Chrysanthemum

No one really knows where the Shih Tzu originated.

Our history is shrouded in mystery and myth.

A Shih Tzu can enchant anyone if we wish.

Both Tibet and China lay claim to our development.

Ancient paintings and art objects depicted our early times.

We have a noble heritage and were prized by royal families.

Shih Tzus lived in Imperial palaces and lounged

upon embroidered silk pillows.

We have been called chrysanthemum-faced dogs because

the hair on our faces grows out in all directions.

The chrysanthemum flower has a long horticultural history.

Pictorial evidence of its cultivation dates back

as early as the Shih Tzu's. The chrysanthemum was

brought to Europe by plant collectors in the 1600's.

It came to North America with settlers in the colonial days.

After centuries of hybridization, there are thousands

of named chrysanthemum cultivars.

Chrysanthemum-faced Shih Tzus were highly prized and

remained with royal families in Asia until a few were

exported (stolen) and landed in England in the 1930's.

The American Kennel Club admitted the

Shih Tzu to registration in the 1960's.

After centuries of Shih Tzu breeding practices,

there is still only one perfect dog.

In Japan, there is a Chrysanthemum Festival

that is held every year in October.

In Florida, you can view more chrysanthemums than

you would believe possible at Cypress Gardens.

In Boston, there is a famous chrysanthemum-faced

dirt dog that we all love.

He is almost as lovable as a Shih Tzu!

Woof! - Li Lu