Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu were bred in the in the mountains of southern Asia from as far back as the year 624. Originally raised as lap dogs and family play friends for royalty in Tibet and then China. They are called Chrysanthemum dog and are thought to have been raised by Tibetan monks for China’s emperors and their family. The term Shih denotes poetry and the term Tzu means child or master, which to some is the same thing. But, that’s too much philosophy for a dog, although I do like to sit around and think about things while dozing: mostly walks, rubs, and snacks.
The emperor’s called their Shit Tzu companions “lion’s dog” as their face has a lion look (it’s funny how us smaller dogs can behave like cats sometimes) and Buddha rode on the back of a lion. During the cold winters, noble women would use my cuddly cousins for warmth by slipping them under their garments and blankets.
Needless to say, these canine sages love to cuddle in a warm spot on a cold night. As it took a long time for the nobles to share their fluffy treasure with the rest of humanity, the AKC didn’t recognize this breed until the 1960s. To see the AKC standards for Shih Tzu click here.
The long coat of fur requires lots of grooming and when sheared creates a happy go lucky look. Daily brushing keeps that smile on their face.
Shih Tzu Facts
Males: 8-11 inches at withers,
8.5-16 lbs. Females: 8-11 inches at withers, 8.5-16 lbs.
14 colors and three markings.
Family oriented and playful.
Good around other dogs and children.
Not a yapper.
Fairly stubborn.
Doesn’t like to be left alone.
Can be destructive if not trained.
Shihpoo
Shihpoo are a mixture of Shih Tzu with a miniature or toy poodle. The size of the offspring will depend on the parents with a range of sizes, shapes and colors. This combination of wisdom and love mixed with the intelligence and athleticism of the poodle and we’ve got some lovable companions awaiting our personal development.
Remember, if you don’t teach it to us, we will behave accordingly, so train us early and often. If you have the opportunity to be around most of the day and spend the time teaching your shihpoo how you want us to behave, then this is a good mix for you. Having multiple dogs at home keeps the shihpoo’s time occupied when their humans are away. Remember, All we need is love. We give it unconditionally.