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Shih Tzu Puppies Pictures

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The Shih Tzu is sometimes called the ?little lion? because this is a small dog with a huge heart and even bigger personality. It's fairly well accepted that the Shih Tzu is the result of crossing the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. The origins of the Shih Tzu can be traced back several centuries to China where this breed found favor with many of the nobles. It's said that some kept extensive kennels of this particular breed and that some worked at furthering the breed, at least to some degree.

While many dogs were freely traded, spreading various breeds throughout the world, the Shih Tzu was protected by the Chinese for many centuries. In fact, it wasn't until less than 100 years ago that the first of these little dogs was allowed outside their native land. During the early years of this breed, trading, selling and transporting of the dogs to anyone who would take them out of China was strictly forbidden.

The Shih Tzu has a double coat with the outer coat growing to several inches long. The hair just above the nose grows up and this feature has given the Shih Tzu another of its nicknames ? Chrysanthemum Face. This nickname derives because the little dog's face looks almost like a flower, framed by this profusion of hair.

Anyone who loves a furry dog will likely find the Shih Tzu irresistible. Most owners tie up a topknot of hair on the top of the Shih Tzu's head. This isn't a fashion statement, but a matter of convenience for the dog. Like unruly bangs, this hair hangs down into the dog's face, obscuring his vision and sometimes irritating the eyes. For this reason, many owners create the topknot and use the opportunity for pretty bows or ribbons.

Shih Tzus come in a variety of colors, though it seems that black and white are among the more common. It's been said that show judges tend to look for a white forehead and seem to prefer that the tip of the tail is also white, though that's not an official requirement. As a rule, the color of the eyes varies with the color of the coat ? darker on dark dogs and lighter on the pale colored dogs. Regardless of the color, the eyes always seem alert to anything going on around the Shih Tzu. It's almost as if these little dogs don't want to miss out on anything, so they remain extremely watchful.

The personality of the Shih Tzu varies from one dog to the next and is one of the best characteristics of this dog. Most Shih Tzus are very playful, but have a stubborn streak and can be a bit grouchy if treated roughly. As a rule, a Shih Tzu will act differently depending on his mood and the situation. He can appear completely above the goings on around him, or be right in the middle of everything. That's not to say these are standoffish dogs ? quite the contrary. Most Shih Tzus want to be included, but will act aloof if it seems to suit their purposes. Perhaps they simply want to be begged into play!

Shih Tzu Puppies Pictures

What sets the Shih Tzu apart from other breeds? The Shih Tzu is mysterious and charismatic. Its charm, self confidence and alert countenance is certainly very alluring. The Shih Tzu is highly intelligent. The Shih Tzu's outgoing personality, big eyes with that warm and trusting expression is so hard to resist. Is a Shih Tzu going to be the right dog for you?

First of all, the Shih Tzu want to be with their people more than anything else in their lives. They do not do well in lonely kennels or when left alone for long periods of time. They have been bred for centuries to be a quintessential companion, always at your side, always in your presence craving love and attention. If you sit down, your Shih Tzu will want to immediately sit with you or an even better spot in the Shih Tzu's mind, would be to jump into your lap and lavish you with kisses. Your Shih Tzu will want you to pet and snuggle him. If you are eating, your Shih Tzu will either beg you for a bite or sit waiting patiently until you give him a bite. In essence, if you want a constant loving companion by your side at all times, the Shih Tzu is probably right for you. If you have lots of time to stay home or are able to take your Shih Tzu along wherever you go, the Shih Tzu is probably right for you. By lots of time, I mean especially enough time to groom, socialize and exercise your Shih Tzu. The lifespan of a Shih Tzu is typically 11 to 15 years.

Shih Tzu are usually active, busy, curious and creative. You will need a variety of toys to help keep the Shih Tzu's mind occupied. You will need a fenced-in yard or an area where you are able to walk your Shih Tzu for exercise. Shih Tzu are very good natured, but also very vivacious. Shih Tzu have a good sense of humor and would rather clown around than to be serious. Always keep in mind that Shih Tzu were bred to be ornamental or decorative pieces to have around, not for any particular work purpose. A Shih Tzu thinks just their presence is enough and anyone should be pleased to just be in their presence. They are proud and arrogant with a slight stubborn streak. A Shih Tzu has a mind of its own.

The Shih Tzu is a palace-dweller. For thousands of years the Shih Tzu had addresses in such places as imperial palaces, chez Dalai Lama, and with top political figures and dignitaries homes. It was a status symbol of wealth and dignity to own a Shih Tzu. To your small Shih Tzu companion, your safe and cozy home is its palace. Give your Shih Tzu a comfortable place to sleep (and I might add, the Shih Tzu discovers quite quickly that ?your pillow? is the most comfortable spot to sleep), excellent care, high quality food and a loving family. Your Shih Tzu could not be happier. Although their stubborn streak may appear from time to time, the Shih Tzu can be trained quite successfully. Just use consistency and patience with your training lessons.

The Shih Tzu is strictly a house pet. Shih Tzu cannot tolerate harsh weather, either too cold or too hot, especially the heat. Shih Tzu need good ventilation, fresh air and a cool, protected area in warmer climates.

Shih Tzu require careful daily grooming. Most of the hair that is shed from a Shih Tzu's coat will end up in the brush if you brush daily. They do very little shedding elsewhere. Shih Tzu are also less allergenic than most other breeds, which makes the Shih Tzu an ideal companion for adults or children who suffer from allergies and cannot house other types of pets.

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Both Charles Kassotis & Connie Limon 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.

Charles Kassotis has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Appliances, Gifts for loved ones and Pets. For more information on Shih Tzus and other Popular, and not-so-popular breeds of dogs, visit . Charles Kassotis's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.

Connie Limon has sinced written about articles on various topics from Careers and Job Hunting, Dogs and Colon Cleanse. Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at:. Connie Limon's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.

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