The Shih Tzu Breed
ABOUT THE BREED
The silky Shih Tzu is sweet and
playful. He's also got plenty of spunk. He's not afraid to stand up
for himself, though he usually gets along nicely with strangers and
other animals. The Shih Tzu seems especially to dislike hot weather.
The coat of the Shih Tzu needs daily grooming.

Group: Toy
Height: 9 to 10 1/2 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Coat: Luxurious, double-coated, dense, long and flowing
Color: All colors
Families with small children should
always supervise the children when they play with the dog, because
although the Shih Tzu is a sturdy dog, his size puts him at a
disadvantage.
The coat requires at least a half an
hour of grooming per day, which should be a consideration before
bringing a Shih Tzu into your home.
The Shih Tzu is a true companion. His
happy, out-going and affectionate temperament coupled with his
friendly and trusting nature make him a great house pet.
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, alert
toy dog with long flowing double coat. Befitting his noble Chinese
ancestry as a highly valued, prized companion and palace pet, the Shih
Tzu is proud of bearing, has a distinctively arrogant carriage with
head well up and tail curved over the back. Although there has always
been considerable size variation, the Shih Tzu must be compact, solid,
carrying good weight and substance.