Utility group · China/Tibet
Shih Tzu
Also called Chrysanthemum Dog, Lion Dog, Xi Shi Dog.
What makes them remarkable
Its name means “lion dog”, a grand title for a companion developed in Chinese imperial circles.
- Affectionate
- Playful
- Outgoing
- Loyal
- Trusting
- Size
- Toy
- Weight
- 4 to 7 kg9 to 16 lb
- Lives
- 10 to 18 years
- Energy
- Low
- Trains
- Moderate
- Barks
- Moderate
Training
Training a Shih Tzu
Utility breeds. Many of these think before they obey. Earn compliance with reward and consistency; they do not do it for free.
Housetraining Consistency
Start here
Shih Tzus can be stubborn about housetraining. Maintain strict schedule and use crate training.
Heat Sensitivity
Flat face makes heat dangerous. Train indoors during warm weather and avoid outdoor exercise in heat.
Reward-Based Training
Bred for companionship, not obedience. Use treats and praise liberally to motivate.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Shih Tzu and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Breeds developed for a job that no longer exists or never fitted a group. Includes the spitz and primitive breeds.
Gets on with
- ChildrenHigh
- Other dogsHigh
- StrangersHigh
- CatsHigh
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 20-30 minutes daily. Short walks and play. Avoid strenuous exercise in heat.
- Grooming
- Very high maintenance. Daily brushing required for long coat. Many owners keep them in a puppy cut.
- Drool
- Very Low
- Coat
- Long, Double coat, DenseGold, White, Black, Liver, Red, Silver, Brindle
- In a flat
- Can work, with enough exercise outside it.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Moderate
Breathing difficulties due to shortened face
Eye Problems
Moderate
Prone to proptosis, dry eye, and corneal ulcers
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Moderate
Spinal disc problems causing pain or paralysis
Where they come from
History
Ancient breed developed in the Chinese imperial palace. Name means "lion dog" in Mandarin. Nearly went extinct during the Chinese Revolution but was saved by breeding programmes.
- Bonny · Shih Tzu belonging to Mariah Carey, frequently featured in her social media
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