Shih Tzu Dogs: Complete Breed Guide for Owners
Everything you need to know about dog Shih Tzus: temperament, health risks, grooming needs, costs, and whether this toy breed fits your family.
If you've ever locked eyes with a Shih Tzu, you know the look: regal, slightly amused, and entirely convinced they deserve the best seat on your couch. The Shih Tzu — sometimes searched as "dog Shih Tzus" or simply "Shih Tzu dogs" — is one of the most recognizable toy breeds in the United States, ranking consistently in the American Kennel Club's top 20 most popular breeds for over a decade.
Originally bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, these little lions (the name "Shih Tzu" translates to "lion dog" in Mandarin) pack outsized personality into a compact frame. But beneath that glamorous coat lies a dog with specific care needs, predictable health risks, and a temperament that suits some households far better than others.
This guide gives you the numbers, the real costs, and the honest behavioral picture you need before bringing one home.
Shih Tzu Breed at a Glance
| 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 | Double coat, long, flowing; hair-like rather than fur |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Exercise Need | 30–45 minutes/day |
| Grooming Frequency | Daily brushing; professional grooming every 4–6 weeks |
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Trainability | Moderate — responds to positive reinforcement but can be stubborn |
| Good with Children | Best with gentle children ages 8+; fragile with toddlers |
| Good with Other Pets | Generally excellent with cats and other dogs |
| Apartment Friendly | Highly suitable |
Origin and History: From Imperial Palaces to Your Living Room
The Shih Tzu's lineage traces back to 17th-century Tibet, where Buddhist monks developed small companion dogs that were later gifted to Chinese emperors. During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), these dogs were prized palace residents, and the Dowager Empress Cixi maintained an extensive Shih Tzu breeding program in the late 1800s.
The breed nearly vanished after the Chinese Communist Revolution in 1949. Nearly all modern Shih Tzus descend from just 14 dogs that were exported to England and Scandinavia between 1930 and 1950. The American Kennel Club recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969, and the breed quickly gained popularity as a household companion across North America.
Understanding this history matters for modern owners: centuries of selective breeding purely for companionship means the Shih Tzu has virtually no working drive. They don't herd, hunt, or guard. Their job is to be near you, and they take it seriously.
Temperament: What Living with a Shih Tzu Actually Feels Like
Shih Tzus have distinct personality traits that show up consistently across the breed. Here's what to expect from a well-socialized adult:
Core Temperament Traits
- Affectionate and clingy: Shih Tzus follow their owners room to room. They are not independent dogs — expect them on your lap, in your bed, and at your feet while you cook. Separation anxiety is common if left alone for more than 4–5 hours regularly.
- Alert but not aggressive: They will announce visitors with a bark, but they're far more likely to lick a stranger than bite one. They make terrible guard dogs and wonderful alarm systems.
- Stubbornly charming: A Shih Tzu understands what you're asking — they just don't always see the point. This isn't stupidity; it's a breed that was never selected for obedience. Training requires patience and high-value treats (think freeze-dried liver, not generic kibble).
- Playful in short bursts: Expect 5–10 minute zoomie sessions followed by a two-hour nap. They have an "off switch" that most terrier breeds lack entirely.
- Gentle and non-confrontational: Shih Tzus rarely show aggression toward other dogs. At dog parks, they're more likely to solicit play than start conflicts, though their small size means they should always be supervised around larger breeds.
One behavioral quirk worth noting: many Shih Tzus develop a habit of eating their own or other dogs' feces (coprophagia). This is surprisingly common in the breed. Products like For-Bid or NaturVet Coprophagia Deterrent can help, but consistent leash-walking and immediate cleanup are the most reliable solutions.
Physical Characteristics: Size, Build, and Coat Details
Per the AKC breed standard, the ideal Shih Tzu stands 9 to 10.5 inches (23–27 cm) at the withers and weighs 9 to 16 pounds (4–7.3 kg). They are slightly longer than tall, with a level topline and a heavily plumed tail that curves over the back.
The head is distinctly brachycephalic — broad and round with a short, flat muzzle. The eyes are large, round, and dark (lighter in liver and blue pigmented dogs). The drop ears are heavily coated and set slightly below the crown of the skull.
Coat Colors and Patterns
All colors and markings are acceptable in the breed standard. Common colorations include:
- Gold and white
- Red and white
- Black and white
- Liver and white
- Brindle
- Solid black or solid liver (less common)
A black mask or black-tipped coat is also seen. The coat itself is a double coat — a dense undercoat beneath a longer, flowing topcoat. The hair grows continuously (similar to human hair) rather than shedding seasonally, which is why Shih Tzus are sometimes marketed as "hypoallergenic." No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but Shih Tzus produce less airborne dander than heavy-shedding breeds.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Shih Tzus need 30 to 45 minutes of daily activity, split into two or three sessions. Here's what that looks like in practice:
| Session | Duration | Activity Type |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 15 minutes | Leash walk at a relaxed pace; sniffing encouraged |
| Midday | 10 minutes | Indoor play — fetch down a hallway, puzzle toy session |
| Evening | 15–20 minutes | Leash walk or supervised yard time |
Important heat warning: Because of their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, Shih Tzus are highly susceptible to heat exhaustion. When outdoor temperatures exceed 80°F (27°C), move all exercise indoors. Signs of heat distress include excessive panting, drooling, glazed eyes, and stumbling. If you observe these, apply cool (not cold) water to the paw pads and belly, and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Shih Tzus are not built for jogging, hiking, or agility courses. Their short legs and compact airways make sustained intense exercise uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. A Shih Tzu who refuses to keep walking isn't being lazy — they're being physiologically honest.
