This breed is very ancient. The birthplace of Shih Tzu is Tibet. In 1643, the Dalai Lama gave the emperor's family two such dogs. After which they became banned. Such dogs lived only in the imperial family. From some documents it became known that the breed of Shitsu dogs came from Byzantium at the beginning of the eighth century. From this we conclude that dogs have European roots.
Origin of breed
Shitsu - a dog that was obtained by crossing two breeds: Lhasa aloha and Pekingese. There are other hypotheses for the appearance of these cute creatures, but they have not yet been confirmed. In 1854, the
dog was recognized by FCI, and in 1869 she was admitted to the exhibitions.
Breed Features and Character
Shitsu - the dog is very beautiful and smart. Sometimes there is a feeling that she herself understands her uniqueness. Shih Tzu dog is very proud and independent. Weight - about 5-7 kg, and height at the withers - no more than 28 cm (minimum - 20 cm). Life expectancy is 15 years. The head of such dogs is round, wide. The coat on it is thick, long. The muzzle is square in shape, short, without wrinkles, with eyes wide apart. The black nostrils are well developed, the nose is large. The coat of such dogs is long, thick, with a well-developed undercoat. There are different colors. Charming and cheerful Shih Tzu are very attached to people, get along well with other representatives of the fauna.
Character
Shitsu - a dog with a decorative appearance, but in character is completely different. She can be called a companion with an unusual disposition. She loves everyone without highlighting the owner. Shih Tzu cannot be on its own; it always follows its owners. She is very attached to people, so she is an excellent companion for single and old people.
Dogs do not get along very well with young children, as they perceive them as their own kind, therefore they begin to play “dog” games with them. Shih Tzu is very trainable. If desired, the pet can be accustomed to the tray, if there is no possibility or time to walk it. Such dogs are considered silent, but they bark very loudly, and from the very first months of life. When the owner leaves the house, the animal begins to get bored. The first few minutes of loneliness are accompanied by crying and whining. Shitsu is a dog that loves to play, so it needs constant communication with other dogs or people.
Content and exercise
The dog needs to be kept in apartment conditions, but it needs walks, during which it is necessary to give it the opportunity to throw out the accumulated energy.
Animal health
Shih Tzu often has back problems due to short legs and a long back. Often they have problems with eyes and ears (infections), they lose their teeth very early. They usually snore and wheeze. They are prone to excess weight, so you need to monitor their nutrition (it is advisable to consult an experienced breeder or veterinarian).
Dog Hair Care
Particular attention should be paid to grooming. I would like to note that this is a rather time-consuming process, which, incidentally, should be regular. In addition to combing the shih tzu dog, you will have to bathe it regularly.