition, he is never aggressive and is always looking for affection .
The Shih Tzu
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Education
| Clever | |
|---|---|
| Obedient |
In order to offer him a good training, it will be necessary to understand the somewhat stubborn character of the Shih Tzu . He can sometimes admit to being stubborn and not wanting to obey what his master asks of him. Indeed, he does not like to be forced. It is necessary to go through the game and the fun to teach him the desired orders. He will be receptive , willful and amused in return. Patience and understanding will be qualities required on the part of the master so that this little ball of hair does not do as it pleases. The Shih Tzu knows how to show a lively intelligence and has a good capacity for learning.
Living conditions
| Suitable for apartment living | |
|---|---|
| Good for new masters | |
| Love it hot | |
| Love the cold |
The Shih Tzu appreciates any type of dwelling place as long as his personal comfort is assured. He is above all an indoor dog . Thus, whether it is the apartment in the city or the house in the country, it should be guaranteed a place of tranquility while providing a place capable of allowing it to exercise. Sociable by nature, solitude does not suit him and the presence of his masters will be the sine qua non of his well-being .
Health
| Solid | |
|---|---|
| Ease of gaining weight |
The most common diseases in this dog are urinary tract infections , ear infections and diseases caused by fragile eyeballs . Its long hairs are the cause of these types of infections and it is strongly recommended that you maintain your coat as regularly and frequently as possible. In addition, the female may experience difficulties when giving birth. For the rest, this canine does not present any hereditary pathology .
Hypoallergenic breed
Yes
Litter size
Between 2 and 5 puppies
| Major concerns |
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| Minor concerns |
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| Occasional concerns |
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| Suggested tests |
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To guard against these risks and insure your companion in the event of health problems, Woopets recommends Shih Tzu dog insurance .
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Life expectancy
Minimum: 11 years old
Maximum: 14 years
The life expectancy of a Shih Tzu is, on average, between 11 years and 14 years.
Calculate the Human Age of Your Shih Tzu!
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Maintenance and hygiene
| Ease of maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Cost of maintenance | |
| Hair loss |
| Drool level | |
|---|---|
| Ease of grooming |
The Shih Tzu does not experience any hair loss in the fall or spring. The company of this dog is therefore recommended for people allergic to canine hair . Given its long hairs and the risk of disease that they can cause, special care given to grooming will be necessary.
It is recommended, at least once a week, or even daily, to brush the dog in order to remove any knots that may have formed . In order to lighten the care, it is possible to shorten the length of the hairs without compromising the overall aesthetic of the Shih Tzu. The hairs should not rub his eyes. Baths are also recommended. For this it is necessary to use a dog shampoo.
In addition, it is advisable to clean his eyes as well as his auditory canals . The ears can be cleaned with cotton wool and a pH balanced ear solution. In addition, taking care of your teeth helps eliminate tartar build-up and the proliferation of bacteria. Finally, the nails are to be cut regularly. If you are new to this, it is recommended that you seek advice from a veterinarian.
The Shih Tzu can be taken to a groomer every 6 to 8 weeks.
Price and budget
Purchase price
The purchase price of a Shih Tzu is between 1000 € and 1500 €.
Annual maintenance cost
The annual maintenance cost of a Shih Tzu is between $ 900 and $ 950.
Name ideas for a Shih Tzu
| Male |
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| Female |
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None of these proposals suit you? Use our tool to find your Shih Tzu’s name!
Food
The Shih Tzu must have a diet adapted to his needs and his daily activity. He is not a great athlete, but he can nevertheless exercise himself during playful games. Thus, its diet must be based on high quality kibble . Regarding his ration, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
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Physical activity
| Athletic | |
|---|---|
| Energy level | |
| Potential to play |
The Shih Tzu are quite homey in nature, but being prone to obesity, one ride per day will still be necessary. The Shih Tzu does not need to satisfy any sporting activity . Rather, it is a dog destined for an indoor life.
Famous Shih Tzu dogs
Choupette : in the film Les Trois Frères directed by Didier Bourdon and Bernard Campan , released in 1995, Choupette is a female Shih Tzu who belongs to the rich parents of Didier Latour’s fiancée (played by Didier Bourdon ). The animal is calm and affectionate .
Marie : this is a key character in the game Animal Crossing . This Shih Tzu is the mayor’s assistant in Animal Crossing New Leaf . She is very pleasant and jovial . The character appears in other games published by Nitendo, in particular in Super Smash Bros or Mario Kart 8 .
Competitions
| Classifications & Standards |
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Others
| Master character <span class="btnTooltip qTip2" title="- Calm: the master must be gentle and know how to show patience. – Active: the owner must be energetic and dynamic to live in harmony with his dog. – Hyperactive: the owner must be stimulating and very restless to suit the temperament of his dog.”> |
Calm |
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Do you have a question about the Shih Tzu?
Do not hesitate to ask Woopets visitors for advice on the forum!
FCI Information
FCI No.
208
FCI Group
Group 9: Companion and Toy Dogs
Recognized by FCI
Since 1957
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