Shih Tzu Colors: Complete Guide to All AKC-Recognized Coat Variations
Explore all Shih Tzu colors recognized by the AKC, from rare liver and brindle to classic gold and white.
Shih Tzu Colors at a Glance: What the Breed Standard Says
The Shih Tzu is one of the most chromatically diverse toy breeds in the world. According to the AKC breed standard, all colors and markings are permissible — a rarity among purebred dogs where disqualifying colors are common. This means a Shih Tzu can compete in the conformation ring whether it's solid black, parti-colored gold and white, or a striking brindle. However, certain color combinations carry specific requirements: dogs with liver pigmentation must have liver-colored noses, lips, and eye rims, while blue-pigmented dogs should display blue-gray features.
The Full Shih Tzu Color Spectrum
| Color / Marking | Description | AKC Registration Code |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Solid black; may silver with age | S 007 |
| Black & White | Parti-color; white base with black patches | S 014 |
| Blue & White | Diluted black (charcoal/steel gray) with white | S 015 |
| Brindle | Striped overlay on a lighter base; any brindle shade | S 057 |
| Brindle & White | Brindle patches on a white base | S 058 |
| Gold | Rich, warm golden; may range from pale cream to deep red-gold | S 091 |
| Gold & White | Gold patches on white; one of the most common patterns | S 092 |
| Liver | Chocolate brown; must have liver pigmented nose/eye rims | S 112 |
| Liver & White | Parti-color; liver patches on white base | S 113 |
| Red | Deep mahogany red; richer than gold | S 140 |
| Red & White | Red patches on white base | S 141 |
| Silver | Light silver-gray; often a faded black | S 176 |
| Silver & White | Silver patches on white | S 177 |
Beyond the standard colors above, you'll encounter Shih Tzus described as "blue" (a dilution gene affecting black pigment, producing a steel-gray coat with a blue-gray nose), "liver" (brown pigment replacing black), and various combinations involving tan points or a black mask. The term "imperial" is sometimes used by breeders to describe undersized Shih Tzus, but this is not a recognized variety — it typically indicates a dog bred below the breed standard weight, which can carry health risks.
Breed Overview: Origin, Size Class, and Lifespan
| Breed Name | Shih Tzu (獅子狗 — "Lion Dog") |
| Origin | Tibet/China; developed in Chinese imperial courts, with roots tracing to Tibetan monastery dogs circa 7th century. Modern breed refined during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) and later in the Qing Dynasty under Empress Dowager Cixi (late 1800s). |
| Size Class | Toy |
| Adult Weight | 9–16 lb (4–7.3 kg) |
| Adult Height | 8–11 inches (20–28 cm) at the withers |
| Lifespan | 10–18 years (median ~13 years) |
| Coat Type | Double coat; long, flowing, dense. All textures from silky to slightly wavy accepted. |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Grooming Needs | High — daily brushing for full coat; every 4–8 weeks professional grooming |
| Family Fit | Excellent with families, seniors, apartment dwellers; gentle with older children |
Bred exclusively as a companion dog for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu never had a working purpose — no herding, hunting, or guarding. This singular focus on companionship shaped every aspect of the breed: their affectionate temperament, compact size, and the luxurious coat that was considered a symbol of prosperity. After the Chinese Communist Revolution nearly wiped out the breed, all modern Shih Tzus trace back to just 14 foundation dogs imported to England and Scandinavia in the 1930s. This narrow gene pool is directly relevant to the health concerns discussed later.
Temperament & Personality: 5 Core Traits
The Shih Tzu was literally engineered for one job: sitting on laps and providing affection. Don't let the regal appearance fool you — these dogs are decidedly not aloof. Here's what living with one actually looks like:
1. Outgoing and Socially Confident
Unlike many toy breeds that bond exclusively to one person, Shih Tzus tend to greet strangers with curiosity rather than fear. In my experience working with multi-dog households, Shih Tzus are often the first to approach visitors. They're not guard dogs — they'll lick an intruder before barking at one.
