Identification

• Shih tzus typically weigh between 9 and 16 lbs. and reach heights ranging from 8 to 11 inches at the shoulders when fully grown. The breed displays a variety of coat colors including black, brindle, red, white, liver and gold. Shih tzus have short, square muzzles and small, rounded heads.
  
  

History

• The earliest evidence of the shih tzu breed consists of documents and art dating back to 624 A.D., according to the American Kennel Club. The Chinese, including the royal family, kept shih tzus as house pets during the Ming Dynasty from 1368 to 1644. The breed almost became extinct in the early 20th century until the English began breeding them in 1930.
  
  

Considerations

• Health problems seen in the shih tzu breed include an inherited kidney disease called juvenile renal dysplasia, corneal ulcers and luxating patellas, or slipping kneecaps. Shih tzus also require daily grooming to keep their long coats from becoming matted. They are also prone to getting reddish-brown tear stains on the fur near their eyes.