Shih Tzu

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AKC Shih Tzu Breed Standard

GENERAL APPEARANCE - 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. Even though a toy dog, the Shih Tzu must be subject to the same requirements of soundness and structure prescribed for all breeds, and any deviation from the ideal described in the standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Shih Tzu as in any other breed, regardless of whether or not such faults are specifically mentioned in the standard.
SIZE, PROPORTION, SUBSTANCE

Size - Ideally, height at withers is 9 to 10 1/2 inches; but, not less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches. Ideally, weight of mature dogs, 9 to 16 pounds.

Proportion - Length between withers and root of tail is slightly longer than height at withers. The Shih Tzu must never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty.

Substance - Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact, solid and carries good weight and substance.

HEAD

Head - Round, broad, wide between eyes, its size in balance with the overall size of dog being neither too large nor too small. Fault: Narrow head, close-set eyes.

Expression - Warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting. An overall well-balanced and pleasant expression supersedes the importance of individual parts. Care should be taken to look and examine well beyond the hair to determine if what is seen is the actual head and expression rather than an image created by grooming technique.

Eyes - Large, round, not prominent, placed well apart, looking straight ahead. Very dark. Lighter on liver pigmented dogs and blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Small, close-set or light eyes; excessive eye white.

Ears - Large, set slightly below crown of skull; heavily coated.

Skull - Domed.

Stop - There is a definite stop.

Muzzle - Square, short, unwrinkled, with good cushioning, set no lower than bottom eye rim; never downturned. Ideally, no longer than 1 inch from tip of nose to stop, although length may vary slightly in relation to overall size of dog. Front of muzzle should be flat; lower lip and chin not protruding and definitely never receding. Fault: Snipiness, lack of definite stop.

Nose - Nostrils are broad, wide, and open.

Pigmentation - Nose, lips, eye rims are black on all colors, except liver on liver pigmented dogs and blue on blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Pink on nose, lips, or eye rims.

Bite - Undershot. Jaw is broad and wide. A missing tooth or slightly misaligned teeth should not be too severely penalized. Teeth and tongue should not show when mouth is closed. Fault: Overshot bite.

NECK, TOPLINE, BODY - Of utmost importance is an overall well-balanced dog with no exaggerated features.

Neck - Well set-on flowing smoothly into shoulders; of sufficient length to permit natural high head carriage and in balance with height and length of dog.

Topline - Level.

Body - Short-coupled and sturdy with no waist or tuck-up. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall. Fault: Legginess.

Chest - Broad and deep with good spring-of-rib, however, not barrel-chested. Depth of ribcage should extend to just below elbow. Distance from elbow to withers is a little greater than from elbow to ground.

Croup - Flat.

Tail - Set on high, heavily plumed, carried in curve well over back. Too loose, too tight, too flat, or too low set a tail is undesirable and should be penalized to extent of deviation.

FOREQUARTERS

Shoulders - Well-angulated, well laid-back, well laid-in, fitting smoothly into body.

Legs - Straight, well-boned, muscular, set well-apart and under chest, with elbows set close to body.

Pasterns - Strong, perpendicular.

Dewclaws - May be removed.

Feet - Firm, well-padded, point straight ahead.

HINDQUARTERS - Angulation of hindquarters should be in balance with forequarters.
Legs - Well-boned, muscular, and straight when viewed from rear with well-bent stifles, not close set but in line with forequarters.

Hocks - Well let down, perpendicular. Fault: Hyperextension of hocks.

Dewclaws - May be removed. Feet-Firm, well-padded, point straight ahead.
COAT

Coat - Luxurious, double-coated, dense, long, and flowing. Slight wave permissible. Hair on top of head is tied up. Fault: Sparse coat, single coat, curly coat.

Trimming - Feet, bottom of coat, and anus may be done for neatness and to facilitate movement. Fault: Excessive trimming.

COLOR AND MARKINGS - All are permissible and to be considered equally.

GAIT - The Shih Tzu moves straight and must be shown at its own natural speed, neither raced nor strung-up, to evaluate its smooth, flowing, effortless movement with good front reach and equally strong rear drive, level topline, naturally high head carriage, and tail carried in gentle curve over back.

TEMPERAMENT - As the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is that of a companion and house pet, it is essential that its temperament be outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all.

Approved May 9, 1989 | Effective June 29, 1989

History of the Shih Tzu & ASTC

HISTORY PART ONE - A Brief History of the Shih Tzu
by Victor Joris



China for centuries. Records substantiate the existence of short, square, "under the table" dogs from at least 1000 B.C. By piecing together historical facts and documented records, it is possible to some extent to follow the development in China of the breeding of dogs likely to be the ancestors of the present-day Shih Tzu.

The ancestry of the Shih Tzu is rather obscure, but it is probable that the breed is primarily of Tibetan origin. The history of the Tibetan "Lion Dogs" is interwoven with the tenets of Buddhism, which originated in India. The lion was closely associated with Buddhism, but the lion was not indigenous to China, so the Chinese and the Tibetan lamas bred their toy dogs to resemble lions. The Shih Tzu (whose name means "lion") is reputed to have been the oldest and smallest variety of the Tibetan "holy dogs" and bears some similarity to other Tibetan breeds. For much of the long and illustrious history of China, the breeding of the small "Lion Dog"; was a favorite pastime of succeeding imperial rulers.

