Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale
BREED INFORMATION
TemperamentAffectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Out-Going, Playful, Social, Sweet |
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Adult Weight | 9-16 lbs |
Adult Height | 8-11 in |
Life Expectancy | 11-14 yrs |
Rating | 5.0 (1 reviews) |
Maintenance |
Low
High
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Training |
Easy
Hard
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Shedding |
Min
Max
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Adaptability |
Easy
Hard
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Active |
Low
High
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Originating in Tibet, the Shih Tzu or “lion dog” is a descendent of its ancestor the Lhasa Apsos and a gift to the Chinese emperors during the 7th century. The Chinese royalty bred Shih Tzu and when the British arrived during the 1800’s, the breed made its way to England and then on to the United States. Always intended as a lap dog and affectionate companion, this is one of the most popular dogs today.
Appearance and Grooming
The Shih Tzu is often slightly longer than tall with a sturdy frame, a short muzzle and large dark eyes. It has a large tail that curls over its back and a long, silky double coat that comes in many colors: black, black and white, gray and white or red and white. Its coat needs daily brushing and combing to avoid tangles and knots, weekly bathing is also recommended. Regular trimming should be done every 6 to 8 weeks.
Temperament
The breed has a strong personality with numerous positive traits including affection, loyalty, and extroversion. Though he has an aristocratic demeanor with a bit of a stubborn streak the Shih Tzu doesn't tend to get into much trouble, and even when he doesn't obey very quickly.
Family and Companionship
These puppies become very attached to their new families, so it doesn’t mind where it lives as long as it is with its owner. A lover of comfort and cuddling, they make a terrific pet for senior citizens. It can adapt easily to a small apartment or a large suburban or country home. Though, due to their size and sensitivity to outside elements they should never be left outside.
Exercise
The Shih Tzu is happy with short walks daily as it is not extremely active. It enjoys play sessions indoor with its favorite toys or running to the door to greet visitors. It can also enjoy play sessions in the backyard. Pay careful attention to hot temperatures as it is sensitive and needs to be protected against heat.
Training and Socialization
Shih Tzu is naturally docile and friendly, but needs early socialization and training as it tends to become shy at maturity if it is not properly socialized when young. Early socialization helps it to become a well-rounded dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Shih Tzu was originally bred in China as a lapdog companion for Chinese royalty. Its name means Lion Dog and refers to the "regal look" of the breed.
The Chinese pronunciation is SHIRR dza, but the Western pronunciation as most commonly recognized is SHEET-sue.
A Shih Tzu measures between 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder in height and weighs between 9 to 16 lbs., however some Shih Tzu’s have been known to be even smaller, in the 5 to 9 lb. range.
The average life expectancy is between 10 to 16 years.
This breed is known to shed very minimally if at all.
These little ones can be quite stubborn, but that doesn’t mean that they are difficult to train. Training and socialization at a very early age will reap the best results. Practicing consistency throughout training is a must.
Yes, and cats too! They love the company of other animals and are known to make new friends quickly. They are not aggressive in nature and have no problem sharing their toys, their space or their food.
Let’s just say, that Shih Tzu’s have a very vocal way of expressing themselves! They will bark when they want attention, to alert their owner of strangers or just when something seems amiss…which in their eyes can be fairly often.
Because of their tiny size they don’t require much. A short 10-15 minute daily stroll with some indoor active play will be plenty to keep these little ones fit and healthy.
Shih Tzus are available in many different colors and color combinations. The most common include, black, white, brindle, gold, liver, red and silver.
The most common health concerns are hypothyroidism, juvenile cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, corneal dryness, patellar luxation, hip dysplasia & brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome.
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Shih Tzu has minimal to no shedding which makes them an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies.
They certainly do. Their vocal nature makes them the right dog to do the job when it comes to alerting their owners of strangers or anything out of place.
These little ones definitely enjoy the company of others and the companionship of other pets. Having a pair of Shih Tzu can help to boost their mental and physical health, and enhance their quality of life.
This is completely personal preference as they both make wonderful companions. Females tend to be a bit sweeter than the males, BUT males are more affectionate and more adoring to their owners than females.