Shih Tzu
An ancient Chinese companion breed with a luxurious flowing coat and a calm, friendly temperament that makes the Shih Tzu a wonderful household pet for owners of all ages.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
The Shih Tzu, whose name translates as "lion dog" in Mandarin, is an ancient breed with roots in the imperial courts of China. DNA analysis has confirmed the Shih Tzu as one of the most ancient dog breeds still in existence, closely related to wolves in its genetic makeup despite looking nothing like one. The breed is believed to have been developed by crossing the Lhasa Apso from Tibet with the Pekingese in the Chinese imperial palace.
For centuries, Shih Tzus were the exclusive companions of Chinese emperors and were rarely seen outside the palace walls. They were bred purely as companion dogs, designed to sit on the laps of royalty and warm their feet. The Dowager Empress Cixi is said to have maintained an extensive breeding programme, and her dogs were considered so valuable that she refused to sell or gift them to outsiders.
The first Shih Tzus arrived in England in 1930, brought by Lady Brownrigg, wife of the quartermaster general of the North China Command. The breed quickly gained admirers, and the Kennel Club recognised it in 1946. Since then, the Shih Tzu has become one of the most popular toy breeds in the UK, beloved for its friendly disposition, glamorous coat, and undeniable charm.
Appearance
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, compact little dog with a luxurious, flowing double coat that gives it a distinctly regal appearance. They typically stand 25 to 27 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 4.5 and 8 kg. The head is broad and round, with a short, square muzzle and large, dark, expressive eyes that peer out from beneath a generous topknot of hair.
The coat is one of the breed's defining features: dense, long, and flowing, with a soft, thick undercoat. All colours are accepted, with white blazes on the forehead and white tail tips being particularly valued. The most commonly seen colours are gold and white, red and white, and solid black, though you will also find brindle, liver, silver, and blue variations.
The tail is set high and carried in a plume over the back, adding to the breed's elegant silhouette. Despite their somewhat delicate appearance, Shih Tzus are surprisingly solid and muscular, and they move with a smooth, flowing gait that makes their coat ripple impressively.
Is a Shih Tzu Right for You?
Shih Tzus are outstanding companion dogs that suit a wide range of households. They are particularly well-suited to people who enjoy grooming and maintaining a dog's appearance, as the coat demands regular attention. They thrive in flats, houses, and everything in between, adapting happily to whatever space is available.
They are good with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them a versatile family pet. Their moderate exercise needs and calm indoor demeanour make them an appealing choice for older owners or those with limited mobility.
- Excellent choice for first-time owners who enjoy grooming
- Well-suited to flat living and urban environments
- Can be kept in a low-maintenance "puppy clip" to reduce grooming time
- Generally quiet and not prone to excessive barking
- Can be difficult to house train, so patience is essential
- Brachycephalic breed, so care is needed in warm weather
Living with a Shih Tzu
Day-to-day life with a Shih Tzu is relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable. These dogs are calm, cheerful, and surprisingly independent for a toy breed. Unlike some companion dogs that demand constant attention, Shih Tzus are happy to amuse themselves for short periods, though they certainly prefer company and will follow you around the house with quiet contentment.
They need around 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily, which can be broken into a couple of short walks and some playtime. Shih Tzus enjoy gentle walks and will trot along happily, but they are not built for vigorous exercise or long hikes. In warm weather, keep walks short and stick to shaded routes, as their flat faces can make breathing difficult in the heat.
At home, Shih Tzus are affectionate without being overwhelming. They enjoy a cuddle on the sofa and will happily sit beside you while you read or watch television. They are generally quiet dogs, only barking to alert you to visitors, and they have a gentle, trusting nature that makes them a joy to live with.
Shih Tzus are notoriously difficult to house train, and many owners find this the most challenging aspect of the breed. Consistency, patience, and a strict routine are your best tools, and crate training can be very helpful.
Training Tips
Shih Tzus are intelligent but have an independent streak that can make training a test of patience. They are not naturally eager to please in the way that some working breeds are, preferring to consider requests before deciding whether to comply. This is not stubbornness so much as self-assurance, and it can be managed with the right approach.
Positive reinforcement using treats and praise is the most effective method. Keep sessions short, varied, and interesting to maintain their attention. Shih Tzus respond poorly to repetition and may lose interest if asked to perform the same exercise repeatedly.
- Start socialisation and basic training early
- Use high-value treats and make training feel like a game
- Be very patient with house training, as it can take several months
- Teach your Shih Tzu to accept grooming from puppyhood
- Avoid carrying them everywhere, as they need to build confidence on the ground
Temperament
The Shih Tzu possesses one of the most even-tempered and agreeable dispositions of any breed. These dogs are friendly, trusting, and remarkably easy-going, taking life at a comfortable pace and rarely getting worked up about anything. They are confident without being pushy, affectionate without being clingy, and sociable without being overbearing.
