Brindle Shih Tzus are one of the most exciting types of the breed, and it’s all because of their unique color. Dogs of this kind boast of their multi-colored coat with a beautiful pattern. For this reason, it’s no wonder why many people get attracted and take one home.
If you plan to get a Shih Tzu and you’re more into the gorgeous-looking colors and patterns, the brindle is for you.
Of course, before getting this pup, you must know all the information you need.
In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about this Shih Tzu, so you won’t have to do the research yourself.
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Contents
General info
The first thing to understand is the name of this Shih Tzu. Brindle, in itself, isn’t a color. It pertains to the pattern where the color falls on the dog’s coat.
Brindle Shih Tzus have a striping effect of the pattern. Moreover, it consists of different colors, and the designs vary as well, depending on each dog.
This type of Shih Tzu has a vast variation. It comes to the point that the pattern appears differently on every dog. Thus, no two brindles will ever look the same.
Let’s get into the other details now.
Size
- Weight – 9-16 lbs as an adult
- Height – 10-11 inches as an adult
Features
- Brindle Shih Tzus have a multi-colored and patterned coat.
What to expect
- Needs 20-30 minutes of exercise per day
- Has an average energy level
- Has an average lifespan of 10-18 years
- Does not drool much
- Does not snore much
- Barks Quite Loud
- Does not dig much
- Requires close attention and care
- Requires high and constant grooming
Bred type
- Lapdog
Coat
- Long Fur Coat
- Straight Coat
- With many color combinations and variations
Here’s an in-depth take on each aspect of this Shih Tzu type’s characteristics. Take some time to read the following:
Appearance
The appearance of Brindle Shih Tzu differs more on the colors rather than the body. The body features are all but similar to that of the regular Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzus are sturdy, lively, and alert toy dogs wrapped in a long flowing double coat.
The head of a Shih Tzu is usually round, broad, and is wide between eyes. Its size is always in balance with the body. Thus, it’s neither too large and too small.
A Shih Tzu’s expression is warm, wide-eyed, sweet, trusting, and exceptionally friendly.
The body is short-coupled and sturdy, with no waist. This breed is also a bit longer than tall.
Its coat is a luxurious one. It’s double-coated, long, flowing, and quite dense. What makes the skin special for brindles is the patterns and the color combinations.
Its shoulders are well-angulated, well laid-in, and well laid-back. It fits smoothly in the body as well.
The legs are relatively straight, boned, muscular, and well-apart under the chest.
Shih Tzus also have healthy and perpendicular pasterns. The feet are quite firm, well-padded, and point straight ahead. It has dewclaws that you can remove.
Size
Brindle Shih Tzus come in size like that of the regular ones. Nevertheless, these dogs have small sizes, making them perfect lap and toy dogs.
Both male and female Shih Tzus have an average weight of 9 to 16 lbs. Both also have an average height of 10 inches tall.
Of course, some types of Shih Tzus are smaller than the others, like teacups and imperial. Still, such classifications are prone to many health issues due to having tiny organs.
With a brindle, you’ll worry less about such since it’s as healthy as the regular-sized pups.
Coat colors and quality
As I said earlier, Brindle Shih Tzus come in unique colors due to their patterns and colors. The colors making up the brindle effect may include any of the following:
- White
- Cream
- Gold
- Brown
- Gray
- Black
They can be a combination of a few of these colors, and their patterns vary from each dog as well.
The brindle in each Shih Tzu may vary as well. Here are some terms regarding the brindle characteristics:
- Loose (the stripes have some space apart)
- Tight (the stripes are close together)
- Light (allows for color underneath to show through)
- Heavy (difficult to see the color beneath)
- Regular (the standard type consisting of dark stripes over a light base)
- Reverse (the rare type consisting of light stripes over a dark base)
The colors of Brindle Shih Tzu may change as it comes to maturity. Thus, what you see with your pup may not be the same when it turns into an adult.
History
There’s no exact information to determine how brindles started in Shih Tzus. Still, it’s quite noticeable that brindles exist as long as Shih the regular ones.
Shih Tzus back then earned the favor of many emperors and royals. Thus, they don’t allow any selling or trading of such pups.
It was only in 1930 that the first dogs of such breed got imported into Europe. Its first European Standard happened in 1935 by the Shih Tzu Club.
It was in 1969 that the American Kennel Club recognized it as belonging to the Toy Group.
In 2013, the Shih Tzu breed ranked the 15th of the most popular among all species.
Temperament
As I said earlier, brindle Shih Tzus are just like the regular ones in almost all aspects aside from colors. Thus, all Shih Tzus share similar personalities and attitudes.
If you plan on getting a Brindle Shih Tzu, here are 5 of the renowned personalities they may share with the rest. Thus, here’s what you can expect from taking this puppy home.
Playful
Brindle Shih Tzus love to play, and they’ll play and spend time with you as long as you want.
Whatever the activity may be, expect this dog to be always ready for it.
Thus, no matter what game you choose to play, your pet will likely be the same as long as you enjoy it.
