Imperial Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale

The exact origin of the Shih Tzu remains a mystery, although DNA analysis indicates that this breed is around 10,000 years old, and that its ancestors are considered “ancient,” meaning that they were very closely related to wolves. The Shih Tzu is believed to have originated in China, which is where it got its name from. In Chinese, “Shih Tzu” means “lion dog.” However, some researchers believe that the Shih Tzu actually originated in Tibet. In ancient times, the Shih Tzu was a favorite of the Chinese royals. The breed was so prized, in fact, that China refused to sell or trade these sacred dogs with the Western World. It wasn’t until 1930 that the first Shih Tzu was imported into Europe. As its popularity spread throughout the country, US soldiers were also smitten with the breed and ended up bringing them back to America as they returned home after WWII in the 1950’s. The Shih Tzu was finally recognized by the AKC in 1969.

Bred to serve as a companion, the Shih Tzu is a loyal, cheerful, and outgoing. They adore human interaction and will often offer their affection to complete strangers. Because of its friendly nature, the Shih Tzu generally gets along well with children and other dogs. They are spunky and full of spirit, yet gentle, kind, and quiet. The Shih Tzu is excellent for apartment living, as they require minimal exercise and make little noise.

The Shih Tzu is known for its flat face, slight underbite, and luxurious long coat. Many people describe the Shih Tzu as appearing “arrogant,” due to the way it carries itself with its head held high, although its personality proves otherwise. The Shih Tzu sheds little to no hair and is highly recommended for people who suffer from allergies. Its long and silky coat, which will grow to reach the floor, requires regular grooming and daily brushing to avoid tangles. The standard Shih Tzu will weigh anywhere from 10 – 19 lbs fully grown. Smaller versions of the breed include the “Tiny Type Shih Tzu,” or a Shih Tzu weighing just 9 lbs or less at adult weight, and the “Imperial Shih Tzu,” or a Shih Tzu weighing just 6 lbs or less at adult weight. As a flat faced breed, the Shih Tzu cannot survive outdoors. Its compromised breathing system makes it impossible to regulate its body temperature efficiently, so the Shih Tzu has trouble cooling off in hot weather and can easily suffer from heatstroke.