Shih Tzu - Breed Overview

The Shih Tzu is a small, Maltese-type breed originating from China. They have a long, luxurious coat & an adorable sweet faced expression. Bred to be man’s best friend these low energy dogs make for a great companion. They are intelligent and loving creatures that were originally bred to be royal lap dogs. Their name translates in Chinese to “Lion Dog” as legend holds they were bred to resemble mini-lions.

Care and Grooming

Shih Tzu’s require regular brushing to prevent their long, thick coats from becoming matted and tangled. Regular brushing also helps maintain a healthy coat by removing dirt and preventing shedding. Due to their pint-sized build, they will need to be groomed and clipped as they age to keep their coats healthy and manageable.

Training and Socialization

Shih Tzus can be trained to be very well behaved dogs, although it may take a bit more patience and practice than with other breeds. It is important to begin their socialization process early. Introduce them to new people, sounds, and environments to encourage them to be sociable and trusting of new people.

Health and Wellness

Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, living an average lifespan of 10-15 years. Of course, all breeds can be prone to certain health issues, of which a responsible pet parent should remember to stay on top of. This breed is especially prone to eye problems, respiratory issues, and dental issues.

Living Environment

Shih Tzus are bred as companion dogs and as such they will prefer to stay close to their owners, rather than running around and exploring the outdoors. They are adaptable to both urban and rural environments, but they stay calmer with a moderate activity level.

Temperament and Personality

Shih Tzus can be an loving, affectionate, and devoted companions. They are usually gentle-natured and easy going, with a curiosity and playful attitude. This breed is also brave and loyal, making them a popular breed for families.

Common Challenges

Shih Tzus will need plenty of attention and affection from their owners, as they don't do too well with loneliness. Their small size also means they can be easily overwhelmed by too much noise and activity, so they may need to be re-socialized to certain environments. As they are a low-energy breed, their exercise requirements are low and their diet must be monitored to make sure they don’t gain too much weight.