Breed Group: Toy
Weight: 9 - 16 lbs
Height: 8 - 11 inches
Color(s): Any
Coat: The Shih Tzu has a long, dense, and abundant double-coat. The luxurious and profuse outer-coat often sweeps the ground, and may be slightly wavy. The under-coat is wooly and soft in texture. The long hair on top of the head is typically placed into a topknot to prevent eye irritation. The Shih Tzu coat varies widely in color. They are minimal shedders and are considered hypoallergenic.
Overview: The Shih Tzu is often referred to as a "small lion". Some believe they originated in Tibet, but are most associated with China where they were highly revered as a palace pet and prized companion. The Shih Tzu is an active, happy, and affectionate breed.
Character: The Shih Tzu is small, sturdy, and intelligent. They carry themselves with a noble and proud posture befitting their aristocratic ancestry. One of their most valued characteristics is the eye, which exude warmth and a human-like quality. The Shih Tzu is the least delicate of the toy breeds.
Temperament: The Shih Tzu is first and foremost a companion. They love nothing more than being indoors with their family. This breed gets along very well with older children and other pets. They are outgoing and self-assured, keen and alert. They make excellent watchdogs. They do not do well being separated from their owners and may become destructive if left alone for extended periods of time. They are docile and quiet, but they also love to play. The Shih Tzu is spunky and can be obstinate at times. They expect to be treated as royalty and are easily spoiled.
Care: The Shih Tzu requires extensive grooming. They need brushed daily to prevent knots, tangles, and mats. They need to be bathed at minimum monthly. They are not suited for humid climates. It is important to keep their eyes and ears cleaned. Their eyes are particularly sensitive. They are prone to kidney disease and slipping kneecaps. The Shih Tzu's short muzzle makes it exceptionally prone to snoring and wheezing problems. Dental hygiene is crucial to prevent tooth loss. They tend to gain weight easily and must not be overfed.
Training: The Shih Tzu may be difficult to housetrain. The crate method works best. Although they are eager to please, and quick to learn, this breed's stubborn streak requires persistence and consistency. They do not respond to harshness or punishment. The Shih Tzu does very well in obedience training provided it is low-key and motivational.
Activity: The Shih Tzu enjoys short daily walks or vigorous indoor play sessions and games. They are very well suited for apartment or condominium dwelling. However, they love to play outside, so a small fenced yard is ideal.
Ownership: If you are looking for Shih Tzu puppies for sale from reputable Shih Tzu breeders or to adopt a Shih Tzu from a Shih Tzu rescue then make sure you understand as much about the dog breeds you are interested in as you can. Every puppy breed is different. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the Shih Tzu puppy above.
Contact Us:
Janie Verhoeks
San Diego, California
619.334.3057 phone
619.654.0592 cell
619.593.7888 fax
About Us:
It is my belief Shih Tzu (SHEED-ZOO) is the best possible loving, kind, intelligent, entertaining companion toy dog ever to have been bred!
I am very selective in breeding; beautiful, healthy, and happy Shih Tzu to AKC breed standards. My main focus is on exceptionally sweet outgoing temperaments.
All of our Shih Tzu live with me and my family in our home as part of our family. My Shih Tzu do not live in kennels. My Shih Tzu are up to date on all vacinations & wormings and are kept very clean, as well as fed only with an excellent quality of dog food.
All of our puppies are well socialized, with our other pets, children and all normal noises that occur in a loving home. Lots of Hugs n Kisses!
Please be sure you are prepared to know what it means to own one of these magnificient dogs.You must be willing to commit completely for the life of your new lil companion. Regular vet visits and grooming as nessasary to keep your shih tzu happy & healthy, and most of all lots of love, kisses , hugs. Did I mention Lots of Love?
All of our Shih Tzu are sold on a spay/neuter contract with limited registration. I will consider selling with full registration to an AKC show home .
I reserve the right to refuse sell/placement of my Shih Tzu to anyone, anytime I feel it would not be in the best interest of my Shih Tzu.
Please, feel free to contact me anytime. I'd love to talk to you about Shih Tzu and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
~Janie Verhoeks
If you're looking for competitive pricing on your Shih Tzu supplies. Be sure and click on my...JeffersPet logo below for best pricing!
Mommy, can I sleep with you?
Of course you can lil foo foo!
