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Shih Tzus are sturdy, lively, yet alert toy dogs.
CoatsThey have long flowing double coats. Shih Tzus have a variety of coat colors including black,brown, white, gray, tan, and gold spotted to a mix of several-colored hair. The Shih Tzu's hair can be styled in a short, summertime cut or a well-groomed long hair like that used for conformation shows. This breed's hair grows continuously. Because Shih Tzus have hair and not fur, they do not shed. It is one of several breeds suggested as a hypoallergenic pet.
The AKC Shih Tzu breed standard calls for the dog to have a short snout, large eyes, a slight underbite, and a tail that waves above its torso.
SizeThe ideal Shih Tzu height at withers is 9 to 10 1/2 inches. The dog should stand no less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches tall. The Shih Tzu should never be so high stationed as to appear leggy, nor so low stationed as to appear dumpy or squatty.
The weight of mature dogs should be between 9 to 16 pounds. Regardless of size or gender, the Shih Tzu should always be solid and compact, and carry good weight and substance. |
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