Rare Shih Tzu Colors: A Look at the Breed's Diverse Coat Options

The Shih Tzu is a beloved breed known for its long, flowing coat in a variety of colors, but did you know that some of these colors are truly rare and unique?

One of the rarest colors is the blue and tan Shih Tzu, which is a result of a specific genetic combination that affects the production of the pigment eumelanin, responsible for black and dark brown colors.

This color variation is characterized by a bluish-gray coat with tan points, giving the dog a distinctive and striking appearance.

The blue and tan Shih Tzu is a result of a genetic variation that affects the production of the pigment eumelanin, responsible for black and dark brown colors.

In fact, the blue and tan coloration is so rare that it's often considered a genetic anomaly, making each dog with this coloration truly one-of-a-kind.

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Rare Shih Tzu Colors are a true marvel, and it's fascinating to learn about the genetics behind them. The B gene is responsible for the production of black pigmented coats, while the recessive form, b, results in brown or liver-colored coats.

A true black Shih Tzu will have no other hair color, and all-black Shih Tzus will have black noses. The American Kennel Club makes it difficult for breeders to describe Shih Tzus with cream-colored coats, so they're often notated as white.

Some rare Shih Tzu colors include black, white, silver, gold, and brindle. Brindle coats are a combination of two colors with a streaking of another color running throughout, such as a gold-black brindle. Here are some examples of rare Shih Tzu colors:

It's essential to note that Shih Tzus can change color as they mature, and some may develop "ticking", which are small spots of color on a white area of the coat. These changes are entirely normal and don't signify any health issues.

The Royal Roots of Shih Tzus are truly fascinating. The Ming Dynasty, which lasted from approximately 1368-1644, saw the Shih Tzu's status rise alongside the emperors they served.

Their coat colors, especially blacks, whites, and gold, held symbolic significance, representing balance and harmony, as well as the wealth and prosperity of the empire. The rich golds echoed the empire's wealth and prosperity.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Shih Tzus found their way into European and later American homes, marking a significant evolution in their coat colors as they interbred with other breeds and adapted to new environments. This period saw a broader spectrum of colors and patterns.

The Shih Tzu's coat today is a living tapestry of its regal past and its journey through history. Each color and pattern we see in their coats today is a remnant of their royal lineage, a story of survival and adaptation through centuries.

The black Shih Tzu is a rare and striking color. It's not as common as you'd think, considering black is a dominant gene in many breeds of dogs. But in Shih Tzus, the genetics are a bit more complex, involving the interaction of multiple genes to produce a range of colors.

In fact, pure black Shih Tzus are so rare that they're often accompanied by shades of blue or chocolate in their coats. And if you see a black Shih Tzu with golden hairs on its face, paws, or tail, it's actually a black and tan dog, not just a black dog with tan markings.

One thing that's always true about black Shih Tzus, though, is that they have black paws, a black nose, and dark-colored eyes. Their coat may fade to a more silver color as they mature, but those black points will always remain pure.

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Rare Shih Tzu Colors are a true delight to behold. Blue Shih Tzus have a unique appearance due to their lavender cast to their eye rims, nose, and lips, which help distinguish them from black Shih Tzus.

The blue coat color is the result of an interaction between the dilution gene, D-Locus allele, and the black allele. Some blue Shih Tzus may also have blue or pale-colored eyes.

If you're considering purchasing a true blue Shih Tzu, it's essential to visit the breeder personally rather than relying on a photo online. Sunlight is the best way to observe this rare color.

Here's a list of rare Shih Tzu colors:

These colors are not recognized by the AKC, but some breeders may use these terms to describe their dogs. It's crucial to understand that these colors are not standard and may not be officially recognized.

The blue color is considered a dilute from a genetics point of view, resulting from a dilution gene that affects the pigment of the nose, eye rims, and other points. This gene has no effect on the coat color.

Lavender Shih Tzus are another rare color variation, often associated with the Weimaraner breed. They have a lilac hue due to the MLPH gene, which dilutes the brown pigment.

