Shih Tzu : The Royal Toy Dogs of the Emperors

There where no written account of the exact origin and date when the Shih Tzu came from, all that was written into account was a theory of its introduction in China. According to this theory, it is during the mid 17th century when Tibetans gave this dog to the Emperor of china as a gift to his royal highness. But evidence of its existence during the Tang dynasty exist in the form of paintings, that it is indeed part of the Emperors beloved pet. It is said that the King of Viqur gave these dogs that came from Fu Lin who is assumed to be the Byzantine Empire. From then on these dogs are breed in the Forbidden City. They resembled a lion hence the Shih Tzu is considered to be the oldest Tibetan holy dogs and the lion representation on the paintings is associated with the Buddhist goddess. From then on, this chrysanthemum-faced dog as know in the Royal palace because of its hair has been the highly favored Royal house pet. Dowager Empress Cixi (T'zu Hsi) bred and kept important kennel like Pugs, Pekingese and Shih Tzu. Sadly after her death and the communist revolution arise in China these breed became almost extinct. Today the breed that we see originated from England where breeding of the Shih Tzu started from the early 1930’s. This can be trace from 14 dogs, seven bitches and seven dogs.

Physical attributes to look for in this breed is its attitude, it is lively, alert, proud often time stubborn. In general it is small, sturdy and has a very luxurious coat. Its fur is its crowning glory. They exude elegance and its royal bearing that is why it is considered to be the royal pets of the emperor and princesses. Their coats can be a mixture of color markings brown, tan, black grey or the Dowager Empress personal favorite the honey gold with a splash of Buddhist white on the forehead. Their coat should be regularly trimmed on a monthly basis specially the face area. Daily brushing is required to keep them healthy. Though these breed sheds rarely or nothing at all, this could be attained with regular brushing and bathing. This can be an ideal pet for those people who want to have a dog but restricted due to allergies. Due to its flat nose and face eating and drinking could be quite as mess or posses a difficulty in breathing as an improperly trimmed hair could block the nostrils when wet. Owners of this dog take extra time in cleaning them after feeding and as for the drinking Shih Tzu’s are trained to drink in especial canisters such as those of hamsters drinking canisters.

Shih Tzu’s are ideal pets for a family with children, whom you want to train to be responsible in caring for animals. These dogs are bred to be toy dogs and to be loyal companions. They are people pleasers and lovers; they are non aggressive, patient, love to lie in one corner and sleep especially on your lap and always crave attention, though they are not demanding they seek your attention and other people as well. They always want to be petted, friendly to strangers and other dogs.