The Shih Tzu - A Puppy Par Excellence

by Aazdak Alisimo

The Shih Tzu, pronounced shi ah zoo, is a breed from China that comes with a unique classification. It is considered the oldest breed and smallest of the Tibetan holy dogs, facts that seem backed up by its faint resemblance to a small lion.

The name of the Shih Tzu is a story unto itself. It literally translates to the lion dog, but is also considered to be a derivative of a version of the term that referred to the most beautiful of women in China.

If you haven’t guessed by now, the Shih Tzu is a ladies best friend. It is a small dog exemplified by a beautiful bed of hair and a sometimes fired up attitude. Although short haired versions exist, the typical Shih Tzu is a long haired version.

Speaking of hair, the Shih Tzue is unique among dog species. It does not have fur as we have come to be familiar with on most dogs. Instead, the hair is long and fine like ours. Over time the hair falls out like humans, although male pattern baldness is unknown!

When you select a Shih Tzu, you are selecting a companion for a good many years. The average life span of a healthy dog is in the eleven to forteen year range with many living two to three years longer.

Every dog breed, unfortunately, has associations with certain health issues and this one is no different. Your pup is generally at risk for hip problems as well as vision issues. Oddly, red dye in pet food can also cause an allergic reaction in Shih Tzu.

There are a couple of things to take into account about the care required by a Shih Tzu before making one your own. The primary issue is their hair. If it is kept natural, it will be long and tangle like mad. You must be committed to brushing it out frequently.

Every animal has its quarks and the Shih Tzu is no different. Heat is the problem. The pup is super sentitive to it. If you leave the pup in a hot area, such as a parked car, it can easily expire. The body does not handle heat well.

Shih Tzu can be a good or bad choice as a pet. They are great dogs, but many people fall in love with their long hair looks and buy them without realizing someone has to spend time getting rid of tangles, burrs and the like. Don’t make this mistake.

About the Author:

Aazdak Alisimo provides Shih Tzu information along with other pet information at PetStoreYeti.com.

 

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