Brown Shih Tzus, also known as Liver-colored Shih Tzus, has brown tones common in this breed. The thing about this color is that it comes in various shades, from light to dark. This variety makes Brown Shih Tzus special. Moreover, the brown tones look elegant in this breed. It makes them look more like toys you can see at kid stores rather than pets.
If you’re a fan of such tones, then Brown Shih Tzu is your ideal pet to take home.
It’s essential to be aware of some things about this Shih Tzu before running to a store and getting one.
In this article, we’ll discuss the essential points about Brown Shih Tzus. This way, you can orient yourself with every essential thing you need to know.
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
Contents
General info
As I said earlier, brown tones are the standard Shih Tzu colors, and they can range from lighter to darker.
The majority of Brown Shih Tzus are liver-colored. In this case, it’s not only due to the coat.
Liver-colored Shih Tzus’ nose, lips, eye rims, and even paw pads are more of a liver than brown.
Setting the color aside, Brown Shih Tzus remains the same as any other regular Shih Tzu.
In general, we can sum up the information about this breed with the following:
Size
- 9-16 lbs is the average weight of both male and female
- 10 inches is the average height of both male and female
Features
- Brown Shih Tzus have liver color all over their body and not only in the coat.
What to expect
- Needs 20 minutes of exercise per day
- Has an average energy level
- Has an average lifespan of 11-14 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 Brown Coat
- Straight Coat
- Different Shades of Brown Color
Club Recognition
- AKC Classification – Toy
- UKC Classification – Companion Dog
If you want an in-depth take on each aspect of this breed’s characteristics, take a look at the following.
Appearance
Brown Shih Tzus differ more on the colors out of all aspects. Thus, 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 nor 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 Brown Shih Tzus special is its coat compliments its skin and other visible parts.
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
Brown Shih Tzus have the same size as 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 brown Shih Tzu, you’ll worry less about such since it’s as healthy as the regular-sized pups.
Coat colors and quality
When we speak of Brown Shih Tzus, we pertain to a wide range of colors and styles. The reason is that the brown color comes in different shades.
Now, the variety poses a question on the difference. To help you out, take a look at this breakdown of the options.
If the Shih Tzu has a brown nose with a brown and white coat, it can be a Liver and White Shih Tzu.
If it has the same White and Brown coat, but with a Black Nose, it can be either:
- Red/White Shih Tzu
- Brindle/White Shih Tzu
- Gold/White Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus can have a solid brown color. However, like other solid colors, it may fade in time.
For this reason, you shouldn’t expect your Brown Shih Tzu to retain its color.
History
There’s no exact information to determine how Brown Shih Tzus started. Still, it’s quite noticeable that it exists as long as the regular ones.
Thus, it’s likely that they share the same history. One theory states that Shih Tzu descended from a cross between two breeds. These are the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso, which happened in the 17th century.
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, Brown Shih Tzus are just like the regular ones in almost all aspects aside from colors. Thus, they all share similar personalities and attitudes.
If you plan on getting such a pet, 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
Brown 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
Brown Shih Tzus 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, this dog is 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
Brown Shih Tzus see everyone as their friends, just like any other type. 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 this dog.
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.
Brown Shih Tzu and family
Brown Shih Tzus make great family pets just like all other types. It is because they get along with other pets and even with children.
Thus, as long as the kids know how to deal and play with small pups, they won’t pose any problem.
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.
Brown Shih Tzus and all other kinds 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 such pets, 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 Brown Shih Tzu
Before you take a Brown Shih Tzu home, it’s essential to learn and understand how to care for this dog.
A Brown 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, this type of Shih Tzu needs regular grooming. It’s even more so if you plan on maintaining its color.
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
Brown Shih Tzus, like the rest of this breed, are all healthy dogs. Still, they are also prone to certain diseases and health issues.
If you take one home, it’s essential to know 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
Brown Shih Tzus have similar food requirements as other Shih Tzus.