Stubborn
Brindles can be quite stubborn, especially in following commands. The reason is that they may find it challenging to catch on.
Thus, when training your pet, it’s essential to be consistent and patient. Moreover, expect that training would take you longer and will require you more time.
Quiet
Unlike other dog breeds, Shih Tzus are more on the quiet side. In this case, brindles are not an exemption. The reason is that this isn’t a breed designed to be watchdogs.
For this reason, don’t expect your pet to be alert when a stranger comes. It’s ideal for those of you who stay in an apartment, wishing for a quiet but adorable companion.
Friendly
Brindles see everyone as their friends, just like any other Shih Tzus. Thus, if you have visitors, your pet may think they’re visiting him and not you.
Thus, if you have companions around the house, you’ll be sure this pet will be everyone’s friend.
Devoted
Shih Tzus are the ideal breed designed for long-term companionship. Thus, being devoted as your partner or buddy is what he boasts of all the time. For this reason, you can’t go wrong with a brindle.
As long as you treat your pet right and you take good care of it, you’ll end up having the best buddy that devotes itself to you.
Brindle Shih Tzu and family
Brindles make great family pets just like all other Shih Tzus. It is because they get along with other pets and even with children.
This breed boasts of being an affectionate pet towards all family members. Moreover, it sees everyone as friends. Thus, it is an ideal pet, even for a household that receives many visitors.
Affection is this breed’s dominant trait. Moreover, your lap is its favorite place. Thus, they are at their happiest state when they are with you or your family as they give and receive attention.
Brindles and all other Shih Tzus also get along with other dogs or animals. They have that docile personality that makes them an ideal companion for kids.
While they are friendly, they can be a bit clingy and only follow their owner’s orders. However, that trait usually happens only through training.
Although you can entrust kids with Brindles, it’s always a great idea to supervise them when they play. This way, you can ensure the safety of both your kids and your pet.
Care and life with Brindle Shih Tzu
A Brindle Shih Tzu would need constant care to keep good health. It requires regular feeding and food planning to have a good diet.
Aside from the basics, brindles need constant grooming. The reason is that its coat is its jewel, and it needs more effort than the others.
Moreover, it needs to play, exercise, and train regularly. Without further ado, let’s have an in-depth take on the things to keep in mind.
Health
Brindles, like regular Shih Tzus, are all healthy dogs. Still, like other breeds, they are also prone to certain diseases and health issues.
If you take one home, it’s important to have an idea of the following health issues your pet may experience.
Allergies
Allergies come first in line when it comes to possible health issues for this dog. Generally, there are three main types of allergies, namely:
- Food allergies
- Contact Allergies
- Inhalant Allergies
Eye Problems
The eyes of Shih Tzus are one of the usual roots of issues. Thus, extreme care and protection are essential for Shih Tzu’s eyes. Some of the eye problems include the following:
- Keratitis
- Proptosis
- Distichiasis
- Ectopia cilia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Dry eye
Other Health Issues
Other health issues that may happen to Shih Tzus are the following:
- Canine hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Juvenile renal dysplasia
- Bladder stones and bladder infections
- Ear infections
- Tooth and gum problems
- Umbilical hernia
- Portosystemic liver shunt
- Snuffles
- Reverse sneezing
As always, it’s best to consult a vet to learn and understand how to take care of your pet and prevent them from suffering such issues.
Feeding
Brindles don’t have any specific food requirements. Thus, what other Shih Tzus may need is also the same for them.
It’s important to remember that the size of food you should give will depend on things such as:
- Size – Big size means it needs more food
- Age – Adults need more food than pups
- Build – Bigger builds need more food
- Metabolism – Faster metabolism needs frequent feeding.
- Level of Activity – High levels of activity needs more food for sustenance.
Since Shih Tzus are companion dogs, it may be tempting to share human foods as treats. Still, it’s essential always to be cautious when doing such things.
Of course, you can give the following as treats and only in small amounts and pieces. You can offer small amounts of cheese and fruits like apples and mangoes.
If you have ice cream, you can give your pet a taste. Still, remember not to give ice cream with chocolate flavor or any food with chocolate.
It’s also better to give small amounts of meat since it’s rich in protein. As long as you keep it as treats, you can provide pork and chicken. Still, when doing so, always make sure you offer it plain, cooked but without excess oil, and with no seasoning.
Here’s a list of toxic food that you shouldn’t give your Brindle Shih Tzu:
- Chocolate
- Raisins and Grapes
- Macadamia Nuts
- Nuts in general
- Onions
- Sweets and Candies (mostly sugar-free since they contain xylitol)
- Mushrooms
- Raw Egg
- Cow’s Milk (due to being lactose-intolerant)
- Products with Caffeine
- Green potatoes (also toxic for us)
- Bread dough
- Moldy Food
- Avocado
- Cherries
- Garlic
To learn more about feeding Shih Tzu, you can check out these related articles in our blog.
Training
Brindles also need playtime and exercise each day to maintain a healthy condition. If you plan on getting one home, you must schedule extra time to play with your pet.
