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احجز موعدًا

Dog Breeds

Shih Tzu

A lapdog with a lion’s spirit, the Shih Tzu is the perfect blend of elegance and fun.

Dog Breeds

Shih Tzu

A lapdog with a lion’s spirit, the Shih Tzu is the perfect blend of elegance and fun.

Dog Breeds

Shih Tzu

A lapdog with a lion’s spirit, the Shih Tzu is the perfect blend of elegance and fun.

Dog Breeds

Shih Tzu

A lapdog with a lion’s spirit, the Shih Tzu is the perfect blend of elegance and fun.

Other Names

Chrysanthemum Dog, Lion Dog

Other Names

Golden, Yellow Retriever

Other Names

Chrysanthemum Dog, Lion Dog

Recognized By

AKC, FCI, UKC, CKC, KC (UK)

Recognized By

AKC, FCI, UKC, The Kennel Club (UK)

Recognized By

AKC, FCI, UKC, CKC, KC (UK)

Country of Origin

China

Country of Origin

Scotland

Country of Origin

China

Popularity in the UAE

Common and popular

Popularity in the UAE

Popular and common

Popularity in the UAE

Common and popular

Primary Use

Companion dog,lapdog

Primary Use

Companion dog, hunting dog, service dog (guide dog, therapy dog, search and rescue)

Primary Use

Companion dog,lapdog

Shih Tzu

Breed History

The Shih Tzu is a toy breed that originated in China, though it’s believed to have descended from Tibetan breeds such as the Lhasa Apso.

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs that were bred exclusively as companion pets for Chinese royalty. They were highly cherished during the Ming and Qing dynasties (14th to 20th century). To further refine their appearance, Chinese breeders may have likely crossed them with Pekingese. This resulted in the dog’s distinct short muzzle and long coat.

The name Shih Tzu means “Lion Dog” in Mandarin, which is a reference to the culture’s traditional Chinese lion sculptures. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969.

The Shih Tzu is a toy breed that originated in China, though it’s believed to have descended from Tibetan breeds such as the Lhasa Apso.

Health and Medical Concerns

Cancerology

Cardiology

Dermatology

Endocrinology

Gastroenterology

Hematology & Immune System

Infectious Diseases

Neurology

Ophthalmology

Orthopedics

Pulmonology

Reproduction

Mast Cell Tumor (MCT)

MCTs are a type of skin cancer that can affect Shih Tzus. Some MCTs grow slowly and stay in one spot, but others can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body. Shih Tzus have been found to have a genetic risk of developing high-grade MCTs. (Kim & Matsuyama, 2022)

Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC)

TCC is the most common type of bladder cancer in dogs, including Shih Tzus. It usually develops in the bladder’s trigone region, which can lead to urination issues like straining, bloody urine, and frequent accidents. TCC is aggressive and can spread to nearby organs. (Kim et al., 2017)

Hemangiosarcoma (HSA)

HSA is a fast-growing and aggressive cancer that affects blood vessel cells that often form tumors in the heart or spleen. Shih Tzus may have lower risks, but it’s still possible. The disease usually appears in older dogs and can cause sudden weakness, collapse, pale gums, or internal bleeding. (Yamamoto et al., 2013)

Health and Medical Concerns

Cancerology

Cardiology

Dermatology

Endocrinology

Gastroenterology

Hematology & Immune System

Infectious Diseases

Neurology

Ophthalmology

Orthopedics

Pulmonology

Reproduction

Temperament and Common Traits

Personality

Shih Tzus are affectionate and friendly, and they love human companionship. They are intelligent, playful, and adaptable as well.

Distinct Habits

They have a high tendency to bark and alert their owners of new people or unfamiliar noises. They can be a bit stubborn, but they love to please their owners, especially for treats.

Suitability for Work

Shih Tzus make excellent therapy dogs as they can offer emotional support and companionship. They’re not the best guard dogs, but they can be alert watchdogs.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is 12 to 14 years.

Some Shih Tzus may live up to 16 years with excellent pet care. The oldest Shih Tzu recorded was Smokey, who lived up to 23 years.

Training and Care

Trainability

Shih Tzus are moderately easy to train because they are intelligent and eager to please their owners. However, their stubbornness can make it challenging. Reward-based training with positive reinforcement works best with this breed.

Exercise Requirements

Grooming Needs

Living Conditions

Trainability

Exercise Requirements

Grooming Needs

Living Conditions

Trainability

Exercise Requirements

Grooming Needs

Living Conditions

Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Shih Tzus may have difficulty breathing in hot and humid conditions because of their short muzzles. They must be kept cool, especially during peak summer months in the UAE, to prevent heatstroke.

Precautions

It’s best to walk Shih Tzus in the early morning or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. Keep them hydrated with fresh water at all times. When at home, make sure the space is well-ventilated or use an air conditioner.

Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Shih Tzus may have difficulty breathing in hot and humid conditions because of their short muzzles. They must be kept cool, especially during peak summer months in the UAE, to prevent heatstroke.

Precautions

Breed Info in the UAE

Adaptability

Legalities

Availability

Heat Sensitivity

Shih Tzus may have difficulty breathing in hot and humid conditions because of their short muzzles. They must be kept cool, especially during peak summer months in the UAE, to prevent heatstroke.

Precautions

Diet & Nutrition

Dietary Needs

Shih Tzus need a balanced diet with high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Portion control is vital to prevent obesity.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

Shih Tzus need a balanced diet with high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Portion control is vital to prevent obesity.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Dietary Needs

Shih Tzus need a balanced diet with high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Portion control is vital to prevent obesity.

Sensitivities

Food Types

Portion Sizes

Suitability as a Pet

Ideal Owners

Shih Tzus are ideal for families, singles, and seniors who can provide companionship and moderate daily care.

Shih Tzus, who had been socialized early, go along with children and other pets. But, they require gentle handling due to their small size.

Compatibility with Children & Pets

First-Time Owner Friendly

Shih Tzus are great for first-time pet owners because they are friendly and affectionate. The challenges of caring for them include their grooming needs and occasional stubbornness.

Physical Characteristics

Head

Shih Tzus have a broad, rounded body with a short, square muzzle. Their nose can be black or liver-colored, depending on coat color. They may also have a slight undershot jaw.

Eyes

Their eyes are large, round, and typically dark-colored, giving them a warm and expressive appearance.

Ears

Their ears are large, floppy, and covered with long hair, which hangs close to the head to blend with the coat.

Body

Shih Tzus have a sturdy, compact body with a broad chest, well-developed shoulders, and a slightly arched neck leading to a level topline.

Limbs

Their legs are short but strong, which is proportionate to their body. They also have round and well-padded feet.

Tail

Shih Tzus have a high-set tail that curls over their back in an arc, covered with a plume of long hair.

Coat

Shih Tzus have a long, flowing double coat that is straight and dense. They can come in a variety of colors, including solid, bi-color, and tricolor patterns.