Types of Shih Tzu: A Guide to the Different Varieties
The Shih Tzu is the top toy dog breed as it is friendly, silky-coating, and of imperial origin. The breed traces its roots in Tibet and was later bred in China. It won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.
Few people know that there are various types of Shih Tzu with varying characteristics. These breeds classify according to size, coat, and origin.
They are registering with kennel clubs officially, selectively bred as designer dogs or special breeds subsequently. Having knowledge of how they differ will assist potential buyers in selecting the most suitable one for themselves based on their use and lifestyle.
1. American Shih Tzu
American Shih Tzu is the breed recognizing by AKC. This dog’s body is slightly longer than its European counterparts, and both have dainty facial features.
Their legs are a bit longer, giving their owners the sensation of elegance and poise. These Shih Tzus are loving and friendly in temperament and are the most suitable companions for families and individuals.
They need grooming regularly due to their coat’s flowing and lengthy texture. Thus, making them flexible in a lot of different kinds of styles.
The American Shih Tzu is greatly sought as a show dog due to its elegant body and silky coat. They are also great as house pets and have been increasingly modifying over the years to conform to AKC breed standards.
They are adaptable to apartment and household living because they possess a very flexible temperament. Small as they are, they are spunky, extremely sweet, and loyal to their masters.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | 9-10.5 inches tall |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, flowing, and dense |
| Temperament | Affectionate, friendly, intelligent |
| Distinguishing Feature | Longer body with a refined head shape |
2. European Shih Tzu
The European Shih Tzu, acknowledged by all kennel clubs globally except America, is heavier-built and has a wider face.
They are more compact, traditional in build, and very similar to the original Chinese Shih Tzus and the Tibetan type.
These Shih Tzus will have a flatter face and a blunter muzzle, making their faces look flatter and more expressive. They are friendly and sociable but will be somewhat more reserved than the American Shih Tzus.
Their dense, plush coats require frequent brushing to avoid matting. They love human companions but don’t trust strangers, so they are excellent watchdogs despite being small.
The European Shih Tzus more clearly influence the Tibetan breed from which they descend. They are as friendly and outgoing as the American Shih Tzus but perhaps more obstinate.
Because they have a slightly shorter snout, breathing can sometimes be tricky for them. So be sure to give them as much comfortable space as possible, especially when the sun is hot.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Europe |
| Size | 8-10 inches tall |
| Weight | 8-15 pounds |
| Coat Type | Dense and luxurious |
| Temperament | Gentle, independent, affectionate |
| Distinguishing Feature | Compact body with a rounder face |
3. Imperial Shih Tzu
The Imperial Shih Tzu, also known as “Teacup Shih Tzu,” is the smaller version, selectively bred to be under the breed standard’s weight. While extremely appealing to those who like a tiny dog, being small comes with a cost.
Imperial Shih Tzus will not weigh more than 9 pounds and have fragile bones. They are energetic and outgoing but need special attention to stay in prime condition.
They will likely afflict by hypoglycemia, fragile bones, and other ailments of a genetic nature since they’ve been selectively bred to be small.
Their owners must be watchful of what they eat and how they treat them to avoid injuring them. Imperial Shih Tzus are not recognized by most of the larger kennel clubs because they are small, which is sometimes unhealthy.
Nonetheless, they are well-liked pets with dog fanciers who would like a low-maintenance small friend. They are small but have a large personality and require attention and companionship.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | United States |
| Size | 6-9 inches tall |
| Weight | 4-9 pounds |
| Coat Type | Soft and silky |
| Temperament | Playful, affectionate, delicate |
| Distinguishing Feature | Extra-small size |
4. Chinese Shih Tzu
The Chinese Shih Tzu is almost the same as the original Chinese breed. It is heavier in build and has a slightly longer muzzle than the American and European types.
Its dense and thick coats demand enormous care when grooming. The Chinese Shih Tzu is an imperial and royal dog with a stable and calm nature.
