Shih Tzu
Breed Description

The Shih Tzu is known by several endearing names that reflect its royal heritage and distinctive appearance. Often called the "Lion Dog" due to its flowing mane-like coat, this breed's name actually translates from Mandarin Chinese meaning "lion." They are also affectionately referred to as the "Chrysanthemum Dog" because of the way their facial hair grows outward from the nose in all directions, resembling the petals of the chrysanthemum flower. In Tibet, where the breed has ancient roots, they were known as "Apso" meaning "bearded" or "long-haired dog." Some enthusiasts simply call them "Shi" or use the plural "Shih Tzus" when referring to multiple dogs. In Chinese imperial courts, they were sometimes called "Xi Shi dog" after the famous Chinese beauty Xi Shi.

The Shih Tzu represents one of the most cherished companion breeds in the world, combining an aristocratic bearing with an affectionate, outgoing personality that makes them ideal family pets. These small but sturdy dogs possess a distinctive appearance characterized by their luxurious double coat, proud carriage, and expressive dark eyes that seem to sparkle with intelligence and mischief. Despite their diminutive size, Shih Tzus carry themselves with confidence and dignity, moving with a smooth, flowing, effortless stride that seems to float across the ground. Their compact, solid build belies their toy breed classification, as they are surprisingly substantial dogs with good bone structure and muscular development.

The breed's most striking feature is undoubtedly its beautiful coat, which grows long and flowing when properly maintained. The double coat consists of a soft, woolly undercoat and a long, silky outer coat that can reach the ground if left untrimmed. This magnificent coat requires regular maintenance but rewards dedicated owners with one of the most beautiful appearances in the canine world. The Shih Tzu's face is another distinctive feature, with large, round, wide-set eyes that give them an almost human-like expression of warmth and intelligence. Their short, square muzzle and undershot bite are breed characteristics that contribute to their unique appearance.

Temperamentally, the Shih Tzu is a true companion dog, bred for centuries to be a cherished household pet rather than a working dog. They possess a friendly, outgoing disposition that makes them excellent with children, other pets, and strangers when properly socialized. Their alert nature makes them good watchdogs, though their friendly personality means they are more likely to greet intruders with wagging tails than aggressive behavior. These dogs thrive on human companionship and prefer to be with their families rather than left alone for extended periods. Their adaptable nature allows them to be equally happy in apartments or large homes, as long as they receive adequate attention and moderate exercise.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

General Appearance: The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with long flowing double coat. Befitting his noble Chinese ancestry as a highly valued, prized companion and palace pet, the Shih Tzu is proud of bearing, has a distinctively arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back. Although there has always been considerable size variation, the Shih Tzu must be compact, solid, carrying good weight and substance. Even though a toy dog, the Shih Tzu must be subject to the same requirements of soundness and structure prescribed for all breeds, and any deviation from the ideal described in the standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Shih Tzu as in any other breed, regardless of whether or not such faults are specifically mentioned in the standard.

Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - Ideally, height at withers is 9 to 10½ inches; but, not less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches. Ideally, weight of mature dogs, 9 to 16 pounds. Proportion - Length between withers and root of tail is slightly longer than height at withers. The Shih Tzu must never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty. Substance - Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact, solid and carries good weight and substance.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard describes the Shih Tzu as a robust, copiously but not excessively coated dog with distinctly arrogant carriage and chrysanthemum-like face. The breed should be intelligent, active and alert with a friendly and independent temperament. The head should be broad and round, wide between the eyes. The muzzle should be square, short, not wrinkled, flat and hairy. The nose should be black but dark liver in liver or liver marked dogs. The top of nose leather should be on a line with or slightly below the lower eye rim. The eyes should be large, dark, round, placed well apart but not prominent. The ears should be large with long leathers, carried drooping. The mouth should be wide, slightly undershot or level. The body should be longer between withers and root of tail than the height at withers, well coupled and sturdy, with a level back.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC recognizes the Shih Tzu as a small, sturdy, companion dog. The breed should exhibit a distinctively arrogant carriage with the head held high and the tail curved over the back. The double coat is dense and long, flowing smoothly to the ground. Daily grooming is essential to prevent the coat from tangling. The Shih Tzu has always been a companion dog and his temperament reflects this. He is friendly, trusting, and affectionate with a touch of stubbornness. The breed is adaptable to various living situations and makes an excellent pet for families with children. The ideal height is from 8 to 11 inches, though height up to 12 inches is acceptable. Weight should be proportionate to height and bone, typically ranging from 9 to 16 pounds.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) standard closely mirrors the AKC standard, emphasizing the breed's sturdy build and proud bearing. The Kennel Club (UK) standard highlights the breed's chrysanthemum-like appearance of the face, with hair growing in all directions from the nose. The Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) describes the Shih Tzu as a sturdy, abundantly coated dog with a distinctly arrogant carriage. All major kennel clubs agree on the essential characteristics: a compact, solid build; a long, flowing double coat; large, dark, expressive eyes; and a friendly, outgoing temperament that makes them excellent companion dogs. Minor variations exist in acceptable height and weight ranges, but all standards emphasize that the dog should be well-balanced and substantial for its size.

