The Shih-Tzu

A breed of antiquity and regality, the Shih-tzu (pronounced Sheed-zoo) has often been called "the chrysanthemum-faced dog" because of the many directions in which the facial hair grows.  The Shih-tzu originated in Tibet where it was kept in temples as a sacred dog. They were given to the emperors of China during the Manchu Dynasty (17th century) as a tribute of great honor, hence became known as the "little temple dog". They were carefully guarded and cared for by court eunuchs. They are also known as "little lion dog". The Buddhists connection of the lion and the divine complemented by the breeds resemblance to the lion led to naming it "Shih-tzu" which means lion.

The U.S. obtains it's first Shih-tzu in the late 1930's, with just over 300 recorded by 1963. The breed gained popularity during the 1960's with many imports from England and Europe. In 1969, 2,811 were registered and in 1978 increased to 14,894. Within a nine year period over 85,000 were registered with AKC. This places the Shih-tzu in the top 25 most popular breeds. Today the Shih-tzu stands at number 9. The rise is not only due to it's imperial background but to it's personality. They became imperial arisocrats and ambassadors that made friends wherever they went.

The Shih-tzu is a very active, alert and lively dog with a distinctly arrogant carriage. He walks with his head well up and heavily plumed tail carried gaily over his back. He is a proud dog, befitting his noble ancestry. The ideal weight is between 9 and 16 pounds. The muzzle should be square and short, but not wrinkled. Eyes are to be dark, round and large but not prominent. They are wonderfully expressive with long lashes. The coat is luxurious, long and dense, but not curly. It is customary to tie the hair on top the head, being sure the eyes can still blink. The use of ribbons and bows are quite popular. Ears are large with long feathers carried drooping, blending in with the neck hair. His gait is slightly rolling, smooth and flowing with strong rear action.

One of the strongest characteristics of the Shih-tzu is it's personality. He is a friendly, nonaggressive dog that is a good companion for both children and other breeds of dogs. Best known for their fun-loving play, romping in an apartment or the countryside. Their coat flowing in all directions as they jump to attack an enemy sock or toy. He will stalk his prey and quickly run with the prize-often to lie on his back, socks between his front legs. They are warm, affectionate, charming dogs with doting personalities. They are people oriented and cherish nothing more than the love and affection of people. They will  sit patiently, with eyes gazing intently on you, waiting to be acknowledged by your calling to them, and getting a pat. They are not a one person dog. They are happy to entertain any stranger, once accepted by their family. They make friends wherever they go as if taking on the role of ambassador for the rest of their breed. They are petite, intelligent and docile. Though a lap dog, they are not high strung nor demanding of attention. He is content to lie in the corner with legs stretched out behind him, snoring softly, dreaming of some past adventure. Given his choice, he would be dozing off in your lap under the massage of your hand or sharing a spot of your bed all curled up against your body, with that soft snore to let you know he's near.