Some Isabella Shih Tzus may carry the dilute for liver, giving them amber or hazel eyes. Others may have a lilac tinge to their skin but a particolored coat.

The AKC recognizes the blue Shih Tzu but does not include Isabella in its registration codes. However, some breeders may charge more for these unusually colored pups, so be prepared for a higher price tag.

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One of the fascinating traits of the Shih Tzu breed is the possible change in coat color as they mature. This metamorphosis is primarily attributed to the breed's unique gene structure, which causes a progressive graying or lightening of the coat as the pup ages.

Puppies born in black and white might retain their black markings, but often, the black gently fades into a silver or gray. Dark brown (also known as chocolate or liver colored) puppies can retain their coat color, or it may lighten to a creamy beige.

The "red" Shih Tzu (a deep golden color) might get lighter, but rarely turn completely blonde. The best way to know if your puppy will change is to ask the breeder.

Shih Tzu puppies that are born a solid color, especially black, are the ones that most often keep their color throughout their lives. Meanwhile, gold and light-colored ones are often likely to lighten as they age.

It's essential to note that these color changes are entirely normal and don't signify any health issues. However, sudden or extreme changes in an adult Shih Tzu's coat color can signal health issues and should be checked by a veterinarian.

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Silver Shih Tzus are a rare and striking color variation. They are listed as an acceptable color by the AKC, but can be difficult to distinguish from white due to their pale appearance and silvery sheen.

A silver Shih Tzu's coat coloration can change as they mature, with older dogs becoming increasingly grey. Conversely, some Shih Tzus born with a black coat can transition to a more silver color as they age.

Silver Shih Tzus have black pads, eye rims, and lips, as well as a black nose. They often appear white at first sight, but upon closer inspection, their gray overlay gives them a metallic glow.

The exact shade of silver can depend on a dog's age, with older dogs having a darker and more prominent silver color. Finding a silver Shih Tzu without markings can be challenging, just like with other solid colors.

Here are some key characteristics of silver Shih Tzus:

Albino Shih Tzus are a rare sight, and for good reason. True albino Shih Tzus are extremely rare because their genetic makeup weakens their immune system, making them more susceptible to infectious diseases.

Albinism is a genetic condition that affects the production of pigmentation in the skin, hair, eyes, and blood vessels. Albino Shih Tzus have pink skin and blue eyes, which can make them more sensitive to light.

The genetics behind albino Shih Tzus involve a lack of pigmentation, which is not directly related to the B gene, but rather a separate genetic condition. The E gene, which determines the production of eumelanin, is not affected by albinism either.

Albino Shih Tzus may look striking, but their unique appearance comes with some challenges. Their sensitivity to light can make everyday activities, like going outside, more difficult.

In terms of genetics, albinism is not a result of the interaction between the B, E, or A series genes, but rather a separate genetic condition that affects pigmentation.

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Shih Tzus come in a wide range of patterns and markings, making each one unique and special. Some of the most common patterns include black and white, red and white, and even combinations of three different colors.

A black mask is one of the most common markings, while white markings are more common than tan ones. In fact, most black Shih Tzus are actually black and white Shih Tzus, with the white markings varying in shape, size, and location.

Some rare and unique markings include Dobie markings, which are tan markings on an otherwise black or dark coat. These markings can be found above the eyes, on the jowls, on the lower legs, and under the tail. They're considered very rare and are often sold at a premium.

Here are some of the acceptable markings in the Shih Tzu breed, according to the AKC:

Brindle Shih Tzus have a mix of both dark and light fur, creating an interesting pattern. They often have lighter fur around their eyes and muzzle, making them look even more striking.

Shih Tzus come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. They can have spots and splashes of color almost anywhere, with some even combining three different colors.

Black and white is a relatively common pattern in Shih Tzus, but it's not the only one. Red and white is another common combination, and some Shih Tzus can even have a black mask.

Tan markings are a bit rarer, and they're often referred to as "Dobie" dogs because they resemble the coloration seen on the Doberman Pinscher. These markings can include a tan muzzle, tan points above the eyes, and tan-colored paws.

