The Shih Tzus are one of the most adorable and popular dog breeds. In this article, we will learn 10 fun Shih Tzu facts.
Over 2020, the percentage of dog ownership rose by 8%. This data is provided by Kennel Club. People who are thinking of adopting a dog, certainly have a tough choice to make. But one of the most popular choices is always the Shih Tzu.
In the UK this kind of breed is one of their favorites. They do make a perfect family pet.
See also: Hitting Shih Tzu As A Type Of Reprimand Should Be Avoided
Following is a list of the 10 interesting Shih Tzu facts
- The name
The name “Shih Tzu” means “lion” in Chinese. This kind of dog was intentionally bred to resemble a lion.
- Other interesting names
In the UK, this dog breed was known as the Chrysanthemum Dog in the early part of the 20th. In Mandarin, it was known as Xi Shi Dog, a name that belonged to the most beautiful women in ancient China.
- Celebrities
There are a lot of celebrities who own a Shih Tzu, some of them are Mariah Carey, Colin Farell, Nicole Richie, Beyonce’, and Bill Gates also.
- Carrying the Tibetan Heritage
The Shih Tzu appears in some tapestries in China that have an age of over 2.000-year-old. They were prized by the royal family as a valuable gift received by the Tibetan monks.
- An interesting and mysterious mix
The origin of the creation of the Shih Tzu is still uncertain. Most believe that it was a mic between the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso.
- High demand dogs
In China, the Shih Tzu was so valuable and prized that they refused to make any trade involving them. The Shih Tzu arrived in Europe around 1930 and around 1960 in the US.
There are more facts about this wonderful breed
- Warmers for winter
- The dogs were kept inside the royal robes or beds of the noble Chinese women. They were used during winter to keep the women warm.
- The death sentences
The Shih Tzu was considered an exclusive property only for the noble families in China during the Dynasties of Ming and Manchu. A commoner could be sentenced to death if caught with a Shih Tzu.
- They almost faced extinction
During the communist revolution, the Shih Tzu almost became extinct. Only 14 dogs survived the regime change and they are the ones that made it possible to have all the Shih Tzus we have today in the world.
- Different Breed Standards
The Kennel Club of the UK and the one of America have different breed standards for Shih Tzu. The American one has larger eyes and slightly bigger and rounder heads
How many of these facts did you know about Shih Tzus before reading this article?
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