The Shih Tzu is a long coated, sturdy little dog. They move in quite an arrogant manner with their tails carried over their backs
| General
Physical Description |
The Shih Tzu is a long coated, sturdy little dog. They move in quite an arrogant manner with their tails carried over their backs. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Size Category | Small | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weight Height Range | The height at the withers should be no more than 26.7cms. The weight is between 4.5-8.1kgs, the ideal weight being 4.5-7.3kgs. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Ailments | They are prone to eye problems as they protrude. Due to this they are susceptible to lacerations and their eye lids and lashes can grow in such a way as to irritate the eye. The tear ducts may produce too much or too little and need to be treated. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Common Ailments | General Respiratory Problems Renal Cortical Hypoplasia, Thyroid malfunction Eye ulcers |
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| Susceptibility To Illness | Medium | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| History | They are believed to have originated in Tibet, where they lived in the Temples and were occasionally given as a gift to the Emperors of China. Once they were in China they were crossed with the Pekinese to become the breed we recognise today. They arrived in Britain after 1912, but they were not given recognition until 1949. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that they were recognised in America. | |
| Intelligence | They are intelligent little dogs, but can be quite independent. They enjoy learning and like to please. They can be obstinate at times and can give the impression, with their dignified attitude, that some tasks are beneath them. With patience and consistency they can become relatively obedient. | |
| Show Characteristics | The head should be broad and round with hair falling over the eyes. The eyes should be set well apart and be large and round. The muzzle should be short and square with an abundance of hair. The nose may be level or tilted slightly upwards. The ears should be large and long with the hair appearing to blend into the hair of the neck. The mouth may be level or slightly undershot. The neck should be arched, falling into well laid back shoulders. The legs are short and muscular. The body should be longer than it is tall. The feet should be round and well padded, appearing large due to the amount of hair. The tail is long haired and should be set high and carried over the back. The coat should be long and dense, a slight wave is allowed but no curls. The hair on the head, that falls over the eyes, is usually tied in a topknot. | |
| Country Of Origin | Tibet (China) |
| Other Names |
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Chrysanthemum Dog |
| Dog Group Kennel Club | Utility | |
| Breed Classification | This little dog is a member of the utility group. In Australia it is classified as a non-sporting dog, and in America as a toy dog. They were originally kept by the Emperor as a court dog in China, today they are companion dogs |
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| Energy | Low | |||||
| Overall Exercise | 0 - 20 minutes per day. They do require exercise but are quite happy to stay at home and play. They are perfectly content with short walks. |
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| Distress Caused if Left Alone | ||||||
| Personal Protection | Low | |||||
| Suitability As Guard Dog | Low | |||||
| Risk of Sheep Worrying | Medium | |||||
| Tendency to Bark | Low | |||||
| Ease of Transportation | High | |||||
| Level of Aggression | Low | |||||
| Compatibility With Other Animals | High | |||||
| Suitable
For Children |
High | |||||
| General Character And Temperament | The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful and intelligent dog. They do love children and will accept other dogs and household pets if introduced from an early age. As a breed they can be independent and wary of strangers | |||||
| Lifespan |
9 - 15 years The Shih Tzu can live well into its teens. |
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| Average
Litter Size |
5 The average size of litter is 4 to 6 puppies, although litters of 9 puppies have been known. |
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| Average
Food Cost |
< $8 per week | |||||
| Feeding
Requirements |
Feeding will be less than $8 per week. | |||||
| Other
Expenses |
A puppy will cost between $800 to $1100. | |||||
| Average
Puppy Price |
$600-1000 | |||||