Facts about Shih Tzu
- 09
Grooming a Shih Tzu into a traditional show cut requires approximately 4 to 6 hours of professional work due to the precision needed for symmetrical facial hair styling.
- 08
Excessive tearing and eye discharge in Shih Tzus occurs because their large, protruding eyes lack adequate tear drainage due to their flat facial structure and shortened tear ducts.
- 07
In 1969, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Shih Tzu as a distinct breed, distinguishing it from the similar-looking Lhasa Apso.
- 06
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus have surprisingly deep barks and were historically used as alert dogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces.
- 05
Chinese emperors during the Ming Dynasty valued Shih Tzus so highly that exporting the breed outside the imperial palace carried a penalty of death.
- 04
Shih Tzus typically weigh between 9 and 16 pounds and have a lifespan of 10 to 18 years, making them one of the longer-living small dog breeds.
- 03
The Shih Tzu's distinctive underbite and flat face result from selective breeding that favors a specific skull structure measuring approximately 9 to 10.5 inches in head length.
- 02
A Shih Tzu's coat requires brushing three to four times weekly to prevent matting and can grow up to 24 inches in length if left ungroomed.
- 01
Originating in Tibet during the 1600s, the Shih Tzu was bred as a companion dog for Chinese emperors and Buddhist monks.