2. Stubborn but Not Unintelligent
This breed scores lower on obedience-based intelligence rankings (Stanley Coren places them in the lowest tier for working/obedience intelligence), but that's a measurement of willingness to comply, not cognitive ability. Shih Tzus understand commands perfectly well — they simply evaluate whether compliance is worth their effort. A treat-motivated Shih Tzu can learn complex tricks; the challenge is making it worth their while.
3. Low Prey Drive
Bred without any hunting function, Shih Tzus generally coexist peacefully with cats, rabbits, and other small pets. You won't typically see the chasing instinct that makes terriers challenging in multi-species homes.
4. Moderate Vocalization
They'll alert-bark at the doorbell, but they aren't chronic barkers like some toy breeds. A Shih Tzu left alone for reasonable periods is less likely to trigger noise complaints than, say, a Yorkshire Terrier or Miniature Pinscher.
5. Velcro Companionship
This breed wants physical contact. Expect your Shih Tzu to follow you room to room, curl up against your leg while you work, and claim a spot on the couch within inches of you. They tolerate alone time better than some companion breeds, but they thrive on proximity.
Exercise & Activity Needs
One of the Shih Tzu's greatest appeals is their manageable exercise requirement. As a brachycephalic toy breed, they have specific limitations that owners must respect:
- Two walks of 15–20 minutes each — morning and evening, avoiding midday heat
- Indoor play sessions of 10–15 minutes — fetch in a hallway, tug with a soft toy, puzzle feeders
- Avoid sustained running or jogging — their short muzzle (brachycephalic anatomy) limits efficient panting and heat dissipation
- Temperature threshold: Do not exercise outdoors when the heat index exceeds 80°F (27°C)
Swimming is not recommended as a regular activity for Shih Tzus. Their dense double coat becomes extremely heavy when wet, their short legs provide poor propulsion, and their flat faces make keeping the nose above water difficult. If you introduce water play, use a canine life vest and keep sessions under 5 minutes in shallow, warm water.
Common Health Issues in the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu's distinctive anatomy — flat face, large eyes, compact spine — creates specific health vulnerabilities. The breed's narrow foundation gene pool (14 dogs) also concentrates certain inherited conditions. Always discuss these risks with your veterinarian during wellness visits.
| Condition | Description | Estimated Prevalence | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Elongated soft palate, stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), and everted laryngeal saccles impair airflow. Symptoms include snoring, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, and in severe cases, collapse. | Mild-moderate signs in ~50–60% of the breed; severe cases ~10–15% | Weight management, harness-only walking, surgical correction for severe cases ($2,000–$5,000) |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Disc herniation in the thoracolumbar spine causing pain, hind limb weakness, or paralysis. Their relatively long back and short legs increase mechanical stress. | Lifetime risk estimated ~10–15% in chondrodystrophic breeds including Shih Tzus | Avoid jumping from furniture, use ramps, conservative management or surgery ($3,000–$8,000) |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) | Insufficient tear production leading to corneal irritation, ulceration, and potential vision loss. Large, prominent eyes are more exposed. | ~5–10% of Shih Tzus develop KCS | Lifelong cyclosporine or tacrolimus eye drops ($15–$40/month) |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap dislocates from its groove, causing intermittent "skipping" gait. Grades I–IV; higher grades require surgery. | ~7–10% screened in OFA data; likely higher in general population | Weight control, joint supplements; surgery for Grade III–IV ($1,500–$3,500 per knee) |
