Shih Tzu are known for their long silky coats that makes them look fluffier than other small breeds. There is no denying that their manes are their best asset in terms of asserting their beauty. They may look pretty regal and majestic in their coats; but these definitely require grooming and regular brushing – making them high maintenance pets. But have you heard about the ‘no groom’ Shih Tzu? It may seem odd, but this dog exists and it is known as the Prapso Shih tzu.
Actually, it is considered as a genetic defect; and if you have a Prapso, you may have a difficult time to register your dog because apparently, they should not be bred. You must promise first to spay or neuter your Prapso before getting his or her papers. The Prapso version is very much the same as the Shih Tzu and occurs within the same litter of normal looking Shih Tzu pups. What separates them (and actually makes them better) is their shorter coats which are attributed to the emergence of a double recessive gene. The coat actually stops growing when the puppy is around 4-6 weeks of age and does not reach the long hair that this breed boasts. According to some owners, Prapso also differ in personality than the normal Shih Tzu. They are more energetic and dominant and they usually mature earlier so they are said to be more easily trained, handled and intelligent. There are some Shih Tzu breeders who purposely breed Prapso’s because of there are owners who are really into keeping these “genetically challenged” but less maintenance dogs. No health issue has been reported so far on these dogs. So far, they can still make good pets. If grooming is an issue to you as a pet owner and you still want a chrysanthemum shaped faced dog, the Prapso is the best dog for you. Only be advised about the registration and breeding restrictions of this breed.
