Shih-tzu:-a-dog-that-takes-your-heart

By: Mike Mathews..



While choosing a small dog breed, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration and one of them is the looks. The Shih Tzu has the look that will make you take him back home with you. When those imploring eyes are going to look straight at you, you will feel weakened in your knees.

Despite its miniature size, the Shih Tzu possesses a hearty and courageous attitude in defense of itself and its master. Although he may look like a toy of a fur ball, members of the breed are highly energetic and playful you'd think they run on Die Hard batteries! They are very lovable and friendly and would gladly give back all the attention and love that is showered on them.

Shih Tzu dogs revel in their importance and glory in the attention that is accorded to them. They desire attention so much that they would go to any extent to catch their master's attention any time by running around, jumping up and down and performing antics just to make you laugh. They are a cross between Beijing gou and the Tibetan Lhasa Apso; their history goes back almost two thousand years!

Compatibility and Usage: The breed is categorized as a toy group. It feels at home in almost any surrounding and does not require much exercise due to its diminutive size.

Physical Appearance: A small sturdy dog covered with an abundant double coat of long hair. It has a round head, a generous beard and mustache, short hairy muzzle and generally, a black nose. Their eyes are large, round and wide-set, and pendant ears that are covered with hair and a tail curled over the back. Any color is acceptable for the Shih Tzu. Their height anywhere from 9 to 10 inches and an adult weighs between 9 to 16 pounds.

Temperament: The Shih Tzu is very observant and animated and behaves in a stately manner although it can also be very stubborn. Since they bark incessantly when strangers are around, they also make a good watch dog. They totally enjoy the attention and babying they get from their owners and children. They can provide hours of fun and enjoyment for children and all members of the family.

Caring & health: A Shih Tzu has a maximum life span of 11-14 years and within their life span they can be prone to different types of diseases and suffer from mostly portosystemic liver shunt, hip dysplasia and renal dysplasia. Eye problems are also frequently seen especially when they age.

As a family dog, the Shih Tzu will surely liven up any home especially if you live in the city or a small house. Choosing a Shih Tzu will surely be one of the best decisions you have made.

Article Source: http://www.acmearticles.com


About the Author: Mike Mathews is the owner and editor of the acknowledged Dog-Breed-Facts.com website. His new ebook titled "Choosing a Dog For Your Lifestyle" is a great resource for the new dog owner.