Information on Why Shih Tzus Are Called Lion Dogs

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I attended a dog show and two of the shih tzus dogs got my attraction.They are just beautiful and cute. Justin Mathers will share you some information about Shih Tzus dogs

The amiable, intellectual, and majestic Shih Tzu (pronounced sheed zoo) is very small in stature, but it makes a big impression on everyone it meets. Wherever the Shih Tzu goes, it draws admirers to its winning persona, lavish coat, and graceful demeanor. Due to the Shih Tzu's size at only nine to ten inches (22.8 to 25.4 cm) high at the shoulder and weighing about nine to sixteen pounds (4 to 7.2 kg), these bundles of joy are just the right size for every home and lap.

In Chinese Shih Tzu means "lion". Asiatic dogs for hundreds of years were bred to resemble miniature lions. These so-called "Lion dogs" were small and bearded, had encompassing heads, level faces, short noses, huge round eyes, square bodies, and short legs. In the Buddhist religion, Lions are held in great esteem. It is said that Buddha considered the lions sacred and was known to have tamed a lion and rode it. According to legend, a Lion followed Buddha everywhere he went. The spirits of Buddhist monks were also believed to be housed by Shih Tzu's, while following Buddha's example.

The dark markings across the back of the Shih Tzu are said to bear a similarity to the saddle Buddha used to ride a lion, whereas the white blaze on the brow is called the "Star of Buddha". Throughout history, the breeders of these majestic dogs have done their best to follow the ideal standards of keeping the breed as similar as possible to the Shih Tzu's of ancient times.

In China, the Shih Tzu was considered a rare and valuable treasure for religious connotation for centuries. Today the extraordinary Shih Tzu has captured the hearts and minds of dog lovers worldwide.

Did you know?

Brachycephalic is a name given to dogs with short skulls, flat faces, and short noses. These brachycephalic breeds, which include Shih Tzu's, Pugs, and Pekingese all, originated in Central Asia.

Justin Mathers is a dog lover and owner. You can visit his website at:
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How to Survive Tough Economic Times With Your Dog

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Story by Eric Letendre

When you are facing tough economic times-there is no need for your best friend to go with less or to go without. Your dog has some basic needs that can be tended to at a discount. Your dog's needs are: exercise, food, training, veterinary care, social contact and grooming. Here are some ways to take care of those needs when you are facing tough economic times.

The first thing most people think about when it comes to tough times with their dog is food. There are ways that you can feed your dog without spending a lot of money. Remember, we want to find low-cost ways to feed your dog, but we also want to provide maximum health.

Fifty years ago there was no such thing as commercial dog food. The dog ate whatever the family was eating. A lot of experts think this is much healthier for the dog. How can food that can be stored on a shelf for up to six months provide all of the nutrients for your dog? I strongly believe that leftover fruits, vegetables and meat is good for your dog. Anytime you have overripe fruit (except grapes and raisins) vegetables and chicken, fish or beef, add it to your dog's regular food. Supplementing with leftovers will reduce the amount of food needed from the bag.

Vets don't all charge the same prices. Low-cost spay and neuter clinics have become very popular. Many of these also provide excellent veterinary services at a reduced cost. Check in your area to see if one is available for your dog.

Most people don't know this, but the number one reason for dogs being put to sleep in the United States is behavior problems. One of the best ways to ensure that your dog lives a long, happy life is to provide proper training. There are some excellent training programs that you can get for a very low cost on the Internet.

Keeping your dog properly groomed is important and can be done with a few simple grooming tools. For short coat breeds (terriers), all you need is some shampoo and conditioner, cotton balls to clean the ears and a nail trimmer. Dogs with longer coats require the same, but you will need a slicker brush and I also recommend a Furminator if your dog sheds a lot.

Get a group of friends together so you can form a play group for your dogs. Dogs are extremely social animals and need to interact with people and other dogs. Meeting at least once a week will provide your dog with all of her social needs.

Last and most important is to keep a positive attitude during any tough times you may encounter. They will pass-and when they do-you will be much happier knowing that you can get through those tough times together.

How important is a well trained dog worth to you? Do you want your dog to stop jumping, come when called, walk on leash and more? Eric Letendre created the ultimate, easy to follow dog training ebook "101 Ways To Improve Your Dog's Behavior." Complete with dog training videos, step by step instructions and more. Best of all you can get it free! Get it here => http://amazingdogtrainingman.com

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