Top 10 facts about Shih Tzu - Shih Tzu Dog Breed Information

Top 10 facts about Shih Tzu dog breed:

1. Shih Tzu a companion dog - Shih Tzus were bred for centuries to be a companion dog. They can't hunt, can't guard, can't protect farm animals, can't flush out vermin. They can just be your friend.
2. An Ancient Breed - According to DNA research, they are one of the world's 14 most ancient breeds according to them making them very close to the wolf
3. Shih Tzus were the official dog breed of the Ming Dynasty.

Shih Tzus have been popular in China for centuries, but particularly during the Ming dynasty lasting 1368-1644 A.D., Shih Tzus served as house dogs for the royal family during most of those years.

1. 1. Shih Tzu means "The Lion Dog" - They were called a lion dog, but they aren't the only breed with that nickname: Lhasa Apso, Pugs, and Japanese Chin were also breeds that looked like little lions.
   2. Double Coated Breed - The Shih Tzu has a thick double coat that consists of a harder outer coat and soft inner coat. Puppies are born with a single coat and their adult coat begins to grow after about 7 months.
   3. While the breed's name means "lion dog;" Shih Tzus are also nicknamed "chrysanthemum dogs." The nickname reflects an apparent resemblance between the long hair on Shih Tzu's faces and the petals of a chrysanthemum flower.
   4. Shih Tzus need to be groomed to look their best, always.

          ** 8. Protector of Palaces and Temples** - From ancient times, the main job of the breed was to guard palaces and monasteries in ancient china and of course, keep everyone happy. They served as foot warm, hand warmers, lap warmers and bed companion.

9. Hypoallergenic Breed - They do not shed, so may be appropriate for someone with allergies, but beware of claims of the hypoallergenic breed. There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog breed.

10.Modern Shih Tzu Descendents - Of all the Shih Tzu facts, this one is least known: the breed was almost completely destroyed by the Communist Party after 1949. All surviving Shih Tzu today navigate the hallways all by herself and bring comfort to those around her. "She'd rather ride it alone than with people because she knows where she's going," her owner said. "If she could, she would push the button herself".

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGEKu23YzTk&feature=youtu.be

Source: Animal Fire TV