Prior to A.D. 624, documents show that small dogs were exported from Malta, Turkey, Greece, and Persia as gifts to the ruling Chinese emperors. It is likely that the first small Tibetan Lion Dogs from which the Shih Tzu is probably descended came to China during the Qing (Ch'ing) Dynasty (1644-62) as tributes from the Grand Lamas to the Chinese Imperial Court, and that the Chinese interbred these Tibetan dogs with the early western imports and with the Pug and the Pekingese.

The existence of the Shih Tzu as we know it today is owed to the Dowager Empress Cixi (T'zu Hsi), whose kennel of Pugs, Pekingese, and Shih Tzu was world renowned. Although she carefully supervised the kennel during her lifetime and attempted to keep the three imperial breeds separate, the actual breeding was carried out by palace eunuchs who secretly crossed the breeds to reduce size and produce unusual and desirable markings. After her death in 1908, the kennels were dispersed and palace breeding became haphazard. Some breeding was still practiced by private individuals and specimens were exhibited, but the dogs were almost impossible to acquire. So far as is known, the breed became extinct in China after the Communist revolution.

Seven dogs and seven bitches comprise the gene pool of all existing Shih Tzu. These fourteen include the Pekingese dog used in an admitted cross in England in 1952--a cross which caused considerable trouble, as it was done by a newcomer to the breed and reported after the fact. The other foundation dogs included three Shih Tzu imported from China that became the foundation of the Taishan kennel of Lady Brownrigg in England and eight additional imports to England between 1933 and 1959. Three other Shih Tzu were imported into Norway from China in 1932 by Mrs. Henrick Kauffman, including a **** that was the only Shih Tzu bred in the Imperial Palace to reach the Western world.

Returning military personnel brought some of the first Shih Tzu into the United States during the late 1940s and 1950s and began breeding programs. The unique beauty and outstanding temperament of this "new" breed quickly found favor with the fancy. From the first day of formal AKC recognition (Sept. 1, 1969), the Shih Tzu catapulted from a relatively unknown breed to one of the most glamorous and popular of all canine companions.

This month's column was contributed by Shih Tzu breeder-judge Victor Joris, author of The Complete Shih Tzu (Howell Book House). We hope you have enjoyed it.

Originally published in the Shih Tzu breed column in the American Kennel Club Gazette . Written by Shih Tzu breeder-judge Victor Joris, author of 'The Complete Shih Tzu' (Howell Book House).


HISTORY PART TWO - The Early Days of the ASTC
by Mrs. Andy Warner



The American Kennel Club accepted the Shih Tzu into the Miscellaneous Class in 1955. At that time, there were very few Shih Tzu in this country.

Maureen Murdock and Philip Price, her nephew, were the first to import and breed Shih Tzu in this country. In 1954 Mr. Price brought back to the United States Golden S. Wen of Chasmu and imported Ho Lai Sheum of Yram in 1955; both were from England.

As with all unrecognized breeds, complete records of imports and births must be kept by individuals or groups until such time as a club is formed and a registrar is selected. This is extremely important if a breed hopes to be recognized by the American Kennel Club. If the interest in a breed does not increase and spread across the country, the Miscellaneous status may be withdrawn by AKC. The same thing may happen if incorrect, up-to-date records are not kept on all imports and births.

In 1957 the Shih Tzu Club of America was formed in the eastern part of the United States. By 1960 there were three Shih Tzu clubs: the Texas Shih Tzu Society, the American Shih Tzu Association in Florida, and the Shih Tzu Club of America.

Many of the early Shih Tzu supporters and enthusiasts were military people who bought their Shih Tzu in England and Scandinavia and returned to the United States with them when they were stationed stateside again. Because they were so spread out across the country, the three clubs were formed independently of each other. By 1961 there were over 100 Shih Tzu registered in the United States, both imports and offspring born here.

The first champion **** to be imported into the United States was French Ch. Jungfaltets Jung-Wu, a 9-pound gold and white, in 1960. Ingrid Colwell bought her in Sweden and showed her to her championship in France while her Air Force husband was stationed there. Ingrid arrived in the United States with five Shih Tzu, including two with the Pukedal prefix (her mother's kennel name in Sweden). From 1960 to 1968, when Ingrid sadly died in a fire, she imported several Shih Tzu from both Scandinavia and England.

Yvette Duval, a close friend of Ingrid's, imported the first male champion, French Ch. Pukedals Ding Dang. Yvette bought this black and white male from Ingrid's mother and finished his championship in France before she and her Air Force husband, Lucian, were reassigned to the United States. They also brought two Shih Tzu bitches into the country with them at the same time.

In 1963 the Shih Tzu Club of America and the Texas Shih Tzu Society merged to form the American Shih Tzu Club. Since the AKC had accepted the Shih Tzu into the Miscellaneous class in 1955 it was important to have only one club, with one registry. Lucian Duval was selected as registrar, and he combined the work of the two clubs into one. Our hope was that if we did a good job of keeping our records and spread the word of how great the Shih Tzu was by showing and exposure, we might hope to someday be recognized by the AKC and be able to earn American championships.

With much pleasure, and always a great deal of fun, many early Shih Tzu lovers showed their best all over the country. We were stopped by all kinds of curious people and answered questions at shows all day long. Many of us sold dogs to new people to the breed, thus spreading the joy of owning a Shih Tzu and helping to educate about this relatively new breed to the United States. In 1962, when there was still a Muscellaneous class held at Westminster, there were 12 Shih Tzu entered. By the end of 1962 there were more than 300 Shih Tzu registered with the American Shih Tzu Club.

We had three registrars during the history of the American Shih Tzu Club. Gene Dudgeon (publisher of the Shih Tzu News) followed Lucian Duval. Mary Wood then served as registrar until AKC recognition.

