What are the Characteristics of a Shih Tzu Dog
The breed name for Shih Tzu comes from the Chinese word for "lion dog". Indeed, this dog breed was bred to look like a lion and does bear a resemblance to the typical guardian lion common in oriental art. The origin of this breed dates back to the seventeenth century, but it was not until 1934 that it was recognised by the Peking Kennel Club. It wasn't until almost 20 years later that it reached Western shores. In this OneHowTo article we'll tell you the characteristics of Shih Tzu dogs so you can get to know this breed a bit better.
Steps to follow:
The Shih Tzu is a small breed of dog. Despite their small stature, they are a strong and robust breed. They're very hardy and love to go for long walks. One of the features that characterises this type of dog is its head. Their rounded head and short muzzle contribute to their distinctive look.
The colour of its coat is a very distinctive feature of the breed. In fact, its long, thick and silky coat is highly valued at dog shows. The colour varies from dog to dog, but the most common is white with specks of grey or black.
Sharing your life with a Shih Tzu is a joy. They're highly intelligent, active, enthusiastic, affectionate and independent. They like to have things to do, are very observant and love to seek entertainment. Consistent routines and gentle training can help channel their energy. Short play sessions can keep them engaged.
They love the company of people, especially that of their owner. Although they are very clever, they are not particularly obedient. This is on account of their independent nature. Despite this, they get on well with other animals, but you must introduce them gradually and be patient.
It is a breed that is usually quite strong and healthy, although they do suffer from a few health problems. Because of their short nasal passages, breathing can be difficult for them. They often snore, but this tends not to cause any problems. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather, as breathing difficulties can make it harder for them to cool down. As they have a rather long back, they may experience back problems as they get older. And another common problem is that they have bulging eyes, which are easily damaged and can lead to the formation of ulcers.
Grooming is essential for this breed of dog. It has a considerable amount of hair and needs to be groomed and washed on a regular basis. Failing to do so might result in knots that are difficult to remove. Regular brushing, including around the face, helps prevent tangles and keeps hair away from the eyes. Before adopting this breed of dog, bear these things in mind.
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- Shih Tzu Dog Breed Information (American Kennel Club)
- Brachycephalic health issues (The Kennel Club)
