SHIH TZU FANCIERS OF SOUTHERN CA

History of the Shih Tzu

Legends of Buddha and the Shih Tzu

The Chinese Zodiac

Shih Tzu means Little Lion in Mandarin Chinese. The Little Lions are beautiful, proud toy dogs, with a noble heritage and a history shrouded in mystery and Oriental myth. They are revered as Holy Dogs in Buddhism and have been enchanters of Chinese Emperors for centuries. 

Shih Tzu were so highly prized by the Chinese rulers that they lived in the inner court of the Imperial Palaces with the royal families, lounging on beautifully embroidered silk pillows. Little Lions are known as Chrysanthemum Faced Dogs as well. This lovely title was given to them because of how their luxurious facial hair fans out in all directions resembling the petals of a blossom.