Shih Tzu
Breed Profile
Size: Small
Origin: China/Tibet
Colour: Any Color
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
The Shih Tzu is active, alert and friendly.
Owner's Guide
Easily confused with the Lhasa Apso due to the similar appearance, Shih Tzus have a shortened face and a more amenable disposition. They are friendly with everyone if well socialized, and playful and devoted to their owners.
Originally bred: as a companion.
Special characteristics
Alert and playful, the Shih Tzu enjoys company.
Exercise requirements
Low.
Attitude to
Owners: affectionate, devoted
Children: good if raised with them
Other pets: good if raised with them
Strangers: friendly if well socialized
Unfamiliar dogs: friendly if well socialized
Perfect owner
Active, sensible, affectionate owner who enjoys grooming, playing and socializing their pet.
The dog's coat will bring in mud and dirt from outside and requires daily grooming to prevent mats from forming. The hair on the head should be clipped or tied up out of the eyes so that the dog can see clearly. The bulbous eyes are easily injured. The shortened muzzle can make breathing difficult, and it is likely to snore.
Articles
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- Q: My Shih Tsu-Bichon mix's back top gum is bleeding, can I give him antibiotics?
- A: There are many different types of antibiotics, and some should only be used for very specific conditions. Most antibiotics will also have certain side-effects. Without knowing the extent of your dog’s problem, ... More »
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- Pet Insurance - Do You Really Need It?
- Today, there are an ever-increasing number of insurance companies offering pet insurance and it is now possible to insure most pets from dogs to cats, rabbits to tortoises and birds to horses. More »
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- DFS Crufts 2010: The World's Most Amazing Dog Show
- One of the largest and most well-known dog shows in the world will take place at the beginning of March at the NEC in Birmingham. More »
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- Correcting Jumping Problems In Dogs Of All Sizes
- Dogs that jump up, regardless of their size, are a real problem for most people. Dogs jumping will definitely frighten people, and can potentially cause injury when they knock people over with their enthusiastic greetings. More »
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