By July 1965 there were 656 Shih Tzu registered by the ASTC, and registrations had spread rather nicely across the United States. Some groups were starting to form local Shih Tzu clubs. a fun match had been held in June of 1964 at Ingrid Colwell's home in Middletown, PA, and others were being planned.

In 1967 it felt as though we were finally getting closer to our goal of recognition. In the spring of that year the AKC asked several representatives of the ASTC to meet with them in New York to discuss revising the breed standard. We had originally adopted the English Kennel Club standard when we formed the ASTC, and we were asked to clarify points that seemed unclear. A committee was formed to do this, and we returned to the AKC with revisions. Nothing major was changed, but we felt that if AKC was interested it was a very encouraging sign. Shortly before recognition another committee came up with a few changes approved by the AKC.

The ASTC was incorporated in 1968--another step forward in our efforts for recognition. The following year the AKC accepted the Shih Tzu as its 116th recognized breed. It was an exciting day for all of us. The carefully kept records of the ASTC registry were turned over to the AKC, and in September 1969 Shih Tzu were shown for the first time in the United States for championship points. At recognition, the registry had increased to almost 3,000.

Originally published in the Shih Tzu breed column in the American Kennel Club Gazette.

"Imperial" Shih Tzu

THE FACTS ABOUT "IMPERIAL" OR "TEACUP" SHIH TZU


The words "imperial" and "tiny teacup" are sometimes used interchangeably to describe undersized Shih Tzu. In fact, the terms "imperial" or "tiny teacup" should be regarded as what they really are.... A MYTH often used by unethical breeders to create a market for dogs that do not conform to the breed standard. These tiny dogs are NOT what the Shih Tzu has been since it was developed as a distinctive breed in China ’s imperial palace, nor what it ought to be.

Maybe you read an ad in your local newspaper, searched the Internet, or know of someone who acquired a Shih Tzu using the words "imperial" or "tiny teacup" to describe how unusual and special (and even more expensive?) their dog might be. The official breed standard approved by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the American Shih Tzu Club (ASTC) calls for a weight range of 9 to 16 pounds.

A breed standard is a written description of the ideal dog of a particular breed by which it is bred and judged at dog shows. Breed standards are used by all canine organizations. The first written standard for Shih Tzu was that of the Peking Kennel Club, in 1938, which stated that the ideal weight for Shih Tzu was 10 to 15 pounds. Today, Shih Tzu breed standards approved by purebred dog registries around the world are very similar to the 1938 Peking Kennel Club standard. They recognize that one of the distinguishing characteristics of the Shih Tzu is that it is not a fragile dog. It is very solid and sturdy despite its relatively compact size.

Why would anyone want to steer away from the weight called for in the AKC-approved breed standard or to call the breed by anything but its AKC-recognized name? Could it be a fad they have created in order to obtain a higher price for a dog that does not meet the breed standard? These particular breeders have deliberately downsized an already designated Toy breed. By doing this, they risk the overall health and wonderful distinguishing breed characteristics that responsible breeders have worked long and hard to preserve. The same is true of "breeders" who deliberately cross-breed two different AKC-recognized breeds to create what they call "designer dogs."

Many of the less than reputable breeders of undersized Shih Tzu claim that their Shih Tzu possess the "imperial" gene. There is no proof that such a gene exists. Size reduction occurs by breeding the smallest dog in a litter to another small dog of another litter, and so on and so forth. This not only creates abnormally small Shih Tzu, but also puppies that may have health problems. This is not indicative of an "imperial gene," but rather of poor breeding practices.

A responsible breeder does not advertise an occasional "runt" as an "imperial" or "tiny teacup" Shih Tzu. Rather, it is sold as a pet, solely as a companion dog that is not to be used for breeding. Responsible breeders strive to breed healthy dogs that conform to the breed standard. The ideal Shih Tzu is a sturdy, active, healthy dog with good substance for its size. Those desiring a very tiny pet should choose another breed rather than destroying the very characteristics that make the Shih Tzu such an ideal companion.

There is no such thing as an AKC-recognized Imperial or Tiny Teacup Shih Tzu. Any domestic registry other than the American Kennel Club is not recognized by the American Shih Tzu Club. Breeders using alternative registries may have lost their AKC registration and breeding privileges for various reasons.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: This web site is a good place to begin or continue your research on our breed or to find out how to locate a responsible breeder through the club's breeder referral service. As you search the web, however, be wary of well-designed web sites with appealing photos that may lead you to the very breeders you should avoid. Puppy-selling web sites are often nothing more than glorified marketing sources commercial breeders use to reach the uninitiated. It is sometimes difficult even for those aware of the dangers of pet shops and puppy mills to discriminate between the various web sites and determine which are maintained by ethical breeders, so be sure to do your homework.

You have a wonderful Artemis Shih Tzu line.

Thanks Sir!!

Your Shih Tzu & Your Veterinarian

By Jo Ann White

As no individual can possibly be totally familiar with the quirks of every breed, here are some Shih Tzu peculiarities you might like to share with your veterinarian.

1. Shih Tzu puppies often have slightly pinched nostrils that generally open with time. The bubbly discharge from a Shih Tzu puppy’s nose is NOT serious if the discharge is clear and watery and the dog is otherwise thriving. This problem is most acute during the teething stage. Even the nostrils of a dog that has difficulty simultaneously eating and breath-ing or is lethargic at this time may open satisfactorily as the dog matures, but a few dogs this severely affected may require surgery later on.

