The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest breeds. They are graceful little dogs with plenty of spunk. They are known as the "Chrysanthemum Dog" because of the hair that grows about the face in all directions. They are very popular as a companion and as a show dog.

It is thought that the Tibetan Lhasa Apso and the native Pekingese were bred to produce the Shih Tzu in Peking. They were a favored pet of the Chinese emperors of the Manchu Dynasty in the 19th Century. No until 1930 was the first one imported to England because the Chinese revered them so much.

This breed is small, compact and sturdy dog with short legs and a long flowing coat. They have a round and upright head, broad and wide between eyes, which are dark, large and round. A plumed curved tail flows over its back. They have a jaunty step. They weigh between 9-16 pounds, are 9-10.5 inches high and live to be around 15 years of age.

Their double, lavish and long coat with the undercoat that is wooly and the outer coat very long. When this dog is full grown the undercoat helps give an overall graceful appearance to his coat and fall naturally to the ground.

These dogs require a good brushing daily with a bristle brush usually a topknot is tied with a bow so the dog can see. Keep his coat trimmed if you want to spend less time with daily care. If kept long you should take him to professional groomer every two months to be clipped to give him that Shih Tzu look. You need to clean ear passages and area around eyes and put special drop in his eyes to keep clean.

This little dog is good for people with allergies because they shed little to no hair

Shih Tzu's are happy, friendly and playful dogs. They are non-aggressive but can be stubborn. They are an engaging, spunky, loyal and friendly companion who is also sweet and gentle. He carries himself with a proud, dignified and aristocratic bearing. He has a strong sense of self. He would be a poor choice for a household with babies or small children. He tends to be jealous of babies and toddlers. He would be a fine companion for older children.

He can have separation anxiety when left alone to much.

A fairly active indoors dog and okay without a yard but daily walks are a good idea to stay fit although sensitive to heat.

Less yappy than other toy breeds. He his usually friendly with strangers and other pets. Since they are so persistence, consistency is needed for training. It should be low key because punishment would make this dog shut down.