Pin-Tzu

He is not recognized by the F.C.I.

Origin
Germany <> Tibet -> U.S.A.
Translation
Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Pin-Tzu

The Pin-Tzu is a specific cross between the Miniature Pinscher and the Shih Tzu, both of which are miniature breeds. As a result, your Pin-Tzu will measure around 28 centimeters and weigh less than 7 kilos. Despite their small size, these dogs are both brave and fierce watchdogs. They get on well with people and animals, but do best in a home without small children, as they can be lively when startled. They train quite easily, but it can take a while to get housebroken. Stick to positive reinforcement and your Pin-Tzu should eventually get the message. These little dogs love to cuddle and like to hang out on the sofa with you as much as they like to go out.

History of the Pin-Tzu

The parent breeds of these dogs have distinctly different characteristics, making them a unique and interesting breed. The Pin-Tzu is a relatively new hybrid, and a quick look at their parent breeds will give us an idea of what to expect from these tiny dogs.

 

        

A little of the Miniature Pinscher

        
The Miniature Pinscher originated in Germany, and although it may look like a miniature Dobermann Pinscher, it's not even related. In fact, they've been around longer than the Dobermann, originating over 2,000 years ago according to Renaissance paintings from that era. They are thought to have been originally bred from the German Pinscher, but others say they are part Terrier, Italian Greyhound and Dachshund. The name Pinscher actually means Terrier or Biter in German. These dogs were originally used to get rid of rats, but soon became popular as family companions. In the late 1800s, the Pinscher Klub was formed and nearly 20 years later, the breed was introduced to America, where it was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1925. Five years later, the Miniature Pinscher Club of America was founded and recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Standard of the Miniature Pinscher

A little of the Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu originated in ancient China and has been treated like a king since the Tang dynasty. These small dogs were used both as companions and as guard dogs for the royal families, descended from the Tibetan Mountain Dog, the Pekingese and the Lhassa Apso. During the Ming dynasty, around 1400 A.D., the Shih Tzu became popular with ordinary people and their numbers soared. However, they almost became extinct during the Chinese Revolution, when only seven females and seven males were rescued. Modern Shih Tzus are thought to have all descended from these 14 dogs. The first Shih Tzu to come to America were confused with Lhasa Apsos and were not distinguished as their own breed until they were registered with the American Kennel Club in 1969.
Standard of the Shih Tzu

Appearance of the Pin-Tzu

The Pin-Tzu is a small hybrid mix that has brown eyes, either a brown or black nose, and their coat can be almost any color, including brindle, sable, blue, fawn, isabella, cream, red, brown, black, white, silver, gray, lilac or a combination of these. Their fur is generally short to medium, straight and of medium to fine density. They may have a short, brachycephalic muzzle like the Shih Tzu, making them susceptible to brachycephalic syndrome. Some Pin-Tzu may have floppy ears, while others may have perky, pricked ears. They are generally small but sturdy, with fairly long legs and a long tail.

Temperament of the Pin-Tzu

The Pin-Tzu is a friendly, energetic, alert and independent dog that loves to play as much as it loves to spend time with you. They are extroverted and happy most of the time, but they can be wary of strangers and so must be introduced to guests to avoid problems. They need a lot of patience when potty training, as they can be a bit stubborn and headstrong. Pin-Tzu can get along with other pets and older children if socialized correctly, but they need to be carefully supervised around small children so no one gets hurt. They should have no problem with separation anxiety as long as they receive sufficient mental and physical stimulation.

Needs and activities of the Pin-Tzu

Your Pin-Tzu needs a moderate amount of exercise every day. You should provide at least 45 minutes to an hour of vigorous activity for your dog every day, such as a morning and evening walk with a game of fetch in between. They love to play with sticks and balls and are also pretty good at agility and obedience training. Other fun activities the Pin-Tzu can enjoy include playing with other dogs at the dog park, swimming and hiking. If your dog doesn't get enough exercise, he may become anxious or bored, which can lead to discipline problems.

Maintenance of the Pin-Tzu

The amount of maintenance required for your Pin-Tzu depends on the length and density of its coat. Some dogs may have a shaggy, fine coat with longer hairs that can tangle if not carefully brushed every day. In fact, you may need to use both a pincushion brush and a metal comb to remove all the tangles. Others may only need to be brushed with a smooth brush a few times a week. They should be bathed about once a month with a mild dog shampoo recommended by a vet. At this time, you should also trim his nails and clean his ears.

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