2. Small umbilical hernias (a bubble-like protrusion of fat at the navel through an opening no larger than the tip of your little finger) are common in Shih Tzu and are often due to excess stress on the umbilical cord during delivery. Such hernias often close naturally over time, although you may want to have them surgically closed while your pet is being neutered. Unlike inguinal (groin-area) hernias, they are not a reason to avoid breeding a dog.

3.Shih Tzu quite often cut their teeth relatively late and lose them relatively early. Undershot bites (lower jaw protruding beyond the upper one) are characteristic of this breed, and crowded, poorly aligned, and missing incisors are common.

4. Reverse sneezing describes a condition in which the dog seems to be unable to get its breath and begins to honk or snort. It is most often caused by a slightly elongated soft palate that “sticks” until the dog takes a deep breath through its mouth. The most effective way to stop this is to put a finger over the dog’s nostrils, thereby forcing it to breathe through its mouth. Sometimes just a hug and some reassurance will do the trick! Unlike more serious problems found in brachycephalic (short-faced) dogs, reverse sneezing in Shih Tzu is quite common and is not life-threatening.

5. Eye injuries are common in short-faced, large-eyed breeds, and require immediate veterinary attention. If your dog’s eye is red, or if it is squinting or pawing at one eye, take it to the vet at once.

The "Chinese Imperial" Dog

The following letter was sent by the ASTC Officers and Board of Directors to Dog News in response to an article there about the so-called “Imperial Chinese Dog.”



The Officers & Directors of The American Shih Tzu Club, Inc., as well as many of our members, read the recent article about The Chinese Imperial Dog with dismay and concern. That the (so-called) Chinese Imperial Dog is a pure bred dog is a myth. The (so-called) Chinese Imperial Dog is not a purebred dog, nor was it the imperial dog of Chinese Nobility. That title goes to the Pekingese. By looking at some pedigrees of this so-called rare breed, one quickly observes that nearly half of these pedigrees contain the names of AKC registered Shih Tzu. These so called Chinese Imperial Dogs can not be a rare breed because they contain close up in their pedigrees the genes and DNA of Shih Tzu. In the Rare Breeds of The World article the author says the Shih Tzu is a different breed. These dogs are nothing more than sub-standard sized Shih Tzu. In the “designer dog world” there is unfortunately a market for these too tiny dogs.

It should be noted as well that none of the major pure bred dog registries or dog show administering organizations throughout the world (AKC, CKC, FCI, etc); recognize either “The Chinese Imperial Dog”, or the “Imperial Shih Tzu”. The organizations that do are “for profit registries” only. The “kennels” promoting these dogs do not show at either AKC or FCI shows, and in fact most likely do not show at all. Note also, that many of these Chinese Imperial Dog owners breed both this “breed” and Shih Tzu as well. Mrs. Debora Jensen, referred to in the article, states on her web site: “Our dogs are registered with AKC as Shih Tzu and as a Chinese Imperial Dog with API”. It is difficult to accept that the same puppy can be a Shih Tzu and also be a ‘rare’ Chinese Imperial Dog.

The most authoritative scholars of the breeds throughout the world all agree that no such ‘separate’ breed existed in the palaces of the Emperors of China. The Imperial dog was the Pekingese and most likely it was the ‘Sleeve Peke’. Correct size of the Shih Tzu breed has always been an issue, but when all is said and done the correct weight of an adult Shih Tzu is between 9 and 16 pounds. Five times in the AKC, CKC, English and FCI approved standards it is stated “REGARDLESS of size the Shih Tzu always carries good weight, good bone, and good substance”. That is impossible to achieve in a dog of less than nine pounds that is the result of breeding too-small to too-small to too-small.

Thank You,
The Officers & Directors of the American Shih Tzu Club, Inc.

"Designer Dogs"

"Designer dog" is a label given to dogs that involve the deliberate cross-breeding of two different breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Like the designations "Imperial" or "Tiny Teacup" Shih Tzu, such labels are a myth generally used by unethical breeders to create a demand - and charge high prices -for mixed-breed or undersized (and often unhealthy) dogs. Trendy mutts, whatever fancy names they may be given, are still just that - mutts.

The solid, sturdy, and compact Shih Tzu, with its unique pushed-in face, wide-eyed, trusting expression, and friendly temperament, was developed as a distinctive breed long ago in China's imperial palace. It is a breed that deviates considerably from the generic, wolf-like dog, with its longer nose, narrower head, and more closely-set eyes.

Evidence from accidental cross-breedings clearly demonstrates that many of the most highly prized and distinguishing characteristics of the Shih Tzu are genetically recessive. Once lost by poor breeding practices, the recessives that make a Shih Tzu a Shih Tzu can never be recaptured. This is one reason that poorly-bred pet shop. Shih Tzu often bear little resemblance to the gorgeous, elegant Shih Tzu seen in the show ring.

Imagine how much more swiftly these genetic traits are lost when someone deliberately crosses a Shih Tzu with another breed, be it Pekingese, Poodle, or Yorkshire Terrier. Puppies from the first generation cross may look appealing—or not—and you have no idea what they will grow up to be in terms of looks, health, or temperament. They may, in fact, just as easily inherit the worst genes of both their parents, rather than the best. The qualities of puppies from the second or later generations of these so-called "designer dogs" are, of course, even less predictable, given the recessive nature of many of the Shih Tzu's most distinguishing traits.

