Shih Apso

Dog Breed Profile

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Shih Apso History

The Shih Tzu (also spelled Shih-Tzu) is a toy or lapdog with long, shaggy hair that comes in two main varieties. The long haired variety comes in three coat lengths: long, medium or short. The short haired version, which is sometimes called the Lhasa Apso, has a coarser, wiry coat. The origins of this Chinese dog breed are obscure, but it is believed to have been developed from Tibetan Spaniels and Pekingese. The Shih Tzu is a popular family pet, and is very popular in its native China. The breed is believed to have originated around the 1300s in Shensi province, and is mentioned in the “Treatise on Materia Medica”, an ancient text on traditional Chinese medicine.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

Unknown

Ancestry

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Shih Apso Physical Characteristics

The Shih Tzu is a small, toy-sized breed that measures between 8 and 11 inches at the shoulders and usually weighs between 6 and 12 pounds. They have a silky, curly, and fine double coat that can be any shade of gold, cream, silver, blue, or red. They have a large head with a flat top, a domed skull, and a black nose. Their round eyes have a dark rim around them and they are often slightly slanted. They have a small, pointed muzzle, small teeth, and a medium length beard. Their legs are short and they have large, oval-shaped feet. They are friendly, intelligent, and lovable pets.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Short, Medium, Long

Height Range

Male Height Range: 9 – 12 inches

Female Height Range: 9 – 11 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 15 – 18 lbs

Female Weight Range: 12 – 16 lbs

Shih Apso Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-14 yrs

Shih Apso Health Concerns

Patellar Luxation, Hip Dysplasia, Kidney Problems, Liver Problems, Bladder Stones and Infections, Ear Infections, Allergies, Eye Disease, Hernia, Reverse Sneezing, Dental Problems

Shih Apso Temperament and Behaviour

The Shih Apso is a lively, playful, and energetic breed of dog. They are extremely loyal to their owners and are very loving and protective of them. They are very intelligent and are capable of learning various tricks. They get along well with other dogs and animals, but can get jealous and territorial if they think their owner shows affection to another animal.

Shih Apso Activity Requirements

The Shih Apso is a small, quiet, gentle dog that originated in China. They have a distinctive rectangular head, which gives them their signature look. The Shih Apso is not a very active dog, but they do enjoy short walks or a chance to run around the yard. While they do not need a super active lifestyle, they do require regular exercise. A short walk or trip to the park, about 30 minutes per day, is usually sufficient. The Shih Apso can be a good choice for people living in apartments or for people who don’t have a lot of time to exercise their dogs. They don’t require a lot of space or time, but they need regular interaction. A daily walk or game of fetch can help your Shih Apso stay happy, healthy, and well-socialized.

Miles Per Day

4 miles

Activity Per Day

30 minutes

Daily Food

1 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Not Recognized

Shih Apso is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Not Recognized

Shih Apso is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Not Recognized

Shih Apso is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Not Recognized

Shih Apso is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.