National Shih Tzu Day celebrates these beloved “little lion” dogs, recognizing their rich history as companions to royalty and their modern status as cherished family pets.
Quick Facts
- When is it: July 24th annually
- Tagged as: Pet Holiday, Dog Celebration
- What’s the hashtag: #ShihTzuDay #NationalShihTzuDay
- When was it founded: Information not available
- Who founded it: Information not available
History
The Shih Tzu breed originated in Tibet and was later gifted to Chinese royalty. These dogs were so precious that during the Ming Dynasty, owning one without royal permission was punishable by death. The breed nearly faced extinction during the Chinese Communist Revolution but was saved by 14 dogs that were brought to Europe.
Timeline
• 1000 BC: First documentation of Shih Tzu-like dogs in China
• 1908: Death of Dowager Empress Tzu Hsi affects breeding programs
• 1940: Kennel Club (UK) officially recognizes the breed
• 1950s: American soldiers bring Shih Tzus to the United States
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July | 24 | Thursday |
| 2026 | July | 24 | Friday |
| 2027 | July | 24 | Saturday |
| 2028 | July | 24 | Monday |
| 2029 | July | 24 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | July | 24 | Wednesday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by sharing photos of their Shih Tzus, attending dog shows, organizing meetups, and pampering their pets with special treats and grooming sessions.
Fun Facts About Shih Tzus
• Their name means “little lion” in Mandarin
• They’re nicknamed “chrysanthemum-faced dogs”
• Queen Elizabeth II was among their famous owners
• They’re surprisingly athletic and can excel in agility competitions
• All modern Shih Tzus descend from just 14 dogs
Quiz
- What does “Shih Tzu” mean?
- Where did the breed originate?
- What’s their common nickname?
-(Answers: 1. Little Lion, 2. Tibet, 3. Chrysanthemum-faced dog)
FAQs
Q: Are Shih Tzus good family pets?
A: Yes, they’re known for their affectionate nature and adaptability.
Q: Do they require special care?
A: Yes, they need regular grooming and maintenance of their long coat.
Related Holidays
• National Dog Day
• National Puppy Day
• Small Breed Dog Day
• International Dog Day
• Pet Day