It has taken many, many generations of careful breeding to fix the qualities that make our breed so appealing. A responsible breeder always strives to breed healthy dogs that conform to the breed standard - a written description of the ideal dog of a particular breed by which it is bred and judged at dog shows. The official breed standard for the Shih Tzu approved by the American Kennel Club and the American Shih Tzu Club is based on the first written standard for Shih Tzu, that of the Peking Kennel Club, in 1938. Why would anyone want to steer away from the AKC-approved breed standard that describes the breed we all love so well? Could the “designer dog” simply be a fad they have created in order to obtain a higher price for a mixed-breed dog that otherwise would usually be given away? A responsible breeder does not deliberately plan litters based on their trendiness or marketability. In fact, anyone found to be deliberately breeding and selling "designer dogs" is not eligible for membership in the American Shih Tzu Club.



FOR MORE INFORMATION: This web site is a good place to begin or continue your research on our breed or find out how to locate a responsible breeder.

Color - Sex - Age - & Size | Do They Matter In Choosing A Shih Tzu?

Far too many prospective Shih Tzu owners approach a breeder requesting a “small, gold and white, female puppy.” Do these things really matter? What a buyer should be seeking, first and foremost, is an affectionate, intelligent, healthy, and playful companion. The rest of it is secondary, for several reasons.

COLOR
The Shih Tzu standard states that all colors and markings are permissible and are to be considered equally in judging our breed. This includes the seldom-seen livers and blues (which have brown or blue pigment and may have lighter eyes). Decades ago, however, a small group of breeders insisted that gold and white was the preferred color for our breed. This fueled an effort to breed for gold and whites and led to the virtual disappearance of many other colors from the show ring. Today many breeders would love to have more solid blacks, black-masked golds, black and whites, and platinum silver and whites with black tippings, but these colors are recessive and it has become very difficult to find quality dogs that are genetically capable of producing them. In a breeding program, blacks and black and whites are especially valued for their ability to improve pigment, and the more unusual colors stand out in the show ring. And, for pet owners, dogs with dark faces don’t have the visible face-staining problem that affects so many of the gold and whites.

SEX
The pet buyer’s desire for a female probably stems from previous experiences with other breeds. Shih Tzu have always been bred to be companions to humans. Unlike many larger breeds, Shih Tzu do not have sex-linked temperament differences. Dogs are every bit as affectionate as bitches (some say more), and an aggressive Shih Tzu of either sex is unusual and undesirable. In fact, one is more likely to witness occasional squabbles over food and toys and ranking in the pecking order between bitches than between dogs, particularly among bitches in season. Note that it is best to have your pet Shih Tzu spayed or neutered as soon as recommended by your veterinarian to help curtail and eliminate undesirable sex-related behavior and reproductive health anomalies. Males are easier to keep in coat because they don’t go through periodic, hormone-related coat loss, making the male the ideal choice for someone planning to keep a pet in coat or have only one show dog. Also, dogs are much easier to housebreak. A male would much prefer to “hold it” until he goes outside to mark his territory in the greater world, while a female seems to think it is all right to eliminate wherever she happens to be when the urge strikes!

AGE
The Shih Tzu is such an adaptable breed that buyers might want to consider a more mature dog (which may well be already trained or easier to train) rather than insisting on a very young puppy. This is particularly true when purchasing a show dog, because you know exactly what you are getting. In addition, this is a breed that matures slowly. Puppies benefit from additional time with their mothers and littermates. The ASTC recommends that Shih Tzu not leave for their new homes until they are at least 12 weeks old. Breeders often have even older puppies that didn’t quite live up to their promise as show dogs or retirees who would love to spend the rest of their lives as pampered pets. There are always rescue dogs that are in need of new, loving homes. Remember that adopting a dog, whether from a breeder or a rescue group, gives it a new life!

SIZE
Remember that in most countries the Shih Tzu is not shown in the Toy Group, but in the Non-Sporting Group, and that the AKC breed standard states that the ideal weight for the Shih Tzu is 9 to 16 pounds. There is NO such thing as an officially recognized “Imperial,” or “Teacup,” or "Stained Glass” Shih Tzu in the United States or abroad. Very tiny Shih Tzu are often small because they have health problems. Those who are breeding very tiny Shih Tzu and charging a premium price for them are breeding to make money, not to better the breed. The best advice for someone determined to have a really tiny dog is to consider another breed. One of the finest attributes of a Shih Tzu is that it is solid and sturdy, despite its relatively small size, and ethical breeders work to keep it that way.

IN CONCLUSION
Adding a Shih Tzu to your household is not something to do on impulse. Devote time and energy to learning about the breed and how to recognize a responsible breeder before you begin your search for a dog. This website has a list of questions to ask yourself and a breeder, breeder referral information, recommended health tests, a picture guide to breed colors, and articles on many of the other issues discussed here.

Once you have found such a breeder, listen to his or her opinions about which dogs would best suit your lifestyle. After all, the breeder has been watching these animals since they were born, not just for a single afternoon. With the breeder’s advice in mind, you can choose the dog that appeals to you. After all, your new Shih Tzu will be sharing your life for many years to come, and you will soon find that color, sex, age, and size are not the characteristics that really matter.

Questions To Ask A Breeder

HOW LONG HAS THE BREEDER BEEN BREEDING SHIH TZU?


IS THE BREEDER KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT THE BREED? DOES HE/SHE DEMONSTRATE A KNOWLEDGE OF THE STANDARD OF THE BREED?
Responsible breeders try to breed dogs as close as possible to the breed standard, which does not recognize "toy" or "imperial" Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu far below the normal weight range for the breed may have health problems. If you want a truly tiny dog, select another breed.


DOES HE OR SHE REPRESENT HIS DOGS AS HONESTLY AS POSSIBLE AND TRY TO ASSIST THE SERIOUS NOVICE IN HIS UNDERSTANDING OF THE BREED?


