How Can You Tell Imperial Shih Tzus? 8 Best Tips

Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome (BACS)

This is usually seen in pups with short noses, like Imperial Shih Tzus. Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome causes breathing issues.

Eye Problems

Most Shih Tzus experience eye irritation, particularly if their corneas are scratched by the fur near their eyes. Older Imperial Shih Tzu dogs could also acquire cataracts, which could ultimately lead to vision loss if not properly treated.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is a fairly common health condition in small dog breeds and could be life-threatening if not detected and treated early. When your Shih Tzu experiences a hypoglycemic attack, immediately give them a glucose source.

How Long Do Imperial Shih Tzus Live?

The normal life span of Imperial Shih Tzus is akin to the standard count, between ten and eighteen years. However, due to their smaller size, they’re more vulnerable to different health issues. They’re also very fragile and thus more prone to injuries, particularly if they try to leap off a surface and fall off balance, among a lot of other potential hazards and accidents.

Do Imperial Shih Tzus Make Good Family Pets?

This toy breed is popular for being playful, loyal, affectionate, and outgoing. These traits have made Imperial Shih Tzus one of the best dog breeds for pets.

These dogs are also well-suited for individuals and families who want the company of a lovable pet dog. Because they are also very friendly, Imperial Shih Tzus get along well with small kids and other dogs.

However, these dogs may likewise be affectionate even to strangers, which could be a downside if you prefer a dog that could look after your home when you’re away. Nevertheless, Imperial Shih Tzus are also incredibly active and alert, and they would let you know immediately if they sense a stranger or if you have a guest by barking incessantly.

Obedience and socialization training is important for Imperial Shih Tzu pups. They tend to be resistant and stubborn, so the sooner and the younger you train them, the better the results will be.

Finding an Imperial Shih Tzu

There are no issues with going for an Imperial Shih Tzu as a pet. However, it’s crucial that you entirely research the dog breeder that you will get your pup from.

Imperial and standard Shih Tzus are wonderful dogs. Nonetheless, it’s your concern to find out where your new Shih Tzu puppy is coming from as well as its bloodline and history.

FAQ’s

How big are Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu is a snugly built little animal with a solid, sound structure. It stands from about 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and should weigh from 9 to 16 pounds. Its body length is slightly greater than its height, and it should be physically proportional all over, not too short or too small, but a true miniature breed dog. In movement, it moves with effortless, smooth strides, showing good drive and reach, with the head and tail held high, giving away its ancient royal bloodline.

Where does the Shih Tzu come from, and why was the breed developed?
The Shih Tzu lineage is hotly debated; however, one theory is that the Shih Tzu descended from a cross between the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso breeds. This cross breed that would eventually become Shih Tzus, were favourites of the Chinese royals and so prized that, for years, the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give any away.

The first dogs of the breed were imported into Europe in 1930 and were classified by the Kennel Club as “Apsos”. The first European standard for the breed was written in England in 1935 by the Shih Tzu Club, and the dogs were categorised again as Shih Tzu. The breed is now recognized by all of the major kennel clubs in the English-speaking world.

How is Shih Tzu pronounced, and what does it mean?
The most common and incorrect pronunciation of Shih Tzu is: Sh*t Zoo however, that isn’t actually how the little lion breed is supposed to be announced. According to the American Shih Tzu Club, the official and publicly confirmed pronunciation of Shih Tzu is: “Sheed-zoo."

The name comes from the Chinese language word for "lion" because this kind of dog was bred to resemble "the lion, as in traditional oriental art". Interestingly they are also known by another name tied to their European introduction. The Shih Tzu is sometimes called the Chrysanthemum Dog, a nickname that describes the way the hair on their face grows out in all directions. They look like a flower with a nose for the centre.

For more than one Shih Tzu, do you say Shih Tzus?
The age-old question, it is Shih Tzu or Shih Tzus? When writing or saying the plural of Shih Tzu, it is a common mistake for a person to write or say Shih Tzus, as one would think this is the normal way to put the dog in their plural form, and in fact, it is so common that I wouldn’t be surprised if we have even made such a slip up in this very article. However, the correct way to say Shih Tzus is Shih Tzu, due it being an irregular noun, allowing the plural of Shih Tzu can be Shih Tzu, just like ‘fish and fish’. With two or more Shih Tzu, there does not need to be an ‘s’.

What colours do Shih Tzus come in?
The Shih Tzu is a breed that can be found in an array of colours and with a variety of markings. It's common for owners to not know for sure what colour their Shih Tzu is. Sometimes a puppy may be referred to as an unofficial colour that is not recognized by the AKC, or another kennel club, through which the pup is registered. And in other cases, there can be some confusion when the colour listed on the papers does not seem to match what is seen. In addition to this, it's common for Shih Tzu dogs to change colour as they grow and mature, meaning that your little snowball of joy may turn sooty in their old age.

How much attention does a Shih Tzu need?
Despite their small stature, Shih Tzu are relatively active dogs. Puppies can be extremely hyper and adults are most content when given opportunities to release stored-up energy and be out and about. Without regular moderate exercise, a Shih Tzu can start to feel pent up and frustrated. This can manifest as behaviours such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.

Aim to take your little guy or gal for a minimum of two 20 to 30-minute walks per day, along with sessions of play like fetch to meet exercise requirements for this breed. If so, this will allow your Shih Tzu to enjoy being inside at home, able to relax beside you (or at your feet) and with a calmer disposition.

Do Shih Tzu get along with other pets?
In general, the Shih Tzu gets along quite well with other dogs, large and small. Shih Tzu rarely suffer from the ‘short leg syndrome’ common in small dogs, and more often than not, are simply little bundle of love.

However, every dog has their own personality, and it will depend on how well your dog as well as the other dogs have been socialized. Overall the Shih Tzu breed is calm and very playful and enjoys a variety of canine friends. But keep in mind each dog has their unique personality and circumstances. To say they will all behave exactly the same isn’t very realistic.

How do I provide the best care for a Shih Tzu?
Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Watch their diet, make sure they get plenty of exercise, regularly brush their teeth and coat, and call a veterinary clinic or pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual.

It is also a good idea to create a routine for your Shih Tzu to lessen their anxiety and ensure they live a happy and calm life. Build their routine care into your schedule to help your Shih Tzu live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during their lifetime. Most importantly a proper diet and exercise routine is key to the long-term health of your pet.