Common Health Issues in Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are generally a long-lived breed, but their distinctive anatomy creates predictable health vulnerabilities. Consult your veterinarian for breed-appropriate screening and preventive care.
| Condition | Description | Estimated Prevalence | Typical Treatment Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Narrowed airways causing breathing difficulty, snoring, exercise intolerance, and heat sensitivity. Affects the soft palate, nostrils, and trachea. | ~50–60% show some degree of airway compromise | $1,500–$4,000 (surgical correction) |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Disc herniation in the spine causing pain, weakness, or paralysis. Shih Tzus are a chondrodystrophic breed with predisposed disc calcification. | Estimated 3–5% lifetime risk | $3,000–$8,000 (surgical); $500–$1,500 (conservative management) |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) | Inadequate tear production causing chronic eye irritation, corneal ulcers, and potential vision loss if untreated. | ~15–20% of Shih Tzus | $30–$60/month (lifelong medication: cyclosporine or tacrolimus drops) |
| Patellar Luxation | Kneecap dislocating from its groove, causing intermittent "skipping" gait. Grades I–IV in severity. | ~7–10% (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals data) | $1,500–$3,500 per knee (surgical repair for Grade III–IV) |
| Dental Disease | Crowded teeth in a small mouth accelerate plaque buildup, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Can lead to systemic infections. | ~80% by age 3 (estimated, breed-wide toy dog data) | $300–$800 per professional cleaning; $200–$600 per extraction |
When to Call Your Vet Immediately
- Labored breathing, blue-tinged gums, or collapse after minimal exertion
- Sudden hind-leg weakness, dragging, or inability to stand (possible IVDD emergency — treatment within 24 hours dramatically improves prognosis)
- Eye squinting, redness, or cloudiness (corneal ulcers can worsen within hours)
- Repeated vomiting or unproductive retching with a distended abdomen (rare in Shih Tzus but always an emergency)
Reputable breeders should provide health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for patellas, hips, and cardiac function, plus a veterinary ophthalmologist evaluation. Ask to see these certificates before purchasing a puppy.
Grooming: The Real Commitment Behind That Glamorous Coat
Shih Tzu grooming is not optional — it's a daily requirement if you keep the coat long. Here's the realistic breakdown:
Home Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Full-body brushing | Daily (long coat) or 2–3x/week (puppy cut) | Pin brush, slicker brush, metal comb for detangling |
| Face cleaning | Daily | Unscented canine eye wipes; damp cloth for beard area |
| Ear cleaning | Weekly | Veterinary ear cleanser (e.g., Epi-Otic Advanced); cotton balls |
| Nail trimming | Every 2–3 weeks | Guillotine-style or scissor-style small-dog clippers |
| Teeth brushing | Daily ideal; minimum 3x/week | Canine enzymatic toothpaste (e.g., C.E.T. Poultry Flavor); finger brush |
| Topknot maintenance | Daily if keeping hair out of eyes | Small latex bands, soft bristle brush |
Professional grooming: Budget for a professional groomer every 4 to 6 weeks. Expect to pay $60–$100 per session depending on your region, coat condition, and whether you request hand-stripping (rare for pet Shih Tzus) or a standard clip. Over a 13-year lifespan, grooming alone can cost $10,000–$17,000.
Many pet owners opt for a "puppy cut" (1–2 inch uniform length) which dramatically reduces daily brushing to 2–3 times per week and extends time between professional groomings to 6–8 weeks.
Training and Intelligence
Shih Tzus rank in the lower tier of working/obedience intelligence in Stanley Coren's breed intelligence rankings, but this measurement reflects willingness to obey on command — not actual cognitive ability. Shih Tzus learn quickly when motivated; they simply don't see blind obedience as a priority.
Trainability rating: 5/10 (where 10 is a Border Collie)
What Works
- Positive reinforcement only: Food rewards (small, soft, high-value treats like Zuke's Mini Naturals), verbal praise, and play. Shih Tzus shut down under harsh correction.
- Short sessions: 5–8 minutes, 2–3 times daily. Their attention span is brief.
- Housebreaking patience: Shih Tzus are notoriously difficult to housebreak. Small bladders, stubbornness, and sensitivity to cold/wet weather conspire against quick potty training. Expect 4–8 months of consistent scheduling. Crate training helps enormously — use a crate sized for a 15 lb dog (approximately 24" x 18" x 21").
- Early socialization: Expose puppies to varied surfaces, sounds, people, and other dogs between 8–16 weeks to prevent the timidity some Shih Tzus develop toward strangers.
