The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate breed with a royal history. Originally bred to live in Chinese imperial palaces, these dogs were bred purely for companionship, not work or protection. Weighing between nine and 16 pounds, they carry themselves with charm and confidence.

Their biggest strength is their emotional connection to their owners and keen intuition. Although stubborn at times, they are incredibly loyal, sensitive to the moods around them and perceptive to the people they love.

Ashley, a 14-year-old Shih Tzu, was the runt of the litter and the only black puppy. She left her Parker breeder at six weeks old to join The Village at Castle Pines residents Pauline and Hank Carabelli as a Christmas gift for Pauline. Ashley may have been overlooked by others but Pauline felt drawn to her at the breeders. “There was just something about her,” Pauline said.

Pauline had owned four Shih Tzus before but none that behaved like Ashley. From the beginning, Ashley began acting strangely toward Pauline. Constant pawing and nipping at Pauline’s right side, especially near her chest. Her behavior was so persistent and odd that Pauline considered giving her up. She returned Ashley once to the breeder temporarily while her family went on vacation. Pauline remembers thinking, “There is something wrong with her.”

Pauline could not leave Ashley behind. She was brought home again and the bizarre behavior continued, leading Pauline to seek medical advice. Pauline initially thought the pup had broken a blood vessel with her nipping but was diagnosed with breast cancer in the chest wall, an aggressive form often hard to detect in the early stages. After Pauline’s surgery, Ashley’s unusual behavior stopped entirely.

Ashley had no training. Her reaction was instinctive, possibly triggered by scent or subtle changes only she could sense. Dogs are not a replacement for medical testing, but persistent and unusual behavior in a pet should never be ignored. Pauline now sees Ashley as her protector, her angel, and believes their connection was meant to be.

Ashley is a charmer. Because of her petite size, strangers think she is still a puppy. It is not uncommon for Pauline to be stopped and asked what kind of dog she is. Ashley will greet them politely, let them know they are on her turf, then quickly run to hide behind Pauline.

Ashley’s favorite place for daily walks is at The Ridge at Castle Pines. “Ashley is a smart little dog who is more of a human than a dog,” said Pauline. On their walks, Ashley waddles with authority—her funny strut grabs everyone’s attention.

Shih Tzus need moderate care that includes daily walks, regular grooming and a lot of affection. Their long, low-shedding coats do not affect allergy sufferers, including Pauline and Hank. Their history as pampered palace dogs shows in their need for human connection. Ashley is often found on Pauline’s lap.

Ashley’s story is a reminder of the powerful ways our pets impact our lives. For those who open their hearts to a Shih Tzu, the bond can be nothing short of extraordinary.

By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Pauline Carabelli