Shih Tzu
🧠 Temperament & character
The Shih Tzu is friendly, affectionate and lively without seeming nervous or hectic. It is exceptionally people-oriented and thoroughly enjoys cuddle sessions and the company of its family. With children, other dogs and cats it usually gets along well. Its dignified, composed nature makes it a pleasant everyday companion, though it occasionally shows a charming stubborn streak too.
📜 Origin & history
The Shih Tzu has its roots in Tibet, from where small lion dogs came as gifts to the Chinese imperial court. There it was kept for centuries as a precious palace and lap dog and carefully bred on. After the fall of the imperial dynasty, some animals came to Europe in the 1930s, where the breed took its present form. Today the Shih Tzu is a companion dog popular worldwide that has preserved its princely charm.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Shih Tzu's long, dense double coat requires daily brushing when worn long; many owners opt for an easier-care short clip. The eye area and the face must be kept clean, and the hair over the eyes is often tied up. Its need for exercise is low, daily walks and games are enough, though heat should be avoided because of the somewhat shorter nose. It is teachable but occasionally stubborn, which is why patient, friendly training works best.
🩺 Health
The Shih Tzu is a moderately short-headed breed and can therefore develop breathing problems, eye diseases such as corneal injuries as well as dental problems; there is also a tendency to slipped discs. Life expectancy is about eleven to fourteen years. Responsible breeders select for a sufficiently long muzzle and free breathing, have the eyes examined and pay attention to healthy knee joints. Regular dental care and monitoring of body weight are especially important in this breed.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Shih Tzu is superbly suited to families, seniors, couples and singles who want an affectionate, easy-going companion. As a classic apartment dog it copes excellently in the city and needs little exercise, but plenty of closeness and regular coat care. It is also suitable for first-time owners, provided they do not shy away from the grooming effort. In Switzerland it is a popular, uncomplicated city companion that should, however, be spared in the heat.