How Do You Spell Shih Tzu? Breed Guide for Prospective
Wondering how do you spell Shih Tzu? Learn everything about this ancient toy breed — temperament, health risks, grooming costs, and whether it fits your family.
Yes, It's Spelled "Shih Tzu" — Here's Everything You Need to Know
If you've ever found yourself typing "how do you spell Shih Tzu" into a search bar, you're far from alone. The name — which translates to "lion dog" in Mandarin (狮子狗, shīzi gǒu) — trips up even seasoned dog owners. Now that we've settled the spelling, let's talk about what actually matters: whether this 1,000-year-old imperial Chinese companion breed is the right fit for your household.
The Shih Tzu (pronounced "SHEED-zoo" or "SHEET-sue," depending on who you ask) belongs to the toy group and has consistently ranked among the American Kennel Club's top 20 most popular breeds for over a decade. They're compact, affectionate, and surprisingly sturdy for their size — but they come with specific grooming demands and health considerations that prospective owners should understand before committing.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Size Class | Toy |
| Weight | 9–16 lb (4–7.3 kg) |
| Height | 9–10.5 inches (23–27 cm) at the withers |
| Lifespan | 10–18 years (median ~13 years) |
| Coat Type | Long, flowing double coat; hair-like texture |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Grooming Frequency | Daily brushing; professional grooming every 4–6 weeks |
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Origin | China (Tibetan monasteries → Chinese imperial courts) |
Origin and History: From Tibetan Monasteries to Your Living Room
The Shih Tzu's history stretches back at least to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), though the breed as we recognize it was refined during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Tibetan monks bred small "lion dogs" as temple companions and guard animals — their barking alerted monks to approaching visitors. These dogs were gifted to Chinese emperors, and during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), Empress Dowager Cixi maintained an extensive breeding program in the Forbidden City's kennels.
The breed nearly went extinct during the Chinese Communist Revolution. Nearly all modern Shih Tzus descend from just 14 dogs imported to England and Scandinavia in the 1930s and 1940s. The AKC recognized the breed in 1969. This genetic bottleneck matters: it means the breed carries a relatively narrow gene pool, which contributes to the hereditary health issues discussed below.
Physical Characteristics: What a Shih Tzu Should Look Like
Per the AKC breed standard, the ideal Shih Tzu stands 9 to 10.5 inches at the shoulder and weighs 9 to 16 pounds (4–7.3 kg). They are slightly longer than tall, giving them a rectangular silhouette. Key physical features include:
- Head: Broad and round with a pronounced stop; muzzle is short, square, and broad (approximately 1 inch from stop to nose tip)
- Eyes: Large, round, dark, and set well apart — not bulging (protruding eyes are a fault)
- Ears: Large, drooping, set slightly below the crown of the skull, heavily feathered
- Bite: Undershot or level — the lower jaw is slightly wider than the upper
- Tail: Heavily plumed, set high, carried in a curve over the back
- Coat: Luxurious, long, flowing double coat that may be slightly wavy but never curly. All colors and markings are acceptable.
Their brachycephalic (short-faced) structure is a defining feature, but it's also the source of several health concerns covered in the health section below. Responsible breeders select for slightly longer muzzles to reduce breathing difficulties.
Temperament and Personality: What Living With a Shih Tzu Is Really Like
Shih Tzus were bred for one job: companionship. Unlike working breeds that need tasks to stay mentally balanced, the Shih Tzu's purpose is to be near you. Here's what that looks like in practice:
Traits Owners Love
- Velcro-dog affection: They follow you room to room and genuinely prefer to be on your lap or within arm's reach. Expect them to sleep pressed against you.
- Alert without aggression: They'll bark when someone approaches the door — making them decent watchdogs — but they warm up to strangers quickly, usually within 5–10 minutes of a calm introduction.
