Many breeders dream of rare exotic dog breeds. These include shih tzu. Charming pets are called miniature lions and Chinese chrysanthemums. Dogs are incredibly beautiful and have high intelligence. With proper care, Shih Tzu live more than 20 years.
About the breed
The origin of unusual animals has an interesting history. According to one version, Shih Tzu were bred in Tibet. According to ancient legend, a charming pet accompanied the great Buddha everywhere, and in case of danger turned into a brave lion and fiercely defended its owner. In antiquity, this breed was rendered all sorts of honors. However, there is an opinion that for the first time Chinese chrysanthemums appeared in Byzantium, and later came to Tibet.
The breed did not leave China for a long time, and only at the beginning of the 20th century small dogs appeared in Europe.
Today, Shih Tzu can be described as a prestigious and exotic breed. Puppies of miniature lions are quite expensive and require careful care.
Appearance
Shih Tzu are unusual animals. Their body is covered with an amazingly long coat, which in structure is similar to human hair. The pet has a thick undercoat, and the bunch on the head resembles a chrysanthemum. The characteristic features include:
- strong body of a rectangular shape;
- miniature head;
- smart expressive look;
- neat muzzle decorated with a lush mustache and beard;
- drooping ears;
- dense fluffy tail;
- short limbs.
Chinese chrysanthemums are a decorative breed. The height of an adult dog is 25–27 cm.
The colors of miniature lions are very diverse: white, black and tan, gray, blue and tiger. It is noteworthy that four-legged beauties do not fade, and unnecessary hairs fall out during combing.
Character
Miniature lions faithfully serve the owner and subconsciously understand what he needs. They enjoy playing with the breeder in the fresh air, and then, curled up, watch TV with him. Shih Tzu are proud and independent pets who do not tolerate self-neglect. Chinese chrysanthemums love to be in the spotlight and suffer in solitude. Adore all household members and faithfully serve them until the end of their days.
The upbringing and training of a four-legged friend must be dealt with from an early age.
Chinese Chrysanthemum Puppies quite stubbornTherefore, the breeder should be patient. In the absence of proper education, Shih Tzu will turn into an uncontrollable "bully." In addition, the dog will begin to show herding qualities - growling and grabbing the owner's legs. The breeder needs to gain credibility with the miniature lion. Otherwise, the pet will be stubborn and ignore the team. It is strictly forbidden to use physical force in relation to a small dog.. His psyche may suffer from this.
How many live?
At home, the life expectancy of Shih Tzu is from 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care and a balanced diet, the life span of a pet can be extended to 20–23 years. At the same time, a charming dog will retain a playful mood and increased activity until adulthood.
Care and maintenance rules
Shih tzu are centenarians if the owner carefully monitors the appearance and nutrition of the animal. Primarily important care for the hair of a charming pet. Long hairs are periodically trimmed and combed daily using a special comb or a metal brush.
It is necessary to wash the pet with the use of shampoos and conditioners, which can be obtained at the pet store.
When the warlocks appear, they are carefully cut out. The breed has a top-knot hairstyle. This is a bunch or ponytail on the dog’s head, which resembles an amazing flower - chrysanthemum.
For the health and longevity of the pet, a diet is important. Food should be fresh and varied. From natural products, Shih Tzu fits:
- low-fat fresh meat (beef, rabbit meat and turkey);
- boiled boneless sea fish;
- dairy products;
- cereals (rice, buckwheat and oatmeal);
- fresh vegetables and fruits;
- greens.
Great additions to your pet’s food include sea kale, meat and bone meal, and fish oil. As for industrial feeds, premium Chinese products for ornamental breeds are suitable for Chinese chrysanthemum.
Shih Tzu are prone to obesity, so they are not recommended to overfeed.
Four-legged owners of long, thick coat are susceptible to diseases of the ears and eyes. Clean the pet’s ears 2-3 times a month using cotton swabs dipped in hydrogen peroxide. To wash the eyes you will need special drops. When purulent discharge appears, the animal must be urgently shown to a specialist. Miniature lions also suffer from tartar formations. In this regard, careful monitoring of the oral cavity of the pet is important. Shih Tzu recommend brushing your teeth 1-2 times a week with a special brush and tooth powder.
Walk the dog twice a day (morning and evening).
Increased physical activity for this breed is undesirablesince shih tzu are prone to heart disease. In hot weather, the pet may overheat, so walks should be short. For this breed is enough 20-30 minutes of outdoor play per day. As the pet grows older, the duration of walks decreases.
Representatives of the Shih Tzu breed must be periodically shown to the veterinarian. The specialist will help to identify various diseases at the initial stage and prescribe competent treatment.
All about the Shih Tzu dog breed see below.
