The Breed is thought to have originated in Tibet. They made
their way to China, perhaps by way of tribute from the Tibetan
Monks, to the Chinese rulers. The Chinese Royalty revered the
little "Chinese Lion" or "Chrysanthemum" dogs, as they were
called. They were bred exclusively as palace pets and were
treated as royalty themselves. Their main purpose was to be a
companion and watch dog of the palace. Given their history, it is
no wonder that they carry themselves so arrogantly.

Many of their personality traits can be attributed to their history.
Shih Tzu are extremely people oriented. They thrive when they
are treated as part of the family. Living, eating, and sleeping
inside, encourages them to reach their full potential as a  
companion dog.
In my opinion, the Shih Tzu has many characteristics of a young
child,  being calm and gentle one minute, then playful and feisty
the next.
Generally friendly and outgoing, the Shih Tzu has an attitude of
entitlement. He knows he is special and commands to be treated
as such.
Shih Tzu are active and alert which makes for a good watch dog.
They do not require a lot of exercise. They are intelligent, and
can be trained for obedience and manners; patience and
consistency can help overcome their somewhat stubborn streak.

James E. Mumford sums up the Shih Tzu temperament and
personality as such: "Nobody knows how the ancient
Eunuchs managed to mix together a dash of lion, several
teaspoons of rabbit, a couple of ounces of domestic cat,
one part court jester, a dash of ballerina, a pinch of old man
(Chinese), a bit of beggar, one part of monkey, one part
baby seal, a dash of teddy bear and the rest dogs of Tibetan
and Chinese origin."

The breed is easily cared for, keeping them in short coat helps
lessen some of their daily grooming. If they are kept in long coat
they require daily brushing. This breed does not have fur; they
have hair, much like human hair. They are not subject to
shedding as other dogs, as, in a shedding season, but shed their
hair much as we do when brushing and washing. This unique
quality makes them a  perfect choice for those people who are
prone to allergies. Special attention should be paid to their eyes,
cleaning them gently each day.

When you acquire a Shih Tzu, you acquire a loyal, loving,
devoted companion always seeking your approval. You are his
world and he shows it in his eyes and actions towards you.
Ironically, after a time, you realize that the dynamics of the
relationship have  shifted. It is you, who  desires his
companionship, and who is loyal and devoted. He becomes your
world, you seek his favor, and, it shows in your eyes and in your
actions toward him.
We do not own Shih Tzu, they own us!!
I think it is always a good idea to know a little history about
the breed you have chosen or are considering. Shih Tzu
history is deeply ingrained into their very nature and  has a
direct impact, on  their purpose, their attributes and the  
characteristics  that the breed possess today.