| Renal Dysplasia | Hereditary kidney malformation present from birth; may not show symptoms until young adulthood. Progressive and ultimately fatal in severe forms. | Rare but documented; estimated <2% but breed-specific screening recommended | No cure; supportive care, fluid therapy, renal diet. DNA tests available for breeding stock. |
- Labored breathing, blue-tinged gums, or collapse (BOAS emergency)
- Sudden hind limb weakness, dragging legs, or inability to stand (possible IVDD)
- Squinting, excessive tearing, or visible cloudiness in the eye (corneal ulcer risk)
- Increased thirst and urination with lethargy in a young dog (renal dysplasia sign)
For suspected poisoning or toxic ingestion, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Grooming Requirements: The Full-Coat Commitment
The Shih Tzu's double coat is one of the most demanding in the canine world. Owners face a binary choice: maintain the full show-length coat (high effort) or keep a shorter "puppy cut" (moderate effort). Here's what each involves:
| Grooming Task | Full Coat | Puppy Cut (1–2 inches) | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily, 20–30 minutes | Every 2–3 days, 10 minutes | Pin brush, wide-tooth comb, detangling spray |
| Bathing | Every 7–10 days | Every 3–4 weeks | Dog-specific shampoo + conditioner, high-velocity dryer |
| Professional Grooming | Every 4–6 weeks (trim, sanitary clip) | Every 6–8 weeks (full clip-down) | Professional groomer; budget $60–$100 per session |
| Face & Eye Cleaning | Daily (tear stain wiping, topknot maintenance) | 2–3× per week | Eye wipes, tear stain remover, small elastic bands |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Weekly | Canine ear cleaner, cotton balls (never Q-tips) |
| Nail Trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Every 2–3 weeks | Guillotine or scissor-style clippers, styptic powder |
| Dental Care | Daily brushing recommended | Daily brushing recommended | Finger brush or small-head toothbrush, enzymatic dog toothpaste |
Color-specific grooming note: Lighter-colored Shih Tzus (white, cream, gold & white) are more prone to visible tear staining — reddish-brown discoloration from porphyrins in tears. This is partly genetic (related to eye shape and tear duct anatomy) and partly manageable. Daily wiping with a damp cloth, keeping the face hair trimmed short around the eyes, and using a tear stain product containing boric acid or mild hydrogen peroxide-based formulas can reduce staining. Avoid oral tear stain supplements containing unapproved antibiotics (the FDA has issued warnings about some of these products).
Training & Intelligence
Trainability Rating: 3/5 — Capable but independent-minded.
Shih Tzus respond well to positive reinforcement methods — food rewards, praise, and short, engaging sessions. They do not respond to harsh corrections, and aversive methods (shock collars, prong collars, alpha rolls) are both ethically wrong and counterproductive with this sensitive breed.
Key training realities:
- Housebreaking is the #1 challenge. Small bladder capacity and a stubborn streak make Shih Tzus one of the more difficult toy breeds to potty train. Expect 4–8 months of consistent effort. Crate training on a strict schedule is the most reliable method. Take puppies out every 1–2 hours initially, always after meals/naps, and reward immediately with a high-value treat.
- Keep sessions under 5–8 minutes. Shih Tzus lose focus quickly. Three short sessions per day outperform one long session.
- Socialization window is critical. Expose puppies to diverse people, surfaces, sounds, and other dogs between 8–16 weeks. Well-socialized Shih Tzus are confident; under-socialized ones can develop fear-based reactivity.
- Trick training works better than obedience drills. This breed enjoys learning fun behaviors (spin, wave, crawl) more than repetitive sit-stay-down sequences. Use their food motivation creatively.
