Precious and her sister, Nala, came to us from an owner that was overwhelmed by an economic downturn.  They are sweet girls, not yappers and very sad to find themselves in the shelter.   When they came to us they were matted and quite a lot of work for our volunteer dog groomer.   We had to have them shaved down, there just was no other choice.  With proper care, their hair will grow back full and fabulous!

Are you unfamiliar with the Shih Tzu breed? Pronounced SHEET-sue, they are known as alert, spunky, happy and hardy. They are bred with an underbite which gives them a constant "smile." Traditionally, their coat is kept long, with ears blending into the body, distinct mustache, and a top knot secured with a bow. However, in our Florida climate, many are clipped short to relieve them of the heat. An alert watch dog, Shih Tzus like to bark but are usually quiet in the house. Originally from China, they were a favorite of the Imperial Chinese court and so revered that for many years after the Chinese began trading with the West, they refused to sell, or even give away, any of the little dogs. It was not until 1930 that the first pair was imported to England. The life expectancy of Shih Tzus in 16 years.