Shih-Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a breed of the toy dog group. Shih Tzus are a very active, lively dog that loves attention. They are only 8 to 11 inches high and weigh between 9 and 15 pounds. The Shih-Tzu is a friendly and happy dog and makes a wonderful pet and companion for any family. The Shihtzu does very well in the show ring excelling in almost every category it’s in. Shih Tzu dogs, it seems, love be primped and shown off to the public.
The small teacup Shih Tzu dog, which came from the research of good Shih Tzu breeders, is called Imperial Shih Tzu. These tiny dogs, not to be mistake for Shih-Tzu puppies, weigh only around 3 to 6 pounds. A Shih-Tzu breeder will be able to tell you the difference between Shih Tzu puppies and an Imperial Shih Tzu. Children seem to love these small animals probably because they always are like puppies, even when they are full grown.
The Shih Tzu comes in a variety of colors varying from chocolate, liver, red, black or a mixture of colors. Their coat is very plush and silky and easy to brush. Their gait is a smooth straight walk, almost an elegant movement.
A Shihtzu breeder will also be able to give you any important Shih Tzu information you may need about the breed such as training, health issue, feed and regular care. If they are selling Shih Tzus, they will guarantee the dog against most health problems. If they are a reputable and responsible Shih Tzu breeder, they have done everything possible to assure the Shih Tzus they breed and sell are sound, happy and healthy dogs. They make wonderful lap dogs and enjoy just being cuddled and loved.
Some breeders have made a cross between two dogs to create the Bichon/Shih Tzu. Pictures of these can be seen by any Shih Tzu breeder or possibly a pet store. They are bred for different percentages of each of the two dogs. A higher percentage Shih Tzu will have more characteristics of the Shih Tzu, whereas a higher percentage Bichon will more resemble the Bichon. The Bichon/Shih Tzu come in a range of sizes from small (8 to 10 pounds) to large (15 to 25 pounds). The Bichon Shih Tzu puppies are an adorable bunch. An interesting bit of Bichon/Shih Tzu information is that these dogs don’t shed.
If you are in or near Michigan, Shih Tzu owners and lovers get together and have a ‘meetup’ where they compare Shih Tzu stories and discuss and show their Shih Tzus.
