The name “Shih Tzu” is derived from the regal Chinese term “Shizi Gou”, which means “lion sun dog”. They’re often called “little lion” as a result.
“Chrysanthemum Dog” is another popular nickname for them, originating from the way their fur curls upwards and away from their nose like the flower.
Shih Tzus are a toy companion breed with a long silky coat. They’re averagely about 9 -10 inches tall and 9 -16 pounds in weight.
No, they’re not Chinese. It’s believed the breed was developed on the Tibetan Plateau by the monks that lived there.
During the Chinese Manchu and Ming Dynasties, only those living in the Imperial Palace could legally own a Shih Tzu.