Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Shih Tzu is an ancient toy breed that originated in Tibet and China. Revered as sacred dogs in the imperial palaces of Chinese emperors, they were symbols of prosperity and good fortune. The breed’s ancestors are believed to be the Tibetan Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. For centuries, Shih Tzus were bred exclusively within the Forbidden City and were not allowed to leave China. In the 20th century, the breed was introduced to Europe, where it quickly gained recognition for its elegant appearance and gentle, affectionate nature. Today, the Shih Tzu is admired worldwide as an intelligent, loving, and aristocratic companion dog.
General Appearance
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy, and well-balanced dog with a proud, harmonious outline. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a broad, deep chest and a level back. The head is large and proportionate, with a short muzzle and large, round, expressive eyes. The tail is set high, carried in a graceful curve over the back, forming a feathery plume. The coat is long, dense, and straight or slightly wavy, covering the entire body evenly. In movement, the Shih Tzu demonstrates smooth, confident, and dignified action, exuding elegance, cheerfulness, and nobility.
Important Proportions
The Shih Tzu must appear compact and well-balanced. The body length from the withers to the base of the tail slightly exceeds the height at the withers, giving a rectangular shape. The head is large but proportionate, and the muzzle is short—about one-third the length of the skull. The tail is set high and carried proudly, balancing the head visually. The limbs are straight, of medium length, and strong-boned. The entire structure should display balance without coarseness or excessive refinement.
Temperament and Character
The Shih Tzu is friendly, calm, and lively. It is an intelligent, affectionate, and devoted companion that thrives on human attention. The breed is non-aggressive, excellent with children and other pets, and possesses a confident yet gentle disposition. The Shih Tzu is observant, alert, and composed, showing independence without stubbornness. Its temperament is characterized by serenity, dignity, and affection—making it a perfect family pet and show dog.
Head
The head is large, round, and well-proportioned, covered with long, dense hair forming a mane-like topknot. The skull is broad and domed, with a distinct stop. The muzzle is short, square, and straight, with a broad nose and wide nostrils. The lips fit tightly; jaws are strong, with a level or slightly undershot bite. The eyes are large, round, dark, and set forward, expressing warmth and kindness. The ears are large, low-set, heavily coated, and blend seamlessly into the neck hair.
Facial Region
The muzzle is short, broad, and square, with soft, flowing lines. The nose is large, wide-nostriled, and matches the coat color—preferably dark. The lips are tight and not pendulous; the chin is firm and well-developed. The overall facial expression conveys intelligence, kindness, and confidence—hallmarks of the Shih Tzu.
Eyes
Eyes are large, round, and set well apart, exuding a soft, friendly, and expressive look. The color is dark, with slightly lighter shades allowed in light-colored dogs. The whites of the eyes should not be visible when the dog looks forward. The expression is tender, loyal, and intelligent.
Ears
The ears are large, drooping, and set slightly below the crown of the skull. They are broad at the base, lying close to the cheeks, and heavily covered with long, silky hair that merges with the mane. They should not be excessively long or heavy. Properly set ears complete the breed’s rounded head and convey its alert yet gentle expression.
Neck
The neck is medium in length, strong, and well-muscled, flowing smoothly into the shoulders. It should be long enough to carry the head proudly, enhancing the dog’s noble bearing. The thick mane of coat around the neck gives the impression of a lion-like ruff, emphasizing elegance and balance.
Body
The body is compact, sturdy, and well-balanced with a level topline. The chest is broad and deep, reaching the elbows; ribs are well-sprung. The back is straight and strong; the loin is short and firm; the croup slightly rounded. The abdomen is moderately tucked up. The outline should show strength combined with grace.
Tail
The tail is set high, carried in a gentle curve over the back, and covered with long, flowing hair forming a plume. It must not be tightly curled or drooping. The carriage of the tail complements the overall silhouette, adding elegance and balance.
Forequarters
Forelegs are straight, strong, and well-boned. Shoulders are long and well laid back, fitting closely to the body. Elbows turn neither in nor out. Pasterns are short and strong. Feet are round, firm, and well-padded, with well-arched toes.
Hindquarters
Hind legs are strong and muscular, with well-developed thighs and clearly defined stifles. Hocks are low and straight when viewed from behind. Feet are compact and round, similar to the forefeet. The rear angulation ensures a powerful yet smooth drive.
Gait and Movement
Movement should be smooth, free, and effortless. The stride is balanced and flowing, with good reach in front and strong drive from the rear. The topline remains level and steady. The gait expresses dignity, balance, and confidence.
Coat
The coat is long, dense, and flowing, either straight or slightly wavy, with a soft, silky texture. The undercoat is moderate, allowing the hair to fall naturally and smoothly. Hair on the head forms a topknot; the ears, tail, legs, and chest are richly feathered. Excessive fluffiness or trimming that alters the natural outline is undesirable.
Colors
All colors and combinations are permitted. Common shades include gold and white, black and white, red, brindle, gray, fawn, and tricolor. A white blaze on the forehead and white tip on the tail are desirable in multicolored dogs. Pigmentation of the nose, eye rims, and lips should be dark, harmonizing with the coat.
Size
Ideal height at the withers: 20–28 cm. Weight: 4.5–8 kg. The dog should appear compact and well-proportioned—never coarse or fragile. The structure must maintain a balance of elegance and substance.
Faults
Any deviation from the standard is considered a fault. Common faults include weak topline, narrow chest, low tail set, overly short muzzle, small or bulging eyes, soft or sparse coat, or unbalanced proportions. Movement faults include stiffness, short steps, or poor coordination.
Disqualifications
Severe bite faults (over- or undershot), asymmetrical jaws, deformities of skull or spine, albinism, blue or bulging eyes, cropped ears or tail, extreme nervousness or aggression, congenital defects, or any non-standard coat color. Cosmetic or surgical alterations result in disqualification.
Important Notes
The ICCF emphasizes the preservation of the breed’s original type, health, coat quality, and stable temperament. The Shih Tzu should not be bred for extreme miniaturization or excessive ornamentation. Regular coat care is essential, but grooming should not alter the natural appearance.
Conclusion
The Shih Tzu embodies elegance, strength, and balance. In the ICCF system, it represents harmony, refinement, and noble temperament among companion dogs. Its strong build, silky coat, and affectionate personality make it an ideal show and family dog. Only ICCF-registered, standard-conforming dogs are accepted for breeding and exhibition, ensuring the preservation of the breed’s true character and aristocratic grace.
