The Shih Tzu is one of the many pure breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which is a revered organization where purebred dogs can register and compete. Shih Tzu dogs have many defining characteristics that will be listed later in this article. The important thing to know is that the AKC only allows dogs that meet breed standards and have a pedigree or documented lineage to compete in standard dog shows. Substandard dogs, even if they are purebred, cannot compete.
Though standard Shih Tzu have excelled in AKC competition, winning a record-breaking number of championships over the years, some Shih Tzu breeders selectively breed smaller members of the breed, which results in less-than-standard sized dogs. Miniature Shih Tzu, or Teacup Shih Tzu, retain the traits of the breed, however, are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. They can compete through alternative organizations such as the as the National Canine Association (NCA) and Chinese Imperial Dog Club of America.
The Shih Tzu breed has specific characteristics that separate it from other breeds. The American Kennel Club defines the breed standard and cites the range dogs must fall within to register and compete. Shih Tzu dogs must be sturdy with compact bodies covered in a double coat of long, silky fur in any color.
Later, they became the pets of Chinese emperors. Shih Tzu were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and have won a record-breaking number of AKC competitions since that time. Though Teacup Shih Tzu dogs are smaller than breed standard, they are still referred to as Chinese Imperial Dogs due to their illustrious history.
Shih Tzu descended from other Chinese dog breeds, most likely the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese, as much as 2,000 years ago. Shih Tzu means "lion dogs" and Shih Tzu were revered as holy dogs in China. Bred initially by Tibetan monks, Shih Tzu later became imperial dogs of various Chinese dynasties.
The Teacup Shih Tzu is referred to by many other names. Most often called the Chinese Imperial Dog (and registered as breed with the National Canine Association under this name), Teacup Shih Tzu are also called Toy or Toi Shih Tzu, Miniature Shih Tzu, Imperial Shih Tzu, and Pocket Puppies. Teacup Shih Tzu are smaller than standard Shih Tzu. They weigh only four to seven pounds as adults. Breeders use the smallest purebred Shih Tzu to create the tiny Teacups.
Like standard Shih Tzu, Teacup Shih Tzu dogs have long, silky fur in varying colors, dark, expressive eyes, and sturdy bodies. Teacups are usually bred to have shorter backs than the standard, to keep them from developing spinal disc problems. Teacup Shih Tzu may also have shorter snouts and a more doll-like face. They have the same happy, loving temperament as purebred standard Shih Tzu.
Teacup Shih Tzu are purebred just like standard Shih Tzu. They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club simply because they do not conform to the breed standard characteristics that are desirable in a Shih Tzu. Other organizations disagree and have registered the tiny Teacup Shih Tzu as the Chinese Imperial Dog.
Shih Tzu Dog Breeds
Admitted to the American Kennel Club in 1969, the Shih-Tzu is part of the toy group. This breed weighs from 9 to 16 pounds and is around 11 inches tall
This breed is small and sturdy resembling the Lhasa Apso and having an abundant coat consisting of a woolly undercoat any long overcoat of hair. The hair above the nose grows upward which creates a unique shape, sometimes referred to as a chrysanthemum shape for the face. The Shih-Tzu has a mustache and beard along with a short hairy muzzle and black nose. The eyes are dark, large and round. The pendant shaped ears are covered with hair which causes them to blend right in to the rest of the dogs body. He has a plumed tale which he carries curled over his back. These dogs come in all colors, but show dogs must have white on the forehead as well as the tip of the tail.
The Shih-Tzu is a little dog with a lot of character. Sometimes they can seem a bit arrogant, but they do tend to make friends easily even when they are being obstinate. This alert and spunky breed is playful and affectionate but does not cope well if left on his own and needs to spend a lot of time with his family. They are usually pretty quiet when indoors, but have been known to be a bit stubborn and can bark when they want to.
Since Shih-Tzus have a short muzzle, they can wheeze and snore a bit and also can be prone to respiratory, ear and eye problems. In some Shih-Tzus which have short legs and long backs, spinal disc disease can be a problem. Like most small dogs, they can be prone to tooth decay and need to have regular dental care. They can also gain weight easily and should not be overfed.
The Shih-Tzu can be active in doors and is well suited to apartment living. Of course, they do need to be exercised with the daily walk and they can have a tendency to become lazy if exercise is not part of their routine.
Daily grooming is a must with this long-haired breed which should be brushed with a bristle brush. It's also a good idea to put the hair up in a little ponytail to keep it out of the dogs eyes. You should make sure that the eyes are cleaned regularly and the ear passages as well. Even though this dog breed does have a lot of hair, it does not shed.
Both Rebecca Simpson & Lee Dobbins - 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. About the author: Rebecca Simpson is a passionate lover of the Shih Tzu and owns a popular website that can show you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved. Rebecca Simpson's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.
Lee Dobbins - has sinced written about articles on various topics from . Lee Dobbins writes for where you can learn more about your favorite dog breeds and see photos of the spunky. Lee Dobbins -'s top article . to your Favourites.
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