The Shih Tzu boasts one of the most fascinating and romantic histories in the canine world, with roots stretching back over a thousand years to the mystical lands of Tibet and the imperial palaces of China. While the exact origins remain shrouded in mystery and legend, most historians agree that the breed developed in Tibet, possibly as early as the 7th century, where they were kept in Buddhist monasteries and occasionally given as gifts to Chinese emperors. These small lion-like dogs held deep religious significance in Buddhist culture, as the lion was an important symbol in Buddhism, and these dogs were bred to resemble the lions depicted in traditional oriental art.

The breed truly flourished during the Manchu Dynasty in China, particularly during the reign of the Dowager Empress Cixi (1861-1908), who maintained an extensive breeding program in the Forbidden City. The imperial palace employed eunuchs specifically to care for and breed these precious dogs, and competitions were held to produce dogs with the most pleasing colors and coat markings. The dogs lived in luxury, with their own palaces and servants, and were so highly valued that stealing one was punishable by death. The Empress personally supervised the breeding program, and paintings of her favorites were commissioned, some of which survive today.

The fall of the Chinese Empire in 1911 marked a critical turning point for the breed. During the Revolution, most of the palace dogs were killed, and the breed nearly became extinct. Fortunately, a few specimens had been brought to England and other European countries in the early 1930s. The breed's survival owes much to a handful of dedicated individuals, particularly General Douglas and Mrs. Browning in England, who imported several dogs from China before the Communist takeover. These dogs, along with a few others that survived in China, became the foundation for all modern Shih Tzus.

The breed was first imported to the United States after World War II, when returning military personnel brought them home from England. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1969, and since then, the Shih Tzu has become one of the most popular toy breeds in America. Today's Shih Tzus are descended from just fourteen dogs - seven males and seven females - that survived the turbulent period of Chinese history in the early 20th century. Despite this narrow genetic foundation, careful breeding has maintained the breed's health and distinctive characteristics.

The journey from sacred temple dog to beloved family companion represents one of the most remarkable survival stories in canine history. Modern DNA analysis has confirmed that the Shih Tzu is one of the most ancient breeds, with genetic markers showing a close relationship to wolves, supporting the theory of their ancient Tibetan origins. The breed's name, meaning "lion" in Chinese, reflects both their appearance and their cultural significance, as they were bred to resemble the lions in traditional Buddhist art that symbolized Buddha's triumph over violence and aggression.

Unlike many breeds that were developed for specific working purposes such as hunting, herding, or guarding, the Shih Tzu has always been bred exclusively as a companion animal, a role they have fulfilled admirably for over a millennium. Their primary function throughout history has been to serve as cherished companions to monks, nobility, and eventually, families around the world. In Tibetan monasteries, they served as companions to monks and were sometimes used as watchdogs, alerting the monks to visitors or intruders with their keen hearing and alert nature. Some legends suggest they were also used to turn prayer wheels, though this is likely more myth than fact.

