If you have seen our Facebook page, or have looked through our photos here on our website, you may have noticed we have a lot of Shih-Tzu in our shop.
Ut-Oh! Did I keep that singular? Yes I did, because the word Shih-Tzu is both singular and plural, much like the word sheep, or fish. I have only recently learned that little fact. It made we wonder what other little bits about the breed I may have not known. I love learning about breeds, hearing their origins, and comparing their ancient lives to their modern lives. That is why we have decided to select a breed each month for discussion so we may share what we know, and learn what you know!
Our first choice, is the Shih Tzu! Time has changed things for so many breeds, but actually, not so much for the this breed.
Ut-Oh! Did I keep that singular? Yes I did, because the word Shih-Tzu is both singular and plural, much like the word sheep, or fish. I have only recently learned that little fact. It made we wonder what other little bits about the breed I may have not known. I love learning about breeds, hearing their origins, and comparing their ancient lives to their modern lives. That is why we have decided to select a breed each month for discussion so we may share what we know, and learn what you know!
Our first choice, is the Shih Tzu! Time has changed things for so many breeds, but actually, not so much for the this breed.
Before and After photo
I'm sure everyone knows about how Shih-Tzu came from China, and means "Lion Dog", but do you know why? Apparently, the breed was designed to look like the Buddhists' idea of what a lion looked like. The lion was a significant image because in the story of Buddha, when he came to earth from heaven, he rode on a lion. In fact, many sources say that the Shih Tzu really originated in Tibet, going as far back as the 17th century where it was considered a Holy Dog. This is perhaps the biggest difference between then, and now. The Shih Tzu is no longer reserved for only the royalty and holy men, in fact it's one of the most popular breeds in America. (according to the American Kennel Club, as of February 2012, "the Rottweiler made news by unseating the Shih Tzu - which had been in the top 10 since 2000. " http://www.akc.org)
You may also know that Pekingese have a similar history and are equally as
"royal" in ancient China. But don't be fooled when looking at historical pictures that feature dogs. One way to tell the Pekingese from the Shih Tzu is that the Shih Tzu will have little bumps on its head which is their top-knot, or pony tail keeping their hair out of their face. Today mostly only show dogs have that style as it requires vigilant upkeep, but we still love to decorate our modern day Shih Tzu with bows and such, if not for the same purpose, but simply because they are so darn cute! However, we do have a few Shih Tzu on the longer side.
You may also know that Pekingese have a similar history and are equally as
"royal" in ancient China. But don't be fooled when looking at historical pictures that feature dogs. One way to tell the Pekingese from the Shih Tzu is that the Shih Tzu will have little bumps on its head which is their top-knot, or pony tail keeping their hair out of their face. Today mostly only show dogs have that style as it requires vigilant upkeep, but we still love to decorate our modern day Shih Tzu with bows and such, if not for the same purpose, but simply because they are so darn cute! However, we do have a few Shih Tzu on the longer side.
Another thing I think is probably a well known fact, is that this breed tends to have respiratory issues and therefore should not be over exerted. I did a little research to find out what games or sports are best for this breed, and it turns out, they are pretty darn good at nose work! You'd think that with respiratory concerns that wouldn't work out real well for them, but my research finds many sources suggesting a game of "tracking" or "find it". (hiding a treat or toy around for them to find) Other websites mention that more and more people are getting their Shih Tzu into agility as well, but for the most part, all agree these are lap dogs. Again, that has not changed too much over the centuries.
Hold Me!
For such a popular and ancient breed, it's hard to believe so many end up in shelters and pounds across the country. Because they are so popular, and so stinking cute, it's super easy (and tempting) to breed and sell puppies just about anywhere. But when people find out that they are a lot of work grooming wise, or learn their dog is not good being left alone, or any other number of possibilities, these dogs end up homeless. It's hard to believe, I know, and yet there are Shih Tzu rescues across the country specifically working to help re-home all the unwanted Shih Tzu. (United States Shih Tzu Rescue)
It is always best to research a breed before purchasing or adopting, and this blog post has only been a tiny bit of information about this breed. They really are fun, funny, cuddly dogs with so much to talk about and we just LOVE them. And regardless of all the books, all the history, all the breeders' knowledge, you can bet there are exceptions to the "rules". If you have any unique or funny stories about your Shih Tzu, (or Shih Tzu mix) or any pictures, please share. We'll post them on our Facebook page if you don't mind. Send them to us via Facebook, or email them to [email protected]. Tell us what you've learned about the breed and what you've proved wrong!
Thanks again for stopping by, we'll have another breed to discuss next month!
-ingrid
It is always best to research a breed before purchasing or adopting, and this blog post has only been a tiny bit of information about this breed. They really are fun, funny, cuddly dogs with so much to talk about and we just LOVE them. And regardless of all the books, all the history, all the breeders' knowledge, you can bet there are exceptions to the "rules". If you have any unique or funny stories about your Shih Tzu, (or Shih Tzu mix) or any pictures, please share. We'll post them on our Facebook page if you don't mind. Send them to us via Facebook, or email them to [email protected]. Tell us what you've learned about the breed and what you've proved wrong!
Thanks again for stopping by, we'll have another breed to discuss next month!
-ingrid
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