Beloved for their charming and lovable temperament, Shih Tzus adore attention and will need lots of it, loving nothing more than hanging out with (and sitting on) their humans. By keeping just a few important care requirements top of mind, you can ensure a happy and healthy dog for years to come. Characteristics of the Shih Tzu
Beloved for their charming and lovable temperament, Shih Tzus adore a
ttention and will need lots of it, loving nothing more than hanging out with (and sitting on) their humans. They warm up to strangers quickly and will do well in homes and families large and small. DOGS DOG BREEDS TOY DOG BREEDS
Shih Tzu: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners
By
JENNA STREGOWSKI
Updated on 03/03/22

The Spruce / Kevin Norris
IN THIS ARTICLE
Characteristics
Breed History
Training and Care
Health Problems
Diet and Nutrition
Where to Adopt or Buy
Breed Overview
Further Research
Frequently Asked Questions
BACK TO TOP
The Shih Tzu is a small but sturdy dog with a lush, long, double-hair coat. This breed's alert, confident, playful, and courageous demeanor makes it a favorite amongst toy dogenthusiasts. The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed and has a long history as a lap dog to nobles. When properly trained and cared for, Shih Tzus can make wonderful companions. Its petite size makes this breed ideal for apartments and small living spaces. Just be prepared for some snorting and snoring; The Shih Tzu is considered a brachycephalic breed because of its head shape and short, "smooshed" face. Overall, most owners of the breed will tell you that the Shih Tzu is truly a lovable dog breed. Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy
HEIGHT: 8 to 11 inches
WEIGHT: 9 to 16 pounds
COAT: Long double coat
COAT COLOR: Found in nearly any color, most commonly in black, white, blue, gold, liver, or combinations
LIFE SPAN: 10 to 16 years
TEMPERAMENT: Friendly, intelligent, playful, alert, loyal, lively
HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes
ORIGIN: Tibet
Characteristics of the Shih Tzu
Beloved for their charming and lovable temperament, Shih Tzus adore attention and will need lots of it, loving nothing more than hanging out with (and sitting on) their humans. Affection LevelHighFriendlinessHighKid-FriendlyHighPet-FriendlyHighExercise NeedsLowPlayfulnessHighEnergy LevelMediumTrainabilityMediumIntelligenceHighTendency to BarkMediumAmount of SheddingLow
History of the Shih Tzu
The name Shih Tzu originates from the Chinese word for "lion" because of the breed's lion-like appearance. Evidence of the Shih Tzu 's ancestors can be traced back to ancient breeds, particularly in Tibet. DNA analysis shows the Shih Tzu, like the Lhasa apso, is a more direct branch from the wolf than many other dog breeds. The exact origins of the Shih Tzu as a Chinese royal house pet are hazy, with different dates offered over the past 1,100 years. The breed became known as a noble dog of China, primarily as a royal house pet to members of the Ming Dynasty from the 14th to 17th century. They were also favorites of the Empress T'zu Hsi in the late 1800s. The Shih Tzu has always been a house pet and lap dog and has never been bred for any other known purposes. This differentiates the breed from the Lhasa apso, which served as temple guards. Perhaps this is why the Shih Tzu remains, to this day, one of the most pampered and popular of the toy dog breeds. Historically, Chinese royals didn't allow the dog to be traded outside of the nobility. It wasn't until 1930 that the first Shih Tzus were imported into Europe. after World War II and were recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1969. By keeping just a few important care requirements top of mind, you can ensure a happy and healthy dog for years to come.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris


Exercise
The Shih Tzu has a moderate energy level and needs routine exercise. Daily walks and fun activities like games can help keep your Shih Tzu mentally and physically stimulated. They adapt very well to apartment living as long as you give them enough time for active play. However, Shih Tzus will not do well in overwhelmingly hot environments or weather, due to their flat faces and propensity towards heat exhaustion. Grooming
The Shih Tzu's coat grows continuously with very minimal shedding, leading the majority of people to consider them a hypoallergenic dog breed. The loose hairs are more likely to be retained in the coat rather than the air—however, be aware that the allergens remain in dander and saliva, so there will still be some present in the environment around the dog. If you're sensitive, it's wise to spend time with a Shih Tzu to see if this breed provokes your allergies before adopting one. Many owners choose to keep their dog's hair trimmed short, making it appear somewhat curly and fluffy. Others opt to keep the coat long and luxurious. Because of their coat type, routine grooming is an absolute necessity for the Shih Tzu. They should be brushed once or twice a week (up to once daily if the coat is kept long) and haircuts may be necessary every several weeks. When their facial hair isn't trimmed, it can irritate their eyes—this is why you may see some Shih Tzus adorned with a topknot or a bow. The dog's nails should be trimmed about once a month, and you'll need to help your dog with oral hygiene by brushing its teeth regularly. Training
Proper training and socialization are important in order to keep your Shih Tzu happy and well-adjusted. Don't skip these practices just because the Shih Tzu is a small dog. The breed is relatively smart but also has a bit of a stubborn streak. Shih Tzus can be difficult to housebreak, so you'll need to be diligent in training your dog beginning at a young age. They can be also trained to use a litter box indoors—be aware, however, that they tend to eat their own (and other dogs') f***s, so you will need to keep your dog's area clean. This breed gets along well in a multi-pet household with other friendly dogs and cats, especially if they're raised together. Shih Tzus are great with children as long as the child is old enough to handle a dog gently and respectfully. As a small dog, the Shih Tzu can be easily injured by rough play.
