Monday, August 17, 2009

Shih Tzu


Shih Tzus are the aristocrat of the small dogs. Most pictures of them on the Internet like this one show them with bows or hair clips. Typically armed with a long coat, Shih Tzus were bred in China. They remained a popular companion there. Later on, only 14 of the breed remained. But today, it's hard not to see a Shih Tzu. They are certainly a popular lap dog.
Shih Tzu means "Lion Dog." That's because some of the fur on the Shih Tzu forms something that looks like a lion mane. Shih Tzus don't shed, but the coat keeps growing because of that. It requires lots of care.
The eyes are dark, black, and set far apart. The coat is long, and double. If the dog isn't used for show, you can cut the coat a little shorter or shave it completely. This is known as the puppy cut. However, if you do show the dog, it is extremely high maintenance. It may take hours to groom the coat.
If you live in Antarctica, the Shih Tzu won't care. If you live in the desert, the Shih Tzu won't care. A friendly, loyal, loving pooch, the Shih Tzu is anything but stupid.

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