The Shitzu is a small dog breed that originated in Japan and has become a popular companion animal worldwide. They are known for their long, flowing coats and sweet, affectionate nature.
Shitzus are toy dogs, weighing between 8-18 pounds and standing about 8-11 inches tall. They have a short muzzle and large, dark eyes that add to their endearing appearance.
In terms of grooming, Shitzus require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. They should be brushed several times a week, with daily brushing during shedding season.
Their lifespan is relatively long, typically ranging from 12-15 years with proper care and attention.
Istoria Rasei
The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed with a rich history that spans thousands of years. Its origins date back to Tibet, where it was first bred and refined.
The name "Shih Tzu" literally translates to "lion dog" in Chinese, due to its resemblance to lions.
In China, the Shih Tzu was a favorite among imperial courts, serving as a loyal companion and protector.
Here are some key facts about the breed's history:
- The Shih Tzu was initially believed to be a cross between a Pekingese and a Lhasa Apso, but DNA analysis has proven this to be incorrect.
- The breed is actually one of the oldest, with DNA that differs minimally from that of wolves.
- The Shih Tzu was first introduced to Europe in the 1930s, with one of the first recorded imports being a gift to the UK.
Physical Characteristics
Shih Tzus are small dogs, with females reaching up to 25 cm in height and males up to 27 cm.
Their weight typically ranges from 4 to 8 kg.
They have a long body with short, muscular legs and strong limbs.
Their large, round head is covered in falling hair that reaches their eyes.
Their long, hanging ears are also covered in hair that blends with their coat.
Their wide jaws can sometimes even have a protruding underbite.
Their fluffy tail is curved and set high.
Shih Tzus come in all colors.
Their beautiful, long coat has a lot of undercoat and should not be curly.
It can be either straight or slightly wavy.
Their coat needs to be brushed every day to prevent matting.
Their eyes are dark in color, but can be lighter in dogs with a liver-colored coat.
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Ingrijire si Blana
The Shih Tzu's beautiful long and dense coat is a sight to behold, coming in a variety of colors such as black, black and white, gray and white, or brown and white. A white tip on the tail and a white patch on the forehead are quite common.
Periajul zilnic este necesar pentru a preveni incurcaturile, la fel ca si spalatul frecvent. Sometimes, owners prefer to just get it all cut short.
At around ten to twelve months, the Shih Tzu's coat changes from a fluffy puppy coat to a mature, dense coat. In this stage, the fur will fall out a lot, but don't worry, it's just a temporary phase that lasts about three months.
The Shih Tzu's face, like a baby's, needs daily attention. After meals, they tend to get messy, and the fur around their eyes is always damp and dirty from tears. Regular grooming with a soft, damp cloth will help keep their face clean.
Multe rase mici sunt predispuse la probleme dentare, iar Shih Tzu nu face exceptie. Periajul regulat cu o periuta de dinti moale si pasta de dinti pentru caini ii vor mentine gingiile si dintii sanatosi.
A different take: Cortes De Pelo Para Perros Shitzu
Comportament și Caracter
Shih Tzu are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They love being around people and are often described as affectionate companions.
Their friendly nature makes them a great fit for families with children. In fact, they're often referred to as "tovaras" or companions.
Shih Tzus are also known to be quite playful, but they're not high-energy dogs and don't require a lot of exercise. A short walk or some playtime in the yard is usually enough to keep them happy.
One thing to keep in mind is that Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn at times, so early training and socialization are crucial. Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to training, so be sure to reward good behavior with treats and praise.
Shih Tzus are also known to be quite sensitive, so they may not respond well to harsh corrections or punishment. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, however, they can learn to behave well and even excel in obedience training.
In terms of their independence, Shih Tzus are known to be a bit stubborn at times, but they're also very attached to their owners. They thrive on attention and affection, and they can become quite anxious if left alone for too long.
Overall, Shih Tzus are a great choice for anyone looking for a friendly, outgoing companion that's relatively low-maintenance. With the right training and care, they can make wonderful pets for families and individuals alike.
Nutrition and Diet
Shih Tzus need a high-quality dog food, regardless of whether it's store-bought or homemade. This should be tailored to their age, whether kitten, adult, or senior.
Their diet should be monitored to prevent overfeeding, as they can be prone to weight gain. Too many treats can lead to obesity, so it's essential to keep an eye on their calorie intake.
Rewards can be a helpful tool in training, but be cautious not to overdo it, as this can also contribute to weight gain. Consult with a veterinarian if you're unsure about your Shih Tzu's weight or diet.
Shih Tzus tend to be stubborn, so training methods that rely on praise and rewards work best. Avoid using harsh corrections, as this can be counterproductive.
Early socialization and training courses are highly recommended for young Shih Tzus.
Training and Socialization
Rasa Shih Tzus are intelligent and active dogs that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.
Socialization is crucial for Rasa Shih Tzus, especially during the first 16 weeks of life. This is when they are most receptive to new experiences and environments.
Rasa Shih Tzus are naturally friendly and outgoing, but they can be wary of strangers if not socialized properly. Consistent exposure to new people, places, and experiences is key to developing good social skills.
Rasa Shih Tzus are highly trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement techniques and early obedience training. They thrive on structure and clear boundaries.
Consistency and patience are essential when training a Rasa Shih Tzu. With gentle guidance and rewards, they can learn to behave well in public and respond to commands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rarest color of a Shih Tzu?
The rarest color of a Shih Tzu is a completely black one without any white markings. A pure white Shih Tzu with no markings is also extremely rare.
What is the temper of a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and lively temperaments, making them a great companion for people of all ages. They are generally sweet and affectionate, but may be rare exceptions to this happy disposition.
How long do bichon Shih Tzus live?
Bichon Shih Tzus typically live for 10 to 16 years, inheriting the longevity of their parent breeds. With proper care, you can enjoy a long and loving relationship with your Shichon.
Sources
- Rasa Shih Tzu (addachic.ro)
- Cainele Shih Tzu: particularitati, temperament si ingrijire (exavet.ro)
- Shih Tzu - cele mai importante informații despre rasă (fera.ro)
- Shih Tzu - wygląd, charakter i usposobienie psa. (apetete.pl)
- Rasa Shih Tzu: O bijuterie imperiala din lumea cainilor (topingrediente.com)
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