Still, 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 Brown 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
Brown Shih Tzus also need playtime and exercise each day to maintain a healthy condition. If you plan on getting one home, it would be best to 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. Thus, 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.
Brown Shih Tzu breeders
If you plan on getting a Liver-colored or Brown Shih Tzu, you may be at a loss on where you should look.
With this in mind, we’ve compiled five breeders where you can start looking.
Let’s get into each of the following.
Sunnybelle Shih Tzus
Sunnybelle Shih Tzus specializes in gorgeous chocolate or Brown Shih Tzu Puppies.
For this reason, this shop can be one of your best bets in looking for a Brown Shih Tzu.
Be sure to check them out on their site or reach out to them.
- Tyler, Texas TX 75701
- (903) 520-7659
- sunnybelle@akcchocolateshihtzus.com
- https://www.akcchocolateshihtzus.com/
AKC Liver Brown Shih Tzu
Owned by Cecilia Holland, this shop breeds only two females and no more than 3 in any given year. Thus, you can be sure their puppies get the best care they deserve.
They have cute little Brown Shih Tzus, so be sure to check them out as well.
- Aledo, TX 76008 (near Ft. Worth, Tx)
- (817) 291-8007
- ceciliadiane@hotmail.com
- https://www.akcliverbrownshihtzu.com/
Steele’s Smokey Mountain Brown AKC Liver Shih Tzus
Owned by Carma Steele, this shop also specializes in Brown or Liver-colored Shih Tzus. They have a website where you can see available brown pups.
Be sure to check them out as you look as well.
- Knoxville Tennessee
- (423) 620-0125
- https://brownakcliverchocolateshihtzu.webstarts.com/
NYC Shih Tzu Puppies
This shop offers adorable Shih Tzu Puppies that received home-raising love and care.
They also have quite a few benefits to boast about, such as veterinarian plans and health guarantees. You can reach out and check them out through these details:
- Brooklyn, New York
- (347) 355-8347
- Mia8758@aol.com
- https://www.nycshihtzu.com/
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 Brown Shih Tzus.
Thus, checking them out can get you a liver-colored Shih Tzu afterward.
- alibellerson@yahoo.com
- Chandler AZ 85225
- https://bellsazshihtzu.com/
Interesting facts
Brown Shih Tzus are exciting pets, mainly due to their color shades. If you’re curious to know more about this variety, you may find these facts interesting:
Brown Shih Tzus have many names.
Brown Shih Tzu comes with many similar names.
People call them liver-colored since they have such a color that resembles a liver. Their noses, eye rims, lips, and paw pads usually have that color.
Others call this kind the Chocolate Shih Tzus, for apparent reasons. Thus, with Brown Shih Tzus, you’ll surely get quite an attention.
Brown Shih Tzus don’t only pertain to their coat.
Many people think that Brown Shih Tzus gained their name due to their brown coats. However, that’s not entirely true.
Aside from their coat, they also have their skin and other parts of that color.
Being a Brown Shih Tzu comes from the skin pigmentation that runs through them.
Brown Shih Tzus may change color in time.
As these dogs come to maturity, the brown color usually starts to change. It either fades, retains, or becomes a bit heavier.
Types of Shih Tzu
Aside from Brown Shih Tzus, this breed comes 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 Brown Shih Tzus, here are other types:
- Teacup Shih Tzu (the smallest of the bunch)
- Brindle Shih Tzu (famous for their color combinations and striking patterns)
- 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)
- 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
Brown Shih Tzu is Shih Tzu who boasts of many things compared to others of the same breed. Others may not know that these dogs don’t just earn their name only by their coats.
For instance, being a Brown Shih Tzu is due to their skin pigmentation. Aside from the brown coats, they also have brown skin and brown body parts.
While their color is usual, it still comes as an elegant-looking color with unique shades.
In the end, they’re all but the same as any regular Shih Tzu. Still, their colors improve their appearance to the extent that anyone who sees them does nothing but fall in love.
What are you waiting for right now? Go ahead and get one of these Shih Tzu pups home!
