This breed of dog is from the Toy Group. They adapt well to many lifestyles. If you have allergies. This is the breed for you. For the Shih-Tzu has hair not fur. It requires little exersize. This small sturdy dog is covered over with an abundant double coat of long hair lined with a woolly undercoat. This proud looking little dog has hair above the nose growing upward, creating a "chrysanthemum" face. The head is rounded, with a profuse beard and mustache, short hairy muzzle, and black nose (except in liver-colored dogs which have liver noses). There is a definite stop. The eyes are large, round and wide-set, dark on most dogs; but lighter on liver and blue colored dogs. The pendant ears are so covered with hair that they blend right into the body coat. The teeth should form a level or undershot bite. The top line is level and the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers. Dewclaw removal is optional. The heavily plumped tail is curled over the back. Any color is acceptable, though white on the forehead and tip of the tail is preferred by most dog show judges. The gentle loyal Shih-Tzu makes friends easily. Height: Up to 11 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds The Shih Tzu is good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is sensitive to the heat. Life Expectancy About 15 years or more. Grooming: This breed sheds little to no hair and are good for allergy suffers if their coats are kept very well groomed. (Due the fact that they shed little skin dander.)About every 8-10 weeks should be clipped for a puppy cut.