Tzu Basset

The Basset Hound is a distinctive, low-slung scent hound that stands no more than 14 inches tall at the shoulder, typically measuring between 13 and 15 inches, while carrying substantial weight ranging from 40 to 65 pounds, with some individuals exceeding 80 pounds. This breed's most recognizable feature is its dramatically short, crooked legs supporting a long, heavy body, creating the lowest-to-the-ground silhouette of any recognized breed. Despite their comical appearance, Basset Hounds possess a powerfully built, heavy-boned frame with more bone per pound than any other breed, giving them remarkable strength and endurance for trailing game across challenging terrain over long distances. The Basset's head is large and well-proportioned, featuring a distinctively domed skull with a pronounced occipital protuberance that adds to the breed's noble appearance. The face is characterized by deeply sunken, sad-looking eyes that appear in shades of brown and impart the breed's signature melancholy expression that has endeared them to generations of dog lovers. Extraordinarily long, velvety ears set low on the head are so lengthy they can reach past the end of the nose when pulled forward, helping to trap scent particles and funnel them toward the nose during tracking work. The loose, elastic skin forms deep wrinkles across the forehead and creates heavy dewlaps and pendulous lips that contribute to the breed's distinctive and unforgettable appearance. The Basset Hound's short, dense coat is hard-textured and smooth, providing weather protection without requiring extensive grooming beyond regular brushing. The most common color pattern is tricolor, featuring combinations of black, tan, and white, though red and white, lemon and white, and other attractive color combinations are also seen. The breed's chest is deep and full, with prominent breastbone providing ample heart and lung room, while the long, tapering tail is carried gaily in a slight curve when the dog is moving. Despite their ungainly appearance, Basset Hounds move with a smooth, powerful, effortless gait that can cover ground surprisingly well.

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy toy breed that stands between 8 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 9 and 16 pounds. Despite their compact size, these dogs possess a surprisingly solid, well-built body with good substance and bone. The breed's Chinese name translates to lion dog, reflecting its resemblance to the lion as depicted in traditional Oriental art. The Shih Tzu carries itself with an arrogant, confident bearing and displays a distinctly proud carriage with head held high and tail curved gracefully over the back. The breed's most striking feature is its luxurious, flowing double coat, which grows continuously and can reach floor length if not trimmed. The dense, abundant coat has a soft, slightly wavy texture and requires daily grooming to prevent matting and tangling. All colors and markings are acceptable in the breed standard, though a white blaze on the forehead and white tip on the tail are highly prized. Many owners opt for a shorter puppy clip for easier maintenance while still preserving the breed's characteristic charm. The long hair on the head is typically tied up in a topknot to keep it out of the eyes. The Shih Tzu's face is flat and brachycephalic, featuring large, round, dark eyes set wide apart that convey a warm, sweet, trusting expression. The short, square muzzle is set no more than one inch from the stop to the tip of the nose, with nostrils that should be broad and open. The breed has a distinctive undershot bite where the lower jaw extends slightly beyond the upper jaw, which is considered correct for the breed. Ears are large, set slightly below the crown of the head, and hang heavily covered with long hair. The tail is set high and carried in a curved arc over the back, covered with a long, flowing plume.