- Low prey drive: Unlike terriers, most Shih Tzus show minimal interest in chasing squirrels, cats, or small children. They coexist peacefully with household cats in the vast majority of multi-pet homes.
- Adaptable energy: Happy to lounge all day if you're home working, but equally willing to go for a 20-minute walk if you are.
- Sturdy for a toy breed: At 9–16 lb, they're less fragile than Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers, making them more resilient around careful children.
Traits That Challenge Some Owners
- Stubbornness during training: They understand commands quickly but may choose to ignore them if unmotivated. This is independence, not stupidity.
- Separation anxiety potential: Bred to be constant companions, they struggle when left alone for 6+ hours daily. Expect distress vocalization (barking, whining) if not gradually conditioned to alone time.
- Housebreaking difficulty: Small bladders combined with a "I don't want to go outside in the rain" attitude make potty training take 4–8 months on average — longer than most breeds.
- Snoring and snorting: Brachycephalic anatomy means audible breathing during sleep, reverse sneezing episodes, and occasional snorting. This is normal for the breed but worth knowing.
- Grooming commitment: The full coat requires daily brushing or it mats within 48 hours. Most owners opt for a "puppy cut" to reduce maintenance.
Exercise and Activity Needs: Specific Daily Requirements
Despite their low-key reputation, Shih Tzus still need structured daily activity to maintain muscle tone, prevent obesity, and support joint health. Here's a realistic exercise framework:
| Life Stage | Daily Duration | Activity Types | Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy (3–12 months) | 15–25 minutes total | Short leash walks (5 min per month of age, twice daily), indoor play sessions | Low — avoid jumping, stairs |
| Adult (1–7 years) | 30–45 minutes total | Two 15-minute leash walks, indoor fetch, scent games, puzzle toys | Low to moderate |
| Senior (8+ years) | 15–30 minutes total | Short slow walks, gentle indoor play, swimming (excellent low-impact option) | Low — monitor for fatigue |
Heat warning: Brachycephalic breeds overheat rapidly. When outdoor temperatures exceed 80°F (27°C), move all exercise indoors or walk only during early morning/late evening. Signs of heat distress include excessive panting, dark red gums, stumbling, and collapse — these require immediate veterinary attention.
Mental stimulation matters: A bored Shih Tzu will entertain itself by barking at windows or chewing baseboards. Rotate puzzle feeders (the Kong Classic and Outward Hound Dog Brick work well for small breeds), hide-and-seek games, and short 5-minute training sessions throughout the day.
Common Health Issues: Breed-Specific Conditions to Watch For
The Shih Tzu's distinctive anatomy and narrow genetic foundation predispose them to several specific conditions. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the symptoms described below — early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
| Condition | Description | Estimated Prevalence | Typical Onset | Management |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palate, and hypoplastic trachea restrict airflow | ~50–60% show some degree of airway compromise | Present from birth; worsens with age/weight gain | Weight management, avoiding heat stress, surgical correction in severe cases ($2,500–$5,000) |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Disc material herniates into spinal canal, causing pain, weakness, or paralysis | ~3–5% of the breed (higher than average for non-chondrodystrophic breeds) | Typically 3–7 years | Conservative management (crate rest, anti-inflammatories) to surgical decompression ($3,000–$8,000) |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) | Insufficient tear production leads to corneal irritation, ulceration, and potential vision loss | ~5–8% | Any age; more common after 5 years | Lifelong cyclosporine or tacrolimus eye drops ($20–$40/month) |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap slips out of its groove, causing intermittent skipping or lameness | ~7–10% (grades I–IV) | Often noticed in puppies or young adults | Grade I–II: conservative; Grade III–IV: surgical correction ($1,500–$3,500 per knee) |
| Renal Dysplasia | Kidneys develop abnormally, leading to progressive renal failure | ~2–4% (familial form) | Typically 6 months–3 years | No cure; supportive care, dietary management, eventual dialysis or transplant in advanced cases |
Recommended health screenings per the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the American Shih Tzu Club: hip evaluation, patella evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation, and renal function panel. Ask any breeder for OFA or PennHIP certification documentation before purchasing a puppy.
