Pure breeds are defined as "of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations." Purebred dogs are extremely popular and are the only dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Association (AKC). These dogs have a documented ancestry, or pedigree, as well as specific characteristics of the breed they represent. Pure breeds are selectively bred, or inbred, to retain and strengthen their genetic traits.
Hybrids often have resulting cute-sounding names in addition to being cute-looking new versions of dogs. Examples of hybrids are: the Shi-Poo (Shih Tzu/Poodle), Puggle (Poodle/Pug), and Mal-Shi (Maltese Shih Tzu). The important fact about hybrids is that they are not pure breeds. Though more defined in lineage than "mutts," hybrids are the result of mixing of one or more pure breeds.
Pure breeds are defined as "of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations." The American Kennel Association does not recognize hybrids, nor does it allow them to register or compete. The American Canine Hybrid Club has been established to allow mixed breeds to compete as long as they have proper documentation of ancestry.
The Maltese Shih Tzu, or Mal-Shi, has characteristics of both the Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds. Mal-Shi are known to be social, non-shedding and even hypoallergenic small dogs with straight to wavy, silky fur. An adult Mal-Shi weighs only 6-10 pounds. This hybrid is thought to have the best characteristics of its Shih Tzu and Maltese parents.
Shih Tzu may have health problems such ocular disorders and infections and spinal problems. The breed is unable to withstand temperatures above 75 degrees, and its fur is prone to matting. For this reason many owners tie up the facial hair in a bow on top of the dog's head. Dogs must be brushed daily or given a "pet clip" or "puppy cut", which is a short haircut done only if the dog is not in competition.
The Maltese part of the Maltese Shih Tzu dates back 28 centuries. The breed originated on the Island of Malta and has not changed in the intervening years. Physically, the Maltese has one layer of fur that is long, silky, straight and pure white in color. The fur is also hypoallergenic and sheds very little. Maltese have dark, expressive eyes and a black nose..
The body is long and sturdy. The personality of the Maltese is described as high in energy, difficult to housebreak, and afraid of nothing. However, Maltese are also cuddly lapdogs who are good with children and other pets. Maltese date back 28 centuries. The breed originated on the Island of Malta and, due to being separated from the mainland, has not changed much in the years since.
It is not a surprise that breeders and fans of both the Maltese and Shih Tzu may desire to have the lineage and genetics of both breeds in one dog. As the Shih Tzu, which is the product of a Lhasa Apso and Pekingese cross breed became registered as a pure breed, it may be possible that the hybrid Mal-Shi one day gains recognition as a pure breed by the American Kennel Association.
The Shih Tzu is a toy dog; characterized by its proud, sturdy and miniature stature - this dog breed is one of the most popular of the miniature breeds. But did you know it was originally bred to look like a lion?
The Shih Tzu's regal attitude is as a result of its long and distinguished history. Recent DNA testing has confirmed what researchers already suspected - the Shih Tzu is one of the oldest breeds of dog. The name comes from that of Xi Shi who is regarded as one of the most beautiful women in ancient China.
The earliest history of the Shih Tzu dates back many centuries. The Buddhist monks bred what is now believed was a cross between the Pekingese and a Tibetan dog breed called Llasa Apso.
The Buddhist monks were known for breeding special temple dogs. These monks bred special "palace dogs" for various emperors. As was their custom they sent some of what they then called the Tibetan Shih Tzu Kou or Tibetan Lion Dogs to the Tzu Hsi - the Empress of the Manchu Dynasty. She fell in love with her little dogs and they became common around the palace from then on.
From the middle of the 19th Century the Shih Tzu was bred as a watchdog for the emperors of the Manchu Dynasty. Typical of a Shih Tzu; these little dogs were expected to do little else that sit on laps and be pampered. You can now see where the "pampered princess" aspect of the breed originated from! The Shih Tzu was kept along some other toy dog breeds and while originally they were strictly bred in separate quarters but it is believed that after the empress died they were crossbred with the other dogs.
The Shih Tzu's were not kept separate from the other palace dogs and today's Shih Tzu's have traces of Pekingese and Pugs thanks to the sloppy breeding practices at the palace.
At this time it was somewhat of a competition in China between various palaces to produce the best looking dogs with the most beautiful colorings and coats. Breeding practices became guarded secrets and sadly the records of the Shi Tzu's rich and unique heritage will never be known.
Today's Shih Tzu's are a popular breed which is widely loved and make a great royal companion.
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Both Rebecca Simpson & Steve Allison are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Rebecca Simpson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Pets Puppies for Sale, Prospects and Puppies Dogs. Rebecca Simpson is a passionate lover of the Shih Tzu and has a popular website that can teach you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved