Shih Tzu Dog Breed Information: Traits, Facts, Care & More
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Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are affectionate, loyal, and friendly toy dogs known for their flowing double coat, distinct pushed-in face, and charming, people-oriented personality. Originally bred as royal lap dogs in ancient China, Shih Tzus were treasured companions of emperors and nobility. Today’s Shih Tzus continue to thrive as loving house pets and devoted family members. Despite their small size, they carry themselves with confidence and grace. While they don’t require extensive exercise, they do need regular walks and daily grooming to keep their luxurious coat healthy and free of tangles. These sweet-natured pups are ideal for individuals and families seeking a calm, friendly, and low-shedding small breed.
- Breed popularity ranking: 20 of 202
- Club: American Shih Tzu Club
- Population: 450,000+ (estimated in the U.S.)
- Price: $500 – $1,800
Weight
9–16 lbs
Height
9–10.5 inches
Lifespan
10–18 years
Breed Group
Toy Group
Shih Tzu Growth Chart
History and Origin
The Shih Tzu, a sweet-natured and regal toy breed known for its affectionate demeanor and luxurious coat, traces its origins to ancient China, where it was bred as a royal companion dog for Chinese emperors. Believed to have descended from crosses between Tibetan breeds like the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese, the Shih Tzu was cherished within imperial palaces, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Historically, Shih Tzus were pampered lapdogs who symbolized status and were often gifted among nobles. Their warm temperament, alert expression, and endearing personality made them beloved members of the Chinese court and sought-after companions by aristocrats and visiting dignitaries.
The breed gained international recognition in the 20th century after being introduced to Europe and later to the United States. It was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1969. Today, Shih Tzus remain one of the most popular toy breeds worldwide, admired for their friendly disposition, elegant appearance, and adaptability to family life and apartment living.
Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body Build | Compact and solidly built with a sturdy frame and a short, slightly arched back |
| Coat Type | Long, flowing, and dense double coat that can be straight or slightly wavy |
| Coat Colors | Wide variety including black, white, gold, liver, brindle, blue, and combinations |
| Facial Markings | Distinctive pushed-in face (brachycephalic) with a short muzzle and a beard/mustache |
| Chest Markings | May have a white blaze or spot; chest is broad and well-coated with fur |
| Tail | Heavily plumed and carried curled over the back |
| Ears | Large, heavily coated, and drop ears that hang down and blend with the coat |
| Eyes | Large, round, dark, and set well apart, giving a warm and sweet expression |
| Nose | Short, broad, and black or liver depending on coat color |
| Feet | Round and firm with well-padded toes, often hidden beneath the coat |
| Overall Expression | Sweet, gentle, and affectionate with a dignified yet friendly demeanor |
Shih Tzu Characteristics
The further out a point is along a spoke, the stronger that trait is in the breed (on a scale of 1 to 10).
| Trait | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | 9 | Gentle, affectionate, and outgoing; Shih Tzus are known for their charming and friendly nature. |
| Sociability & Friendliness | 9 | Very sociable and enjoys being around both people and other animals. Excellent with children. |
| Intelligence | 6 | Moderately intelligent; they understand commands but may choose when to obey due to their independent streak. |
| Trainability | 6 | Trainable with consistency and positive reinforcement, though they can be a bit stubborn. |
| Energy Level | 5 | Low to moderate energy; content with short walks and indoor playtime. |
| Shedding Level | 4 | Low shedders, but their long coat requires daily brushing and regular grooming to prevent matting. |
| Protective Instinct | 3 | Not known for protectiveness; more of a companion dog than a watchdog. |
| Loyalty | 10 | Extremely loyal and bonds closely with their family, often forming strong attachments. |
| Barking Level | 7 | Will bark to alert, but not excessively yappy unless bored or untrained. |
| Adaptability | 9 | Highly adaptable to apartment living, new people, and travel, though sensitive to heat. |
Exercise & Activity Breakdown
Shih Tzus are affectionate, laid-back toy dogs with a calm, friendly nature. While they don’t require high levels of physical activity, they do benefit from consistent daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors like barking or stubbornness.
- Puppy (0–12 months): Shih Tzu puppies are playful and curious but have limited stamina. Short, gentle playtimes, socialization, and positive reinforcement training are ideal for dogs. Activities such as soft tug toys, short fetch games, and beginner-level interactive games help develop their confidence and obedience.
- Adult (1–6 years): Adult Shih Tzus enjoy moderate activity, including leisurely walks, indoor play, and mentally engaging activities like canine sports. They thrive with puzzle toys, scent-based games, and simple trick training that keeps their minds sharp without overexertion.
- Senior (7+ years): Older Shih Tzus may slow down but still need light activity to maintain a healthy weight and joint flexibility. Gentle walks, low-impact toys, and a predictable routine promote physical health and emotional well-being in their golden years.
Shih Tzu Daily Activity Breakdown
Nutrition
Shih Tzus need a high-quality diet tailored to their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior). As a toy breed with a slower metabolism and a long, dense coat, it’s essential to provide food formulated for toy or small breed dogs to support their skin, coat, energy needs, and overall well-being.
Their diet should include balanced nutrients that promote skin and coat health, dental care, and immune support. Because Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues, weight gain, and digestive sensitivities, portion control and nutrient-dense, small-kibble formulas are ideal. As they mature, incorporating omega-3s, antioxidants, and joint-supportive ingredients like glucosamine can help preserve mobility and cognitive health. Read our “Best Shih Tzu Dog Food Guide” to explore targeted nutrition tips and top food recommendations.
Nutritional Breakdown by Activity Level for Shih Tzu
Common Health Issues
Most Shih Tzus are healthy, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Common health concerns include:
*CT: Collapsed Trachea
*LS: Liver Shunt
*CU: Corneal Ulcers
Recommended Health Tests for Shih Tzus:
Proactive health measures, attentive care, and regular veterinary visits can help ensure your Shih Tzu lives a happy and healthy life as your loyal companion.
💡 Due to this breed’s high proclivity to health issues, we recommend getting pet insurance for financial protection against unexpected medical emergencies, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care without the burden of high out-of-pocket expenses. Check out our best pet insurance guide to find a suitable plan for your pet.
Care Requirements
| Grooming Task | Recommended Frequency | Importance | Tools Needed | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily | Prevents mats and tangles, removes loose fur, and promotes healthy skin | Slicker brush, de-shedding tool, grooming mitt | Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Dog Brush (View on Amazon) |
| Bathing | Every 3–4 weeks | Keeps coat clean, reduces odor, and helps control shedding | dog-safe shampoo, conditioner, towel, hair dryer (optional) | OUAI Fur Bébé Pet Shampoo (View on Amazon) |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Prevents overgrowth, pain, and potential injury while walking | dog nail clippers, nail grinder, styptic powder | Coastal Pet Safari Nail Clipper (View on Amazon) |
| Ear Cleaning | Every 1–2 weeks | Prevents ear infections, especially in floppy-eared breeds | Ear cleaning solution, cotton balls or pads (no Q-tips) | Zymox Ear Cleanser (View on Amazon) |
| Oral Care (Brushing Teeth) | Daily | Reduces plaque and tartar buildup, prevents gum disease and bad breath | Dog toothbrush, enzymatic toothpaste, dental chews | Greenies Dental Care Chews (View on Amazon) |
Shih Tzu Dog Trainability
Shih Tzus are affectionate, people-oriented companion dogs known for their sweet nature and occasional stubborn streak. While they may not be the quickest learners, they thrive with consistent, gentle training that uses positive reinforcement. Because they were bred primarily as lap dogs, motivation through praise, treats, and affection is far more effective than harsh discipline. They respond best when training sessions are kept short, calm, and reward-based, especially when built into play or bonding time. Their independent nature may require extra patience, but with the right approach, they can learn basic commands and good manners effectively
When compared to other breeds, Shih Tzus do best with early socialization, a predictable routine, and loving but firm guidance. Their eagerness to please and attachment to their owners make them ideal candidates for calm, reward-based training. With patience and consistency, they grow into polite, well-adjusted companions.
Intelligence
According to canine psychologist Stanley Coren (author of The Intelligence of Dogs – View on Amazon), dog intelligence can be broken down into three types:
- Instinctive Intelligence – What a dog is bred to do (herding, guarding, retrieving).
- Adaptive Intelligence – A dog’s ability to solve problems and learn from the environment.
- Working & Obedience Intelligence – How quickly a dog learns commands and obeys them.
IQ Comparison
Shih Tzus are known more for their affectionate charm than their working drive, but they possess a quiet intelligence and a strong desire to please—especially when training is consistent and rewards-based. While they may not top obedience-based IQ charts, Shih Tzus can learn commands and routines effectively when the environment is calm, patient, and encouraging. Their steady temperament and people-loving nature make them excellent candidates for basic obedience, trick training, and therapy roles, particularly when training is turned into quality bonding time. Because they were bred as companion dogs, they are most responsive when learning feels like part of a relationship rather than a task.
Shih Tzus thrive when training is infused with patience, praise, and play. While they may test boundaries with occasional stubbornness, their loyal, observant personalities make them highly responsive to gentle, consistent routines. Their emotional sensitivity and desire for companionship give them a unique kind of intelligence—one rooted in human connection rather than working instincts.
