The last few years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the Kennel Club has seen dog ownership soar to record levels.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup.
Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One dog that often appears at the top of people’s canine wishlists is the Shih Tzu – they are one of the UK’s most popular breeds and have a range of positive attributes that make them a great family pet.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about the Shih-Tzu.
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9. Different over the Atlantic
The UK Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club have slightly different breed standards for the Shih Tzu. In America Shih Tzus tend to have larger eyes, and bigger, rounder heads. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

10. They could have got you the death sentence
During the Chinese Ming and Manchu Dynasties, all Shih Tzus were considered the exclusive property of the royal court. Any commoner caught with one could expect to be sentenced to death. Photo: Canva/Getty Images