The Shih Tzu - Welcome to the World of Toy Dogs!

The Shih Tzu is a wShih Tzu, about the Shih Tzu, Shih Tzu breeders, Shih Tzu pictures, Shih Tzu puppies, Shih Tzu rescue, Shih Tzu adoption, Shih Tzu training, Shih Tzu care, types of Shih Tzu, Shih Tzu supplies, Shih Tzu obedience training Shih Tzu - All the things you probably weren't told about the Shih Tzunderful choice of a dog if you are looking for close companionship and child-like love and affection. These dogs have a distinct personality, are very lively, make wonderful watch-dogs and will keep you smiling all day long.

If you are interested in learning about the Shih Tzu breed of dogs, we endeavor to bring you all the information you will need to understand, train, and care for this wonderful animal. The history of this breed puts it as a favorite of Chinese Emperors. It reached China in the form of a gift from Tibetan monks, and from there it went to England. From then Shih Tzu breeders continued to breed more and more until in 1930 they were introduced to America and it took it about four decades to become a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club in 1969.

The Shih Tzu Is Special

This dog is very attractive to look at, which is one of the main reasons why it has been bred extensively. When you go for this breed, it will be good if have a real close look at his ancestry if you want to ensure you are getting a pure-breed. Shih Tzu puppies grow no more than 11 inches and weigh a maximum of 20 pounds. It comes in many colors, its distinctive traits being the two excellent coats – the outer longhaired and luxuriant and the undercoat dense and wooly.

These dogs make excellent pets for elderly people who need constant companionship because the Shih Tzu thrives on attention and petting. They are indeed real lap dogs and would love nothing more than being indulged. Since they behave like children, they tend to be easily spoiled. There is also a lot to learn about Shih Tzu training and it is suggested that you spend a lot of time reading specialized training information when you first bring your Shih Tzu home.

What about Shih Tzu care? Well, grooming plays a very important role in their life since they have a long haired coat which needs daily brushing and regular baths. This breed is well known for the top knot that it usually tied on the top of their head to prevent the hair from getting into their eyes.

They are very intelligent and can be trained well, if not for the extreme stubborn streak they possess. You cannot get anywhere with a Shih Tzu with harsh behavior. It will listen and cooperate only when you are praising or rewarding it with treats. Housetraining can be a bit of problem initially with this breed and it seems that crating is the best way to manage this aspect.

What most people don’t know, is that there are three Shih Tzu types, the imperial Shih Tzu, the dwarf Shih Tzu and the normal Shih Tzu. They have all been selectively bred over the years to come up with these three different variations of the breed.

If you are seriously considering buying a Shih Tzu for your household than why not instead of going to a breeder, check out a Shih Tzu rescue center, where abandoned Shih Tzu are cared for by the owners of the center. Most times these places are just homes that volunteer their services to take care of abandoned Shih Tzu’s. They are always looking for foster families to take responsibility of one of their dogs.

You will love to know that this breed lives long, as much as 15 years which can bring you a lot of joy. The health concerns are few and in between and are mostly centered on the maintenance of his hair coat. If neglected, it can get skin infections, matted hair, lice, skin parasites, and other hair related problems.

The purpose of learning about each and every aspect of Shih Tzu care is the hope that one will understand and enjoy this breed better. Read all about the Shih Tzu dog and hopefully you too will fall in love with this spunky breed of dogs.