Shih Tzu Breed Standard

Shih Tzu Breed Standard Distinctive And Affectionate

Originating in China, the Shih Tzu breed is a descendant of a select pool of imperial dogs. The line grew out of China and travelled abroad with servicemen, eventually establishing itself in America in the 1950’s. By the 1960’s, the breed had come into its own with recognition as the 116th canine breed from the American Kennel Club. The Shih Tzu breed quickly won the affection of the show community with their unique look and warm temperament.

The Shih Tzu Breed Standard

Quality Shih Tzu used for show and breeding have to conform to the prescribed standard as dictated by the American Shih Tzu Club. In general, the Shih Tzu is a toy dog that combines its stature with a sturdy and lively constitution. The breed is known for being a compact, solid dog with a healthy weight, especially for their toy dog designation. Their long double coat highlights the Chinese heritage, complete with an “arrogant” carriage of the head and the tail curved over the back.

Shape, Size And Appearance

For Shih Tzu, there are a number of criteria that exemplifies the ideal shape, size, and appearance of the Shih Tzu breed. The dog is well proportioned with the overall length between withers and root of tail slightly longer than height at withers, making it a rectangular body shape rather than a square type. They should measure between 9 and 10 ½ inches tall at the withers with a weight range of 9 to 16 pounds. The topline is level, the croup is flat, and their hair must be double-coated and long with as little wave as possible. Impeccable grooming is required to maintain their distinct coat. Common faults include a single or curly coat, improper proportion or “legginess,” over shot bite, or pink coloring on the nose, lips, or eye rims. A champion Shih Tzu will not have such faults while adhering as closely to the breed standard as possible.

Temperament And Personality

This breed is an excellent show dog, but they also make amazing pets due to their personalities; it is rare and refreshing to find a dog that can fill both needs. Overall, Shih Tzu can be described as existing to love. The toy dog is obviously unfit for hunting or tracking and those instincts are not prevalent. Shih Tzu also excel in both rally and obedience trials. The Shih Tzu is a lover, and will feel equally at home in an apartment or running around a multi-acre farm. They will adapt well to their environment and warm up to new additions to the household as well as guests, but will still be alert at the sight or sound of an unknown person.

Most of all, Shih Tzu respond well to love and will reciprocate it ten-fold. They love to go for walks or play around indoors or even take a car ride together. However, Shih Tzu dogs are not high strung and will combine their lively, alert personality with the ability to be docile and relax on a rainy day. This hearty and loving breed captures the hearts of owners and show judges alike.