Shih Tzu
Breed Profile
Theories of the origins of Shih Tzu breed abound. It is believed that it hailed from a cross between the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso, a Tibetan dog given by the Dalai Lama to Chinese emperors near the end of the 17th century. Dogs during ancient times were selectively bred and depicted in several Chinese paintings. The dogs were favorites of the Chinese royals and so revered that for years, the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give any away.
Temperament
Although an individual Shih Tzu’s temperament varies from dog to dog, the breed has a personality and temperament that is faithful, friendly, exuberant, cute and alert. They have a tendency to be possessive around other dogs. Training and proper socializing must start at a young age for the Shih Tzu to obey basic commands.
Color & Coat
Coat: The long, dense coat is double and fairly straight.
Color: Often multiple color coats: Gold, Dark/Light Brown, White, Black, White, Grey
Health
A number of health issues, some of them genetic, have been found in individual Shih Tzu, such as: Hypothyroidism, Intervertebral disk disease, Shih Tzu have a number of respiratory problems related to the shape of their face and head. Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome is a common problem and mostly affects dogs with short noses (brachycephalic breeds). Eye problems are highly prevalent in Shih Tzus, which becomes worse as they get older. Some health issues in the breed are portosystemic shunt of the liver and hip dysplasia.