Origin and History

The Shih Tzu, a toy dog breed, has its origins in Tibet and China. This breed is believed to have descended from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso, and it was highly favored by the Chinese royals during the Ming Dynasty. The Shih Tzu was so prized that the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give away any of the dogs for years. Empress Dowager Cixi even developed a program dedicated to breeding Shih Tzus, and many court eunuchs bred them to gain favor with the Emperor.

The first Shih Tzus were imported into Europe in the 1920s and 1930s, with Lady Brownrigg, an Englishwoman living in China, bringing two to England in 1928. The breed was recognized by the Kennel Club in England in 1935 and spread throughout Europe. After World War II, Shih Tzus were brought to the United States by returning military personnel, and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969.

Controversially, in 1952, breeder Freda Evans introduced a black and white Pekingese into the breed, which is now recognized by both the UK and U. S. Kennel Clubs as purebred Shih Tzus. This hybridization was met with some controversy, but it has since been accepted by both kennel clubs. The Shih Tzu remains a popular breed, ranking 20th in the United States in 2024 and first in Israel in 2019, showing its global appeal and continued popularity.

Physical Description

The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, small dog with a distinctive short snout and large dark brown eyes. They have a luxurious long flowing double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent tangling and matting. The breed stands no more than 26.7 cm (10.5 inches) at the withers and weighs between 4.0 to 7.5 kg (9 to 17 lbs). Their ears are floppy and covered with long hair, and their heavily hair-covered tail is curled over the back. The coat may be of any color, though white and with blazes of grey are frequently seen.

A notable feature of the Shih Tzu is the underbite, which is required in the breed standard. The Chinese have described their head shapes as "owl head" and "lion head," and their mouth as "frog mouths" and "earthworm lips. " This distinctive physical appearance is a blend of regal and lion-like characteristics, which is fitting for a breed with such a noble history.

Breed Standard and Temperament

The Shih Tzu breed standard emphasizes a sturdy, small size with a distinctive underbite. The breed is known for its charming, affectionate companion temperament, with tags such as affectionate, playful, outgoing, and loyal. These traits make the Shih Tzu a popular choice as a family pet and companion. The breed's friendly and confident nature, coupled with their small size, makes them ideal for a variety of living situations.

While the Shih Tzu is affectionate and playful, they are also known to be outgoing and loyal. This loyalty and companionship are two of the most appealing aspects of the Shih Tzu, making them a cherished part of many households. The breed's temperament is a direct reflection of their history as royal companions, always eager to please and be by their owner's side.

Health Considerations

Several health issues are associated with the Shih Tzu, some of which are hereditary. Mitral valve disease, a heart condition leading to congestive heart failure, is common in smaller dogs, including the Shih Tzu. The breed's short nose can lead to breathing difficulties and other health issues due to brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS), including stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, and tracheal hypoplasia. These conditions can be painful and require ongoing management.

Shih Tzus are also prone to eye problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and excessive tear production, which can lead to tear stains around the eyes. Ear infections are common due to their long coat and hair growth in the ears. A study found the Shih Tzu to have a 4.02 times greater risk of impaired hepatic perfusion, a condition resulting in reduced bloodflow to the liver, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Life Expectancy

The Shih Tzu has a life expectancy of 10-18 years. A 2022 study in the UK found the life expectancy to be 11 years, slightly below the average for all dogs. This study also noted that the Shih Tzu's life expectancy varies based on factors such as genetics, environmental conditions, and the quality of veterinary care. A 2024 study found a life expectancy of 12.8 years for the breed, showing an upward trend in lifespan over the years.

Breed Standard Differences

There are differences between the Shih Tzu recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club (UK). The AKC Shih Tzu has straight front legs and muscular hindquarters, with a big, round head set high and facing forward or up. The neck and body are the most important aspects, with large, forward-facing eyes and frontal shoulders. This standard reflects a preference for a more robust and muscular physique.

The UK standard for the Shih Tzu emphasizes the breed's sturdiness and affectionate temperament, with a focus on maintaining the breed's original characteristics and ensuring a healthy, happy dog. The UK standard may allow for slight variations in physical attributes, as long as the overall health and temperament of the dog are preserved.

Buying a Shih Tzu

A good breeder will be transparent about the dog's lineage and any known health issues within the family line.

Additionally, potential owners should be prepared for the ongoing costs of owning a Shih Tzu, including veterinary care, grooming, and food. The Shih Tzu is a great choice for those who enjoy a loyal, affectionate companion with a regal history and are willing to commit to the breed's specific care requirements and potential health issues.