What Doesn't Work
Shock collars, prong collars, alpha rolls, and dominance-based methods are ineffective and potentially harmful with this breed. Shih Tzus are physically delicate and emotionally sensitive — aversive methods create fear-based responses that damage the human-dog bond and can trigger fear-biting in a breed that is otherwise non-aggressive.
Family Suitability: Kids, Pets, and Apartment Living
Pros
- Excellent apartment dogs — low exercise needs, quiet barking
- Get along well with cats and other household dogs
- Affectionate and bond deeply with their family
- Minimal shedding compared to most breeds
- Adaptable to senior owners and less active households
- Long lifespan provides many years of companionship
Cons
- Fragile build — not suitable for toddlers or roughhousing children
- Significant grooming commitment and cost
- Prone to separation anxiety; struggles being left alone 8+ hours
- Difficult housebreaking timeline
- Brachycephalic health risks require ongoing veterinary attention
- Stubbornness frustrates first-time owners expecting instant obedience
Shih Tzus and Children
Shih Tzus are gentle and patient, but their small frame makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from children who don't understand how to handle a toy breed. A dropped Shih Tzu puppy can suffer a fractured leg or skull injury. For this reason, most breeders and rescue organizations recommend Shih Tzus for families with children ages 8 and older who can follow handling guidelines.
Teach children to: support the dog's hindquarters when picking them up, avoid squeezing or hugging tightly, never disturb a sleeping Shih Tzu, and keep faces away from the dog's eyes (the protruding eyes are easily scratched during face-to-face contact).
Cost of Ownership: What You'll Actually Spend
| Expense Category | First Year | Annual Ongoing |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (responsible breeder) | $1,200–$3,500 | — |
| Adoption (breed-specific rescue) | $300–$600 | — |
| Veterinary care (wellness + vaccines) | $500–$900 | $400–$700 |
| Professional grooming | $600–$1,200 | $600–$1,200 |
| Food (premium small-breed kibble or wet food) | $300–$500 | $300–$500 |
| Pet insurance (comprehensive) | $400–$700 | $400–$700 |
| Supplies (crate, bed, harness, toys, grooming tools) | $200–$400 | $100–$200 |
| Dental cleanings | — | $300–$800 (annual after age 3) |
| Total estimated | $3,500–$7,800 | $2,100–$4,100 |
Pet insurance is strongly recommended for Shih Tzus. A comprehensive plan covering hereditary conditions costs approximately $35–$58/month for a puppy enrolled at 8–12 weeks. Given the breed's predisposition to IVDD (surgical repair: $3,000–$8,000) and BOAS correction, insurance often pays for itself many times over.
Is a Shih Tzu Right for First-Time Owners?
Yes — with caveats. Shih Tzus are forgiving of novice mistakes in ways that herding breeds and terriers are not. They don't require advanced training, they don't destroy furniture out of boredom if left with a puzzle toy, and their exercise needs are easy to meet. The two hurdles that frustrate first-time owners most are housebreaking (plan for months, not weeks) and grooming (budget for it before you buy the dog).
If you work from home or have someone at the house most of the day, a Shih Tzu is an excellent first-dog choice. If you regularly work 10-hour days away from home, this breed's separation anxiety tendencies make them a poor fit regardless of your experience level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
Shih Tzus are moderate barkers. They alert-bark at doorbells, passersby, and unfamiliar sounds, but they typically stop once they've assessed the situation. They are not yappy in the way some toy breeds are. Excessive barking usually indicates insufficient mental stimulation or separation anxiety.
Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Shih Tzus produce less airborne dander than heavy-shedding breeds because their hair-like coat traps shed hairs until brushed out. People with mild allergies often tolerate Shih Tzus well, but those with severe dog allergies should spend time with the breed before committing.
How long can a Shih Tzu be left alone?
Adult Shih Tzus can manage 4–5 hours alone with proper preparation (potty break before departure, puzzle toy, comfortable space). Beyond 6 hours, many develop anxiety behaviors: barking, destructive chewing, or indoor elimination. Doggy daycare or a midday walker is recommended for owners with long workdays.
What should I feed my Shih Tzu?
Look for an AAFCO-approved small-breed formula with kibble sized for toy mouths. Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult, Hill's Science Diet Small Paws, and Purina Pro Plan Small Breed are all formulated for the breed's caloric and dental needs. Adult Shih Tzus typically eat ½ to 1 cup of dry food daily, split into two meals. Monitor body condition score — obesity worsens both BOAS and IVDD risk.
Do Shih Tzus get along with cats?
Generally, yes. Shih Tzus have low prey drive and a non-confrontational disposition. Proper introductions (separate spaces for the first week, supervised meetings, cat escape routes always available) usually result in peaceful cohabitation within 2–4 weeks.
What's the difference between a Shih Tzu and a Lhasa Apso?
Both are Tibetan-origin small breeds, but Lhasa Apsos tend to be more independent, more suspicious of strangers, and slightly larger (12–18 lb). Shih Tzus are more outgoing and affectionate with strangers. Lhasa Apsos were bred as monastery sentinel dogs; Shih Tzus were bred purely as companions, which explains the temperament difference.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
