5 interesting things to know about the Brown Shih Tzu

Every animal has a purpose. This purpose is seen in everything it does throughout its lifetime. For dogs, this purpose is to be a companion. Childhoods are more fun with happy animals as companions in them. The Brown Shih Tzu is just the man for the job, having a lot to offer.

It is common to get the name "Shih Tzu" wrong at a glance. The name is pronounced, "SHEED-zoo". Nonetheless, this caring animal is an ideal fit for anyone in need of love and affection. It is the 15th most popular type of dog in the USA.

Read below to learn more about this interesting pet.

History

Brown Shih Tzu was one of the official dog breeds of the Ming dynasty which reigned in China from 1368 to 1644 AD.It was primarily used as companions and watch dogs due to its high sensitivity. The popularity of Shih Tzu in China began to decline after that period and this breed nearly wiped out at the establishment of the Communist era.

Shih Tzu is an ancient dog breed that belongs to the group of toy breeds. It is believed to be a descendant of the prehistoric Chinese wolf (Senji). However, the exact origin of the brown Shih Tzu is unknown. Despite its long history, brown Shih Tzu has been introduced to the rest of the world "recently". It arrived in Europe during the 1930s, and to America shortly after WWII.

General Appearance

Brown Shih Tzu has a big, rounded head with the short muzzle (nose), dark eyes and long, floppy ears. Its limbs are muscular and medium in size, while the tail is long and curled above the back. They can reach 10.5 inches in height and 10 to 16 pounds of weight.

Brown Shih Tzu has a long, silky, thick double coat that can be pure white, brown, black, blue, silver or golden-yellow, or bi- or tricolored. Facial hairs grow from the center of the face to the periphery, just like the petals of chrysanthemum - hence the nickname "Chrysanthemum Dog".

Personality

Having a confident demeanor, this dog loves to play and spends time with its family. It is a people-oriented pet. Hence, it is suitable for life in the apartment and families especially with older children.

Brown Shih Tzu is known to bark loudly when it senses an unfamiliar person at the doors. Despite an icy welcome, it speedily builds pleasant bonds with guests. Brown Shih Tzu is intelligent, but also a stubborn dog. It responds well to gentle but persistent training with time.

The Brown Shih Tzu is seen as normally having an air of royalty. This gives of a mixed air expression of confidence and arrogance.

Health and Reproduction

Brown Shih Tzu belongs to the group of hypoallergenic breeds. It is right for individuals that are allergic to dog's hair. Sadly they can suffer from hypothyroidism, respiratory disorders, hip dysplasia, liver disorders, cancer and epilepsy. Birth rates are usually from 2 to 6 puppies -4 on average. They have an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years.

This breed of dogs makes life a lot more loving for any dog enthusiast.