Shih Tzu Complete Breed Guide

The Shih Tzu was literally bred to be loved, and they're very good at their job. Charming, cheerful, and surprisingly confident for their size, they'll win over everyone in the room and then curl up with you at the end of the day.

The Shih Tzu was once the epitome of Chinese royalty and is still popular today. A favorite at dog shows and in Hollywood, they are recognizable for their small frames and occasionally long, flowy, showy coats. Typically, their coats come in a wide variety of colors like beige, black, red, and white. This breed is friendly to other pets, but they do tend to bark around strangers. They do have attitude, but for the most part, are loving companions who want to look good and have fun.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Since they are small, this breed can adapt to apartment living or a big house. Shih Tzus are indoor dogs who get along with other pets very well and love to cuddle in your lap, making them great family companions. You would never want to limit these small dogs to just the outdoors.

Exercise & Activity

Shih Tzu need short, daily walk but should also occasionally be exercised indoors. They do not adapt to hot weather very well, so they must be a primarily indoor dog. Care must be taken not to over or under exercise them as well. It's tempting to carry these dogs around, but they do need to move and walk, just like all other dogs.

Shih Tzu have all the traits you could wish for: sociable, friendly, lovable, loyal, cheerful, and intelligent. They are well-suited to be companion dogs and because of their size, make great lap dogs. Training this breed, though, does require patience. They are affectionate with their families, but they can be good watch dogs because they are suspicious around strangers. They tend to want to be the boss, so it's important to be kind but firm with them to let them know who's the master. Otherwise, they'll tend to run the roost, which won't necessarily make them happy or pleasant to be around.

Shih Tzus' long coat is somewhat high maintenance and requires everyday brushing to prevent tangles. These dogs should be taken to a professional groomer every couple of months. They are usually easier to maintain when their coats are clipped short, but you can't argue that those who have the long, dreamy coats are dramatic and eye catching. Show dogs definitely need daily grooming to keep them looking perfect, but if you're looking for a Shih Tzu just for the fun, don't forget the occasional bath.

Brachycephalic airway syndrome, eye conditions (proptosis, progressive retinal atrophy, dry eye), hip dysplasia, ear infections, dental issues.

Medical References