Shih Tzu
Toy Group
Height at Shoulders
9-10.5 in
Weight
9-16 lbs
Life Expectancy
10-18 yrs
History
The Shih Tzu (pronounced "sheed-zoo") originated in the palaces of Chinese emperors as early as 800 BCE. It is believed that they were developed from Tibetan breeding stock and are likely a cross between the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. Shih Tzu were considered property of the royal court and anyone found with one outside of the palace could face the death penalty.
Breed Characteristics
While not all Shih Tzu share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.
Intelligence
Affection Towards Family
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
Exercise Needs
★★★★☆
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★★★★★
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★★★☆☆
Energy Level
Sensitivity
Noise Level
Prey Drive
Shedding
★★☆☆☆
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★★★★☆
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Intelligence
★★★★☆
Affection Towards Family
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Strangers
★★★★★
Friendliness Towards Other Dogs
★★★★☆
Exercise Needs
★★★☆☆
Energy Level
★★☆☆☆
Sensitivity
★★★☆☆
Noise Level
★★★★☆
Prey Drive
★★★★☆
Shedding
★★★☆☆
Common Traits
Friendly, lively, and alert
Intelligent, playful, and known to sometimes be mischievous
Typical companion breed that will follow you around the house and cuddle in your lap all day; they can be happy when left alone during the day if given enough to occupy them
Coprophagia (stool-eating) is common
May be a bit stubborn and difficult to train- especially housetrain
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- Noise fear
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- Over 322 genetic markers associated with 183 health conditions:
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- 19 behavior traits including:
- Separation Anxiety
- Noise fear
- Excitability