They are loving but sometimes aloof, so they are not for inexperienced dog owners. Their good genetic background gives them a good foundation, so they will be less prone to some diseases other breeds get.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | China |
| Size | 8-11 inches tall |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Thick and slightly wavy |
| Temperament | Regal, calm, affectionate |
| Distinguishing Feature | Wider head, shorter snout |
5. Blue-Eyed Shih Tzu
Blue-Eyed Shih Tzu is one of the uncommon breeds with the ideal pair of blue eyes. The genetic flaw, in this instance, is causing a recessive gene and does not frequently show up in the breed.
While such eyes are their special cuteness, they sometimes arrive with eye disease if there are genetic abnormalities. Blue-Eyed Shih Tzu owners need to examine the animals’ eyes periodically with the assistance of a veterinarian.
They are good companions, not the rule, but as loving and pampering as the remainder of the Shih Tzu.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Various |
| Size | 8-11 inches tall |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Silky and long |
| Temperament | Affectionate, curious, friendly |
| Distinguishing Feature | Unique blue eye color |
6. Black Shih Tzu
Black Shih Tzu is an uncommon color with a solid black coat and no white or other spotting.
It’s a sought-after breed due to its unique coloring. While it has just as affectionate a temperament as the standard Shih Tzus, having a solid-colored coat as opposed to one with spots does differentiate it.
They need to groom regularly so that their coat remains shiny and doesn’t get matty. Black Shih Tzu is also playful, intelligent, and human-friendly, and, therefore, a perfect pet for anyone who likes its special appearance.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Various |
| Size | 8-11 inches tall |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Dense, jet black |
| Temperament | Loyal, affectionate, confident |
| Distinguishing Feature | Solid black coat |
7. Brindle Shih Tzu
Brindle Shih Tzus combines light and dark fur shades, creating a beautiful striped or swirling effect.
Their coat color gives them an amazing and sporty look. Brindle Shih Tzus’ coats consist of different colors, brown, black, and gold, each unique.
They are as loving and outgoing as the other Shih Tzu but need grooming often to keep their lovely coat pattern in optimal condition. This one is a big hit for anyone who adores outstanding, dramatic coat patterns.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Various |
| Size | 8-11 inches tall |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Striped or mixed coloration |
| Temperament | Playful, friendly, affectionate |
| Distinguishing Feature | Brindle-patterned coat |
8. Japanese Shih Tzu (Cross Breed Shih Tzu)
Japanese shih Tzus also known as Jatzus is an amazing cross breed between a Japanese Chin and a Shih Tzu. This small pile of overloaded cuteness is also called Chin-Tzu. These Japanese Shih Tzus are low maintenance and are cross bred internationally.
This is why they are easy to train as compared to other types of Shih Tzus, who’s barks are undeniably a high decibel stimulation. While on the other hand, the Jatzus are of a peaceful and calm temperament.
Breed Overview:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japanese |
| Size | 8 -11 inches tall |
| Weight | 9-16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, straight and silky |
| Temperament | Affectionate, calm and charming |
| Distinguishing Feature | Expressive Eyes |
Are Shih Tzus the One for You!
There are numerous Shih Tzu breeds, but each is valuable in its own way.
Whether you like old-fashion, unconventional colors or a designer combination, they all have special something to share.
The American and European Shih Tzus are ordinary ones, but the Imperial Shih Tzu and others are for people who desire traits.
The blue-eye or black Shih Tzu is another color variation that adds another personal touch to this so-famous dog breed.
When considering having a Shih Tzu, grooming requirements, size, and temperament also come to mind.
Certain breeds of Shih Tzu are more difficult to handle due to possible health issues, while others are geared toward certain situations. However, all Shih Tzus need attention, love, and good care regardless of type.
With perfect circumstances and love, any Shih Tzu will be a devoted and great pet for a very long time.
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