The Shih Tzu is a small dog breed from China, renowned for its long, silky coat and affectionate temperament. Originally bred for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu is a loyal, loving, and charming companion dog.
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog with a compact body. It stands between 20 and 28 cm at the withers and weighs between 4 and 8 kg. It has a round head, a short, flat muzzle, and floppy ears covered in abundant hair. Its large, dark, expressive eyes give it a sweet and endearing appearance.
The Shih Tzu's coat is one of its most distinctive features. It is long, dense, and can be straight or slightly wavy. Grooming requires significant care, with daily brushing to avoid tangles and mats. The coat can come in a wide range of colors, including white, gold, brown, and black, often with markings.
Both male and female Shih Tzus typically stand between 20 and 28 cm at the withers, with their weight ranging from 4 to 8 kg. Despite their small size, these dogs are well-proportioned and possess a graceful appearance.
The Shih Tzu is known for being a cheerful, affectionate, and loyal dog. It is particularly attached to its family and loves being the center of attention. Social by nature, it gets along well with children and other pets, making it an excellent family dog. Although naturally friendly, it can be somewhat stubborn, so gentle but firm training is essential.
The Shih Tzu is generally a healthy breed, but it can be prone to certain health issues, such as breathing difficulties due to its short muzzle, as well as eye infections and dental problems. Regular veterinary checkups and diligent dental care are crucial for maintaining its well-being.
The Shih Tzu Puppy is a small dog of Chinese origin, loved for its elegant appearance and affectionate temperament. This companion dog is known for its sociability, gentle nature, and cheerful demeanor. The Shih Tzu adapts perfectly to apartment living thanks to its compact size and moderate exercise needs. However, it enjoys playing and interacting with its owners, making it an excellent companion for families and the elderly.
Its long, silky coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain its majestic look. Although intelligent and curious, its training may require patience and a positive approach for the best results. The Shih Tzu is a sturdy dog despite its small size, but it’s important to monitor certain health issues specific to the breed, such as respiratory problems due to its short muzzle.
The price of a Shih Tzu Puppy varies depending on the breeder and pedigree. On average, you should budget around 1,200 euros.
The Shih Tzu, though small in size, has a strong personality that requires firm but kind training. These intelligent yet sometimes stubborn companion dogs respond best to positive reward-based methods.
Begin training as soon as they join your household, around 8 weeks old. Early socialization is crucial for this naturally sociable breed. Gradually expose them to different environments, people and animals.
Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes maximum) to match their limited attention span. Use special treats and enthusiastic praise. Basic commands like "sit", "down" and "stay" are essential for managing their occasionally mischievous nature.
Pay special attention to housebreaking - their small size and long coat can make this challenging. Establish a strict potty schedule and warmly praise every success.
Finally, gradually acclimate them to grooming routines (brushing, eye cleaning) which are integral to their care. Turn these moments into positive experiences with petting and rewards.
