Best Dog Diet

What’s the ideal diet for your dog?

Discover more about the history of your dog’s breed, its temperament, appearance and diet

Border Terrier Diet

Bull Terrier Diet

Bulldog Diet

Boxer Diet

Cavalier Spaniel Diet

Cocker Spaniel Diet

German Shepherd Diet

Golden Retriever Diet

Labrador Retriever Diet

Lhasa Apso Diet

Miniature Schnauzer Diet

Pug Diet

Shih Tzu Diet

Springer Spaniel Diet

Staffie Diet

Westie Diet

Whippet Diet

YorkshireTerrier Diet

Copyright 2010 Best Dog Diet

Shih-Tzu Diet

Shih Tzus are Utility or Toy dogs bred to look like a lion as depicted in the Orient. In ancient times they may have been companion dogs for Chinese royalty. It is thought they are a descendent of ancient Tibetan mountain dogs and the Lhasa Apso.

The Tibetan mountain dog was a scavenger and would eat a diet of small mammals. It is believed the Lhasa Apso was used to guard temples and would have been fed on scraps.

The amount and type of food will depend on the individual dog. A complete and balanced diet is recommended to include fish, poultry, natural meat and bone and seasonal vegetables and fruits.

Shih-Tzu Temperament

Shih Tzus are originally from China and Tibet. They are good-natured and affectionate, but can appear arrogant. They are playful and trusting with a pleasant disposition.

Shih Tzus enjoy attention and thrive in a loving household. They are the lapdog of choice for many due to their friendly nature and independent character.  

Shih-Tzu Appearance

The Shih Tzu is a sturdy well-balanced dog. It has a short muzzle and large deep eyes. The UK Kennel Club standards ideal height is no more than 27 cms for a male and female. Weight from 4-8 kgs.

The Shih Tzu has a glossy and long soft double coat and soft drop ears covered by long fur.

The Shih Tzu is found in many colours traditionally with a white streak on the forehead and the tip of the tail.

Shih Tzus are small designer looking dogs.

Shih-Tzu Facts

Shih-Tzu History

Shih Tzus are thought to have evolved from the Tibetan mountain dog, the Lhasa Apso and the Pekinese. They were bred in China and Tibet to resemble a lion as depicted in works of art.

It is thought that the breed was almost wiped out during the Cultural Revolution and most of the registered dogs today can be traced back to the lineage of 7 males and 7 females known to have survived the Revolution.

Shih-Tzu Known Disorders

Shih Tzus are prone to suffer from hip dysplasia and liver disorders.