The history of the Shih Tzu is not definite, but it is believed that Shih Tzu were temple dogs. Shih Tzu became established in china during the Manchu dynasty where it became a palace dog. In the late 1930’s the first Shih Tzu was imported into the U.S.

There are many “approved” colors for Shih Tzu including black, black and white, gray and white, red and white, and gold. The coat is not straight or curly, but has a slight wave to it.

Shih Tzu are alert, friendly, intuitive, and people oriented. Shih Tzu like to be around there owners. They are not kennel dogs. They like to go places with their owners instead. Shih Tzu are “lap dogs’. They love to be held and to cuddle with you all day. Although once and a while they just love to play.

Shih Tzu are play and work dogs also. They really can’t work and do much because of their size but they like to do what they can. Shih tzu are very protective, that is why they were palace dogs. They would alert their owner when someone was there.

Shih tzu do have medical problems. They tend to get ulcer in their eyes because of their long hair and big eyes. Allergies are common in shih tzu.

An important part of your shih tzu’s health is making sure it has no parasites and microbes. Dogs get fleas and ticks easily outside. Fleas especially love dogs with long thick hair, like the shih tzu. Fleas are likely to be found in high grasses, underbrush, and leaf litter. One of the ticks favorite places is between the dogs paws, so be sure to keep them cut.