IS HE OR SHE INVOLVED IN COMPETITION WITH THEIR DOGS (CONFORMATION, OBEDIENCE, AGILITY)?
This indicates valuable experience with the breed.


DOES SHE/HE TRACE HEALTH PROBLEMS IN THE DOGS HE SELLS?
If new to the breed, has breeder carefully researched the genetic problems that may lurk in the background of his lines? The breeder should be knowledgeable about and working to control and/or eradicate conditions, including those that are particular to the breed, such as renal dysplasia, portal systemic shunt, hip and eye problems, allergies, Von Willebrands disease, thyroid disorders, and inguinal hernias? ASTC pamphlets can tell you more about breeding healthy dogs and renal dysplasia.


HAVE THE PUPPIES BEEN RAISED IN THE HOME?
Puppies used to home activity will more easily adapt to new families and homes. Puppies require proper socialization by gentle handling, human contact, and a wide variety of noises and experiences, and should not be removed from their dam or littermates before 8 weeks of age. (The ASTC Code of Ethics suggests puppies not be sold before 12 weeks.)


HAVE THE PUPPIES' TEMPERAMENTS BEEN EVALUATED AND CAN THE BREEDER GUIDE YOU TO THE PUPPY THAT WILL BEST SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE?
A very shy puppy will not do well in a noisy household with small children, just as a very dominant puppy won't flourish in a sedate, senior citizen household. A caring breeder will know the puppies and be able to help you make a good match.


HOW OFTEN IS THE DAM BRED?
Breeding every heat cycle is too often and may indicate that profit is the primary motive for the breeding.


ON WHAT BASIS WAS THE SIRE CHOSEN?
If the answer is "because he lives right down the street" or "because he is really sweet," it may be that sufficient thought was not put into the breeding.


ARE THE PUPPY'S SIRE AND DAM AVAILABLE FOR YOU TO MEET?
If the sire is unavailable can you call his owners or people who have his puppies to ask about temperament or health problems? You should also be shown pictures or videos.


WHERE DID YOU FIND OUT ABOUT THIS BREEDER?
Responsible breeders usually breed only when they have a waiting list of buyers and don't need to advertise in newspapers or put a sign in the yard.


WILL THE PUPPY BE SOLD WITH A MANDATORY SPAY/NEUTER CONTRACT AND/OR LIMITED REGISTRATION (WHICH MEANS THAT IF THE DOG IS BRED, THE PUPPIES CANNOT BE AKC REGISTERED)?
A breeder who cares enough about the breed to insist on these for a pet puppy is usually a responsible breeder.


DO THE PUPPIES SEEM HEALTHY, WITH NO DISCHARGE FROM EYES OR NOSE, NO LOOSE STOOLS, NO FOUL SMELLING EARS? ARE THEIR COATS SOFT, FULL, AND CLEAN? DO THEY HAVE PLENTY OF ENERGY WHEN AWAKE YET CALM DOWN EASILY WHEN GENTLY STROKED?
If the puppy is in good weight, a slight, clear nasal discharge may be due to pinched nostrils, quite common during the teething phase. They generally open as the puppy matures. Small umbilical hernias almost always close with age.


DOES THE BREEDER ADVISE YOU TO HAVE THE PUPPY CHECKED BY A VETERINARIAN WITHIN 2 DAYS (48 HOURS) OF SALE, WITH ADDITIONAL TIME ALLOWED IF THE PUPPY IS SOLD ON A SATURDAY OR SUNDAY, AND PROVIDE A WRITTEN AGREEMENT TO REFUND THE PURCHASE PRICE OR TAKE THE PUPPY BACK AND REPLACE IT IF IT IS FOUND TO BE UNFIT BY A VETERINARIAN? HAS THE PUPPY RECEIVED THE NECESSARY IMMUNIZATIONS AND BEEN CHECKED FOR PARASITES AND TREATED IF NECESSARY?


DOES THE BREEDER PROVIDE A 3-5 GENERATION PEDIGREE, A COMPLETE HEALTH RECORD, AND MATERIAL TO HELP YOU WITH FEEDING, GROOMING, TRAINING, AND HOUSEBREAKING?
An AKC Registration form should also be provided and clearly explained.


ARE THERE A MAJORITY OF TITLED DOGS (THE INITIALS CH, CD, ETC. BEFORE OR AFTER THE NAMES) IN THE FIRST TWO GENERATIONS?
The term "champion lines" means nothing if those titles are back three or more generations or if there are only one or two in the whole pedigree. Also, remember that not all champions are created equal and that a champion may or may not produce quality puppies.


DOES THE BREEDER HAVE ONLY 1 OR AT MOST 2 BREEDS OF DOGS AND ONLY 1 LITTER AT A TIME?
If there are several breeds of dogs, the breeder may not devote the time it takes to become really knowledgeable about our breed. If there are several litters at a time, it is very difficult to give the puppies the attention they need and may indicate that the primary purpose for breeding is profit, rather than a sincere desire to sustain and improve the breed.


WILL THE BREEDER BE AVAILABLE FOR THE LIFE OF THE DOG TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT HAVE? IS THIS SOMEONE YOU WOULD FEEL COMFORTABLE ASKING ANY TYPE OF QUESTION?
If you feel intimidated or pressured, keep looking!


WILL THE BREEDER TAKE THE DOG BACK AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, IF YOU CANNOT KEEP IT?
This is the hallmark of responsible breeding (and the quickest, best way to make rescue obsolete).


