Shih Tzu - “Sheed- Zoo”, means “Lion Dog”.

     Shih Tzu are considered to be one of the oldest breeds of dogs. Shih Tzus where once thought to have been made up of a mix with Pugs, Pekinese and Lhasa Apsos . Recently they found bones showing the Shih Tzu where a different separate breed. Originating very closely to the wolf.

     In Tibet, the Ming Dynasty, had a palace full; of these treasured temple dogs. The princesses would horde these prize fur balls very closely; never  give away any and only breed the best; one with royal markings.

        Parti- colors where highly prized, however solids where acceptable also. The only picture of the princesses is with a solid Shih Tzu. Traditions and myths have always followed China's history threw out time.  One being; Yin and Yang ( Black and White) believed to  keep the world in balance. Balance was everything -fitting together as equals and opposites; happiness and sadness; up and down; good and evil. 

          These little dogs became known for balance and holding a great spirit of the lion.

 China  prided its self in the breeding and raising of these dogs; that was suppose to be blessed by Buddha. Also called the Foo Dog, legion says the little dog turned into a lion to protect it'd master from robbers. The Foo dog was kissed on its forehead and praised for courage and loyalty. The dogs forehead turned pure white showing a blessing from Buddha for all to see. This mark was known as a royal marking and this brought great luck to who ever had one. Gold and white where also highly prized, because gold resembled the lion.

       Over time there where a few lion dogs given  to royal nobles from England that created a trust with the King of China. These knobbles would bring them back to England where there where no such dogs of this kind. There they became treasures and a companion going everywhere with a few royal families. Seen in many old photos with the Misses of the home, almost like a Status statement. At this time there where still so very few around.

     Sadly, Chinas had many wars and with the princesses dyeing the Eunice in chard of the Shih Tzu became carless with the records and care. The Shih Tzu almost became extinct.

      However England has acquired about a dozen dogs and managed to bring the breed back.  The rescue of today's Shih Tzus can all be traced back to 12 original Foo dogs acquired in England.  AKC first became recognized to in 1969. The Shih Tzu  Official A.K.C. Size 9-19 lbs

      Though the Shih Tzu resembles the lion it has a sweet loving personality. They have confidence and are very rarely shy, one maybe quieter than others, some maybe curious and some follow their owners from room to room.

         Shih Tzu want to be with people they are the perfect  house dog and will go out side for short period of time. They make fine alert dogs and will tell you when someone is at the door with a few barks. Other may  prefer to whine when they need your attention, they act like babies and soon become the center of the home. With every passing day you see new and wonderful traits that keep you always wanting a Shih Tzu in your life. Sonshine Shih Tzus will bring you happiness and joy  for many, many years.

        They have a life span of 10-17 years.

* Sonshine shih tzu has put this page together from her knowledge we hope all is accurate but may not reflect all history writings. Thanks.