The Shih Tzu is a toy dog ​​with a small stature and a huge heart. This adorable little dog is often a pampered member of the family; If you have a Shih Tzu you will understand the love that his owners have for him!

If you want to show your beautiful purebred Shih Tzu in competition at any level, you will need to familiarize yourself with the standards and requirements.

The American Kennel Club has clearly defined guidelines when it comes to what kind of physical attributes your Shih Tzu will need to exhibit.

If you want to show, breed, or are just interested in learning about the Shih Tzu breed, here are some things you can do. Ask your breeder, your veterinarian, use the Internet and learn everything you can about Shih Tzu.

The breed specifications are long and detailed for the Shih Tzu to take into account many of the variations.

Summary of general breed specifications:

General appearance:

The Shih Tzu is stocky and lively with a long, flowing double coat. A proud bearing and distinctively arrogant manner with the head generally held high and a curved tail that rests on the back.

There is a wide variation in the size of the Shih Tzu, but the dog should be of good weight and give an overall impression of a compact, solid, well-built dog.

Size, Proportion, Substance

The ideal weight for adult dogs is within the range of 9 to 16 pounds. The highest point of the back (known as the withers) should be no less than 8 inches. The ideal Shih Tzu should be well proportioned. The length between the withers and the base of the tail is slightly greater than the height at the withers. The dog may not appear “leggy” or, conversely, may not appear plump or stocky. Substance: Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is solid and compact.

head

The head should be round, wide, with a wide space between the eyes. The head should appear to be in balance with the overall size of the dog. The Shih Tzu must have a warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting character. A well balanced and pleasing overall expression is the most important aspect of head features.

Judges carefully examine beyond the hair to determine if what is seen is actually the head and shape or if careful styling has been used to cover flaws.

faults

– narrow head

– Closed eyes

– Small eyes, together or clear

– Excessive white eye

– Irritation

– Lack of final stop

– Pink on the nose, lips or around the eyes

– Cock overrun

Competing with your Shih Tzu

Of course, if you want to show your Shih Tzu, you’ll need to read as much as you can on the subject. Read as much as you can and discuss

Breed standards can differ from country to country and also within various breed organizations. In general, you can be sure that even between different judges, there are limits to what is considered a variant and what is considered a fault. Interpretation varies as does the tastes of the judges.

The standard Shih Tzu is made up of fanciers, breeders from all over the country. If you don’t plan on showing your Shih Tzu, then any puppy will do. These are some good guidelines on what to look for, but you don’t have to be exact. If you’ve found the cutest, healthiest puppy, that’s all your family will ever need.