Shih Tzu Breed Information

Shih Tzu Personality

The Shih Tzu is quite lively and gay with a charming manner that wins the hearts of all. This breed thrives on human companionship. It is friendly, but it will tolerate no nonsense. A proud and stately breed. The Shih Tzu is somewhat stubborn, although very receptive to training and easy to spoil. View our Shih Tzu Puppies for sale.

Shih Tzu Puppies

From 2 to 4 puppies in a litter. Whelping sometimes difficult. Coat color changes after birth. Dogs mature at 1 1/2 to 2 years. Life expectancy 10 to 12 years.

Comments about Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu—whose name means ‘lion” in Chinese—is believed to be of Tibetan origin and could be related to the Pekingese, but this is not certain. During the 7th century, these tiny dogs with long, flowing locks captivated the Chinese imperial court and were immortalized in countless sculptures and paintings. Up until the revolution, the breed remained one of the favorite house pets of Chinese royalty. Imported into England from China in about 1930, the breed was brought to the United States after World War II by returning servicemen and was accepted by the American Kennel Club registry in 1969. Since then the Shih Tzu’s popularity has grown rapidly.

Shih Tzu Potential Health Problems

Fairly healthy toy. Subject to breathing difficulties, respiratory infections, eye injury and irritations, and inadequate tear production. Tendency toward bad teeth and retention of first teeth; teeth need weekly care. Kidney problems and slipped stifles are common. Possible allergic skin disease and ear problems.

Care and Exercise for your Shih Tzu

Requires weekly brushing and bathing for show purposes. Must be blown dry after bath. No trimming needed, but cute pet trims are available. Check eyes daily. Head hair should be kept up with a rubber band or a barrette, which helps prevent eye irritations. Attend to ears weekly and check teeth routinely. Needs minimal exercise. If dog has very full coat, paper train and keep indoors to maintain show elegance. Avoid weather extremes of any kind.

Shih Tzu Recommendations

Very affectionate and hardy, the Shih Tzu gets along well with children, if not handled roughly. It loves the outdoors and likes to play in all weather; for show purposes, however, it must be kept indoors to protect its coat. Quick- moving, the Shih Tzu responds well in a family situation. An owner should be prepared to spend time on grooming this stylish breed.

Shih Tzu Ideal Appearance

Small dog with luxurious, flowing coat. Appears to have a pronounced mustache. Males and bitches, 8” to 11” tall and 9 to 18 pounds; ideal size, 9” to 10½” and 12 to 15 pounds. Broad, round head. Square, short, unwrinkled muzzle with pronounced stop. Dark, large, appealing round eyes. Large, long, hanging ears. Body slightly longer than high, with level topline and broad, deep chest. Rather large, firm feet, with hair between pads. High-set tail carried over back. Long, dense coat with undercoat may be wavy but not curly. All colors permissible. Black nose, except in dogs with liver markings, which may have liver nose.

Suited to Urban Life: HIGH
Good Watchdog: NO
Exercise Advisable: LOW
Grooming Care: HIGH
Size Group: SMALL