The Royal Shih Tzu: A Complete Guide to the “Lion Dog”

Brief introduction

The Shih Tzu, often affectionately called the “Lion Dog” due to its long, flowing mane-like coat, is a small but sturdy breed known for its affectionate and playful personality. Originating from Tibet and later refined in China, the Shih Tzu quickly became a favorite of royalty and remains a beloved companion dog today. Their distinctive appearance, coupled with their charming demeanor, makes them incredibly appealing to dog lovers of all ages. They are easily recognized by their flat face, big dark eyes behind long hair, and luxurious double coat. Shih Tzus thrive on human companionship and are renowned for their adaptability, making them suitable for apartment living as well as larger homes. They are loyal and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families. However, prospective owners should be prepared for the dedication required for their grooming needs.

The history of the breed

The history of the Shih Tzu is rich and fascinating, deeply intertwined with the royal courts of Tibet and China.

Origins in Tibet and China

It is believed that the ancestors of the Shih Tzu originated in Tibet as early as the 17th century. These dogs were highly valued and often given as gifts to Chinese emperors. In China, the breed was further refined and developed during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), becoming a cherished companion of the imperial family. They were bred for their beautiful appearance and playful nature, living pampered lives within the Forbidden City. The breed’s name, Shih Tzu, translates to “Lion Dog” in Chinese, reflecting their resemblance to the stylized lions depicted in Buddhist art.

Role in the past and breed formation

The Shih Tzu’s primary role was that of a lap dog and companion. Their existence centered around providing comfort and amusement to their royal owners. They were treated as treasures, carefully bred to maintain their distinctive features. After the Chinese Revolution in 1949, the breed nearly disappeared due to political upheaval and neglect. Fortunately, a few dedicated breeders in England saved the Shih Tzu from extinction, using dogs that had been exported before the revolution. All modern Shih Tzus can be traced back to these few dogs.The breed’s popularity quickly spread worldwide, and it was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1969.

Appearance

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog with a distinctive appearance that is both elegant and endearing.

Height and Weight

• Height: Typically ranges from 9 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 cm) at the withers.
• Weight: Usually weighs between 9 and 16 pounds (4 to 7.2 kg).

Coat

The most notable feature of the Shih Tzu coat is its long, dense, and luxurious double coat. The outer coat is long and flowing, while the undercoat is soft and dense. The coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. The Shih Tzu comes in a wide variety of colors, including gold, white, black, brindle, and various combinations thereof.

Ears

The ears are large and drop, heavily feathered, and set relatively low on the head. The abundance of fur on the ears contributes to the overall luxurious appearance of the breed. Special attention should be given to the ears during grooming to prevent infections.

Eyes

The eyes are large, round, and dark, with a sweet and expressive gaze. They are set wide apart and should not be bulging. Due to the breed’s brachycephalic ( short-nosed) structure, some Shih Tzus are prone to eye issues. Regular check-ups are important to maintain good ocular health.

Tail

The tail is high-set, heavily plumed, and carried gaily over the back. It adds to the balanced silhouette of the breed.

Other Characteristic Features

• Facial Features: The Shih Tzu has a distinctive facial appearance, including a short muzzle, a slightly undershot bite, and a “chrysanthemum face,” which refers to the way the facial hair grows in all directions around the nose.
• Body: The body is slightly longer than tall, giving the dog a sturdy and compact appearance.
• Gait: The Shih Tzu has a smooth and effortless gait with good reach and drive.

Character and behavior

The Shih Tzu is renowned for its affectionate, playful, and outgoing personality. They are excellent companion dogs and thrive on human interaction.

Attitude Towards People

Shih Tzus are incredibly affectionate and loving towards their families. They enjoy cuddling, playing, and simply being in the company of their humans. They are often described as being devoted and loyal, forming strong bonds with their owners. They are generally friendly towards strangers, making them good greeters, though proper socialization is still essential.

Attitude Towards Children

Shih Tzus can be good with children, particularly older children who understand how to handle a small dog gently. Younger children should always be supervised during interactions with a Shih Tzu to prevent accidental injuries. It’s important to teach children how to respect the dog’s space and boundaries.

Attitude Towards Animals

Shih Tzus can get along well with other dogs and cats, especially if they are raised together. Early socialization is key to ensuring positive interactions with other animals. They may display a playful or inquisitive attitude towards other pets.

