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CLEAR ALLThe name “Shih Tzu” means little lion in Mandarin, but there is nothing vicious about this dog breed. They were possibly named because of their association with the Tibetan God of Learning, Manjusri. According to legend, he travelled with a small lion which was said to represent the use of wisdom to tame the mind.
This adorable dog breed has always been bred with the sole purpose of being human companions, so they are highly affectionate, lively, bright, and loyal. As a result, they are one of the most endeared dog breeds in the United Kingdom and worldwide.
Shih Tzus are loving, cheerful, outgoing house dogs who adore nothing more than to follow their human companion from room to room. Since ancient times, Shih Tzus have made themselves content and relaxed on the laps of people from all walks of life, even people of royal blood. These charming dogs are also known for their longevity and adaptability. They are just as happy living in the city in a small apartment as they are in a large country home.
In recent years, pet parents have even started taking their Shih Tzus off their laps and into canine sports, such as obedience courses, and agility competitions. They make excellent family companions who get along well with children and even other animals.
The lovely shape of the Shih Tzu’s head is one of the most endearing physical traits of this breed, as well as the unique way the hair grows upwards on the bridge of the nose.
For many years, these charming little dogs have brought joy to the world with their sweet personalities and charming looks.
The name “Shih Tzu” means little lion in Mandarin, but there is nothing vicious about this dog breed. They were possibly named because of their association with the Tibetan God of Learning, Manjusri. According to legend, he travelled with a small lion which was said to represent the use of wisdom to tame the mind.
This adorable dog breed has always been bred with the sole purpose of being human companions, so they are highly affectionate, lively, bright, and loyal. As a result, they are one of the most endeared dog breeds in the United Kingdom and worldwide.
Shih Tzus are loving, cheerful, outgoing house dogs who adore nothing more than to follow their human companion from room to room. Since ancient times, Shih Tzus have made themselves content and relaxed on the laps of people from all walks of life, even people of royal blood. These charming dogs are also known for their longevity and adaptability. They are just as happy living in the city in a small apartment as they are in a large country home.
In recent years, pet parents have even started taking their Shih Tzus off their laps and into canine sports, such as obedience courses, and agility competitions. They make excellent family companions who get along well with children and even other animals.
The lovely shape of the Shih Tzu’s head is one of the most endearing physical traits of this breed, as well as the unique way the hair grows upwards on the bridge of the nose.
For many years, these charming little dogs have brought joy to the world with their sweet personalities and charming looks.
This toy breed weighs between 9 to 16 pounds and stands 9 to 10 inches tall. They have small but study frames, covered by a long, silky double coat that makes them appear heavier. They have small muzzles, large dark brown eyes, and very noticeable underbites. In addition, they have floppy ears covered in long hair and equally furry tails that they carry curled over their backs.
Amazingly, Shih Tzus can come in 14 different colours and three different patterns. However, the most common colours are black and white, grey and white, and red and white. In addition, many will sport a small white mark on their foreheads, known as the "Star of Buddha."
The Shih Tzu's luxurious coat can be so long that it drapes along the floor. They need brushing daily to prevent tangles and regular trims at the groomers as their hair grows fast. Some Shih Tzu owners opt to cut their coats short, but they still require regular brushing in this case. They can also have a "teddy bear cut" that makes their face appear fuller and rounder, resembling an adorable stuffed teddy.
Shih Tzus have a decent lifespan of 10 to 16 years, but they can have some hereditary conditions. For example, the structure of their head results in the skull malformation brachycephaly, and they can be susceptible to skin sensitivities due to their short noses. Ear and eye problems are also prevalent with this breed. However, the likelihood of health issues is always significantly reduced when buying from a reputable breeder.
Shih Tzus may be small, but they are full of life. These fun-loving, energetic pups are a joy to have in the home. They adore attention and cuddles, making them fantastic lap dogs. What's great about these canines is that they were solely bred as companion animals, so they do not have any hunting, herding, or guarding instincts.
Shih Tzus are incredibly loving to their owners and particularly charming and docile with children. Being royal favourites, they can act like royalty themselves, wanting their owners to carry them around everywhere. However, they are not super needy and have an independent and courageous side. They may initially bark when they meet new people, but these stranger-friendly pooches will quickly make friends with your guests.