In the Chinese imperial court, the Shih Tzu's function was purely ornamental and companionate. They served as lap warmers in the cold palace halls, sleeve dogs that could be carried in the wide sleeves of traditional Chinese robes, and as living works of art that demonstrated the wealth and refinement of their owners. The breed's calm demeanor and relatively low exercise requirements made them ideal for palace life, where they could accompany their royal owners throughout the day without becoming disruptive or demanding excessive attention.

In modern times, the Shih Tzu continues to excel in its traditional role as a companion dog, but has also proven adaptable to various contemporary functions. They make excellent therapy dogs, bringing comfort and joy to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. Their small size, gentle nature, and low-shedding coat make them ideal for this work, as they can easily sit on laps or beds without causing allergic reactions in most people. Many Shih Tzus have been certified as emotional support animals, providing comfort and stability to individuals with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.

The breed has also found success in the show ring, where their flowing coats and proud bearing make them natural competitors in conformation events. Some Shih Tzus participate in obedience trials, agility competitions, and even rally obedience, though their independent nature can make training challenging. Their alert nature makes them effective, if somewhat small, watchdogs who will reliably alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, though they lack the size or temperament to serve as guard dogs. Today, their primary function remains what it has always been: to be devoted, loving companions who bring joy and affection to their human families.

The Shih Tzu exhibits a complex and charming behavioral profile that reflects both its ancient heritage as a cherished companion and its breeding as a palace pet. These dogs typically display a confident, sometimes even arrogant demeanor that seems at odds with their small size. This self-assured attitude is not aggression but rather a proud bearing that has been carefully cultivated over centuries. They carry themselves with dignity and expect to be treated with respect, often developing strong opinions about their daily routines and preferences. This confidence generally translates into a dog that is neither nervous nor aggressive, but rather one that approaches life with curiosity and interest.

Socially, Shih Tzus are typically friendly and outgoing dogs that enjoy meeting new people and animals when properly socialized from a young age. They tend to be less yappy than many other toy breeds, though they will alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds. Their barking is usually purposeful rather than excessive, making them good apartment dogs when properly trained. They generally get along well with other dogs and pets, particularly if raised together, though their confident nature means they may not back down from larger dogs if challenged. This can occasionally lead to situations where they need protection from their own bravado.

One of the most endearing behavioral traits of the Shih Tzu is their devotion to their human family members. They form strong bonds with their owners and prefer to be wherever their people are, whether that's lounging on the couch, following them from room to room, or accompanying them on errands. This attachment can sometimes lead to separation anxiety if not properly addressed through training and gradual conditioning. They are not typically one-person dogs but rather tend to distribute their affection among all family members, though they may show preferences for certain individuals who provide the most attention or treats.

The breed displays a playful nature that persists well into their senior years. They enjoy interactive games, particularly those that involve their owners, and can be quite inventive in their play. Many Shih Tzus develop amusing habits and rituals, such as specific ways they like to be petted or particular toys they prefer. They often exhibit a sense of humor and seem to enjoy making their owners laugh. Their play style tends to be gentle and non-destructive, though puppies may go through a chewing phase that requires appropriate toys and supervision.

Training a Shih Tzu requires understanding their independent nature and intelligence. While they are capable of learning quickly, they may choose whether or not to comply with commands based on their assessment of the situation. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods that make training fun and rewarding. Harsh corrections or forceful training methods are counterproductive with this breed and can damage the trust relationship between dog and owner. Patience, consistency, and a sense of humor are essential when training a Shih Tzu, as they can be stubborn when they don't see the point of a particular exercise. Housetraining can be particularly challenging with this breed, requiring vigilance and consistency over an extended period.

The Shih Tzu's integration into family life is typically seamless, as these dogs were specifically bred to be household companions and have centuries of genetic programming for this role. They adapt remarkably well to their family's lifestyle, whether that involves a bustling household with children and multiple pets or a quiet home with a single owner or couple. Their size and temperament make them suitable for various living situations, from small apartments to large houses, as long as they receive adequate attention and companionship. They don't require a yard for exercise, making them excellent choices for urban living, though they certainly enjoy safe outdoor spaces for exploration and play.

