For anyone who has lived with a Shih Tzu, it’s no secret that these little dogs act like they own the place. Their regal roots, dramatic personalities, and ability to demand attention make them stand out in any crowd. A recent video on Instagram leans into those traits, giving viewers a lighthearted crash course on fun facts about Shih Tzus.
Owner shares interesting facts about Shih Tzus in video
A Shih Tzu owner recently put together a playful yet educational video that highlights ten fun facts about the beloved dog breed. Using a mix of onscreen text, visuals of her own dog, and clever editing, she managed to make learning about the pups both engaging and easy to follow.
The first fact is that Shih Tzus were once on the brink of extinction. By the early 20th century, very few remained in China. Without intervention, the breed could have disappeared altogether. The second fun detail mentions that the dog breed has what their owner calls a “sneeze code.” It’s a playful way of describing how these pups use sneezes to grab attention or get their way.
Another highlight comes when the owner explains that the name Shih Tzu translates to “little lion.” To emphasize the point, she edits in a side-by-side of her fluffy pup and a lion mid-yawn, calling it one of her favorite facts.
Carrying on the theme of royal pride, the fourth fact describes how Shih Tzus still act as though they remember their regal history. In the video, the furbaby is shown comfortably riding in a stroller, accurately embodying the attitude of a pampered companion.
This ties into the fifth fact, which notes that just 14 Shih Tzus were responsible for saving the breed. These dogs, carefully bred, became the foundation for nearly all modern pups of the same dog breed.
The owner doesn’t shy away from the quirks of living with one, either. For the sixth fact, she jokes that Shih Tzus will claim their human’s bed and personal space, with her own dog caught snoozing under the covers. She follows that up with a nod to their famously good coats. She calls their hair one of the breed’s standout features.
The eighth fact talks about how expressive Shih Tzus can be, particularly through their eyes. She follows it up with a clip of her dog giving her a dramatic side-eye. She then explains that the breed has spiritual roots. They were originally bred by Tibetan monks before becoming favored companions of Chinese royalty.
Finally, she rounds off the list by describing Shih Tzus as dogs with “larger than life personalities.” They might be small in size, but they are full of character.
