Black Shih Tzus: Regal Rarities with Outsized Personalities

For dog lovers with a penchant for petite companions with big personalities, the Shih Tzu is hard to beat. And within this already charming toy breed, the black Shih Tzu stands out as a regal rarity with its striking dark coat. Prized for centuries as royal lapdogs in imperial China, these "little lion dogs" are more than just a pretty face – they‘re affectionate, lively companions that effortlessly rule the hearts of all who know them.

Whether you‘re already head over heels for Shih Tzus or considering adding one of these regal fluff balls to your life, read on to learn everything you need to know about the magnificent black Shih Tzu, from its fascinating history to its unique care requirements.

The Genetics of a Black Beauty

The first thing that catches the eye about a black Shih Tzu is of course that inky, glossy coat. Did you know the gene for a pure black coat is actually recessive in Shih Tzus? That means a puppy must inherit the gene from both parents to end up with an all-black coat, making this color one of the rarest in the breed.

According to a survey by the American Shih Tzu Club, the most common coat colors in the breed are:

As you can see, only about 5% of Shih Tzus sport that coveted solid black coat. Even then, many will have small patches of white on the chest, chin, or paws. An entirely black coat from nose to tail is an exceptionally rare find.

From Palace to Pop Culture

These noble little lion dogs have a history as fascinating as they are adorable. Shih Tzus, along with Pekingese and Pugs, are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They were developed in ancient China over 2000 years ago, possibly from crosses between Tibetan breeds like the Lhasa Apso and local Chinese palace dogs.

For centuries, Shih Tzus lived lives of luxury as companions to Chinese emperors and courtiers. They were considered sacred animals that could drive away evil spirits. According to legend, the Buddha himself traveled with a small lion dog fitting the description of a Shih Tzu.

One famous imperial Shih Tzu was Looty, taken from the Old Summer Palace by a British captain during the Second Opium War in 1860. Looty was presented to Queen Victoria and lived out her days in Buckingham Palace.

In the early 1900s, the Dowager Empress Cixi ruled China and kept an extensive breeding kennel of Shih Tzus, including many black ones. However, after her death in 1908, the breed nearly went extinct during the tumultuous years that followed in China.

Thankfully, a small number of Shih Tzus made their way to the West in the 1930s. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and skyrocketed in popularity. Today, the Shih Tzu consistently ranks in the top 20 most popular breeds in the U.S.

From palace companion to modern day pop culture icon, the Shih Tzu has come a long way. Black Shih Tzus in particular have captured the hearts of many celebrities including Queen Latifah, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, and Nicole Richie. Their striking looks and portable size make them the perfect accessory for the jet set crowd.

On social media, all-black Shih Tzus command a loyal following on Instagram and TikTok, with many accounts dedicated solely to these inky cuties. The hashtag #blackshihtzu has over 100,000 posts on Instagram alone.

Big Dog Attitude in a Pint-Sized Package

Don‘t let their diminutive size and palatial past fool you – Shih Tzus are lively, outgoing little dogs with an outsized zest for life. Bred solely as companions for centuries, they bond very closely with their humans and love being the center of attention.

"The Shih Tzu is a true companion dog. They‘re happiest when they‘re with their people," says Manny Comitini, president of the American Shih Tzu Club. "They‘ll follow you from room to room and want to be involved in everything you do."

Shih Tzus are generally good-natured and happy-go-lucky dogs that get along with everyone, including children, strangers, and other pets. They tend to be more confident and social than many other small breeds, thanks to their royal lineage and history as palace sentinels.

While not typically a yappy breed, Shih Tzus will alert bark at sounds and newcomers. Proper socialization and training from a young age is important to prevent nuisance barking and teach polite greeting manners.

As a companion breed, Shih Tzus crave lots of human interaction and don‘t do well when left alone for long stretches. Separation anxiety can be an issue, so it‘s best if someone is home with them for most of the day.

Shih Tzus are moderately active indoors and don‘t need a ton of outdoor exercise, making them well-suited for apartment dwellers or homes without a yard. Daily walks and some playtime will keep them happy and healthy.

Caring for Your Regal Companion

Shih Tzus are a long-lived breed, with an average lifespan of 10-16 years. Many reach their late teens with excellent care. Black Shih Tzus have some specific grooming and healthcare needs to keep in mind:

Grooming

That long, luxurious double coat is prone to tangles and mats if not brushed regularly. Plan to brush your black Shih Tzu at least 3-4 times a week, if not daily. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks will keep the coat more manageable. The facial hair should be tied up or trimmed around the eyes to prevent irritation.

Don‘t forget to clean the ears weekly with a pet-safe ear cleaner and cotton ball. The deep facial folds also need regular cleaning to prevent skin infections – wipe them out with a damp cloth or grooming wipe a few times a week.

Dental Care

Like many small breeds, Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease. Brushing your dog‘s teeth daily or at least a few times a week will make a huge difference in preventing painful (and expensive) dental issues down the line. Use a pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste and toothbrush. Dental chews, water additives, and regular professional cleanings by your vet can also help.

Training and Socialization

Shih Tzus respond best to positive reinforcement training with plenty of tasty treats and praise. Keep training sessions short and fun. This breed can have a stubborn streak, so patience and consistency are key. Puppy socialization classes are a great way for your black Shih Tzu to learn basic obedience and manners while getting comfortable with new people, dogs, sights, and sounds.

Health Testing

Reputable Shih Tzu breeders health test their breeding dogs for genetic conditions the breed is prone to, including eye disorders, orthopedic issues, and kidney and liver problems. Ask to see health certifications for the parents before committing to a puppy. Adopting an adult Shih Tzu from a rescue is a great way to skip the intensive puppy stage while still enjoying the love of the breed.

Finding Your Perfect Black Shih Tzu

Choosing to add a dog to your life is a big decision, and one not to be taken lightly. Shih Tzus are a popular breed, which unfortunately means many disreputable breeders and puppy mills churn them out for profit with no regard for health or temperament. Do thorough research to find an ethical breeder who health tests and prioritizes the well-being of their dogs.

The average price for a well-bred Shih Tzu puppy is $2000-3500, though black ones may command a premium due to their rarity. Expect a waitlist, as most good breeders only have a few litters per year. Avoid pet stores, online ads, or anyone willing to ship you a puppy with no questions asked.

Shih Tzu rescue is another excellent way to find your new best friend, especially if you‘re open to an adult dog. Many wonderful Shih Tzus end up in rescue through no fault of their own and make fantastic companions. Adoption fees are usually $300-500, which includes spay/neuter, vaccines, and vetting.

Conclusion

From their ancient Chinese origins to their rise as one of the world‘s most beloved companion breeds, Shih Tzus have a long and storied history. And within this already illustrious breed, the black Shih Tzu stands out as a true rarity with its inky coat and imperial good looks.

But these pint-sized charmers are so much more than just a pretty face. With their big personalities, loyal hearts, and zest for life, black Shih Tzus effortlessly rule the kingdom of their owners‘ hearts.

If you‘re looking for a portable, affectionate, and downright adorable companion to share your castle with, a black Shih Tzu may just be the perfect royal addition to your court. Bow down to your new tiny overlord – long may they reign!