TAG | Shih Tzu
Getting to know your dog starts by getting to know its breed, and that includes getting a better idea about its appearance, personality, and health requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the Shih Tzu:
This particular breed of dog originated from Tibet, although it has now become a highly popular breed in Western countries. The name “Shih Tzu” is pronounced (sheet zoo) and can be spelled a number of ways depending on the country. In fact, in China, the name sounds more like the American “sherbet” with “adds” on the end. Although the Shih Tzu is a tiny dog its name translates to “lion dog” of the Forbidden City, which is for the original resemblance to a lion and not so much size.
When first developed, the Shih Tzu had a very specific purpose in life – to sit or lie around the Emperor of China’s palace, alerting the royal family of approaching people or animals. While the exact breeding to create the Shih Tzu is not 100 percent certain, most people believe it started as a mix of Lhasa Apso, which was already a Tibetan breed, and the Pekingese. What we do know is that of all breeds in the world, the Shih Tzu is one of the oldest.Physical Appearance
Once you lay your eyes on a Shih Tzu, you cannot help but fall in love. This tiny, furry breed is simply adorable with a long, flowing double coat and undeniable face. Although the hair of the Shih Tzu can be styled or groomed in a variety of ways, most people will keep the long hair brushed to a silky shine and hair pulled back with a barrette out of the dog’s eyes.
Keep in mind that this dog’s hair continues to grow much like that of a human, and it does not shed. Therefore, the dog needs ongoing grooming. Additionally, because this breed has hair and not fur, it is an excellent choice for individuals with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. The Shih Tzu is bred in a number of colors, which include:
* Black
* Gold
* Gray
* Tan
* White
* Combination Colors
The Shih Tzu is a very alert and lively breed with a wonderful personality. For instance, this breed is highly devoted to its family, loves children and other animals, and is comical. The muzzle is short, eyes large, the tail waves up over the back of the dog, and you would notice a small under-bite. For show purposes according to the American Kennel Club, the Shih Tzu should be between 8 and 11 inches tall. As far as weight, the Shih Tzu averages between 9 and 16 pounds.Temperament and Personality
Although the Shih Tzu is an alert dog, it is also very gentle and calm. Keep in mind that the Shih Tzu can be very playful too, especially while a puppy. Somewhat on the sensitive side, both discipline and training needs to be handled with a soft hand in that the breed can become fearful.
It is important to socialize your new Shih Tzu, helping to build its confidence with people and animals. As a devoted companion dog, you will find that people of all ages and lifestyles can enjoy this breed but it does require appropriate one-on-one time with its master. The Shih Tzu is not just a beautiful breed of dog but also one that brings intelligence, loyalty, laughter, and attentiveness to the home.Health
While there are many reasons for having a Shih Tzu, the ease of care is definitely at the top of the list. Typically, daily grooming habits are important. For instance, the dog’s eyes can water and tear so they need to be wiped off with a damp cloth or cotton ball several times a day. Additionally, with the long hair, the Shih Tzu needs to be brushed daily. With good grooming, proper diet, and adequate exercise, this breed is hardy.
The only real health risk is due to the short snout. Because of this feature, the Shih Tzu does not handle hot temperatures well. In fact, this particular breed does much better in regions with a milder climate, making breathing easier. Other possible risks, although rare, include liver, heart, and back problems.
Miniature dogs are smaller types of the dog family. They are commonly called toy dogs because of their small size. Learn more on some of the most popular miniature dogs.
Many people all over the world own dogs for different reasons. They are considered as man’s best friend. There are so many breeds of dogs with different characteristics and abilities.
Miniature dogs are the most popular nowadays among the types of dogs because they are easier to take care. Miniature dogs or sometimes called toy dogs are basically smaller types of dogs than the regular ones.
Many miniature dog owners feel the greater advantages of owning small dogs. For starters, smaller dogs do not consume as much food as compared to bigger dogs. Toy dogs also do not require too much space in their house or backyard. These dogs can easily adapt to owners who live in small apartments as they do not require too much exercise.
Though these dogs are small in size, they have strong and distinct personality. They are also ideal pets for younger children and a good playmate.
If you are interested in owning a miniature dog as your pet, it is important for you to understand that these dogs have special characteristics and needs. For example, the elderly would be more inclined to gentle and affectionate dogs for companion. Some would prefer the kind they could bring with them when hunting. Your lifestyle and personality should be considered when choosing what breed to get. You should also consider your financial capability in terms of providing the necessary food and grooming also.
Many breed of miniature dogs have an excellent intelligence just like the Shetland Sheepdogs. Some are good for dog shows while others are ideal as watchdogs.
Here are some of the most favorite miniature dogs of many pet lovers.
Miniature Poodle
Miniature poodles are considered one of the most popular breed in the world. Poodles are very friendly, obedient and intelligent. This type of dog excels in the field of obedience competitions. They are the most common types used for dog shows. They live longer compared to other types of dogs. Poodles need a lot of grooming and regular bath to maintain its hair.
This breed of dog is originally hairy retriever that has been used to protect flock of sheep. The word poodle was derived from a German word puddle. The miniature poodle that we have known today has originated from the standard poodle from Germany.
Shih Tzu
This breed of miniature dog is fun, loving and intelligent. This toy dog would love to be cuddled and adored. This type of dog likes to be groomed daily and walked on regular places. They are also considered as good guard dogs.
