."Shih Tzu" means Lion. They were often called "The Chrysanthemum-Faced
Dog" because the hair grows about the face in all directions. They are small,
intelligent, and extremely docile. It is known that the Shih Tzu was a house pet during
most of the Ming Dynasty and that they were highly favored by the royal family. To this
day the Shih Tzu make excellent family pets. They do not shed, are sturdy and compact, and
adapt to most situations. Shih Tzu range from about 9-16 pound and come in all colors and
markings.( See Shih Tzu Standard Page).
In 1934, the Peking Kennel Club was formed and by 1938 a standard for the Shih Tzu was
developed. The Shih Tzu was admitted to registration in the American Kennel Club
March 1969, and to regular show classification in the Toy Group at AKC shows beginning
Sep. 1, 1969.