Bred for centuries as pure companion dogs, Shih Tzus have an innate understanding of the human-dog bond. They are intuitive and responsive to their owners' moods, offering quiet companionship when you need peace and playful interaction when you are in the mood for fun. They are not demanding dogs, but they do appreciate being included in family life.
Shih Tzus are generally good with everyone, from children to elderly visitors, and they tend to get along well with other animals. They are not territorial or aggressive, and conflicts with other dogs are rare. Their calm, gentle nature makes them popular therapy dogs, and their willingness to be handled makes them a good choice for families.
One thing to be aware of is that Shih Tzus can be somewhat aloof with strangers initially, preferring to observe newcomers from a safe distance before approaching on their own terms. This is not fearfulness but rather a dignified reserve that befits their imperial ancestry.
Exercise Needs
Shih Tzus have modest exercise requirements, making them an excellent choice for owners who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. Around 30 to 45 minutes of daily activity is sufficient, which can be split between two short walks and some gentle play at home.
They enjoy leisurely strolls through the park or around the neighbourhood, and many Shih Tzus are happy to potter around a secure garden. They are not built for vigorous exercise and should not be taken on long hikes or runs. Their flat faces mean they can struggle with breathing during strenuous activity, and care must be taken in warm weather.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Puzzle feeders, scent games, and short training sessions will keep their minds engaged. Shih Tzus also enjoy interactive play with their owners, and a game of gentle tug or a stuffed toy to shake can provide entertainment for both of you.
Grooming
The Shih Tzu's magnificent coat is its crowning glory, but it comes with significant grooming demands. A full show coat requires daily brushing and combing to prevent matting and tangling, which is a substantial time commitment. Most pet owners opt for a shorter "puppy clip," trimmed every six to eight weeks by a professional groomer, which dramatically reduces daily maintenance.
Even in a puppy clip, regular brushing every two to three days is recommended to keep the coat clean and tangle-free. Pay particular attention to the areas behind the ears, under the legs, and around the belly, where mats form most readily. A steel comb and a slicker brush are essential tools.
Bathing is needed every two to three weeks for Shih Tzus in full coat, or once a month for those in a shorter clip. Use a quality dog shampoo and conditioner, and ensure the coat is thoroughly dried afterwards, as dampness trapped against the skin can cause irritation.
Facial care is important for this breed. Clean around the eyes daily to prevent tear staining, and keep the hair around the face trimmed or tied up to avoid irritating the eyes. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and teeth brushing should complete your grooming routine.
Health
Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs with a good lifespan, but like all breeds, they have certain health predispositions. As a brachycephalic breed, they can suffer from breathing difficulties, particularly in hot or humid weather. Keep them cool during summer and avoid strenuous exercise in warm conditions.
Eye problems are relatively common due to the breed's large, prominent eyes. Conditions such as corneal ulcers, dry eye, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can occur. Regular eye checks and prompt veterinary attention for any signs of irritation are important.
Other conditions seen in the breed include intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which causes back problems, luxating patella, hip dysplasia, and certain kidney conditions. Dental disease is also prevalent, so regular dental care is essential.
Responsible breeders will test for eye conditions, and you should ask to see health certificates before purchasing a puppy. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight will help your Shih Tzu live a long and comfortable life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Shih Tzus shed?
Shih Tzus have a double coat that sheds minimally compared to many breeds. They are often described as a low-shedding breed, which can make them more suitable for people with mild allergies. However, they are not truly hypoallergenic, and regular grooming is essential to prevent matting.
Are Shih Tzus hard to house train?
Yes, Shih Tzus are widely regarded as one of the more challenging breeds to house train. Patience, consistency, and a strict routine are essential. Crate training and taking them outside at regular intervals, especially after meals and naps, will help establish good habits.
How much grooming does a Shih Tzu need?
A full coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming. Most pet owners keep their Shih Tzu in a shorter puppy clip, which still needs brushing every two to three days and professional trimming every six to eight weeks.
Are Shih Tzus good for elderly owners?
Yes, Shih Tzus are an excellent choice for older owners. Their calm temperament, modest exercise needs, and manageable size make them ideal companions. However, the grooming demands should be considered, and a puppy clip can make maintenance much easier.
Can Shih Tzus cope with hot weather?
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed and can struggle in hot or humid conditions. Keep them indoors during the hottest part of the day, provide plenty of fresh water, and restrict exercise to cooler morning and evening hours during summer.
How long do Shih Tzus live?
Shih Tzus have a lifespan of 10 to 16 years, with many living well into their teens. Good nutrition, regular veterinary care, dental hygiene, and maintaining a healthy weight all contribute to a long, healthy life.
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