Toy dogs are considered to be lovable, friendly and adorable, so it's no wonder that toy breeds are so popular. Shih Tzus are one of the most sought after breeds in this category and can make great pets. However, there are some things that people do not know about this particular breed. Here are ten mindblowing facts about Shih Tzus -- how many do you know?

1) Shih Tzus' full name is Tibetan Shih Tzu Kou or Tibetan lion dog

2) Shih Tzus are known as the Chrysanthemum Dogs. Because of their odd fur coloration and how their fur grows around their faces, some think they resemble the chrysanthemum flower.

3) Shih Tzus can live for up to 13 years, on average, but some pets have lived as long as 20 years.

4) These dogs were not introduced to the United States of America until after the Second World War. The soldiers returned home with these adorable companions, and more were imported as dog lovers around the country wanted one for their own.

5) The origins of the Shih Tzu are not exactly known, but it is known that they were bred by Tibetian monks and were gifted to Chinese emperors. The origins of the Shih Tzu are believed to date back over 2,000 years, based on tapestries depicting this breed.

6) The Communist revolutionaries led by Mao Zedong disliked the Shih Tzu because the breed represented royal power. Rumors abound that the last Shih Tzu in China was killed when the revolution took over.

7) The facial shape of these cute little creatures renders them susceptible to heat stroke. The double coat adds to this danger, so it's necessary for Shih Tzus to be in an air-conditioned room during the hotter months.

8) The Shih Tzu is a breed that has been involved in old legends. There is a myth surrounding the Shih Tzus regarding one of the most popular religions in the Eastern world. Buddha presumably was traveling with his Shih Tzu when he was assaulted by robbers. The legend says that the do transformed into a lion, chasing away the robbers. Budda kissed the head of the dog in appreciation of his loyalty, and the fur turned white. Today, there are many Shih Tzus with "blessed markings" on their heads.

9) Most of the time, dog breeds that are mixed or impure have respiratory problems. Shih Tzus are one of the only pure breeds to suffer from this abnormality. They tend to have many problems with breathing, ncluding snoring and wheezing while sleeping.

10) Shih Tzus are one of the only breeds that enjoy nuisance barking. There are many reasons that dogs bark, but it is actually rather rare that they do so simply out of enjoyment or spite. Toy breeds tend to be more prone to excessive barking than bigger dog breeds, but Shih Tzus seem to legitimately take pleasure in this activity.

10 Mindblowing Facts About Shih Tzus You Probably Didn’t Know