Article Advise

submitted: Aug 25th 2008 | by: RebeccaSimpson | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 498 | |

Purebred dogs have been recognized for years by revered organizations like The American Kennel Club (AKC), which holds competitions for pure breeds. Pure breeds are defined as "of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations." Examples of purebred dogs include the Shih Tzu and the Maltese. In addition to being two of the oldest breeds, these breeds have an established lineage or pedigree.

Two popular pure breeds are the Shih Tzu and the Maltese. Both are ancient breeds originating in China and Malta, respectively. Because of their popularity and because of specific desirable traits, Maltese and Shih Tzu mixed breeds have gained recognition and interest. A Maltese Shih Tzu mix is called a Mal-Shi.

Pure breeds are defined as "of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations." The American Kennel Association does not recognize hybrids, nor does it allow them to register or compete. The American Canine Hybrid Club has been established to allow mixed breeds to compete as long as they have proper documentation of ancestry.

The Shih Tzu is thought to have descended from cross breeding the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. Shih Tzu originated in Tibet, China and date back at least to the 17th century and possibly as much as 2000 years. The Shih Tzu is small and sturdy dog with a double coat of long, silky fur. The coat may be of varying colors. This breed is very energetic, alert, intelligent, and stubborn.

Shih Tzu may have health problems such ocular disorders and infections and spinal problems. The breed is unable to withstand temperatures above 75 degrees, and its fur is prone to matting. For this reason many owners tie up the facial hair in a bow on top of the dog's head. Dogs must be brushed daily or given a "pet clip" or "puppy cut", which is a short haircut done only if the dog is not in competition.

The Maltese (pronounced mawl-tees) side of the Maltese Shih Tzu mix may date back 28 centuries. The breed is from the Island of Malta, and has not changed significantly in the intervening years. This breed has a single coat of long, silky white fur with dark eyes and a black nose. The fur does not shed and thus is considered hypoallergenic.

The Mal-Shi comes from two breeds with long histories and it is no surprise that owners believe this mix benefits from both lines of ancestry. Maltese Shih Tzu, or Mal-Shi, dogs have the multi-colored, silky fur and energy of the Shih Tzu as well as the hypoallergenic quality of the Maltese.

The hybrid, Mal-Shi, puppies-which are the result of the remarkable Maltese and Shih Tzu breeds- have the varied traits of both parents. Just as the Shih Tzu originally descended from a mix of the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese, it is possible that one day the Maltese Shih Tzu may be recognized as a pure breed by the American Kennel Association.

About the Author

Rebecca Simpson is an avid lover of the Shih Tzu and owns a popular website that can teach you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Shih Tzu. Among other topics at this website, you will find out more about Shih Tzu Mixed Breeds plus a whole lot more.

Comments

No comments posted.

You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.