Breeds in the Utility Group of Dogs

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Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu (right, Fin Ch Camelle the Lion King)is Tibetan in origin, believed to be the result of breeding the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese  together although the breed was developed in China where they lived in the Imperial Palaces.  For hundreds of years there was a tradition of an annual exchange of gifts between the Dalai Lama and the Emperor of China, when the Emperor would be given dogs and the Dalai Lama would receive dogs or some other gifts in return.  It was in this way that the Tibetan dogs - probably Lhasa Apsos - became pets of the Emperor, and were then bred to the Imperial Pekingese.

China was very jealous of its dogs and until it became a Republic in 1912 prevented any being exported to the west; after the Revolution the borders were opened but it was not until 1931 that there is an official record of a Shih Tzu being imported to the UK.  They were recognised by The Kennel Club in 1934 and granted Champion status in 1949.

He is fractionally taller than the Lhasa and it is customary for his topknot to be tied up rather than left as a fringe; another difference is that his coat tends to have a slight wave, unlike the waterfall appearance of the Lhasa.  His foreface is distinctively snubbed with a slightly up-tilted nose and this effect is exaggerated by the hair growing upwards on his nose.

All colours are allowed for the Shih Tzu and a white blaze on the forehead and white tip to the tail are considered highly desirable.  He is a charming little dog, friendly and active he is well suited to family life.   His coat, of course, requires a fair bit of attention, but if that is attended to he makes a very cheerful addition to the home.

Click here to read the Shih Tzu Breed Standard.

Selected Books

The time to make sure that the Shih Tzu is the right breed for you is before you bring him home. If you and your dog are going to be a good match speak to breeders, Breed Clubs, and generally find out as much as you can about the breed.

Understanding dog psychology, and what his motivations are will save a lot of confusion and misunderstandings for both you and him. Many mistakes can be avoided, and quick solutions reached if you have the basics of puppy training to guide you through all the early settling in difficulties.  It helps, too, to have some idea of basic healthcare so you can make informed judgements about whether a visit to the vet is necessary or if there is a simple remedy.  For example, many cases of upset tummies are best cured by 24 hour starvation.  The books we have chosen will be able to guide you as to whether your dog can be treated at home, or a visit to the surgery is necessary.

Shih Tzu Breed Clubs

• NORTHERN COUNTIES SHIH TZU CLUB
• SHIH TZU CLUB
• SHIH TZU CLUB OF SCOTLAND

Shih Tzu Rescue and Rehoming

Contact a Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own pet, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.

Shih Tzu Breeders

• Rosaril 
• Petwalk & Khalwalk
• Nachubans