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Shih Tzu
Small Breed
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog, abundantly covered in soft hair with a distinctively arrogant carriage.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Tibet
Weight
4-8kg / 10-18lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Up to 27cm / 10.5in (standards may vary)
Coat
Long coat
Markings
All colours permissible. White blaze on forehead and white tip to tail is highly desirable in parti-colours
Lifespan
Long, 15+ years
An intelligent, active and very alert breed, the Shih Tzu excels as a watchdog. A happy and hardy little fellow, he is lively and playful yet gentle and affectionate. This friendly character makes for an excellent companion and family dog.
Temperament
The Shih Tzu is an intelligent dog, very alert and assertive. He is royally dignified, courageous and proud. Trusting toward all, he is a happy, friendly and affectionate little dog who is very loyal to his owner.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
Shih Tzus are magnificent small breed dogs, happy and hardy, and covered with an abundant double coat of long, soft hair that is pleasant to touch.
- Makes a wonderful family pet and companion
- Excels as a watchdog
- Acclimates well to most climates
- Needs very little exercise
- Recommended for novice owners
- Requires regular and professional grooming
- Noisy
- Teeth need regular attention
- Prone to ear, eye and respiratory problems