The origins of the Chinese imperial shih tzu dates
back to the 1800s in China. These little dogs with their long hair,
squashy face and friendly temperament were prized by Chinese royalty
and kept strictly in the palace. They came to America in the early
1900s and were bred by many kennel owners.
This small sturdy dog, like the Lhasa Apso, is
covered over with an abundant double coat of long hair lined with a
woolly undercoat. This proud looking little dog has hair above the nose
growing upward, creating a "chrysanthemum" face. The head is
rounded, with a profuse beard and mustache, short hairy muzzle, and
black nose (except in liver-colored dogs which have liver noses). There
is a definite stop. The eyes are large, round and wide-set, dark on
most dogs but lighter on liver and blue colored dogs. The pendant ears
are so covered with hair that they blend right into the body coat. The
teeth should form a level or undershot bite. The topline is level and
the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers. Dewclaw
removal is optional. The heavily plumped tail is curled over the back.
Any color is acceptable, though white on the forehead and tip of the
tail is preferred by most dog show judges.
The Shih-Tzu is an alert and spunky little dog.
Happy and hardy, endowed with loads of character. They are royally
dignified, courageous and sometimes arrogant. This breed does well with
polite, careful children. The gentle loyal Shih-Tzu makes friends
easily and although obstinate can respond well to consistent patient
training. A very alert watch dog, the Shih-Tzu likes to bark, but is
usually quiet inside the house. They are stubborn and clever. Shihs can
get snappish if they are surprised or peeved. Playful and lively, this
affectionate little dog needs to be with people and are generally good
with other pets. Some can be difficult to housebreak.
