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| Shih Tzu Dogs |
The first of these charming canines graced the shores of England in 1930, thanks to the efforts of Maureen Murdoch and her nephew, Philip Price, who played pioneering roles in importing and breeding Shih Tzus in the United States. By 1960, this breed had grown in popularity, and it boasted three dedicated clubs: the American Shih Tzu Association in Florida, the Texas Shih Tzu Society, and the Shih Tzu Club of America. Remarkably, Shih Tzus have earned another whimsical nickname—the "Chrysanthemum Dog," a moniker bestowed upon them due to the distinctive way their facial hair grows.
In terms of appearance, Shih Tzus are renowned for their long, lustrous coats, which come in a mesmerizing array of colors, including classic black, black and white, elegant gray and white, or vibrant red and white. Some Shih Tzus even sport tails with dainty white tips, and many have a distinctive white blaze on their foreheads. Their outer coats, characterized by flowing tresses that seem to cascade like a waterfall, lend these miniature canines a distinct grace beyond words.
What sets some Shih Tzus apart is their subtle differences in physical attributes. A few may have faces that are a tad longer, legs that appear a little longer and straighter, or bodies that are slightly shorter. However, regardless of these nuances, all Shih Tzus share a unique feature—a distinctive undershot bite, where their lower jaw is slightly wider than the upper jaw. This results in the upper teeth resting inside the lower ones when their mouths are closed.
Turning to their dimensions, male Shih Tzus typically tip the scales at a weight range of 8.8 to 16 pounds, while their female counterparts boast weights between 8.8 to 17.9 pounds. In terms of height, both genders share similar statures, usually standing between 7.9 to 11 inches. The overall length of these enchanting dogs ranges from 15 to 17.5 inches, adding to their captivating charm.
One aspect that endears Shih Tzus to pet owners is their relatively long lifespan, which spans from 10 to 16 years. In fact, Shih Tzus tend to outlive many other purebred dogs, with some remarkable cases, such as Smokey, who enjoyed an astonishing 23-year life.
Shih Tzus are gifted with a double coat, which, in grooming terms, translates to low shedding. This is because Shih Tzus boast hair, not fur, which allows the loose hairs to become entangled in the coat rather than ending up on your floor or furniture. Regular grooming is essential, and brushing every one to three days is the norm. Nail trimming is recommended every six months, while daily cleaning of their face and eyes aids in maintaining their hygiene. Furthermore, diligent ear cleaning can prevent infections, and regular dental checkups are crucial for their oral health.
Shih Tzus are renowned for their affectionate, clever, outgoing, and lively nature. They have a knack for digging and barking, and their zest for life is evident in their thriving desire for human companionship. As for their social demeanor, they are not shy about expressing their emotions and are known for their confidence, even around strangers. However, as they age, their level of excitement tends to mellow, and they develop a preference for calm environments. While they generally get along with other pets, they can exhibit some temperamental tendencies around larger species.
In terms of intelligence, Shih Tzus are considered smart and quick learners, especially with proper training and patience. Their agility is yet another charming trait, allowing them to engage in various games and activities to stay active and healthy.
Shih Tzus benefit from regular exercise, which plays a pivotal role in their physical and mental well-being. Puppies, for instance, require at least one brisk 20-minute walk each day, while adult dogs need 2 to 3 walks, each lasting 20 to 30 minutes. In addition to walks, Shih Tzus enjoy engaging in various exercises that keep their joints flexible and their muscles toned.
These delightful dogs are highly trainable, particularly when positive reinforcement techniques are employed. Consistency and a playful, positive tone are keys to effective training. Socialization from an early age is essential to ensure that your Shih Tzu exhibits friendly behavior. Harsh training methods can damage the bond between you and your furry friend.
Shih Tzus make wonderful family pets and get along well with a variety of other pets. They are well-suited for singles, couples, and families with older children, thanks to their docile and amiable nature. Moreover, their small size and adaptable temperament make them perfect for apartment living.
However, it's important to note that Shih Tzus are prone to separation anxiety, which can manifest through behaviors like whining, whimpering, and destructive tendencies. Effective training and distraction techniques can help mitigate these issues.
While Shih Tzus are generally healthy, like all dogs, they can be susceptible to certain health issues. These may include keratitis, proptosis, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and ear infections, primarily due to their distinctive floppy ears. To ensure a long, happy, and healthy life for your Shih Tzu, regular care and attention are of the utmost importance.