The Shih Tzu is believed to have originated in Tibet over 1,000 years ago. They were bred as companions for royalty and were highly valued for their loyalty and affectionate nature.
Shih Tzus were first introduced to China in the 7th century and quickly became popular among the royal family. They were often given as gifts to emperors and other high-ranking officials.
Their long, flowing coats required regular grooming, which was a task usually left to the royal servants.
You might enjoy: Royal Canin for Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a medium-sized dog breed that has been documented for at least 1,000 years. Its ancestors date back even further, to the ancient Tibetan Terrier and Lhasa Apso breeds.
These dogs are known for their distinct long-haired coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. A Shih Tzu dog will live to approximately 12 to 16 years, with some living up to 23 years, like Smokey, a dog from Florida who holds the record for the oldest living Shih Tzu.
Small 'toy' breeds like the Shih Tzu generally have longer lifespans than large dogs, and their ages can range into their teens.
Discover more: Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic Dogs
History of Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a medium-sized dog breed that has been documented for at least 1,000 years.
Their ancestors date back even further, specifically to the ancient Tibetan Terrier and Lhasa Apso breeds.
Physical Characteristics
The Shih Tzu is a small dog breed with a distinctive appearance. They typically weigh between 9-16 pounds.
Their long, flowing coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Shih Tzus have a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a long, coarse outer coat.
Their eyes are large and round, often brown or blue in color. They have a flat face with a short, upturned muzzle.
Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They make great companions for families and individuals alike.
Their small size and gentle nature make them a great choice for apartment living.
Table of Contents
The Shih Tzu is a beloved breed for many reasons. They originated in Tibet and were later bred in China as a palace dog for royalty.
Their small size, typically weighing between 9-16 pounds, makes them a great fit for city living. They have a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming.
Shih Tzus are known for their outgoing and friendly personalities, often forming close bonds with their owners. Their short snout and large eyes can make them prone to breathing difficulties and eye problems.
These small dogs are often described as "big dogs in little bodies" due to their bold and courageous nature. They are generally good with children and other pets if socialized properly.
Their short legs and long body make them prone to back problems, so regular exercise and a balanced diet are crucial. Shih Tzus are relatively low-maintenance pets when it comes to exercise needs.
If this caught your attention, see: Shih Tzu Skin Allergy Treatments
Introduction
Shih Tzus are known for their long, flowing coats, and they're one of the smallest dog breeds around.
These little dogs can live a pretty long life, with an average expectancy of 10-16 years.
Shih Tzus age slower than larger dogs, which means they can live into their teens and even twenties in some cases.
One of the oldest known Shih Tzus was a dog named Smokey from Florida, who lived to be 23 years old.
Despite their long lifespan, Shih Tzus can be prone to certain health issues, such as hypoglycemia, legg-perthes disease, and skin allergies.
Regular visits to the vet can help keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy.
In This Article
The Shih Tzu breed dates back centuries, though they weren't formally recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) until 1969. The Shih Tzu is a Tibetan toy breed born to be a furry companion.
Their name "Shih Tzu" literally means "lion dog", and they were associated with Buddhism, bred to look like lions.
The breed was originally bred to alert homes to visitors with a sharp bark, but they eventually became companion animals instead of working guardian dogs.
A different take: Shih Tzu Breed Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Shih Tzu live 20 years?
While 20 years is a possible lifespan for a Shih Tzu, their average life expectancy is typically shorter, with proper care and attention to health, diet, and living conditions playing a significant role.
What is the oldest Shih Tzu to ever live?
The oldest recorded Shih Tzu was Smokey, a dog from Florida, who lived to be 23 years old. This remarkable age challenges the breed's typical lifespan of 12 to 16 years.
Is 18 old for a Shih Tzu?
For a Shih Tzu, 18 is actually considered relatively young, as they can live up to 18 years or more with proper care. Lifespan varies, but 18 is well within the average range for a healthy Shih Tzu.
Sources
- world record (guinnessworldrecords.com)
- World's Oldest Dog Age: What's the Longest a ... - DogTime (dogtime.com)
- smaller dogs live longer (webmd.com)
- Cesarsway (cesarsway.com)
- Shih Tzu: Temperament, Lifespan, Grooming, Training (petplan.co.uk)
- dates back centuries (shihtzu.org)
- Shih Tzu Club (theshihtzuclub.co.uk)
Featured Images: pexels.com
