A Shih Tzu can be a wonderful family dog. Before you bring one home, though, it helps to know what daily life with this breed really looks like. This guide covers temperament, size, grooming, health basics, life with kids and seniors, and what to expect in the first weeks.
What Is a Shih Tzu Like? Temperament and Personality
The Shih Tzu was bred to be a companion, plain and simple. The American Shih Tzu Club's breed standard says the breed's "sole purpose" is to be a companion and house pet, and that its temperament should be "outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting towards all."
VCA Animal Hospitals describes the Shih Tzu as both an affectionate lap dog and a fun-loving companion. VCA also notes the breed is outgoing toward strangers and good with other dogs and pets. The American Shih Tzu Club calls the breed "lively and alert but not in the least high strung," and says a Shih Tzu may bark to let you know someone is at the door.
Training: Smart, Sweet, and a Little Stubborn
Shih Tzu learn quickly but can have a stubborn streak. According to VCA, they don't do well with force-based training and respond best to reward-based training with food or games. VCA also notes that housetraining can be harder than with many other breeds, so plan on patience and consistency.
How Big Does a Shih Tzu Get?
The Shih Tzu is a small toy breed with a sturdy build. The American Shih Tzu Club standard describes it as "sturdy, lively, alert" and "compact, solid." Ideal height is 9 to 10½ inches at the shoulder, and ideal adult weight is 9 to 16 pounds. The American Kennel Club (AKC) lists the same height and weight ranges and gives a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years. That means a Shih Tzu can be part of your family for a long time.
Exercise Needs
You don't need a big yard or a marathon schedule. VCA says a walk around the block once or twice a day will meet a Shih Tzu's outdoor needs, along with indoor games and the mental stimulation of sniffing around outside. The American Shih Tzu Club says the breed can be happy in an apartment or on a farm.
Coat and Grooming: The Biggest Commitment
That long, flowing coat is beautiful, but it takes work. The breed standard describes the coat as "luxurious, double-coated, dense, long, and flowing." VCA recommends brushing and combing every other day to prevent mats. VCA also notes that shedding is below average.
Here's what regular grooming usually includes:
- Brushing: Brush and comb often. Brush out mats before a bath, because water tends to "set in" mats.
- Bathing: The American Shih Tzu Club suggests a pet Shih Tzu will probably need a bath about every three weeks, or more often if they get dirty.
- Face and eyes: Keep stray hairs and lashes away from the eyes. The club recommends daily face cleaning.
- Ears and feet: Check the ears weekly, since they have poor air circulation. Trim the hair between the foot pads so it doesn't mat.
- Short trims: Many owners choose professional grooming or a shorter, easier "puppy clip."
If daily brushing isn't realistic for your household, plan on budgeting for a professional groomer.
Shih Tzu Health Basics
Every breed has its own health considerations. Here are the general ones to know for Shih Tzu. Your veterinarian is always your best guide.
Breathing and Heat (Brachycephalic Breed)
Shih Tzu are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a shortened skull and a pushed-in face. In some dogs this can affect breathing, a condition called brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Signs can include noisy breathing, snorting, and snoring. Signs are often worse in hot or humid weather, and affected dogs overheat more easily. VCA notes that Shih Tzu are prone to overheating in warm weather, and the American Shih Tzu Club warns against car rides in hot weather.
Practical tips from VCA: keep your dog lean, since extra weight makes breathing harder, and use a harness that doesn't tug at the neck if your dog has BOAS.
Eyes
Brachycephalic dogs often have eye issues tied to their face shape, such as tearing, tear staining, and a higher risk of corneal problems like ulcers. PDSA lists dry eye among the eye problems seen in Shih Tzu. AKC lists eye discharge among the signs to have checked by your vet.
Teeth
A short muzzle can lead to crowded or misaligned teeth. VCA notes the breed is prone to periodontal (gum) problems, which can be prevented in large part by regular tooth brushing.
Tiny Puppies and Blood Sugar
VCA recommends feeding Shih Tzu puppies often, because very small puppies are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be serious. Ask your vet about a feeding schedule for your puppy.
Is a Shih Tzu Good With Kids?
VCA describes Shih Tzu as playful and good with children, but says kids must be supervised because they could easily hurt such a small dog. AKC notes that young children especially should learn not to disturb a sleeping puppy.
The American Shih Tzu Club also reminds families not to leave the dog in the yard for the children to care for. A Shih Tzu needs an adult's care.
Is a Shih Tzu a Good Fit for Seniors?
A Shih Tzu's small size and modest exercise needs can suit a quieter household. The American Shih Tzu Club calls the breed "very docile" and says it's happy to play, or to simply sleep when you want to be left alone.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
- Grooming: Think about who will handle regular brushing and grooming, or whether a groomer fits the budget.
- Fall safety: A CDC report found that tripping over a dog is a common cause of pet-related falls, and that older adults are especially vulnerable to those injuries. Simple habits help, like keeping toys and bowls out of walkways and checking where your dog is before you walk.
The First Weeks at Home With Your Shih Tzu Puppy
Those first days and weeks set the tone. Here's what AKC recommends:
- Book a vet visit. Your vet should check your puppy within the first few days. Call ahead to get an appointment.
- Start slowly. Introduce family members one at a time if you can, and keep your puppy supervised or in view.
- Set up a crate. It should be just big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down. Never force your puppy inside.
- Build a routine. A consistent schedule helps a puppy feel secure. Set a regular bedtime.
- Let them sleep. Young puppies may sleep 16 to 18 hours a day.
- Watch for warning signs. Call your vet about diarrhea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, or discharge from the eyes or nose.
Visit Sherman's Shih Tzu Puppies
If you're thinking a Shih Tzu might be the right fit, we'd love to talk with you. Sherman's Shih Tzu Puppies is a family Shih Tzu breeder in Niota, Tennessee, run by Shannon Sherman.
- Pickup only: Our puppies are pickup only and are never shipped.
- Video visits: Can't make it in person yet? Video visits are available by FaceTime call or text.
- Questions? Call or text Shannon at 423-920-3750.
Book a visit to meet our Shih Tzu puppies and get your questions answered.