White Shih Tzu: Facts, Origin & History (With Pictures)
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The Earliest Records of the White Shih Tzu in History
The Shih Tzu has a long and storied history. Their history, however, is very debated. Some will tell you that they originated in China, but the more accepted theory is that they originated in the nearby region of Tibet. The ancestors of the modern-day Shih Tzu were commonly given as gifts from the Tibetan Dalai Lama and Buddhist Monks to the Chinese Emperor.
The breeds the Shih Tzu descends from are also debated; the most accepted idea is the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso. The Tibetan Terrier is also believed to be involved in the ancestry of the modern Shih Tzu.
The Shih Tzu first found itself in the western world after being transported by a British general’s wife named Lady Brownrigg in the early 20th century, who transported them from Peking to England. At the time, the new communist government of China was killing Shih Tzus for their association with the monarchy; if it weren’t for Lady Brownrigg, this breed most likely wouldn’t exist today.
Later, American soldiers stationed in England and other European nations fell in love with the breed and brought them back to the U.S.A.
How the White Shih Tzu Gained Popularity
The White Shih Tzu gained immense popularity in the east when Empress Tsu-Hsi took the throne of China. She was gifted a Shih Tzu by the Dalai Lama and believed the dog to be sacred. Many noble families began breeding Shih Tzus as they were seen as the dogs of royalty.
The Shih Tzu’s role in society has changed very little; they were bred to be companions dogs, and that’s what they have remained. However, in the Travels of Marco Polo, it is claimed that Emperor Kublai Khan used the Shih Tzus to hunt lions, which is widely believed to be a fabrication.
Formal Recognition of the White Shih Tzu
The first Shih Tzu club, The Shih Tzu Club of England, was founded in 1934, and the breed was officially recognized in 1940 by the UK Kennel Club. But getting recognized in America was a much longer road.
Before being officially recognized, three separate clubs were formed in the United States: The Texas Shih Tasu club, the American Shih Tsu Association, and the Shih Tzu Club of America. The Shih Tzu was finally acknowledged by the Kennel Club of America in 1969 when it was formally recognized as part of the toy group.
Top 3 Unique Facts About White Shih Tzus
1. The Shih Tzu Is Known by The Nickname “Chrysanthemum Dog”
The Shih Tzu has the nickname “The Chrysanthemum Dog” due to the way its fur grows. The hair on a Shih Tzu’s face grows out in all directions, causing its face to resemble a flower with a nose in the middle.
2. Their Population Was Reduced to Just 14 Shih Tzus
After the Communists in China nearly wiped them out, only 14 Shih Tzus were left, and all of them escaped by being shipped to Britain. All modern-day Shih Tzus are descended from these 14 dogs.
3. Many Celebrities Have Owned Shih Tzus
Much like how the elite in Imperial China owned them, Shih Tzus are a popular breed among celebrities. Shih Tzu’s owners include Beyonce, Queen Elizabeth II, Colin Farrell, Mariah Carey, and Bill Gates.
Does the White Shih Tzu Make a Good Pet?
The Shih Tzu makes a perfect pet and companion. The breed is well suited to apartment and house living, is good with children and other pets, and is suitable for families, couples, or solo owners.
However, you must ensure you can provide the attention your Shih Tzu needs. Shih Tzus are people dogs who love nothing more than being around their owners. They can quickly become depressed if they don’t get enough attention.
Conclusion
Shi Tzus are adorable dogs that are very loving and loyal. If you’re considering adopting one of these pretty dogs as a pet, make sure you are ready to take care of a pet. Having a reputable breeder is also essential if you want to ensure your pet doesn’t have health issues. They’re good with children, families, and other pets. The Shih Tzu will be loyal and love you for many years to come.
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Featured Image Credit: Jayne Klein, Shutterstock
