Shih Tzu Facts

Interesting Facts About The Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu facts are very interesting, and the more you learn about this breed the more you will fall in love with them.

Shih Tzu History

Around AD 624 it is believed that Fu Lin of the Byzantine Empire gave the Chinese royal court a pair of dogs.  The temple dogs were believed to have been Shih Tzu.  The Shih Tzu along with the Lhasa Apso and the Pekinese dogs were regarded as temple dogs and were treated as holy.

Throughout the Tang and Ming Dynasties, the Shih Tzu were kept in the forbidden city.  They were bred only for companionship to be kept in the house and around people.  Thus the Shih Tzu temperament is extremely gentle in well trained dogs.

The Shih Tzu did not arrive in England until the 1800s, and it did not arrive in the United States until after World War II.  American solders stationed in Europe brought this dog home after falling in love with its unique look.

Shih Tzu Breed Facts

The Shih Tzu was not recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1969.  According to breed standard the Shih Tzu should only stand between 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh between 9 to 16 pounds.

They belong to the AKC non working dog class, in the Toy dog group. 

Shih Tzu Colors

Shih Tzu come in a variety of colors and all colors are recognized by the AKC.  The main colors are black, blue, brindle, gold, liver, and silver.

More Shih Tzu Facts

DNA has shown for a fact that the Shih Tzu originated from the most ancient dog breeds.  Since the history of the Shih Tzu is so long, it can be hard to determine exact Shih Tzu Facts.

Shih Tzu Characteristics

Shih Tzu have double hair coats, and while that might seem to make them shed more, they actually shed much less than other dogs, and are actually recommended to people with allergies.

Shih Tzu Care

Shih Tzu should be brushed daily to keep their long hair from getting matted.  Haircuts should also be given monthly in most cases depending on rate of hair growth.

Shih Tzu require very little exercise but it is recommended that you do walk them to help them from becoming obese and to expend some of their energy.

As you can see there are many interesting Shih Tzu facts.  I encourage you to learn more about this interesting dog breed.