Tiny Dogs with Big Personalities
Shih Tzus might be tiny in size but they’re big on personality, wanting nothing more than to be your best friend. This pint-sized pooch is an affectionate, lively, and sweet-tempered companion. Most fanciers agree that the Shih Tzu hails from ancient China, where for more than 1,000 years, royalty regarded these lab dogs as cherished household pets. The Shih Tzu is a lover, not a hunter, bred solely to be a companion. The Shih Tzu is a friendly, happy, and outgoing house dog who loves nothing more than to follow his people from room to room.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About the Shih Tzu
1. Their History
The Shih Tzu’s origins are ancient and steeped in mystery and controversy. The Mandarin term Shih Tzu translates to “little lion.” Now, even though the dog doesn’t really look like a lion, a recent study revealed that the Shih Tzu is one of the 14 oldest dog breeds, and dog bones found in China have proven that the dogs were present there as early as 8000 BC. Some believe the breed was developed by Tibetan monks and given as gifts to Chinese royalty. It is also speculated that the Shih Tzu was developed in China by crossing other breeds with the Lhasa Apso or Pekingese. Regardless of where the breed was developed—Tibet or China—it’s clear that the Shih Tzu was a treasured companion from the earliest times.
2. Their Personality
All dog breeds have a purpose. Historically, the purpose of the Shih Tzu was to be a companion, and that’s just what he wants to be. He simply desires to be with you, so don’t expect him to hunt, guard, or retrieve—that’s not his style. Affection is his dominant characteristic, and your lap is his favorite destination. He is happiest when he is with his family, giving and receiving attention. Well, that said, the Shih Tzu is not a total couch potato—he’s alert and lively and may bark at newcomers to his home. But don’t worry, though; he’ll make friends with your guests the minute they walk inside.
3. They Are Apartment Dogs
The Shih Tzu doesn’t really mind where he lives, as long as he’s with you. He’s a very adaptable dog who can be comfortable in a city apartment or a large suburban or country home. He’s definitely a house dog and should not be kenneled outside, though he enjoys a bit of backyard play too. The Shih Tzu is content with short walks each day. He’s not an extremely active dog—he’s content to sit in your lap, wander around the house, play with his toys, or run to the door to greet visitors. Like other breeds with short faces, the Shih Tzu is sensitive to heat as well. He should be kept indoors on hot days so he doesn’t suffer from heat exhaustion.
4. Many Celebrities Have Owned Shih Tzus
Since the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular dog breeds, it’s no surprise that many stars have owned them. Celebrity owners of Shih Tzus include Nicole Richie, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Colin Farrell, Bill Gates, and even Queen Elizabeth II.
5. Shih Tzus Are Glamorous and Athletic
Given the long, flowing coats of Shih Tzu show dogs, we tend to think of this breed as more glamorous than sporty. But underneath that gorgeous coat is a muscular body that can perform really well in agility. Many Shih Tzus have won agility competitions. In 2014, a Shih Tzu became the first of his breed to win both a champion title and an agility title.
6. They Have Great Hair
The hair of a Shih Tzu is truly something to envy. Show dogs can be seen sporting stylish long hair that drags on the floor like a dress’s train. This particular hairstyle is very hard to keep up, so most Shih Tzu owners opt to keep their dog’s hair in a short style called the “puppy cut.” Usually, this involves cutting the hair uniformly about two inches from the body, which is also referred to as the “teddy bear cut” because it makes them look like a plush toy. Other owners opt to shave the body hair closely, leaving the hair on the head and ears in a bob-like style, which, on the other hand, is known as the “top knot cut.”
7. They Come in Lots of Colors
According to the American Kennel Club, the Shih Tzu comes in 14 different colors and three different markings. Most Shih Tzus have a little white spot on their foreheads, affectionately known as the “Star of Buddha.” According to legend, Buddha was traveling with a little canine companion that closely resembled a Shih Tzu. When a group of robbers tried to attack Buddha, the little dog transformed into a fierce lion and chased the thieves off. Buddha was so grateful that he kissed the dog on the forehead, giving it its little white mark. The markings on its back are said to represent the saddle Buddha used to ride—a dog turned lion.
8. Training a Shih Tzu Can Be Tricky
Before you get yourself a Shih Tzu, consider how much free time you have. Training a Shih Tzu can be both an amusing and a frustrating experience. The breed tends to charm its owner into letting him have his own way, which can result in a chubby, less-than-fully housebroken pet who is difficult to groom. Because Shih Tzus are “people dogs,” training methods based on praise and rewards work best. Harsh corrections should not be used with this breed.
9. They Are Great with Children
The Shih Tzu is a wonderful family pet. He gets along with other dogs and animals, and his docile personality makes him a good companion for children. Kids should sit on the floor to play with the Shih Tzu puppy, but there’s no risk of carrying and dropping him. Children should also learn to keep their fingers away from the Shih Tzu’s prominent eyes, which can be easily injured.
10. They’re Hypoallergenic Dogs
The Shih Tzu is called a hypoallergenic dog breed due to their low shedding pattern. The loose hairs are more likely to be retained in the coat rather than the air. However, be aware that the allergens remain in dander and saliva, so there will still be some present in the environment around the dog. If you’re sensitive, it’s wise to spend time with a Shih Tzu to see if this breed provokes your allergies before adopting one.
Conclusion
Alright, that’s the end of our list. Thanks for watching the video! But before you leave, tell us what specific characteristic your Shih Tzu has, or if you don’t have one, are you planning to get one in the future? Let us know in the comments below. For more videos like this, click on our channel, and of course, don’t forget to subscribe!