Bred in Tibet, gifted to the Chinese imperial court, and refined over centuries by Ming and Qing dynasty eunuchs as living ornaments, the Shih Tzu's name means 'lion dog'. Today they remain happy lap dogs that thrive on attention, suit apartment life, and rarely shed. The long flowing coat requires daily brushing or a regular pet trim, and the flat brachycephalic face brings heat sensitivity and eye injury risk. Affectionate, sociable, and remarkably content with short walks.
