Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

This ancient breed is the perfect lapdog. Sweet and easygoing, they want nothing more than to be close to their humans.

Illustration courtesy of the Swedish Kennel Club

About this Breed

The Shih Tzu is the 19th most popular dog in the United States. The breed is also known as the Chrysanthemum Dog and the Lion Dog. The origins of the breed are uncertain but the breed is believed to have originated from Tibet and China. The dog is closely tied to Chinese royalty and similar featured dogs can be seen in artwork dating seventh century AD. The breed has long fur that needs to be brushed daily to keep from being tangles — but they are a great small hypoallergenic dog breed. Their personality is loyal and affectionate but prone to stubbornness when it comes to training.

Marco Polo remarked that small “lion dogs” were used to keep the Emperor’s lions calm by acting as companions.

Shih Tzus on Embark

Explore some Embark dogs that share Shih Tzu ancestry.

  • Lucy

    Lucy

    Lulu

    Lulu

    Charlie Angel

    Charlie Angel

    Way Down in Kokomo

    Way Down in Kokomo

  • Papas

    Papas

    Darla Mae

    Darla Mae

    Chimera

    Chimera's Kikimora Ukraine's Spirit

    Tivo

    Tivo

  • Chimera

    Chimera's Eros Heavenly Passion

    McGregor

    McGregor

    Mila

    Mila

    Lacey

    Lacey

Favorite Names

For Male

  1. Charlie
  2. Teddy
  3. Buddy
  4. Max
  5. Oliver
  6. Milo
  7. Toby
  8. Cooper
  9. Bentley
  10. Ollie

For Female

  1. Bella
  2. Daisy
  3. Lucy
  4. Luna
  5. Molly
  6. Sophie
  7. Lily
  8. Penny
  9. Zoey
  10. Coco
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