Of course, the Shih Tzu is not perfect, though. These dogs have a weird tendency to eat their faeces or other animals poop, so this is something to be aware of if you have other pets. What's more, as a brachycephalic breed, they are prone to snorting and snoring, so you'll have to get used to their noises if you choose to share your bed with them.
Shih Tzus make ideal pets for first-time dog owners as they are generally well-behaved and easy to handle. They are also great for anyone living in an apartment and older adults who do not have the energy for a larger dog. These pups are usually accepting and friendly with other dogs. Some like cats, and others don't, which is down to their individual personalities.
Shih Tzu dogs love being around children, so there is no risk to them. However, they may be at risk of accidental harm if kids don't know how to handle them gently and respectfully. So, if you decide to bring a Shih Tzu into a home with small children, do not leave them unattended.
Their stories
We love happy endings. Discover stories of pets who found their beloved family with the help of The Pedigree Paws <3.
Neo
Russian Blue
We had some concerns purchasing a kitten online but our experience with The Pedigree Paws was great. They connected us with Caroline, the Russian Blue breeder and we had many conversations and received multiple pictures and videos. She answered to all our questions.
The Pedigree Paws verified for us all the vaccinations and health checks to make sure our new kitten was 100% healthy.
Thank you for all your help The Pedigree Paws! Highly recommended!
Jack
Miniature Dachshund
One of the reasons I was hesitant to order a puppy from The Pedigree Paws is because I live in Spain. However they connected me with a very good FCI breeder in Barcelona.
He showed me all the health documents of both parents, their pedigree and answer to all my questions. I am so happy they helped me to find a healthy puppy as finding one by myself was very overwhelming. Contacting The Pedigree Paws was the best decision and I highly recommend them to everybody!
Stitch
Chartreux
From the kittens's selection to the arrival of our Chartreux kitten, The Pedigree Paws was there to assist us. We had great experience with them, and they breeder Alexandra from France with whom they connected us and from whom we got our kitten from. They are very prompt in answering our initial and follow-up questions while our kitten was in transit. Very reliable and trustworthy!
Thank you so much for all your help. We are very happy with our new family member. We will definitely recommend it to all our friends.
Athena
Chihuahua
It's been a few months since we decided to find a Chihuahua puppy to join our family, however we had issues finding a good breeder.
We contacted The Pedigree Paws and they connected us with a very unique breeder in Greece. Many videos and pictures were shown, the breeder shared with us the proof of vaccinations, deworming and her 5 generation pedigree. We were fortunate as George, the breeder was able to deliver the puppy to us personally. We are very pleased with our beautiful Athena. Thank you, The Pedigree Paws, for being truthful and transparent.
Thor
Abyssinian
I feel wonderful having help from The Pedigree Paws finding the dream Abyssinian kitten I was looking for. Thor is the absolute dream! The Pedigree Paws team was really patient and responsible in everything. Lovely experience! They replied to every questions, requirements, and information I ask about the kitten.
Fin
Chihuahua
Thank you for finding for me such a beautiful Chihuahua puppy! I love him so much from the minute I saw him. He changed my world.
Kate, from The Pedigree Paws assisted me through the whole process informing me about everything from health checks to arranging a Pet Nanny to transport Fin directly to my door. So thankful that the experience went so well! I love my Fin.
Emi
Ragdoll
I have always wanted a Ragdoll kitten as it was my dream cat breed, but didnt know how to find one as heard a lot about kitten farms and bad breeders. I reached out to The Pedigree Paws and they were very accommodating and transparent from the start. They offered me few kittens from their list of breeders and when I saw Emi I knew she was the one! We went through the kitten's parents DNA testing as for me that was a priority to have a kitten free from genetic disorders. We sealed the deal and now I have the best kitten I could dream of! Thank you very much for all your help
Shima
Russian Blue
I really wanted a Russian Blue kitten, but was very nervous getting one after reading horror stories about scammers on the Internet. I had my first call with Natalia, from The Pedigree Paws and with her help I was able to connect with the breeder, that I knew I could trust. I am very lucky to have now Shima, she is an absolute joy to live with.
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