The Illustrated Guide To The Shih Tzu Standard | Size, Substance

CONTENTS: Front Cover | Preface | History | Anatomy | Standard | General Appearance | SIZE, SUBSTANCE | Proportion | Head | Neck, Body | Topline | Tail | Forequarters | Hindquarters | Coat, Trimming, Color, and Markings | Gait







SIZE: Ideally, height at withers is 9 to 10 inches; but, not less than 8 inches nor more than 11 inches. Ideally, weight of mature dogs — 9 to 16 pounds. It should also be noted that the proper dense and double coat may make a particular dog appear larger in size than it is in actuality. CLARIFICATION: – It should be stressed that overall balance and quality should be of utmost importance, regardless of whether a particular dog falls into the lower or higher end of the ideals set forth in the standard.

SUBSTANCE: Regardless of size, the Shih Tzu is always compact, solid and carries good weight and substance. CLARIFICATION: – A Shih Tzu should never be narrow or slab sided and should have a good amount of overall bone. Young or immature dogs should not be penalized for carrying less weight, providing the overall frame, bone and muscle tone projects a dog with good substance. When picked up, the Shih Tzu should be surprisingly heavy for its size.