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Shih Tzu - The Little Lion Dog

The History of Shih Tzu

 
The Shih Tzu is an Asian toy dog breed originating from Tibet. These dogs were gifted to the Tibetan monks by passing traders from countries like Turkey or Greece. The Tibetan monastery is known for its strong affinity for lions. So they wanted to breed a dog that can resemble and look like lions which they considered to be a spiritual animal. The monks started breeding them with Pugs and Pekingese dogs and as a result, Shih Tzu's were born. These dogs were then gifted to the royal emperors of China (The Byzantine Empire).
 
They were kept as protection dogs near the royal family to sound an alarm when someone approached. Only the royals were allowed to have this breed and not anyone else. Shih Tzu lived the life of royal lap warmers and was pampered by emperors and their families for hundreds of years.
 
The breed spread throughout Europe and was brought to the United States after World War II, when returning members of the U.S. military brought back dogs from Europe and Asia, in the mid-1950s.
 
As they are royal dogs, they tend to be a bit stubborn. They are also notorious, fun, and have playful personalities. Almost close to 1935, before world war 2 started, Shih Tzu's were extinct. Every Shih Tzu that is alive today can be traced to one of 14 dogs - seven males and seven females (breeds like Pekingese, Pugs, and other ancestral dogs) - that were used to rebuild the breed.
 
 
Ideal Characteristics
 
Height
9 to 10.5 inches
 
Weight
4 to 8 kgs 
 
Life Span
10-16 Years
 
Fur Coat
Low Shedders with Long Coat
 
Temperament
Outgoing, Affectionate, Playful
 
Energy Levels
High
 
Dietary Needs
Small Breed Formula diet

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