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What sets the Shih Tzu apart from other breeds? The Shih Tzu is mysterious and charismatic. Its charm, self confidence and alert countenance is certainly very alluring. The Shih Tzu is highly intelligent. The Shih Tzu's outgoing personality, big eyes with that warm and trusting expression is so hard to resist. Is a Shih Tzu going to be the right dog for you?

First of all, the Shih Tzu want to be with their people more than anything else in their lives. They do not do well in lonely kennels or when left alone for long periods of time. They have been bred for centuries to be a quintessential companion, always at your side, always in your presence craving love and attention. If you sit down, your Shih Tzu will want to immediately sit with you or an even better spot in the Shih Tzu's mind, would be to jump into your lap and lavish you with kisses. Your Shih Tzu will want you to pet and snuggle him. If you are eating, your Shih Tzu will either beg you for a bite or sit waiting patiently until you give him a bite. In essence, if you want a constant loving companion by your side at all times, the Shih Tzu is probably right for you. If you have lots of time to stay home or are able to take your Shih Tzu along wherever you go, the Shih Tzu is probably right for you. By lots of time, I mean especially enough time to groom, socialize and exercise your Shih Tzu. The lifespan of a Shih Tzu is typically 11 to 15 years.

Shih Tzu are usually active, busy, curious and creative. You will need a variety of toys to help keep the Shih Tzu's mind occupied. You will need a fenced-in yard or an area where you are able to walk your Shih Tzu for exercise. Shih Tzu are very good natured, but also very vivacious. Shih Tzu have a good sense of humor and would rather clown around than to be serious. Always keep in mind that Shih Tzu were bred to be ornamental or decorative pieces to have around, not for any particular work purpose. A Shih Tzu thinks just their presence is enough and anyone should be pleased to just be in their presence. They are proud and arrogant with a slight stubborn streak. A Shih Tzu has a mind of its own.

The Shih Tzu is a palace-dweller. For thousands of years the Shih Tzu had addresses in such places as imperial palaces, chez Dalai Lama, and with top political figures and dignitaries homes. It was a status symbol of wealth and dignity to own a Shih Tzu. To your small Shih Tzu companion, your safe and cozy home is its palace. Give your Shih Tzu a comfortable place to sleep (and I might add, the Shih Tzu discovers quite quickly that 'your pillow' is the most comfortable spot to sleep), excellent care, high quality food and a loving family. Your Shih Tzu could not be happier. Although their stubborn streak may appear from time to time, the Shih Tzu can be trained quite successfully. Just use consistency and patience with your training lessons.

The Shih Tzu is strictly a house pet. Shih Tzu cannot tolerate harsh weather, either too cold or too hot, especially the heat. Shih Tzu need good ventilation, fresh air and a cool, protected area in warmer climates.

Shih Tzu require careful daily grooming. Most of the hair that is shed from a Shih Tzu's coat will end up in the brush if you brush daily. They do very little shedding elsewhere. Shih Tzu are also less allergenic than most other breeds, which makes the Shih Tzu an ideal companion for adults or children who suffer from allergies and cannot house other types of pets.

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