If you decide to own a shih tzu, it is important to groom it daily, otherwise its hair would develop tangles. The coat should also be trimmed in order not to hinder with its daily activities. Its furry body is also prone to nits and ticks so make sure it is bathed and shampooed regularly.
The breed of the Shih Tzu is the result of crossed breeding of Pekingese and Lhasa Apso by the Chinese people. During the time of Empress Tzu-his, the exportation of these breed of dogs is not allowed. It was until the death of the Empress that Shih Tzu dogs were smuggled and reached Europe.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is another breed of miniature dog. They are basically easy to maintain compared to other types of miniature dogs. It is the smallest dog breed in the whole world.
Its name was taken from a state in Mexico. These dogs are considered sacred for the Incas.
Whatever breed of miniature dogs you chose as your pet, it is important to know enough information with regards to the characteristics, maintenance needs and abilities before deciding on owning one as your pet.
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Meet The Alert And Spunky Shih-tzu Dog Breed
0 Comments | Posted by admin in Lhasa Apso Grooming
The Shih-Tzu is a result of the breeding of the Tibetan Lhasa Apso with the Pekinese during the 17th century and Peking. However, England wouldn’t see the first pair until the 1930s when they were allowed to be imported. Today, the spunky old dog is a popular pet as well as a show dog favorite.
Admitted to the American Kennel Club in 1969, the Shih-Tzu is part of the toy group. This breed weighs from 9 to 16 pounds and is around 11 inches tall
This breed is small and sturdy resembling the Lhasa Apso and having an abundant coat consisting of a woolly undercoat any long overcoat of hair. The hair above the nose grows upward which creates a unique shape, sometimes referred to as a chrysanthemum shape for the face. The Shih-Tzu has a mustache and beard along with a short hairy muzzle and black nose. The eyes are dark, large and round. The pendant shaped ears are covered with hair which causes them to blend right in to the rest of the dogs body. He has a plumed tale which he carries curled over his back. These dogs come in all colors, but show dogs must have white on the forehead as well as the tip of the tail.
The Shih-Tzu is a little dog with a lot of character. Sometimes they can seem a bit arrogant, but they do tend to make friends easily even when they are being obstinate. This alert and spunky breed is playful and affectionate but does not cope well if left on his own and needs to spend a lot of time with his family. They are usually pretty quiet when indoors, but have been known to be a bit stubborn and can bark when they want to.
Since Shih-Tzus have a short muzzle, they can wheeze and snore a bit and also can be prone to respiratory, ear and eye problems. In some Shih-Tzus which have short legs and long backs, spinal disc disease can be a problem. Like most small dogs, they can be prone to tooth decay and need to have regular dental care. They can also gain weight easily and should not be overfed.
The Shih-Tzu can be active in doors and is well suited to apartment living. Of course, they do need to be exercised with the daily walk and they can have a tendency to become lazy if exercise is not part of their routine.
Daily grooming is a must with this long-haired breed which should be brushed with a bristle brush. It’s also a good idea to put the hair up in a little ponytail to keep it out of the dogs eyes. You should make sure that the eyes are cleaned regularly and the ear passages as well. Even though this dog breed does have a lot of hair, it does not shed.
The Shih Tzu is sometimes called the “little lion” because this is a small dog with a huge heart and even bigger personality. It’s fairly well accepted that the Shih Tzu is the result of crossing the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. The origins of the Shih Tzu can be traced back several centuries to China where this breed found favor with many of the nobles. It’s said that some kept extensive kennels of this particular breed and that some worked at furthering the breed, at least to some degree.
While many dogs were freely traded, spreading various breeds throughout the world, the Shih Tzu was protected by the Chinese for many centuries. In fact, it wasn’t until less than 100 years ago that the first of these little dogs was allowed outside their native land. During the early years of this breed, trading, selling and transporting of the dogs to anyone who would take them out of China was strictly forbidden.
The Shih Tzu has a double coat with the outer coat growing to several inches long. The hair just above the nose grows up and this feature has given the Shih Tzu another of its nicknames – Chrysanthemum Face. This nickname derives because the little dog’s face looks almost like a flower, framed by this profusion of hair.
Anyone who loves a furry dog will likely find the Shih Tzu irresistible. Most owners tie up a topknot of hair on the top of the Shih Tzu’s head. This isn’t a fashion statement, but a matter of convenience for the dog. Like unruly bangs, this hair hangs down into the dog’s face, obscuring his vision and sometimes irritating the eyes. For this reason, many owners create the topknot and use the opportunity for pretty bows or ribbons.
Shih Tzus come in a variety of colors, though it seems that black and white are among the more common. It’s been said that show judges tend to look for a white forehead and seem to prefer that the tip of the tail is also white, though that’s not an official requirement. As a rule, the color of the eyes varies with the color of the coat – darker on dark dogs and lighter on the pale colored dogs. Regardless of the color, the eyes always seem alert to anything going on around the Shih Tzu. It’s almost as if these little dogs don’t want to miss out on anything, so they remain extremely watchful.
The personality of the Shih Tzu varies from one dog to the next and is one of the best characteristics of this dog. Most Shih Tzus are very playful, but have a stubborn streak and can be a bit grouchy if treated roughly. As a rule, a Shih Tzu will act differently depending on his mood and the situation. He can appear completely above the goings on around him, or be right in the middle of everything. That’s not to say these are standoffish dogs – quite the contrary. Most Shih Tzus want to be included, but will act aloof if it seems to suit their purposes. Perhaps they simply want to be begged into play!
