[This page is about Shih Tzus. Click here to read about  Tiny Shih Tzus.]

The Shih Tzu (pronounced SHEET sooh) was admitted to the American Kennel Club stud book in 1969, but they are an ancient breed, perhaps originating in the 16th or 17th century when small Lhasa Apso dogs were brought into Peking from Tibet and crossed with the native Pekinese. They quickly became a favorite of the Imperial Chinese court. Shih Tzus were so revered that for many years after the Chinese began trading with the West, they refused to sell or even trade away any of the little dogs.

It wasn't until 1930 that the first pair of Shih Tzus was imported to England. The breed was recognized in Britain in 1946 and by the AKC in the US in 1969. Today the breed is very popular both as a companion and as a glamorous show dog.

The Shih Tzu has many admirable traits, but it is the breed's temperament that is so remarkable. In fact, the AKC breed standard for Shih Tzus specifically mentions that the breed must be "outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly, and trusting toward all". Many Shih Tzus carry this trait to a fault. They don't understand that a few people may actually not love them back, and are also slow to recognize aggression from other dogs or animals. They are a true companion animal and love to be with their people. They are fairly active indoors and can do very well as an apartment dweller with no yard. They can amuse themselves or be quiet for hours, lying in a favorite spot, yet love to play with you and their toys even as mature adult dogs. The life expectancy is about 13 to 17 years.

Another positive Shih Tzu quality is that although they are small, they are tough and sturdy. Their size can vary, but are usually: up to 11 inches in height and 9 to 16 pounds in weight. Smaller Shih Tzus, sometimes known as 'tiny toys' or 'minis', run approximately 6 to 8 pounds. Very small, 4 to 6 pounds, are loosely known as 'Imperials' or 'teacups'. (Learn more about this rare type of Shih Tzu by clicking on "About Tiny Shih Tzus" on our home page.) It is hard to predict to the exact pound what weight a puppy will grow to be, since much depends on the slight variations in body styles and diet.

All Shih Tzus should have the distinctive, regal, proud headset and full, flowing coat with a plume of a tail flung over the back. They are a non shedding dog that do require grooming. Most pet owners who do not plan to show keep their Shih Tzus' hair clipped relatively short over the body and nose with longer hair on the head and, of course, that beautiful tail. This option does not require hours of grooming, and can be very comfortable for both owner and pet.

Housetraining a Shih Tzu can be a challenge or can go very smoothly. Here are some things to remember: Your puppy wants to please you and will try hard to do so. No small dog has gained complete control of its bladder until it is past twelve weeks of age, so any sort of punishment at this stage will not be beneficial. Reward him when he goes outside or on his specified papered area and ignore the accidents. Confimement and scheduled eating and drinking times will help a great deal. Crate training is a very good way to go! If you can't stand to be away from your baby, put his nighttime crate right next to your bed. Never give your young Shih Tzu full access to the house before he is two years of age. They are still just too immature at that stage of life. Confining them (in a safe room with a gate, etc.) any time you are away or busy is the safest choice as well as the best and easiest way to train. After that your little darlin' can enjoy years of free range in his home.

The long floppy ears of a Shih Tzu make them more susceptible to ear infections. Check ears once a week and ask your veterinarian for advice on ear care and cleansing solutions,

You will need to pay attention to your Shih Tzu's eyes also. Check him often to be sure his eyes are bright,, clear, and free of matter and discharge. Their short muzzle makes it necessary for them to get very close to something in order to check it out, making him more susceptible to eye debris, injury, and infection.

Choosing a Shih Tzu means getting an outgoing, spunky, clever little friend who will delight your family for years with loads of personality!