Small breed
Shih Tzu Puppies
Sweet companion, perfect for cozy living
- Adult weight 9–16 lbs
- Height 9–10 in
- Lifespan 10–16 years
- Exercise 30 min a day
2 available now
Available Shih Tzu Puppies
About the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, a delightful companion with a rich history, originated centuries ago in the imperial palaces of China. Bred to be a lapdog for royalty, this small breed has since captured the hearts of families around the world with its charming personality and affectionate nature. If you are looking for a loyal friend who thrives on companionship, the Shih Tzu could be perfect for you. Its warm disposition makes it a wonderful choice for families, as it is particularly fond of children and gets along well with other dogs and even cats, which means your home can be a joyful hub of interactions and love.
Read more about the Shih Tzu Show less
With a moderate energy level, Shih Tzus enjoy daily walks and playful activities but are equally content lounging beside you on the couch. Their adaptability makes them ideal for apartment living, as they do not require vast spaces to thrive. Regular exercise, combined with their gentle demeanor, ensures they remain happy and healthy companions. Grooming is an essential part of caring for a Shih Tzu, requiring weekly attention to their luxurious coats, which, while shedding moderately, can be managed with a good brushing routine.
This breed is intelligent and trainable, although they sometimes have a mind of their own. Consistent training methods paired with positive reinforcement will yield the best results. Shih Tzus thrive on affection and are known to express joy through their vocalizations, so be prepared for a little barking now and then. Overall, if you choose to welcome a Shih Tzu into your home, you will be rewarded with a devoted friend who loves being part of every family gathering and adventure. Whether you live in Furrylicious® or a nearby community, this breed will surely bring warmth and joy to your life.
Shih Tzu breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
-
Affection Devoted
-
Playfulness Very playful
-
With strangers Friendly
-
Territorial Relaxed
-
Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
-
Young children Good
-
Older children Good
-
Other dogs Sociable
-
Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
-
Energy Moderate
-
Mental stimulation Moderate
Training
-
Trainability Willing learner
-
Intelligence Bright
-
Stubbornness A stubborn streak
Care & upkeep
-
Shedding Moderate
-
Drooling Minimal
-
Barking Vocal
Home life
-
Apartment living Well suited
-
Time alone Short periods
-
Cold weather Needs a coat
-
Warm weather Average
A good match for
-
First-time owners Ideal first dog
-
Senior owners Good
-
Running partner Not suited
-
Hiking Not suited
-
Therapy work Good
-
Guarding Low
Living with a Shih Tzu
Temperament & Family Fit
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate breed that thrives on companionship and love. They are particularly good with young kids and other pets, making them a wonderful addition to any family. With their friendly demeanor and playful personality, these little dogs bring joy and laughter into the home.
Energy & Exercise
While Shih Tzus have moderate energy levels, they are quite adaptable and do well in apartment living. Short walks and indoor play sessions are typically sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. These little companions enjoy their relaxed lifestyle, but they still appreciate opportunities for socializing and light activity.
Care & Grooming
Shih Tzus require weekly grooming to keep their luxurious coat looking its best, as they shed moderately. Regular brushing will help minimize tangles and maintain a neat appearance, which many owners find enjoyable. With their low to moderate maintenance needs, these pups are perfect for those who love their furry friends but want a manageable grooming routine.
Training Notes
Training a Shih Tzu can be quite rewarding, as they are generally eager to please their owners. While they may not be the quickest learners, consistent and positive reinforcement techniques can lead to great results. Patience and gentle guidance will help your Shih Tzu become a well-mannered member of the family.
Caring for a Shih Tzu
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Low
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Shih Tzu Video
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great companions. They often bond closely with their families and usually get along well with children and other pets, including cats and dogs. You'll find their loving disposition captivating and their playful spirit delightful.
Are Shih Tzus good for apartment living?
Absolutely! Shih Tzus are small in size and adapt exceptionally well to apartment living. Their moderate energy levels mean they can thrive in smaller spaces as long as they receive regular walks and playtime. Living in Furrylicious®? This breed would be a fantastic choice for your home.
How much grooming do Shih Tzus require?
Shih Tzus typically need grooming once a week. Regular brushing helps keep their coat healthy and free of tangles. With a little love and care, you will enjoy the grooming process as a lovely bonding experience with your furry friend.
Are Shih Tzus easy to train?
Shih Tzus are generally considered to have a moderate level of trainability. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with them, as they respond well to rewards and praise. Patience and consistency are key, so you may need to spend some extra time helping them learn commands.
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
Shih Tzus have a tendency to bark more than some other breeds, making them excellent watchdogs. While they will alert you to visitors or unusual sounds, regular training can help manage excessive barking. With the right approach, you can ensure they learn when it's appropriate to bark.
