A Shih Tzu (play /ˈʃiːtsuː/ SHEET-soo; Mandarin: [ʂɨ́tsɨ]) is a breed of dog weighing 4–7.25 kilograms (8.8–16.0 lb) with long silky hair. The breed originated in China. Shih Tzu were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969. The name is both singular and plural.
The name Shih Tzu comes from the Chinese word shīzi 獅子 rendered according to the Wade-Giles system of romanization, in use when the breed was first introduced in America. Its Mandarin Chinese pronunciation is approximately SHIRR-tsə. The name translates as "lion", so named because this kind of dog was bred to resemble "the lion as depicted in traditional oriental art," such as the Chinese guardian lions (see also the Pekingese breed, called "lion dog" in Chinese). The Shih Tzu is also often known as the "Xi Shi quan" (西施犬), based on the name of Xi Shi, regarded as one of the most beautiful women of ancient China, and, less often, the Chrysanthemum Dog, a nickname coined in England in the 1930s.The dog may also be called the Tibetan Lion Dog, but whether or not the breed should be referred to as a Tibetan or Chinese breed is a source of argument, the absolute answer to which "may never be known".
A small dog with a short muzzle and large dark eyes. With a soft and long double coat, the Shih Tzu stands no more than 26.7 cm (101⁄2 in.) at the withers and with an ideal weight of 4.5 to 7.3 kg (10 to 16 lbs). Drop ears are covered with long fur, and the heavily furred tail is carried curled over the back. The coat may be of any colour, though a blaze of white on the forehead and tip of the tail is frequently seen. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall, and dogs ideally should carry themselves "with distinctly arrogant carriage". A very noticeable feature is the underbite, which is required in the breed standard.
The traditional long silky coat, which reaches the floor, requires daily brushing to avoid tangles. Because of their long coat and fast-growing hair, regular grooming is necessary, which may be costly and should be considered when looking at this breed. Often the coat is clipped short to simplify care, in a "puppy clip". For conformation showing the coat must be left in its natural state, though trimming for neatness around the feet and anus is allowed.
I can't find any information as to where you are located. My precious Fiona passed last Thurs and her brother passed 11/6/19. They were siblings and almost 16 years old, My husband passed 9/11/19. I'm desperate to get another Shih Tzu, not a puppy but not a senior, I want them to look like my babies that just passed. I'm in Ohio. I saw several pups that I would be interested in. Please contact me as soon as possible. Thank You! Joyce Burchfield Contact me at: abigbuckeye@aol.com
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