🚨 Call Your Vet Immediately If Your Shih Tzu Shows:
- Labored breathing, blue-tinged gums, or collapse (possible BOAS crisis or heatstroke)
- Sudden hind-limb weakness, dragging, or inability to stand (possible IVDD)
- Excessive thirst and urination with weight loss (possible renal failure or diabetes)
- Eye squinting, cloudiness, or visible third eyelid (possible corneal ulcer — can worsen within 24 hours)
- Repeated vomiting with a distended, firm abdomen (possible GI obstruction)
Grooming Requirements: Tools, Frequency, and Costs
The Shih Tzu's coat is technically hair rather than fur, meaning it grows continuously and sheds minimally — a benefit for allergy-sensitive households, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic. The trade-off is significant maintenance.
Full coat maintenance (show-style):
- Brush daily for 15–20 minutes using a pin brush and metal comb, working in sections from skin outward
- Mist coat with a detangling spray (Chris Christensen Ice on Ice or similar) before brushing to prevent breakage
- Bathe every 7–10 days with a moisturizing shampoo; condition thoroughly
- Topknot required to keep hair out of eyes — use coated elastic bands, never rubber bands
- Professional grooming: every 4–6 weeks ($60–$90 per session)
Puppy cut / teddy bear clip (recommended for most pet owners):
- Coat trimmed to 1–2 inches all over
- Brush 2–3 times per week for 5–10 minutes using a slicker brush
- Bathe every 2–3 weeks
- Professional grooming: every 4–6 weeks ($50–$80 per session)
Essential grooming tools: Chris Christensen Big G slicker brush ($45–$65), Greyhound Comb metal comb ($15–$20), eye wash (Vetericyn Plus, $12–$18), styptic powder for nail trims, and a small pair of blunt-nose scissors for face trimming.
Annual grooming cost estimate: $600–$1,080/year for professional grooming alone, plus $150–$250 in at-home supplies.
Training and Intelligence: What to Expect
Shih Tzus rank in the lower tiers of Stanley Coren's working/obedience intelligence rankings, but this metric measures willingness to obey on first command — not actual learning capacity. Shih Tzus learn quickly; they simply evaluate whether compliance is worth their effort.
Trainability rating: 3/5 — trainable with the right approach, but expect creative problem-solving from your dog about how to avoid tasks.
Methods that work:
- Positive reinforcement only: High-value treats (freeze-dried liver, small cheese pieces) paired with verbal praise. Food motivation is typically strong in this breed.
- Short sessions: 5 minutes maximum, 2–3 times daily. Attention span drops sharply after this.
- Consistency across household members: If one person allows couch access and another doesn't, the Shih Tzu will exploit the inconsistency immediately.
- Patience with housebreaking: Use a consistent schedule (outside within 5 minutes of waking, eating, and playing), reward heavily for outdoor elimination, and consider an indoor grass pad or litter box as a backup for rainy days — many Shih Tzu owners successfully litter-train their dogs.
Never use: Shock collars, prong collars, alpha rolls, or any aversive technique. These damage the trust-based bond this breed requires and can trigger fear-based aggression or shutdown behaviors. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recommends force-free, reward-based training for all dogs.
Family Suitability: Kids, Pets, and Apartment Living
With children: Shih Tzus are generally good with respectful children ages 6 and up. Their sturdy build (compared to other toy breeds) gives them more tolerance for clumsy handling, but no dog should endure ear-pulling or tail-grabbing. Supervise all interactions with children under 8. Teach kids to approach the dog calmly and not disturb them while eating or sleeping.
With other pets: Excellent. Shih Tzus have low prey drive and typically integrate smoothly into multi-dog and multi-cat households. Introduce new pets gradually using scent-swapping and parallel walks. Same-sex aggression is rare but possible — spaying/neutering reduces this risk.