Activity Level

Shih Tzus have a moderate activity level. They enjoy short walks, playtime indoors, and simply lounging around with their families. They are not particularly high-energy dogs and are well-suited for apartment living. However, daily exercise is still important to maintain their physical and mental well-being.

Trainability

Shih Tzus can be somewhat challenging to train due to their independent nature and tendency to be stubborn. They require patient, consistent, and positive reinforcement training methods. Using treats, praise, and rewards can be effective in motivating them to learn. Early socialization and obedience training are recommended to help them become well-behaved companions.

Breed Characteristics

• Playful: Shih Tzus are playful and enjoy engaging in games and activities with their families.
• Affectionate: They are affectionate and love to cuddle and be close to their owners.
• Alert: They are alert and can be good watchdogs, although they are not known for being aggressive.
• Adaptable: They are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living environments.

Care and maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of a Shih Tzu.

Care Features

Taking care of a Shih Tzu involves several key aspects that are essential for their health and happiness.

Exercise

Shih Tzus require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. Short daily walks, indoor play sessions, and interactive toys can provide adequate physical activity. Avoid strenuous exercise, especially in hot weather, due to their brachycephalic structure.

Feeding

Feed a high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds. Monitor their food intake to prevent obesity, as Shih Tzus are prone to weight gain. Provide fresh water at all times. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet and portion sizes for your dog’s age, weight, and activity level.

Grooming

Grooming is an essential aspect of Shih Tzu care. Their long, luxurious coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Regular bathing is also necessary to keep their coat clean and healthy. Many owners opt for a professional groomer to maintain their dog’s coat. Whether a haircut is needed is more accurately assessed to be whether it is *preferred*. The Shih Tzu coat can be maintained long through diligent work, or kept short, like a “puppy cut,” for ease of care. Consider the following:

• Daily Brushing: Essential to prevent mats and tangles.
• Bathing: Should be done every 2-3 weeks to keep the coat clean.
• Professional Grooming: Recommended every 4-6 weeks.
• Eye Care: Wipe around the eyes daily to prevent tear stains.
• Ear Cleaning: Clean the ears regularly to prevent infections.
• Nail Trimming: Trim the nails regularly to prevent overgrowth.

Health

Shih Tzus are prone to certain health issues. Responsible breeders screen their dogs for these conditions to minimize the risk of passing them on to their offspring. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and treatment of any health problems. Common health issues in Shih Tzus include:

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Breathing difficulties due to their short muzzle.
• Eye Problems: Such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and dry eye.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Spinal problems.
• Hip Dysplasia: Abnormal formation of the hip joint.
• Allergies: Skin and food allergies.

Possible Problems

Potential problems with Shih Tzus may include:

• Excessive Barking: Some Shih Tzus may bark excessively if they are not properly trained and socialized.
• Separation Anxiety: They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
• Difficulty House Training: House training can be challenging due to their small bladder size.

Breed weaknesses

While Shih Tzus are generally known for their friendly and affectionate nature, they do have some potential weaknesses that prospective owners should be aware of.

Level of Aggression

Shih Tzus are typically not aggressive dogs. However, like any breed, they can display aggressive behavior if they are provoked, poorly socialized, or feel threatened. Early socialization and proper training can help prevent aggression. It’s also worth noting that poorly bred or carelessly raised Shih Tzus may be slightly more prone to aggression.

Loyalty

Shih Tzus are incredibly loyal to their families and form strong bonds with their owners. They are not known for being independent or aloof. Their loyalty can sometimes lead to separation anxiety if they are left alone for extended periods.

Specific Weaknesses

• Grooming Demands: Their long coat requires a significant time commitment for grooming.
• Health Issues: They are prone to several health problems that can require ongoing veterinary care.
• Training Challenges: They can be stubborn and difficult to train, requiring patience and consistency.

Conclusion

The Shih Tzu breed is a wonderful choice for individuals and families seeking a loving, playful, and adaptable companion. They are well-suited for apartment living and enjoy spending time with their owners. However, prospective owners should be prepared for the commitment required to groom their long coat and address their potential health issues. If you are willing to provide them with the love, care, and attention they need, a Shih Tzu can be a delightful and rewarding addition to your life. This breed is particularly well-suited for:

• Individuals or families looking for a small companion dog.
• Apartment dwellers.
• People who are willing to dedicate time to grooming.
• Owners who can provide a loving and attentive environment.