DOES THE BREEDER BELONG TO THE AMERICAN SHIH TZU CLUB AND/OR A LOCAL SHIH TZU CLUB AND ABIDE BY THE ASTC CODE OF ETHICS?
Responsible breeders also do not sell puppies to pet shops or commercial pet mill establishments, donate puppies for raffles or auctions, crossbreed or sell crossbred puppies, or give stud service to unregistered bitches.

Questions A Breeder May Ask You

HAVE YOU PREVIOUSLY OWNED A SHIH TZU ?
Your response will indicate how experienced you are with the breed. If you answer ‘Yes’, expect to be asked more questions about how long the Shih Tzu lived, where you purchased it, etc.


WHAT OTHER BREEDS OF DOGS HAVE YOU PREVIOUSLY OWNED?
If you have not owned a Shih Tzu, the breeder will want to know your previous experience with any dog.


DO YOU OWN OTHER DOGS NOW?
If so, have you thought and planned for the best way to introduce an new pet to the older one? The breeder may have suggestions to assist you.


DO YOU HAVE CHILDREN? WHAT AGES?
Some breeders will not sell a puppy to a family that has very young children. Others may make that decision after meeting your family and observing how children behave around dogs - or how they respond to directions for handling puppies.


WHERE WILL THE SHIH TZU SLEEP, EAT, ETC.
If you have pre-planned these details, the breeder will be reassured about selling you a puppy.


DO YOU HAVE A SAFELY FENCED YARD, PATIO, ETC WHERE THE SHIH TZU CAN GO OUTSIDE?


ARE YOU AWARE OF THE GROOMING THAT SHIH TZU REQUIRE?
They must be brushed regularly; the face needs daily cleaning/neatening; regular baths are a must for the health and comfort of the dog. If the owner is not able to do this, there are expenses that must be met for professional grooming.


HAVE YOU SELECTED A VETERINARIAN?
If you have previously owned dogs, and used this veterinarian, may the breeder contact the vet’s office for referral? Are you prepared for the expense of vaccinations, check-ups, teeth cleaning, etc.?


IS THIS PUPPY A GIFT FOR A BIRTHDAY, CHRISTMAS, ETC?
Experienced breeders will recommend against such plans. The person who will be responsible for care of the Shih Tzu should be involved in the selection and the interview process. And, puppies should not be introduced to their new home in the excitement of a celebration of some sort. Puppy may be purchased and then taken home at a quiet time.

here's mine

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i will post soon,,haha

nice tzus,,

i have one din,,

My new Puppy ... CheersxSunnyside

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My Stud Dog ...

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My Dam .. when see was young

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AKC Shih Tzu Breed Standard

GENERAL APPEARANCE - 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. Even though a toy dog, the Shih Tzu must be subject to the same requirements of soundness and structure prescribed for all breeds, and any deviation from the ideal described in the standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Shih Tzu as in any other breed, regardless of whether or not such faults are specifically mentioned in the standard.
SIZE, PROPORTION, SUBSTANCE

Size - Ideally, height at withers is 9 to 10 1/2 inches; but, not less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches. Ideally, weight of mature dogs, 9 to 16 pounds.

Proportion - Length between withers and root of tail is slightly longer than height at withers. The Shih Tzu must never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty.

Substance - Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact, solid and carries good weight and substance.

HEAD

Head - Round, broad, wide between eyes, its size in balance with the overall size of dog being neither too large nor too small. Fault: Narrow head, close-set eyes.

Expression - Warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting. An overall well-balanced and pleasant expression supersedes the importance of individual parts. Care should be taken to look and examine well beyond the hair to determine if what is seen is the actual head and expression rather than an image created by grooming technique.

Eyes - Large, round, not prominent, placed well apart, looking straight ahead. Very dark. Lighter on liver pigmented dogs and blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Small, close-set or light eyes; excessive eye white.

Ears - Large, set slightly below crown of skull; heavily coated.

Skull - Domed.

Stop - There is a definite stop.

Muzzle - Square, short, unwrinkled, with good cushioning, set no lower than bottom eye rim; never downturned. Ideally, no longer than 1 inch from tip of nose to stop, although length may vary slightly in relation to overall size of dog. Front of muzzle should be flat; lower lip and chin not protruding and definitely never receding. Fault: Snipiness, lack of definite stop.

Nose - Nostrils are broad, wide, and open.

Pigmentation - Nose, lips, eye rims are black on all colors, except liver on liver pigmented dogs and blue on blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Pink on nose, lips, or eye rims.

Bite - Undershot. Jaw is broad and wide. A missing tooth or slightly misaligned teeth should not be too severely penalized. Teeth and tongue should not show when mouth is closed. Fault: Overshot bite.

NECK, TOPLINE, BODY - Of utmost importance is an overall well-balanced dog with no exaggerated features.

Neck - Well set-on flowing smoothly into shoulders; of sufficient length to permit natural high head carriage and in balance with height and length of dog.

Topline - Level.

Body - Short-coupled and sturdy with no waist or tuck-up. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall. Fault: Legginess.

Chest - Broad and deep with good spring-of-rib, however, not barrel-chested. Depth of ribcage should extend to just below elbow. Distance from elbow to withers is a little greater than from elbow to ground.

Croup - Flat.

Tail - Set on high, heavily plumed, carried in curve well over back. Too loose, too tight, too flat, or too low set a tail is undesirable and should be penalized to extent of deviation.

FOREQUARTERS

Shoulders - Well-angulated, well laid-back, well laid-in, fitting smoothly into body.

Legs - Straight, well-boned, muscular, set well-apart and under chest, with elbows set close to body.

Pasterns - Strong, perpendicular.

Dewclaws - May be removed.

