Shih Tzu Dog Breed Guide: Info, Pictures, Care & More

While their name might translate to “little lion,” there isn’t much that is ferocious about these small dogs. Shih Tzus are a loving breed with the sole purpose of being a loyal companion. Over the years, they have become loved by many people.

Breed Overview

Despite their small size, Shih Tzus can keep up with the best of them and compete in dog sports, including agility, rally, and obedience. Those looking for a small breed who can become their best buddy should consider purchasing or adopting one of these beautiful, outgoing pups.

Shih Tzu Characteristics

Shih Tzu Puppies

While they may not have the highest ranking compared to other dog breeds, that’s not necessarily bad. Not everybody wants a high-energy dog that requires an hour of exercise. Shih Tzus love to snuggle and are great for low-energy families.

They aren’t the most intelligent canines but smart enough to follow commands and obey your training. Even with some health problems, they can live relatively long lives alongside you and the rest of the family. Of course, all dogs must be socialized from a young age, but most Shih Tzus are friendly and welcoming to humans and other pets.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Shih Tzu

Most dogs today were bred for a specific purpose, such as catching rodents, guarding land, or herding sheep. Shih Tzus are one of the rare breeds that were created solely for companionship. A Shih Tzu wants to be with you at all times. Affection is their most enduring trait. They may not be complete couch potatoes, but don’t expect them to go for long runs or hunt with you either.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

Shih Tzus make the perfect family dogs because of how social and loving they are. You don’t have to have acres of land for them, either. They’re suitable for many lifestyles ranging from big cities to rural residences. Their small body also makes it easy to travel with them so that they don’t have to get left behind. Many people even take them on airplanes in carriers. If they are at your side, Shih Tzus are happy to do whatever you and your family have planned.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

Shih Tzu dogs can get a little protective of their families when strangers and other dogs come around. However, the more they interact with new places, animals, and people, the friendlier they become. This is crucial with all dog breeds, but you won’t have to be as patient with a Shih Tzu.

Things to Know When Owning a Shih Tzu:

While Shih Tzus are amazing to have around, they have their own set of demands that might not work for everybody. Always consider all factors that go into owning a dog before bringing one home. The more you understand about the breed, the easier it is to decide whether they’re going to be a good fit in your life.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

One of the top questions among dog owners is how much to feed their dogs. Different breeds require various amounts of food to sustain their energy. Shih Tzus are a toy breed and don’t need nearly as much as a larger dog. In general, your Shih Tzu should eat ¾ cup to 1¼ cups of dog food for every 10 pounds of weight. Always follow the serving guide listed on the dog food’s packaging, and consult your veterinarian for feeding tips.

Exercise 🐕

Shih Tzus don’t require as much exercise as other dogs. Two or three short, 15-minute walks during the day should be plenty. You can also take one long 30- or 40-minute walk. However, not all Shi Tzus enjoy walking for long periods, and they might resist.

Training 🎾

Shih Tzus are moderately intelligent but aren’t afraid to push back during training. They are a bit picky overall, and patience is required when training them. Still, their whole life is based on pleasing you. They’ll quickly catch on to your demands with lots of positive praise and reinforcement.

Grooming ✂️

One issue that scares several people away from this breed is the grooming requirements. A Shih Tzu’s long, flowing locks are beautiful but also a handful. Some pet parents trim their coats short for easier maintenance.

You should brush your Shih Tzu with a fine comb at least three times a week. During the yearly shedding season, you may have to increase this to a daily routine. They can be bathed as often as you like but remember to brush out their tangles before the fur dries. Try to comb their mustache and the top of their heads daily and keep the area trimmed and clean.

Aside from the extra attention to their coat, the rest of the grooming process is basic. For example, brush their teeth occasionally, clean their inner eyes regularly, and trim their nails as you would with any other dog.

Health and Conditions 🏥

While they don’t have many life-threatening conditions, Shih Tzus do have quite a few health problems that could arise in their lifetime. Stay on top of these problems with regular trips to the vet, especially if you notice any sudden changes in their behavior.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Shih Tzu

1. Shih Tzus Were the Dogs of a Chinese emperor.

Owning a Shih Tzu means you bring home a little bit of Chinese history with you. There were imperial breeders inside the Chinese Emperor’s palace centuries ago. Rather than being bred as working dogs, they were bred to sit around the palace and act as companions and lap dogs.

2. They Almost Went Extinct.

Shih Tzus were almost wiped out during the Chinese communist revolution. After the leader of a well-known breeding program died, the program stopped breeding Shih Tzus. Only 14 dogs were left. Today, all Shih Tzus can be traced back to those 14 dogs.

3. Shih Tzus Can’t Tolerate Hot Weather.

As you learn more about their thick coat, you start to realize that Shih Tzu dogs do not do well in hot climates. Their flat faces make it more difficult to breathe, and their double coat makes it nearly impossible to cool off.

Final Thoughts

Those of us who are looking for a new dog are most likely just wanting a companion to be by our side. Shih Tzus are some of the best companions you can have. After all, that is exactly what they were bred for. Their small size, flat faces, and flowing fur makes them look absolutely adorable, while their happy, affectionate temperament makes them the perfect friends. If you’ve been going back and forth on whether a Shih Tzu is right for you, think about how they are going to fit into your lifestyle instead of their personalities because there are few people who don’t enjoy a Shih Tzu after spending time around them.

Featured Image Credit: Tatiana Gasich, Shutterstock