The shih tzu originated in the country of Tibet. Shih tzu means ( little lion or lion dog ) in Chinese. The shih tzu has said to have been a member if the Imperial household from Mings dynasty in ( 1368-1644), and the Qing dynasty in ( 1644-1911). Records of their breedings were either not kept or lost in the flames of the 1911 Revolution. By 1930 the Shih tzu's made their way to England.
According to the American Kennel Club's history of the breed, every shih tzu today can be traced to only fourteen dogs: seven bitches and seven dogs. They are classified as a toy breed. They were also the ninth most popular breed registered by the AKC on the books in 2004.
Shih tzu's come in many colors, they are as follows: gold and white, black and white, red and white, solid black, brindle and white, silver/ blue combined with white. Some have masked faced. My dog Brie is considered brindle and white with a masked face.
They have long flowing double coats which require a lot of grooming. Many people keep them in a style which is called a puppy cut. It is much easier to maintain and keep clean and neat.
They love to go on walks and to run and play. Although they are ideal for an apartment or a condo. They do not require agreat deal of activity.
I am an owner and a lover of shih tzu's myself. The photo that is posted is my shih tzu Briana ( Brie).