If you are a dog lover, you may have heard of the Shih Tzu, one of the most popular toy breeds in the world. But did you know that this breed has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a thousand years? In this article, we will explore the origin and ancestry of the Shih Tzu, its journey to the West, and its evolution into the beloved companion dog that we know today.
The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with a history that goes back to ancient Tibet. Originally known as the “lion dog,” the Shih Tzu was bred by Tibetan monks to resemble the mythical lion that was said to guard the gates of Buddhist temples. Over time, the breed was refined and developed into the elegant and affectionate companion dog that we know today.
Despite its ancient origins, the Shih Tzu was not introduced to the West until the early 20th century. Since then, it has become one of the most popular toy breeds in the world, prized for its adorable looks, sweet temperament, and loyal companionship. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the history and characteristics of this beloved breed.
Key Takeaways
- The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with a history that goes back over a thousand years to ancient Tibet.
- The breed was originally developed by Tibetan monks as a companion dog that resembled the mythical lion that guarded Buddhist temples.
- Despite its ancient origins, the Shih Tzu was not introduced to the West until the early 20th century, but has since become one of the most popular toy breeds in the world, prized for its adorable looks, sweet temperament, and loyal companionship.
Origin and Ancestry
If you’re interested in the history of the Shih Tzu breed, it’s important to understand its roots. Shih Tzu’s ancestry can be traced back over 1,000 years ago to Tibet, where it was known as the Tibetan holy dog. These dogs were highly valued in Tibetan culture and were often given as gifts to Chinese emperors.
Tibetan Roots
The Tibetan holy dogs were bred for their small size and lion-like appearance, which was highly valued in Tibetan culture. They were also considered sacred and were often used in Buddhist religious ceremonies. Over time, the breed evolved into what is now known as the Lhasa Apso.
Chinese Influence
The Shih Tzu as we know it today was developed in China, where it was highly prized by the imperial court. The breed was particularly popular during the Ming and Tang dynasties, and it was often given as a gift to foreign dignitaries.
During the Qing Dynasty, the breed became known as the “chrysanthemum dog” due to its distinctive facial hair. It was also during this time that the breed was officially recognized by the Chinese court.
One of the most famous Shih Tzu owners was Empress Dowager Cixi, who ruled China from 1861 to 1908. She was known for her love of the breed and kept several Shih Tzus in the imperial palace.
Overall, the Shih Tzu’s ancestry is a fascinating mix of Tibetan and Chinese history. Today, the breed is beloved around the world for its friendly disposition and adorable appearance.
Journey to the West
The Shih Tzu breed has a rich history that spans over centuries. The journey of the breed to the West is an interesting one, marked by several significant events. Here’s a brief overview of the European and American introduction of the Shih Tzu.
European Introduction
In the 1930s, a few Shih Tzu were brought to Europe, including England, by Lady Brownrigg, wife of Douglas Brownrigg, the Quarter Master General to the North China Command. Madame Henrik Kauffman, wife of the Danish Ambassador to China, brought some Shih Tzu to Norway, and a Mrs. Hutchins brought some to Ireland.
During World War II, breeding of the Shih Tzu in Europe was put on hold. However, after the war, the breed gained popularity again, especially in England. Queen Elizabeth II is known to be a fan of the breed, and she has owned several Shih Tzu dogs over the years.
American Arrival
The Shih Tzu arrived in America in the 1950s, and the breed quickly gained popularity. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1969, and it has been a popular breed ever since.
The Shih Tzu is known for its friendly and outgoing personality, making it a popular choice for families. The breed is also known for its long, flowing coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and tangle-free.
In conclusion, the journey of the Shih Tzu to the West is a fascinating one, marked by significant events and personalities such as Lady Brownrigg, Queen Elizabeth II, and the AKC. Today, the breed is beloved by many for its charming personality and unique appearance.
Breed Standards and Recognition
Kennel Club Recognition
The Shih Tzu is a toy dog breed that has been around for centuries. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1969 and is now recognized by all major kennel clubs around the world. The Shih Tzu is classified as a member of the toy group, which includes other small breeds such as the Chihuahua and the Pomeranian.
Breed Characteristics and Standards
The Shih Tzu is a small dog breed that typically weighs between 9 and 16 pounds and stands around 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. The breed has a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty. The coat can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, and gold.
One of the most distinctive features of the Shih Tzu is its floppy ears, which hang down on either side of its head. The breed is also known for its brachycephalic (flat-faced) features, which can lead to breathing problems in some dogs. It is important to keep an eye on your Shih Tzu’s eyes and ears as they are prone to infections.
The Shih Tzu is a well-balanced dog with no exaggerated features. The breed standard calls for a slightly longer than tall dog, with the length being measured from the withers to the root of the tail, and the height being measured from the withers to the ground. The breed standard also calls for a friendly, outgoing personality, which makes the Shih Tzu an excellent companion dog.
In summary, the Shih Tzu is a beloved toy breed that has been recognized by kennel clubs around the world. The breed is known for its long coat, floppy ears, and friendly personality. If you are looking for a small dog that is easy to care for and full of personality, the Shih Tzu may be the perfect breed for you.
Temperament and Lifestyle
Typical Temperament
Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are great family pets and love to be around people. They are also alert and intelligent, making them great watchdogs. However, they can be stubborn at times and may require a bit of patience when it comes to training.
