An overall well-balanced dog with no exaggerated features is the ideal. The
breed is slightly longer than tall; length being measured from the withers to
the root of the tail, and the height being measured from the withers to the
ground. Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact and solid and
carries good weight and substance.
Its expression is warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting. An overall
well balanced and pleasant expression supersedes the importance of any of
the individual parts. A false image created by grooming techniques is to be
severely penalized.
Carriage is distinctly arrogant, with the head well up and the tail carried over
the back.
Any structural faults common to all breeds are also undesirable in the Shih
Tzu, even though they are not mentioned in the standard. Any such faults
are to be penalized to the extent of their deviation from the standard.
Characteristics
Since the sole purpose of the breed is that of a companion and house pet,
the dog's ideal temperament should be outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly
and trusting toward all.
Temperament
As the sole purpose of the Shih Tzu is that of a companion and house pet, it is essential
that its temperament be outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all.
History
The history of this little dog is clouded by time and folklore, but it is thought
that the Shih Tzu originated in Tibet. It resembles the Tibetan Spaniel, Lhasa
Apso and Pekingese, which also originated in this area of the world. The Shih
Tzu were considered so valuable that they were often given as gifts to the
Chinese Court. In the early 1930's, they were imported to England, and were
brought to the United States about 1958.
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