Shih-Tzu

Shih-Tzu are small breed dogs that if translated in Chinese means 'lion dog' which reflects the breed's lion-like features. There are also nicknamed 'chrysanthemum dogs', reflecting the long hair on Shih Tzus' faces and the petals of a chrysanthemum flower.

Picture by: Furever

Shih Tzu's are great companion dogs. They are affectionate, happy and friendly dogs that love to sit on their owners' lap. They also suite well for apartment living as their daily exercise requirements can be met in the apartment itself and they do not need much space to run around.

 

Besides that, Shih Tzu's do not shed much, thus they are well suited for people with allergies and young kids. They are also intelligent, which means training them would not be a big headache as they learn fast.

 

One unique characteristic of the Shih Tzu is its undershot bite. its lower jaw is slightly wider than the upper, and the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, rather than outside, when his mouth is closed. This is why Shih Tzu's jaws protrude out, some more than others.

This is Cookie, my very own Shih Tzu. However she does not have exact features as the pure Shih Zhu breed due to her mother being a Shih Zhu and Dachshund mixed breed. This breed is called a Schweenie. That is why, her body is fairly long as compared to pure breed Shih Tzu's. Also, due to the hot and humid weather in Malaysia, we keep her fur groomed short to make it more comfortable for her to roam around outside in this Malaysian heat.

We got her when she was just a puppy, about 3 months old at that time, and she grew into us naturally, becoming very lovable and protective of us. This is her favourite sleeping pose by the way!