Lifestyle Needs
Shih Tzus have a relatively long lifespan of 10-18 years. They are a great choice for apartment living as they are small in size and do not require a lot of space to move around. However, they do need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or playtime in the backyard is usually enough to meet their exercise needs.
As a family pet, Shih Tzus are playful and love to be around children. They are also great with other pets, making them a good choice for families with multiple pets. However, they do require a bit of grooming to maintain their luxurious coat. Regular brushing and occasional trips to the groomer are necessary to keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Overall, Shih Tzus are a great choice for those looking for a friendly, affectionate, and active companion. With proper care and attention, they can make a wonderful addition to any household.
Health and Grooming
Taking care of your Shih Tzu’s health and grooming needs is essential to ensure they live a happy and healthy life. In this section, we will discuss the common health issues and grooming needs of Shih Tzu dogs.
Common Health Issues
Like all dog breeds, Shih Tzu dogs are prone to certain health issues. Here are some of the most common health issues to watch out for:
- Allergies: Shih Tzu dogs are prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation, itching, and other symptoms. Common allergens include pollen, dust, and certain foods.
- Cataracts: Shih Tzu dogs are also prone to developing cataracts, which can cause vision loss and other eye problems. Regular eye exams are important to catch any issues early on.
- Other health issues: Other health issues that Shih Tzu dogs may experience include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and dental problems.
Regular visits to the vet can help catch any health issues early on and ensure your Shih Tzu stays healthy.
Grooming Needs
Shih Tzu dogs have a long and luxurious coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Here are some grooming needs to keep in mind:
- Brushing: Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling. Aim to brush your Shih Tzu’s coat daily to keep it healthy and shiny.
- Bathing: Shih Tzu dogs should be bathed every three to four weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid irritating their skin.
- Haircuts: Regular haircuts are necessary to keep your Shih Tzu’s coat looking neat and tidy. Aim to get your Shih Tzu’s hair trimmed every six to eight weeks.
- Other grooming needs: Other grooming needs for Shih Tzu dogs include nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning.
Regular grooming not only keeps your Shih Tzu looking their best, but it also helps prevent health issues such as skin infections and dental problems.
Overall, taking care of your Shih Tzu’s health and grooming needs is essential to ensure they live a happy and healthy life. By keeping an eye out for common health issues and regularly grooming your Shih Tzu, you can help keep them healthy and happy for years to come.
Breeding and Genetic History
Early Breeding Practices
The Shih Tzu breed is believed to have originated in Tibet as early as 600 AD. The breed was developed by Tibetan monks who bred the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. These small dogs were kept as temple dogs and were highly revered by the monks. The monks believed that the dogs brought good luck and were a symbol of good fortune.
The Shih Tzu was also favored by the Chinese imperial courts and was often given as gifts to foreign dignitaries. The breed was so prized that for many years, the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give any away.
Modern Breeding Efforts
In the early 20th century, the Shih Tzu breed was imported into Europe, where they were classified as Apsos. In 1934, the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in England. In the United States, the Shih Tzu was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969.
Since then, breeders have worked to improve the breed through careful breeding practices. This includes selecting dogs with desirable traits and avoiding those with genetic defects. The goal is to maintain a healthy gene pool and produce dogs that conform to the breed standard.
Famous Shih Tzus
The Shih Tzu has become a popular companion and lap dog. They are known for their obedience and affectionate nature. Many celebrities, including Miley Cyrus, have owned Shih Tzus.
The breed’s distinctive appearance has also made it a popular subject in art and tapestries. The Shih Tzu’s lion-like appearance has earned it the nickname “little lion” or “lion dog.” This is due to the breed’s long, flowing coat and confident demeanor.
In conclusion, the Shih Tzu breed has a rich history that dates back centuries. The breed’s popularity has only grown over time, thanks to their charming personality and unique appearance. Whether you are looking for a loyal companion or a lap dog, the Shih Tzu is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original purpose of breeding the Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu breed was originally bred in ancient China as a lapdog for royalty. They were highly valued as companions and were often given as gifts to foreign dignitaries. Today, they are still known for their affectionate and loyal nature.
Which breeds were used to create the Shih Tzu?
The exact breeds used to create the Shih Tzu are not known, but it is believed that they were developed by crossing the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese breeds. The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy breed with a long, flowing coat and a distinctive “lion-like” appearance.
What is the temperament of the Shih Tzu breed?
The Shih Tzu is known for its friendly and outgoing nature. They are affectionate and loyal to their owners and are generally good with children and other pets. However, they can be stubborn and independent at times, so early socialization and training is important.
What is the life span of a Shih Tzu?
The average life span of a Shih Tzu is between 10 and 16 years. However, with proper care and nutrition, some Shih Tzus have been known to live into their late teens.
What are some reasons why someone might not want to get a Shih Tzu?
While the Shih Tzu is a popular breed, they may not be the right fit for everyone. Some reasons why someone might not want to get a Shih Tzu include their high maintenance coat, which requires regular grooming, and their tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained.
What is the history of the American Shih Tzu?
The American Shih Tzu was developed in the United States in the early 20th century. Breeders worked to refine the breed, focusing on their appearance and temperament. Today, the American Shih Tzu is recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club.