Feet - Firm, well-padded, point straight ahead.

HINDQUARTERS - Angulation of hindquarters should be in balance with forequarters.
Legs - Well-boned, muscular, and straight when viewed from rear with well-bent stifles, not close set but in line with forequarters.

Hocks - Well let down, perpendicular. Fault: Hyperextension of hocks.

Dewclaws - May be removed. Feet-Firm, well-padded, point straight ahead.
COAT

Coat - Luxurious, double-coated, dense, long, and flowing. Slight wave permissible. Hair on top of head is tied up. Fault: Sparse coat, single coat, curly coat.

Trimming - Feet, bottom of coat, and anus may be done for neatness and to facilitate movement. Fault: Excessive trimming.

COLOR AND MARKINGS - All are permissible and to be considered equally.

GAIT - The Shih Tzu moves straight and must be shown at its own natural speed, neither raced nor strung-up, to evaluate its smooth, flowing, effortless movement with good front reach and equally strong rear drive, level topline, naturally high head carriage, and tail carried in gentle curve over back.

TEMPERAMENT - As the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is that of a companion and house pet, it is essential that its temperament be outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all.

Approved May 9, 1989 | Effective June 29, 1989

Shih Tzu Breed Standard
Toy Group

General Appearance
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.

Even though a toy dog, the Shih Tzu must be subject to the same requirements of soundness and structure prescribed for all breeds, and any deviation from the ideal described in the standard should be penalized to the extent of the deviation. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Shih Tzu as in any other breed, regardless of whether or not such faults are specifically mentioned in the standard.

Size, Proportion, Substance
Size - Ideally, height at withers is 9 to 10½ inches; but, not less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches. Ideally, weight of mature dogs, 9 to 16 pounds. Proportion - Length between withers and root of tail is slightly longer than height at withers. The Shih Tzu must never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty. Substance - Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact, solid and carries good weight and substance.

Head
Head - Round, broad, wide between eyes, its size in balance with the overall size of dog being neither too large nor too small. Fault: Narrow head, close-set eyes. Expression - Warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting. An overall well-balanced and pleasant expression supersedes the importance of individual parts. Care should be taken to look and examine well beyond the hair to determine if what is seen is the actual head and expression rather than an image created by grooming technique. Eyes - Large, round, not prominent, placed well apart, looking straight ahead. Very dark. Lighter on liver pigmented dogs and blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Small, close-set or light eyes; excessive eye white. Ears - Large, set slightly below crown of skull; heavily coated. Skull - Domed. Stop - There is a definite stop. Muzzle - Square, short, unwrinkled, with good cushioning, set no lower than bottom eye rim; never downturned. Ideally, no longer than 1 inch from tip of nose to stop, although length may vary slightly in relation to overall size of dog. Front of muzzle should be flat; lower lip and chin not protruding and definitely never receding. Fault: Snipiness, lack of definite stop. Nose - Nostrils are broad, wide, and open. Pigmentation - Nose, lips, eye rims are black on all colors, except liver on liver pigmented dogs and blue on blue pigmented dogs. Fault: Pink on nose, lips, or eye rims. Bite - Undershot. Jaw is broad and wide. A missing tooth or slightly misaligned teeth should not be too severely penalized. Teeth and tongue should not show when mouth is closed. Fault: Overshot bite.

Neck, Topline, Body
Of utmost importance is an overall well-balanced dog with no exaggerated features. Neck - Well set-on flowing smoothly into shoulders; of sufficient length to permit natural high head carriage and in balance with height and length of dog. Topline - Level. Body -Short-coupled and sturdy with no waist or tuck-up. The Shih Tzu is slightly longer than tall. Fault: Legginess. Chest -Broad and deep with good spring-of-rib, however, not barrel-chested. Depth of ribcage should extend to just below elbow. Distance from elbow to withers is a little greater than from elbow to ground. Croup - Flat. Tail - Set on high, heavily plumed, carried in curve well over back. Too loose, too tight, too flat, or too low set a tail is undesirable and should be penalized to extent of deviation.

Forequarters
Shoulders - Well-angulated, well laid-back, well laid-in, fitting smoothly into body. Legs - Straight, well-boned, muscular, set well-apart and under chest, with elbows set close to body. Pasterns - Strong, perpendicular. Dewclaws - May be removed. Feet - Firm, well-padded, point straight ahead.

Hindquarters
Angulation of hindquarters should be in balance with forequarters. Legs - Well-boned, muscular, and straight when viewed from rear with well-bent stifles, not close set but in line with forequarters. Hocks - Well let down, perpendicular. Fault: Hyperextension of hocks. Dewclaws - May be removed. Feet - Firm, well-padded, point straight ahead.

Coat
Coat - Luxurious, double-coated, dense, long, and flowing. Slight wave permissible. Hair on top of head is tied up. Fault: Sparse coat, single coat, curly coat. Trimming - Feet, bottom of coat, and anus may be done for neatness and to facilitate movement. Fault: Excessive trimming.

Color and Markings
All are permissible and to be considered equally.

Gait
The Shih Tzu moves straight and must be shown at its own natural speed, neither raced nor strung-up, to evaluate its smooth, flowing, effortless movement with good front reach and equally strong rear drive, level topline, naturally high head carriage, and tail carried in gentle curve over back.

Temperament
As the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is that of a companion and house pet, it is essential that its temperament be outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all.

Approved May 9, 1989
Effective June 29, 1989

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PRINCE AVATAR OF KALAHI KENNEL

nice info.sir erick....sana mag set kato nang date para mka pag bonding tayong mga dog lover.

ang cute,,