With children, Shih Tzus can be wonderful companions when mutual respect is established. They generally enjoy the energy and playfulness that children bring, but their small size means they can be easily injured by rough handling. For this reason, they do best with children who are old enough to understand how to interact gently with small dogs. Many Shih Tzus become devoted to the children in their families, often sleeping in their beds and participating in their games. The breed's patient nature means they will often tolerate dress-up games and tea parties, though supervision is always recommended to ensure the dog's comfort and safety.

In multi-pet households, Shih Tzus typically integrate well, especially if introduced properly and at a young age. Their non-aggressive nature means they rarely initiate conflicts with other pets, though their confidence might lead them to stand their ground if challenged. They often form close bonds with other dogs in the household, particularly other small breeds or gentle larger dogs. With cats, relationships can vary, but many Shih Tzus live harmoniously with feline family members, sometimes even developing close friendships. Their low prey drive means they are less likely to chase cats or small animals compared to terrier breeds.

The breed's need for companionship makes them less suitable for families where all members are away for long periods during the day. While they can learn to tolerate being alone for reasonable periods, they are happiest when someone is home with them. Many families find that having two Shih Tzus helps alleviate loneliness when humans must be away. They also adapt well to the schedules of retired individuals or those who work from home, contentedly keeping their owners company throughout the day without being overly demanding of constant interaction.

Shih Tzus tend to establish themselves as integral family members rather than just pets, often developing distinct relationships with each person in the household. They may seek out different family members for different activities - one person for play, another for quiet cuddle time, and perhaps another who gives the best treats. Their emotional intelligence allows them to sense the moods of family members and adjust their behavior accordingly, offering comfort during difficult times or joining in celebrations with enthusiasm. This emotional attunement makes them particularly valuable as family companions, providing not just entertainment but genuine emotional support to all household members.

The Shih Tzu is generally a healthy breed with a good lifespan of 10 to 18 years, though like all purebred dogs, they are predisposed to certain health conditions that potential owners should be aware of. Their brachycephalic (short-faced) structure, while giving them their distinctive appearance, can lead to various health concerns that require attention and management throughout their lives. Responsible breeding practices have helped reduce the incidence of many hereditary conditions, but prospective owners should always seek puppies from reputable breeders who conduct appropriate health testing on their breeding stock.

The breed's prominent eyes are vulnerable to injury and various eye conditions. Because their eyes protrude slightly and they have shallow eye sockets, Shih Tzus are prone to corneal ulcers from trauma, which can occur from running into objects, scratches from other animals, or even from their own facial hair. Regular grooming to keep hair out of the eyes and careful monitoring of their environment can help prevent these injuries. Progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and dry eye are also seen in the breed, making regular veterinary eye examinations important for early detection and treatment.

Breathing issues related to their brachycephalic anatomy are another concern for Shih Tzu owners. While not as severely affected as some other flat-faced breeds, they can experience breathing difficulties in hot weather, during exercise, or when stressed. Signs of respiratory distress include excessive panting, noisy breathing, or blue-tinged gums. Owners must be vigilant about preventing overheating and avoiding strenuous exercise in hot weather. Some Shih Tzus may have elongated soft palates or stenotic nares (pinched nostrils) that require surgical correction for improved quality of life.

Dental health is particularly important in Shih Tzus due to their small mouths and tendency toward crowded teeth. Regular dental care, including daily brushing and professional cleanings, is essential to prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and systemic health problems. Their undershot bite, while a breed standard, can contribute to dental issues if not properly managed. Many Shih Tzus benefit from dental chews and toys designed to help keep teeth clean between brushings.

Other health conditions seen in the breed include luxating patellas (kneecaps that slip out of place), hip dysplasia (though less common in small breeds), intervertebral disc disease, and various allergies that can manifest as skin problems or digestive issues. Liver shunt, a congenital condition where blood bypasses the liver, can occur in puppies and requires surgical correction. Renal dysplasia, a hereditary kidney disease, has been identified in some lines, making it important to choose breeders who test for this condition. Regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate vaccinations, parasite prevention, and maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise are crucial for maximizing the health and longevity of these charming companions.

If you're looking to adopt a Chrysanthemum Dog, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Chrysanthemum Dogs waiting for their forever homes.