Little is known about the ancestry of the Shih Tzu. Its sacred status in China would appear to indicate very ancient origins. Even though the Shih Tzu is most often associated with China, it probably originated in Tibet as early as the seventeenth century. "Shih Tzu" means "Lion" in Chinese, and refers to this breed's flowing, trailing coat. Small in size, the plucky but sweet Shih Tzu is affectionate with family and good with children.