Many breeders dream of rare exotic breeds of dogs. These include shih-tzu. Charming pets are called miniature lions and Chinese chrysanthemums. Dogs are incredibly beautiful and have high intelligence. With proper care, Shih Tzu live over 20 years.
About breed
The origin of unusual animals has an interesting history. According to one version of the Shih Tzu were withdrawn in Tibet. According to an ancient legend, a charming pet everywhere accompanied the great Buddha, and in case of danger he turned into a brave lion and fiercely defended his owner. In ancient times, this breed had all kinds of honors. However, there is a perception that for the first time Chinese chrysanthemums appeared in Byzantium, and later fell into Tibet.
For a long time the breed did not leave the borders of China, and only at the beginning of the 20th century did small dogs appear in Europe.
Today, shih tzu can be described as a prestigious and exotic breed. Puppies miniature lions are quite expensive and require careful care.
Appearance
Shih Tzu are unusual animals. Their torso is covered with amazing long hair, which is similar in structure to human hair. The pet has a thick undercoat, and the bunch on the head resembles a chrysanthemum. Characteristic features include:
- strong rectangular body;
- miniature head;
- smart expressive look;
- a neat little face adorned with a lush mustache and beard;
- hanging ears;
- thick fluffy tail;
- short limbs.
Chinese chrysanthemums are decorative breed. The height of an adult dog is 25–27 cm.
The colors of miniature lions are very diverse: white, black and tan, gray, blue and brindle. It is noteworthy that Four-legged handsome men do not shed, and unnecessary hairs fall out during combing.
Character
Miniature lions faithfully serve the owner and subconsciously understand what he needs. They enjoy playing with the breeder outdoors, and then, curled up, watch TV with him. Shih Tzu are proud and independent pets who do not tolerate disregard for themselves. Chinese chrysanthemums love to be the center of attention and suffer alone. They love all households and faithfully serve them until the end of their days.
The education and training of the four-legged friend must be practiced from an early age.
Chinese chrysanthemum puppies quite stubborntherefore the breeder should be patient. In the absence of proper education, the Shih Tzu will turn into an uncontrollable "bully." In addition, the dog will begin to show herding qualities - growling and grabbing the owner by the legs. A breeder needs to gain credibility with a miniature lion. Otherwise, the pet will be stubborn and ignore the command. It is strictly forbidden to use physical force against a small dog.. From this can suffer his mind.
How many live?
At home, the life expectancy of Shih Tzu is from 12 to 15 years. However, with proper care and a balanced diet, the pet's lifespan can be extended to 20–23 years. At the same time, a charming dog to a mature age will retain a playful mood and increased activity.
Terms of care and maintenance
Shih tzu are long-lived, if the owner will carefully monitor the appearance and nutrition of the animal. Firstly The pet grooming of a charming pet is important. Long hairs are periodically trimmed and daily combed using a special comb or a metal brush.
It is necessary to wash the pet with the use of shampoos and conditioners that can be purchased at the pet store.
When tangles appear, they are neatly trimmed. For breed characteristic hairstyle top knots. This is a bunch or tail on the head of a dog that resembles an amazing flower - chrysanthemum.
For health and longevity pet important diet. Food should be fresh and varied. From natural products, Shih Tzu fits:
- lean fresh meat (beef, rabbit meat and turkey);
- boiled sea fish without bones;
- dairy products;
- cereals (rice, buckwheat and oatmeal);
- fresh vegetables and fruits;
- greenery.
Seaweed, meat and bone meal and fish oil will be excellent pet food supplements. With regard to industrial feed, for the Chinese chrysanthemum suitable premium products for decorative breeds.
Shih Tzu are prone to obesity, so they are not recommended to overfeed.
Four-legged owners of long thick hair are subject to diseases of the ears and eyes. Clean the ears of the pet 2-3 times a month using cotton swabs dipped in hydrogen peroxide. Eye wash will require special drops. With the appearance of purulent discharge, the animal must be urgently shown to a specialist. Also, miniature lions suffer from tartar formations. In this regard, it is important to carefully monitor the pet's mouth. Brushing teeth shih tzu recommend 1-2 times a week with a special brush and tooth powder.
A dog is walked twice a day (in the morning and in the evening).
Increased physical activity for this breed is undesirable., as shih tzu prone to heart disease. In hot weather, the pet can overheat, so walks should be short. Enough for this breed 20–30 minutes of active play per day. As a pet grows, the duration of walks decreases.
Representatives of the Shih Tzu breed should be periodically shown to the veterinarian. The specialist will help to identify various diseases at the initial stage and prescribe proper treatment.
Everything about the Shih Tzu dog breed, see below