Family Suitability: Kids, Pets, and Apartment Living
- Gentle and patient with children ages 6+ who understand how to handle small dogs
- Low prey drive — typically excellent with cats and other small pets
- Ideal apartment dog: small size, moderate energy, low barking tendency
- Adapts well to senior owners and less active households
- Travel-friendly size; fits in most airline-compliant carriers
- Too fragile for toddlers or rough play — risk of accidental injury (dropping, stepping on)
- Not suitable for homes where the dog will be left alone 8+ hours daily
- Grooming cost and time commitment is substantial
- Heat intolerance limits outdoor activity in warm climates
- Housebreaking difficulty may frustrate first-time owners
Cost of Ownership: Shih Tzu Budget Breakdown
Prospective owners should budget realistically. Here's what Shih Tzu ownership actually costs in 2026:
| Expense Category | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Purchase (Responsible Breeder) | $1,500–$3,500 | AKC-registered, health-tested parents, take-back clause. Rare colors (blue, liver) may command $4,000+. Avoid puppies priced under $800 — likely puppy mills. |
| Adoption/Rescue | $200–$600 | Breed-specific rescues like the American Shih Tzu Club rescue network. Often adult or senior dogs. |
| First-Year Veterinary Care | $800–$1,500 | Vaccinations (DHPP series, rabies, bordetella), spay/neuter ($400–$800), microchip, initial wellness panel |
| Annual Veterinary Care (Ongoing) | $500–$900 | Annual exam, vaccines, heartworm prevention ($60–$150/yr), flea/tick prevention, dental cleaning ($300–$700) |
| Grooming | $720–$1,300/yr | 6–10 professional sessions at $60–$100 each, plus at-home supplies ($100–$200 initial investment) |
| Food | $240–$480/yr | ~½ to ¾ cup daily of quality small-breed kibble or equivalent. Look for AAFCO complete-and-balanced statement. |
| Pet Insurance | $300–$600/yr | Varies by deductible and coverage. Recommended given breed-specific health risks. |
| Supplies (First Year) | $300–$600 | Crate, harness (never collar-only for walks — trachea risk), bed, bowls, toys, grooming tools |
Estimated first-year total: $4,500–$8,500 (including puppy purchase). Ongoing annual cost: $2,000–$3,800 after the first year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shih Tzu right for first-time owners?
Yes, with one significant caveat: housebreaking. If you're prepared for 4–8 months of patient, consistent potty training and you can commit to the grooming schedule, a Shih Tzu is an excellent first dog. Their forgiving temperament, manageable size, and low exercise needs are ideal for new owners. Consider adopting an already-trained adult from a breed rescue if the housebreaking challenge concerns you.
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need daily?
30–45 minutes total, split into two 15–20 minute leash walks and one or two short indoor play sessions. Avoid exercising in temperatures above 80°F (27°C) due to their brachycephalic anatomy. A Shih Tzu that gets this amount of daily activity will maintain a healthy weight and remain calm indoors.
What health problems is the Shih Tzu prone to?
The most significant breed-specific concerns are Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), patellar luxation, and hereditary renal dysplasia. Responsible breeders screen for OFA patella evaluations, eye certifications through CERF, and renal function. Always ask to see health clearances for both parents before purchasing a puppy. Consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate screening for your individual dog.
How big does a Shih Tzu get?
Adult Shih Tzus typically weigh 9–16 lb (4–7.3 kg) and stand 8–11 inches (20–28 cm) at the shoulder. Males tend toward the upper end of both ranges. Dogs marketed as "teacup" or "imperial" Shih Tzus are bred below standard and carry elevated health risks including hypoglycemia, fragile bones, and dental crowding.
Are Shih Tzus good with children and other pets?
They're excellent with children ages 6 and up who can be taught to handle a small dog gently. Toddlers and very young children pose a genuine injury risk — a Shih Tzu dropped from a child's arms can suffer serious fractures. With other pets, Shih Tzus are typically outstanding: their low prey drive means they coexist well with cats, rabbits, and other dogs. Proper introductions and supervised interactions are always recommended.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost to buy and maintain?
Expect $1,500–$3,500 for a puppy from a responsible AKC breeder, or $200–$600 through breed rescue. Annual maintenance costs range from $2,000–$3,800, with grooming ($720–$1,300/year) being the single largest recurring expense. Pet insurance is strongly recommended given the breed's predisposition to conditions like IVDD that can require $3,000–$8,000 surgical interventions.
Do Shih Tzu colors affect health or temperament?
Coat color itself does not influence temperament. However, certain color-linked genetics carry health correlations: the dilution gene that produces "blue" Shih Tzus is occasionally associated with color dilution alopecia — a condition causing patchy hair loss and dry, flaky skin. Blue Shih Tzus may also have more sensitive skin requiring extra coat care. Liver-pigmented dogs require the same health screenings as any other color variation. No color is inherently healthier or unhealthier when bred responsibly.
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
