Discover The Magic Of Shih Tzu: 18 Surprising Facts About The Breed

Shih Tzu’s are an adorable and loving dog breed known for their playful personalities and cute appearance. But there’s more to this breed than meets the eye. Here are 18 surprising facts about Shih Tzu’s that will help you discover the magic of this beloved breed.

1. Shih Tzu’s Have A Long History

Shih Tzu’s have been around for over a thousand years and were originally bred in China as palace pets for royalty.

2. They’re Considered A Toy Breed

Shih Tzu’s are considered a toy breed, weighing between 9-16 pounds and standing between 8-11 inches tall at the shoulder.

3. Shih Tzu’s Are Great With Children

Shih Tzu’s are known to be great with children and make excellent family pets.

4. Shih Tzu’s Are Hypoallergenic

Shih Tzu’s are considered hypoallergenic, which means they produce less dander and are less likely to trigger allergies.

5. They Are Good Watchdogs

Shih Tzu’s are known for being good watchdogs, despite their small size, they will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger.

6. Shih Tzu’s Has A Playful Side

Shih Tzu’s have a playful and silly side that can bring joy and laughter to the people who love them.

7. They Are Prone To Certain Health Issues

Shih Tzu’s are prone to certain health issues such as breathing problems, eye problems, ear infections, dental issues, allergies, luxating patella, and Intervertebral Disc Disease.

8. Grooming Is Important

Shih Tzu’s have long, thick coats that require daily grooming to keep them looking their best and prevent matting.

9. Training Is Important

Shih Tzu’s are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training, which makes them easy to train.

10. They Are Good Apartment Dogs

Shih Tzu’s are good apartment dogs as they don’t require a lot of space and are content to live in smaller homes.

11. Shih Tzu’s Are Good For First-time Dog Owners

Shih Tzu’s are good for first-time dog owners because they are easy to train and have a calm and affectionate temperament.

12. They Are Not Good Off-leash

Shih Tzu’s are not good off-leash as they have a strong prey drive and can be easily distracted by other animals.

13. Shih Tzu’s Are Good With Other Pets

Shih Tzu’s are good with other pets and get along well with cats and other dogs.

14. They Are Social Creatures

Shih Tzu’s are social creatures and thrive when they are around people and other animals.

15. Shih Tzu’s Are Not Barkers

Shih Tzu’s are not excessive barkers and only bark when they sense danger or when they want to alert their owners to something.

16. They Are Easy To Travel With

Shih Tzu’s are easy to travel with as they are small, quiet, and easy to take on airplanes and trains.

17. Shih Tzu’s Are Not Outdoor Dogs

Shih Tzu’s are not outdoor dogs and should not be left outside for long periods of time.

18. They Can Live Up To 15 Years

Shih Tzu’s can live up to 15 years with proper care and regular vet check-ups.

Shih Tzu’s are an adorable and loving dog breed known for their playful personalities and cute appearance. They have a long history, are considered a toy breed, great with children, hypoallergenic and make good watchdogs. They also have a playful side, but it’s important to be aware of the health issues they are prone to.

Grooming, training and socialization are important for them. They are good apartment dogs, good for first-time dog owners, but not good off-leash. They are good with other pets, are social creatures, not excessive barkers, easy to travel with, but should not be left outside for long periods of time. With proper care, Shih Tzu’s can live up to 15 years. They make great family pets and their loyalty and affection will bring joy to any home.

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