The name Shih Tzu originated in China and translates to ‘lion’ or ‘little lion”. There are some differences between the American and the European Shih Tzu. But regardless of the version, they are a sturdy dog with short faces and large round eyes. Both have a chrysanthemum like face so called because the hair on their faces grows in all directions like the flower.
Both of these breeds, the American and European Shih Tzus, are recognized as purebred by national kennel and breed clubs. Let’s get on with the comparison discussing the American vs European Shih Tzu.
European Shih Tzu
The European Shih Tzu is a purebred and was acknowledged by the United Kingdom Kennel Club in 1946. The Shih Tzu was imported to Europe in 1930, far earlier than they appeared in America.
They resemble the original Tibet Shih Tzu from 2,000 to 3,000 years ago. These are sturdy heavier looking dogs with shorter legs so they are lower to the ground. And the European Shih Tzu has a wider stance with a broader chest than the American version. Their front legs bend back a little, they have a longer neck, and large round eyes.
The European FCI Standard is the original Shih Tzu Standard describing how the Shih Tzu should look, move and behave. Technically it is the original and true Shih Tzu Standard.
American Shih Tzu
America is not a member of FCI, so their rules do not apply in North America. The AKC Standard has been changed to reflect the American version of the Shih Tzu. Note this differs from the original European Shih Tzu.
Like the European Shih Tzu, the American Shih Tzu is recognized as a purebred by the American Kennel Club in 1969. This is much later than the 1946 recognition in Europe.
The American Shih Tzu has longer legs, shorter necks and is not as low to the ground. Their legs are more forward facing and they also have a shorter back and smaller chest.
With these differences in body, their movement and motion is also somewhat different than the European breed.
Final Thoughts
Because America does not belong to the FCI, the US has created their own version of the Shih Tzu as the AKC Shih Tzu. America has more Shih Tzus than Europe and thus has more influence on the breed standards.
That means today there are now the European Shih Tzu, American Shih Tzu’s and mixtures of the two. There are certainly many variations between breeds. Whether you are looking for a purebred to show or a companionship pet, it’s good to know these differences.