Important: This information is collected from a variety of sources and is presented as general thoughts about the breed. It is sugggested that you use our information with that of your own to make any decisions. We suggest you DO NOT make any decisions about a family pet based solely on these pages. Keep digging!
| Breed: Shih Tzu | Group (AKC): Toy |  |
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| Country of Origin | 7th century Tang Dynasty, Ancient China (Lion Dog) |
| Type of coat | long, dense, wavy, completely hiding legs, mane around face (Hence: Lion Dog) |
| Grooming | daily brushing and combing, regular bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, tendency to mat easily |
| Average height | 8-11 inches |
| Average weight | 10-16 pounds |
| Activity level | high |
| Watchdog | yes, it will bark (yap, yap, yap, yap, yap, yap, yap,yap, yap) |
| Protection | no |
| Intelligence | high |
| Trainability | Be patient and consistent. Can be a good obedience dog. |
| Compatibility with children | May not tolerate young children. Older children OK. No roughhousing or teasing. |
| Character | intelligent, active, feisty, playful, alert, curious, affectionate, arrogant, gentle, stubborn |
| Ideal home environment | apartment OK if walked daily |
| Ideal owner | patient consistent leader |
| Suggestions: | early socialization to build confidence, obedience training |
| Links and resources | |
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