Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred for one job and one job only: being delightful companions, and it shows in every wag of their tail. They're outgoing little charmers who genuinely thrive on human attention, happily flopping into laps and following family members from room to room. In a family setting, they tend to be gentle and patient, making them a sweet choice for households with respectful children.
Behavior & traits
- affectionate lap dog
- gentle with kids
- friendly with strangers
- adaptable
- people focused
Health concerns
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, which means they can struggle with breathing in heat or during heavy exercise, so families should be mindful on hot days. They're also prone to eye issues, dental problems due to their small mouths, and occasional hip or patella concerns. Routine vet checkups, daily tooth brushing, and gentle eye cleaning go a long way in keeping them healthy.
Responsible breeding and regular check-ups go a long way. Always ask breeders about health testing.
Feeding & nutrition
A high-quality small-breed dog food works well, typically split into two measured meals a day to prevent the weight gain Shih Tzus are prone to. Because of their short snouts, a shallow bowl makes eating easier and cleaner. Watch the treats during training — those calories add up quickly in such a tiny body.
Exercise needs
Shih Tzus have modest exercise needs and are happy with a couple of short daily walks plus some indoor playtime. A 20–30 minute walk combined with a game of fetch down the hallway usually does the trick. They overheat easily, so families should aim for early morning or evening outings in warm weather.
Living with a Shih Tzu
Living with a Shih Tzu is a bit like having a tiny, furry shadow who genuinely believes the couch was invented for them. They're cheerful morning greeters, enthusiastic snack supervisors, and champion nappers who love being wherever the family is. Expect daily brushing (or regular trips to the groomer for a shorter 'puppy cut'), and don't be surprised by their stubborn streak — they're smart, but they have opinions. Housetraining can take patience, and they can be a bit barky at the doorbell, but their affection and adaptability more than make up for it. Families often say their Shih Tzu is the heart of the home, knitting everyone together with their easygoing, loving nature.
Recommended products
A quality pin brush and metal comb are non-negotiable for managing that long, silky coat, along with tear-stain wipes for their expressive eyes and a gentle puppy-formula shampoo. A padded step-in harness is far kinder to their delicate trachea than a collar for walks. Invest in a shallow, tip-proof food bowl suited to flat-faced breeds, soft plush toys for cuddly play, and a cozy orthopedic bed — because a Shih Tzu's true calling is napping in style.
Reads for Shih Tzu owners
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A Grooming Guide for Dogs That Need a Little Extra Care
If your dog's coat keeps growing instead of shedding out, you know the drill: one skipped week and suddenly there are mats hiding under all that fluff. Here's how to brush, bathe, and dry a long-haired dog the right way at home — plus the exact moment to hand things off to a pro.
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Engaging Activities for Border Collies: A How-To Guide
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Before the Puppy Arrives: A Pre-Arrival Checklist for Your Senior Dog
Your calm senior dog has been quietly compensating for aches, stiffness, and fading senses for years — and a new puppy is about to expose all of it. This pre-arrival checklist walks you through the vet workup, pain baseline, and home setup to tackle in the weeks *before* pickup day, so your older dog isn't blindsided by the chaos.