Shih Tzus remain top of Filipinos’ favorite breed, according to a study.
HouseholdQuotes reported that Shih Tzus, known as the Tibetan temple dog and has a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years, breed in 150 territories.
“A special mention goes to Shih Tzus who makes his only appearance in the Philippines. This homely little fellow is originally from Tibet, and developed as a cross between the Lhasa Apso and other Chinese imperial breeds,” reads the study.
The Shih Tzu was also hailed the top choice of Filipinos in a 2011 survey by the Philippine Canine Club Inc. According to them, more than 24,000 Filipinos owned a Shih Tzu in 2011 from around 14,000 in 2008. “Its high-energy friendly, and non-aggressive temperament make it a Pinoy favorite,” the club said.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Shih Tzu was bred to spend most of their life inside royal palaces.
“The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with a long flowing double coat. Befitting his noble Chinese ancestry as a highly valued, prized companion and palace pet, the Shih Tzu is proud of bearing, has a distinctively arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back,” AKC added.
The study also revealed that the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever are more favored in the rest of Asia and Oceania.
Rottweiler gets the top spot at the most popular breed in the world, as it topped the survey in 34 countries. It is followed by the Australian Shepherd, which was named the “most-searched breed” in the world.
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