Dog Breed Intelligence Comparison
Breeding
Shih Tzus are cherished for their affectionate temperament, regal appearance, and companionship. Like many toy breeds, they can be prone to inherited health conditions such as brachycephalic syndrome, eye disorders (like cataracts), intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), dental disease, hypothyroidism, and liver shunts. This makes responsible breeding critical. Ethical breeders should perform genetic screening and health evaluations to minimize the risk of passing on serious hereditary conditions. Adequate time between litters and breeding only from physically and mentally sound dogs is essential to ensure the health of both the dam and her puppies. Only experienced, health-conscious breeders should undertake Shih Tzu breeding.
- Age: Shih Tzus should not be bred until they are fully mature—typically between 18 and 24 months of age.
- Litter size: A typical Shih Tzu litter includes 1–5 puppies.
- Temperament: Breeding dogs should exhibit calm, affectionate, and well-balanced temperaments—gentle, people-friendly, and stable, with no signs of aggression, extreme fearfulness, or excessive anxiety.
Is The Shih Tzu A Good Family Dog?
If the conditions below align with your lifestyle, personal preferences, and living situation, a Shih Tzu could be a wonderful pet for your family. Otherwise, you may want to consider other breeds.
✅ = Ideal / Strong Match | ⚠️ = Needs Consideration | ❌ = Not Recommended
| Suitability | Category | Score (1–10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ | Family Bonding | 9 | Extremely affectionate; thrives on close companionship with owners. |
| ⚠️ | Child Friendliness | 6 | Best with gentle children due to small size and delicate frame. |
| ⚠️ | Good With Other Pets | 6 | Generally friendly but may be dominant with other dogs. |
| ⚠️ | Maintenance Level | 7 | High grooming needs; daily brushing and regular trimming required. |
| ⚠️ | Monthly Expenses | 6 | Frequent grooming and vet visits increase routine costs. |
| ✅ | Home Size Compatibility | 9 | Ideal for apartments and small homes due to small size and low energy. |
| ✅ | Lifestyle Match | 8 | Perfect for relaxed households that enjoy indoor companionship. |
| ✅ | Trainability | 7 | Can be trained with patience and positive reinforcement; may be stubborn. |
| ⚠️ | Alone Time Tolerance | 5 | Prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long. |
| ⚠️ | Shedding & Drool Level | 6 | Low drooling; hair-like coat sheds minimally with grooming. |
| ❌ | Hypoallergenic | 2 | Not considered hypoallergenic; may still cause reactions. |
| ⚠️ | Protectiveness | 7 | Alert and sometimes territorial; makes a good watchdog. |
| ✅ | Mental Stimulation Needs | 8 | Enjoys learning tricks and playing with interactive toys. |
| ⚠️ | Climate Tolerance | 6 | Needs shade and cooling in hot climates due to thick coat. |
| ✅ | Life Expectancy | 9 | Can live 10–18 years with proper care and lifestyle. |
| ⚠️ | Barking Level | 7 | Tends to bark when excited or alert; train early to control it. |
| ✅ | Travel Friendliness | 7 | Small and portable; adapts well to travel with crate training. |
| ⚠️ | Potty Training Ease | 6 | May take time; crate training and consistency help a lot. |
Average Score: 7.28 / 10
Annual Cost of Ownership
| Category | Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Food & Treats | $500 – $800 |
| Routine Vet Care | $350 – $600 |
| Vaccinations & Preventatives | $250 – $450 |
| Pet Insurance | $300 – $600 |
| Grooming | $300 – $700 |
| Training & Socialization | $200 – $400 |
| Toys & Enrichment | $100 – $200 |
| Supplies (bed, bowls, leash, etc.) | $150 – $250 |
| Emergency Vet Fund (recommended) | $400 – $800 |
| Boarding or Pet Sitting | $300 – $500 |
$2,850 – $5,300
Best Places to Get A Shih Tzu
Online marketplaces: For pre-screened, healthy puppies, Pawrade and PuppySpot are recommended resources, offering puppies from reputable U.S. breeders.
Rescue shelters: While Shih Tzus are rarely available at local shelters, opportunities can occasionally arise. Check your local animal shelters or dog rescue organizations for information. Online communities, such as Facebook groups, can also be helpful resources.
Breeders: Finding a reputable Shih Tzu breeder can be challenging due to the complex nature of breeding this large, purebred working dog. Start by searching locally within your state. You may need to travel out of state if local options are unavailable. If purchasing from a breeder further away, consider the possibility of shipping the puppy if pickup is not an option. It’s essential to request medical records and health certifications for both parents. The American Shih Tzu Association’s approved breeder list is a trusted resource for finding ethical breeders.
Avoid breeders who:
- Don’t provide health clearances for both parents
- Don’t allow visits to meet the dogs or see their living conditions
- Have frequent litters with no waiting list
- Emphasize appearance over health and temperament
Sources
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