Apartment living: One of the best breeds for apartment life. They don't need a yard, exercise requirements are modest, and their small size fits any space. The primary concern is barking — they are vocal dogs. Early training to reduce alert barking (rewarding quiet behavior, managing window access) helps significantly.
Cost of Ownership: Purchase Price and Annual Budget
| Expense Category | Low Range | Mid Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (responsible breeder) | $1,200 | $2,000 | $3,500+ |
| Adoption/rescue fee | $200 | $400 | $600 |
| Initial vet setup (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip) | $400 | $650 | $900 |
| First-year supplies (crate, bed, harness, bowls, toys) | $200 | $400 | $700 |
| Annual food (quality small-breed kibble or fresh food) | $300 | $500 | $900 |
| Annual grooming | $600 | $840 | $1,080 |
| Annual vet care (wellness exam, vaccines, preventives) | $400 | $600 | $900 |
| Pet insurance (optional but recommended) | $360/yr | $600/yr | $900/yr |
| Estimated first-year total (purchased puppy) | $3,460 | $5,590 | $8,880 |
| Estimated annual ongoing cost (years 2+) | $1,660 | $2,540 | $3,780 |
These estimates assume a healthy dog with no major medical events. Budget an additional $2,000–$5,000 emergency fund for unexpected conditions like IVDD surgery or BOAS correction. Pet insurance (companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, or Lemonade) can offset catastrophic costs — enroll while your dog is young and healthy, as pre-existing conditions are universally excluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you spell Shih Tzu correctly?
The correct spelling is Shih Tzu — two words, both capitalized when referring to the breed. The name comes from Mandarin Chinese 狮子 (shīzi, meaning "lion") and 狗 (gǒu, meaning "dog"), though in English we typically just use "Shih Tzu" without the "gou." Common misspellings include "Shihtzu," "Shitzu," "Shi Tsu," and "Sheetzu."
Is the Shih Tzu a good breed for first-time dog owners?
Yes, with caveats. Their affectionate nature, manageable size, and low exercise needs make them forgiving for beginners. However, first-time owners should be prepared for the housebreaking timeline (4–8 months is typical), the grooming commitment, and potential separation anxiety if you work long hours outside the home. If you're away more than 6 hours daily, consider a dog walker or daycare.
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need daily?
Adult Shih Tzus need 30–45 minutes of total daily activity, ideally split into two 15-minute leash walks plus indoor play or mental stimulation. They are not running or hiking companions — their brachycephalic anatomy limits sustained aerobic exercise, especially in warm weather.
What health problems is the Shih Tzu prone to?
The most significant breed-specific risks include Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS, affecting an estimated 50–60%), Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD, ~3–5%), keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye (~5–8%), patellar luxation (~7–10%), and renal dysplasia (~2–4%). Working with a breeder who performs OFA health testing on breeding stock reduces — but does not eliminate — these risks.
How big does an adult Shih Tzu get?
Adult Shih Tzus typically weigh 9–16 pounds (4–7.3 kg) and stand 9–10.5 inches (23–27 cm) at the shoulder. Males tend toward the higher end of both ranges. Dogs significantly outside these ranges may not meet the breed standard and should be evaluated by a veterinarian for weight-related health concerns.
Is the Shih Tzu good with children and other pets?
Generally yes. They are patient and sturdy enough for respectful children ages 6+, and their low prey drive makes them compatible with cats and other small pets. Always supervise interactions between any dog and young children, and teach kids appropriate handling from day one.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost to buy and maintain annually?
Expect to pay $1,200–$3,500 for a puppy from a responsible breeder (or $200–$600 through rescue adoption). Annual ongoing costs range from approximately $1,660 to $3,780 per year, with grooming being the largest recurring expense. First-year costs are higher due to initial veterinary setup and supplies.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