According to the AKC, the following markings are acceptable in the Shih Tzu:

Some Shih Tzus have unique markings, such as those found on the Dobie dogs. These markings can be found above the eyes, on the jowls, on the lower legs, and under the tail.

Black, White, and Silver Shih Tzus are a striking combination. Black, white, and silver Shih Tzus are not as common as the previous combination, but they aren’t that rare, either.

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Registering a black, white, and silver Shih Tzu is relatively straightforward. You can register most white Shih Tzus as silver dogs, even though they don’t have that gray glow silver Shih Tzus have.

Keep in mind that white is a somewhat tricky color, as it is recognized by the AKC, but it is not considered standard. This means you won’t be able to participate in conformation shows.

On the other hand, white in combination with any other color is typically rather desirable.

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Brindle Shih Tzus are often described as "tiger-striped" due to their distinctive coat pattern.

Their base color is complemented by streaks of color running through it, creating multi-colored tones ranging from gold or tan to brown or black.

The brindle effect can vary widely from dog to dog, making it difficult for owners to determine whether or not their Shih Tzu's truly brindle.

Some brindle Shih Tzus have thick, dark stripes running down their backs, while others have faint, narrow splashes of color.

Brindle Shih Tzus tend to have lighter fur around their eyes and muzzle, making them look even more striking.

Their unique pattern can range from a prominent striped pattern to a more blended look, making each brindle Shih Tzu truly one-of-a-kind.

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A completely black Shih Tzu without any white markings is arguably the least common, and a pure white Shih Tzu is only seen rarely.

You may have come across breeders using unofficial colors like chocolate, lavender, or Isabella to describe their puppies. These colors are not recognized by major kennel clubs and would be labeled liver if registered with the AKC.

White Shih Tzus are recognized by the AKC but are considered a fault, making them ineligible for conformation shows.

Here are some rare Shih Tzu colors that are officially recognized by kennel clubs:

Albinism is a different genetic condition that can cause a pink tint on a Shih Tzu's coat and pale eyes, and it's not a color that's intentionally bred.

Shih Tzus can display a wide range of color combinations, each with its own unique characteristics.

Black and White is a popular combination, where the black fur is dominant and the white fur is a secondary color. A true black Shih Tzu will have no other hair color, and the nose will always be black.

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The American Kennel Club makes it difficult for breeders to describe Shih Tzus with a cream-colored coat, so they are often notated as White.

Silver and White is another common combination, where the silver fur has a deep shine resembling silver. The dog will have black lips, pads, eye rims, and a black nose.

Gold and White is also a common combination, where the gold fur can range from a light tan to a deep gold.

Brindle and White is a combination where the brindle pattern consists of stripes of golds, tans, browns, grays, or blacks. The brindle pattern can vary in thickness and width, and the dog will always have black points.

Here are some common two-color combinations in Shih Tzus:

It's worth noting that Shih Tzus can also display a combination of red and gold, but this is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

For those who love their Shih Tzus in a variety of colors, there's good news: while some colors may be rarer than others, they're not impossible to find. In fact, some breeders specialize in producing Shih Tzus in unique colors like blue and white or black and white.

The Shih Tzu's rarest color, however, is the liver and white pattern, which is caused by a specific genetic combination that's not as common as other colors.

If you're looking to bring home a Shih Tzu with a rare color, be prepared for a potentially longer wait or a higher price tag, as these dogs are often in high demand.

White Shih Tzus are recognized by the AKC, but they're not considered standard.

Their coats can appear white, but they're often registered as silver dogs due to their coloration.

In combination with other colors, white is typically desirable.

White Shih Tzus should not be confused with dogs with albinism, as the two conditions are caused by different genetic factors.

Albinism in Shih Tzus is often associated with a pink tint on their coats and pale eyes.

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Pugs are often born with a coat that's not their true color. This can be a surprise for new owners, but it's a common phenomenon.

Some Pugs are born black, but their true color will show after a few weeks or even months. This is similar to what happens with Red Shih Tzus, who may also be born black before developing their distinctive red coat.

Their coat can vary in shade from bright ginger to dark chocolate, but what's important is that they have black noses and dark eyes.

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