Shih Tzus are the types of pets you can enjoy playing with all day long. This trait makes them adorable and easy to love. However, when it comes to training, they could be quite stubborn.
Of course, he’ll learn basic commands and tricks. However, it may take a lot more time than training other breeds.
For this reason, training your Shih Tzu requires consistency, gentleness, and understanding.
If you wish to teach your dog the basic commands, it’s essential to prepare yourself to be patient and consistent.
As always, remember that despite being adorable, they can be challenging to train.
Brindle Shih Tzu breeders
If you plan on taking home a Brindle Shih Tzu, you may check out these five breeders. They have all the information you need on their website. However, I added their contact information, in case you want to reach out to them.
Bells AZ Shih Tzu
Owned by Ali and David Bellerson, who are both dog lovers for a long time. They are Shih Tzu Hobby Breeders in Arizona for 11 years. They have experience in breeding litters with brindle colors.
Thus, checking them out may get you a brindle afterward.
- alibellerson@yahoo.com
- Chandler AZ 85225
- https://bellsazshihtzu.com/
Maple Lane Pups
Maple Lane Pups started in 2006 when the owners Monica and Ed adopted their first Shih Tzu. From then on, they started breeding Shih Tzu Pups.
This shop boasts of its quality and home-raised pups. Be sure to check them out if you’re looking for brindles to take home.
- Marion MI, 49665
- (231) 743-6948
- maplelanepups@yahoo.com
- https://www.maplelanepups.com/
T-Amore Shih Tzu
The owner, Julie King, owns a Shih Tzu for 30 years. She delivered her first litter in 2003.
In her shop, you can be sure of the quality puppies she raised herself. Thus, you can be sure your pup gets the love and care in the best way possible. Be sure to check out the website as well.
- 40 miles southeast of The Dalles in the beautiful Columbia Gorge, Oregon
- tamoreshihtzu@gmail.com
- (541) 993-4860
- https://www.t-amore.com/
Puppy Spot
PuppySpot is an online platform where you can find breeders placing their puppies in various places. The thing about this platform is that it offers more than a service. It’s a community of dog lovers that will help you in your dog’s journey.
Here you can find a variety of cute little brindle Shih Tzus, so be sure to check it out as well.
- (833) 711-0364
- https://www.puppyspot.com/puppies-for-sale/breed/shih-tzu
Westchester Puppies & Kittens
Westchester Puppies is your go-to shop when it comes to puppies and kittens.
They specialize in purebred and designer puppies of all sizes. If you plan on getting yourself a brindle Shih Tzu, they may have something for you.
- (914) 437-7600
- info@westchesterpuppies.com
- 26 South Central Avenue, Hartsdale, Westchester, NY 10530
Interesting facts
If you’re curious to know more about brindles, there are some fun facts you may find interesting.
Here’s a list of information you may find interesting and useful about Brindle Shih Tzus.
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Brindle isn’t a color but a pattern.
The term brindle itself isn’t a specific color. Instead, it pertains to a particular pattern consisting of a variety of color combinations. Moreover, it’s a pattern of striking effect.
Brindle color can change.
As the Shih Tzu comes to maturity, it’s brindle colors are prone to change. Thus, what you see with a puppy may change as it becomes an adult. It may fade to an extent, or it may remain or be a bit heavier.
Brindle isn’t only for Shih Tzus.
The brindle pattern isn’t exclusive to Shih Tzus alone. It can also be in Boxers and Boston Terriers as well. In fact, other animals like horses and guinea pigs can have it as well.
Types of Shih Tzu
Aside from brindles, Shih Tzus come in many other types. In general, there are seven more specific types that you need to know.
Understanding the difference is essential in choosing your preferred pet to take home. Aside from brindles, the other types of Shih Tzus are:
- Teacup Shih Tzu (the smallest of the bunch)
- Black Shih Tzu (the rarest of all, and it comes with solid black)
- Imperial Shih Tzu (small and coined for its being contrary to the purebred)
- Brown Shih Tzu (also known as Liver-colored)
- American Shih Tzu (a purebred, passing the standard of AKC)
- European Shih Tzu (another purebred, passing the standard of UK KC)
- Blue-Eyed Shih Tzu (the ones with blue eyes, having it as a genetic defect)
The types of Shih Tzus come from one of the same breed – the Shih Tzu. Thus, the traits and personalities are similar.
The main aspects that set them apart from each other are their appearance and health.
If you wish to know an in-depth take on this matter, you may read our article Types of Shih Tzu.
Summary
Brindle Shih Tzus boast of their outstanding and unique-looking coats. The name itself comes from their unique, striking patterns. The thing about this Shih Tzu type is it has a wide variety to the extent that each pup’s brindle is different from the rest. For this reason, getting a brindle means getting a unique pet that looks different from the rest.
Aside from the patterns, brindles share with regular Shih Tzus in all other aspects. Thus, understanding how to care for a Shih Tzu is equivalent to caring for a brindle.
If you plan on getting this pup, you’re in for a lot of fun and excitement.
