History of The Shih Tzu in United States

The American Shih Tzu

The history of the Shih Tzu in the United States really is highlighted in the year 1969. Because it is in this year that Chumulari Ying-Ying won best in show at the New Brunswick Kennel Club in New Jersey.

This is amazing, because no other dog breed had ever won best in show on their first day of eligibility.

This dog was owned by the Eastons who have had a large influence on the American Shih Tzu. The history of the Shih Tzu in the United States started because they were the first to import Shih Tzu to America.

They have always presented the breed at its best in every possible way. Both by the written word, and by the magnificent presentation in the ring, the Easton's Shih Tzu are largely responsible for the tremendous admiration for the breed they love so much.

Shih Tzu Breed Standard

Shih Tzu breed standard accepts all colors, although in China the goldens or honey or camel-colored are the most prized. Gold, or yellow, is the Imperial color so it is understandable that this color would be preferred. It is also the color of the lion, the animal they are named after.

The 1938 Peking Kennel Club Standard for the breed states, all colors permissible, a white blaze on the forehead and a white tip to the tail are highly prized. Along with the mid-50s French standard we learn, Honey-colored and white are rare and much appreciated.

The Shih Tzu is descended from both the Lhasa and the Pekinese. This cross-breeding was designed to change the shape of the head to become more lion-like, to reduce the size of the Lhasa and improve coat in the Pekinese, and to introduce all colors to all the breeds.

The history of the Shih Tzu in the United States continues because they are continually growing in popularity.