Correct spelling for the English word "shih tzu" is [ʃˈɪ tsˈuː], [ʃˈɪ tsˈuː], [ʃ_ˈɪ t_s_ˈuː] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Shih Tzu is a noun that refers to a small, toy-sized dog breed originating from Tibet and China. It is characterized by a long, silky double coat that reaches the ground and a distinctive flat face with large, dark eyes. Shih Tzus are renowned for their friendly and affectionate temperament, making them ideal companion pets.
Typically weighing between 9 to 16 pounds (4 to 7 kilograms) and standing approximately 9 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 centimeters) tall at the shoulder, Shih Tzus possess a sturdy and compact build. They have a well-balanced body structure with a high-set, plume-like tail that is elegantly curled over their back.
The Shih Tzu is a breed that thrives on human companionship and enjoys being the center of attention. They are known for being playful, alert, and intelligent, though they can occasionally display an independent streak. Shih Tzus are known to be good with children and make excellent family pets, as they are generally gentle and patient.
Their luxurious, flowing coat requires regular grooming and maintenance to prevent matting and tangling. The coat is often groomed in various styles, including the traditional "lion cut" or simply kept long and flowing. Shih Tzus come in a range of colors, including gold, black, white, brindle, and combinations of these colors.
In summary, a Shih Tzu is a small, friendly, and affectionate dog breed with a long, silky coat and distinctive flat face. They make wonderful companion pets, both for families and individuals, and require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat.
The word "shih tzu" is of Chinese origin. It comes from Mandarin Chinese and is written as "獅子狗" (pinyin: shī zǐ gǒu). The term can be translated as "lion dog", as "獅子" (shī zǐ) means "lion", and "狗" (gǒu) means "dog" in Chinese. This name refers to the breed's lion-like appearance, as Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions.