Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu Overview
Height: 9 – 11 inches
Weight: 9 – 16 lbs
Lifespan: 10 – 18 years
Group: Companion / Toy
Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Playful, Outgoing
The Shih Tzu is an ancient toy breed that originated in Tibet and was later developed in China as a cherished companion of Chinese royalty. The name 'Shih Tzu' means 'lion dog' in Chinese, reflecting their distinctive flowing coat and regal bearing. These small, sturdy dogs were bred solely for companionship and have perfected the art of being devoted lap dogs over centuries. Their luxurious double coat requires significant grooming commitment, with daily brushing necessary to prevent matting and tangles. The Shih Tzu's coat can come in various colors and patterns, and many owners keep them in a shorter 'puppy cut' for easier maintenance. Despite their aristocratic appearance, Shih Tzus have playful, outgoing personalities and enjoy moderate activity. They adapt well to apartment living and are generally friendly with children, other dogs, and even cats when properly socialized. Their short muzzle makes them brachycephalic, meaning they can be sensitive to heat and may snore or snort. Shih Tzus are alert watchdogs who will bark to announce visitors, but they're typically not excessive barkers. These dogs thrive on human companionship and don't do well when left alone for long periods. Training requires patience as they can be somewhat stubborn, but positive reinforcement methods work well. Their relatively long lifespan and adaptable nature make them excellent companions for seniors, families, and first-time dog owners who can commit to their grooming needs.
The Shih Tzu's temperament combines affectionate, gentle, playful, outgoing qualities that make them appealing companions for appropriate owners. These dogs form strong bonds with their families, demonstrating loyalty and affection that endears them to household members. Their personality reflects breed-typical characteristics including energy levels suited to their size and original purpose, playfulness that provides entertainment and engagement, and behavioral patterns consistent with their breed heritage. With family members, Shih Tzus typically display affectionate behavior while maintaining individual personality variations that make each dog unique. Their interaction with strangers ranges from friendly acceptance to reserved caution, depending on individual temperament and socialization experiences. The breed's intelligence level influences their trainability and ability to learn commands, tasks, and appropriate household behaviors. Energy levels require consideration when matching this breed to potential owners, as daily activity needs must align with owner lifestyle and capabilities. These dogs may display independence or attachment tendencies that affect their behavior when separated from family members. Behavioral characteristics include vocalizations appropriate to their breed type, territorial awareness that may manifest in protective behaviors, and play styles that reflect their size and temperament. Understanding these temperamental qualities helps potential owners determine compatibility between their lifestyle expectations and the breed's typical behavioral patterns, ensuring successful long-term relationships between dogs and their human families.
Training a Shih Tzu requires understanding their learning style, motivation, and typical breed characteristics that influence training success. These dogs respond to positive reinforcement methods emphasizing reward-based techniques that encourage desired behaviors while building strong human-canine bonds. Early socialization during the critical developmental period between 8-16 weeks of age establishes foundational experiences with various people, animals, environments, and situations that shape adult temperament and behavior. Basic obedience training should begin early, establishing household rules, appropriate behaviors, and communication systems between dogs and owners. Training challenges may include breed-specific tendencies toward independence, stubbornness, or distractibility that require patient, consistent approaches. Consistency among all family members ensures clear communication and prevents confusion that undermines training efforts. Housetraining success depends on regular schedules, appropriate management, and positive reinforcement for eliminating in designated areas. Mental stimulation through training exercises, puzzle toys, and interactive games prevents boredom-related behavioral problems while strengthening cognitive abilities. Professional training classes provide structured learning environments and expert guidance particularly valuable for novice owners or dogs presenting training challenges. Realistic expectations based on breed characteristics, individual temperament, and owner commitment determine training outcomes and long-term success.
The Shih Tzu's exercise requirements reflect their size, energy level, and original purpose, requiring daily physical activity to maintain health and behavioral balance. Adult dogs typically need 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, adjustable based on individual energy levels and age considerations. Appropriate activities include leashed walks providing physical exercise and mental stimulation through environmental exploration, play sessions in securely fenced areas allowing safe off-leash activity, and interactive games strengthening human-canine bonds while meeting exercise needs. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys, scent work, training exercises, and problem-solving activities prevents boredom and provides cognitive enrichment essential for intelligent breeds. Without adequate physical and mental exercise, dogs may develop problematic behaviors including destructive chewing, excessive barking, restless pacing, or attention-seeking activities. Exercise intensity and duration should adjust for puppies, senior dogs, and individuals with health conditions requiring modified activity levels. Weather considerations may necessitate indoor exercise alternatives during extreme temperatures or inclement conditions. Meeting these exercise requirements ensures physical fitness, mental well-being, and appropriate behavior management.
Grooming requirements for the Shih Tzu depend on coat type, length, and texture, requiring regular maintenance to preserve health and appearance. Brushing frequency ranges from weekly for short-coated varieties to daily for long-haired dogs prone to matting and tangling. Bathing should occur every 4-8 weeks or as needed, using quality dog shampoo appropriate for their coat type and skin sensitivity. Professional grooming may be necessary for breeds requiring specialized clipping, stripping, or styling to maintain breed-appropriate appearance. Nail trimming every 2-4 weeks prevents overgrowth causing discomfort and gait problems. Dental care including regular brushing with canine toothpaste prevents periodontal disease and associated health complications. Ear cleaning removes debris and prevents infection, particularly important for dogs with pendant ears or those prone to ear problems. Skin care includes checking for parasites, irritations, or abnormalities during grooming sessions. Seasonal considerations may affect grooming needs, with heavier shedding during coat changes requiring increased brushing frequency. Establishing grooming routines from puppyhood creates positive associations and cooperation during grooming procedures. Proper grooming maintains physical health, prevents discomfort, and strengthens human-canine bonds through regular handling and care.
The Shih Tzu typically enjoys a lifespan of 10 – 18 years, though individual longevity depends on genetics, care quality, and health management throughout life. Like all breeds, they may be predisposed to certain health conditions including genetic disorders, structural problems, or age-related diseases requiring awareness and preventive care. Responsible breeders conduct health testing on breeding stock to minimize hereditary condition transmission and improve overall breed health. Regular veterinary examinations including annual checkups and age-appropriate screening tests enable early disease detection and intervention. Preventive care including vaccinations, parasite control, and dental prophylaxis protects against preventable diseases and health problems. Nutrition plays a crucial role in health maintenance, with quality diet appropriate to age, activity level, and individual needs supporting optimal physical condition. Weight management prevents obesity-related complications including joint stress, diabetes, and reduced lifespan. Exercise appropriate to age and health status maintains cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and joint mobility. Prompt attention to health changes including behavioral shifts, appetite changes, or physical symptoms enables timely veterinary intervention. Genetic testing may identify predispositions to hereditary conditions, informing preventive care strategies and breeding decisions.
The ideal home for a Shih Tzu provides appropriate space, activity opportunities, and family dynamics matching breed characteristics and needs. These dogs adapt to various living situations including apartments or houses, provided exercise and mental stimulation requirements are consistently met. Family suitability depends on household composition, with considerations for children's ages, other pets, and household activity levels affecting compatibility. The breed's tolerance for children varies, with some dogs excellent family companions while others better suited to adult households or families with older, respectful children. Compatibility with other pets depends on individual temperament, socialization experiences, and prey drive intensity that may affect relationships with smaller animals. Climate tolerance influences comfort in different geographic regions, with some breeds adapting to various conditions while others prefer specific temperature ranges. First-time dog owners should carefully consider whether breed characteristics, training requirements, and care needs align with their experience level and lifestyle capabilities. The commitment required for grooming, exercise, training, and healthcare must align with owner resources and willingness to meet these responsibilities throughout the dog's lifetime. Successful matches between dogs and families result from honest assessment of breed requirements and family capabilities, ensuring positive long-term relationships benefiting both dogs and their human companions.
Breed Highlights
Listings
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3 Shih Tzu Puppies Available – 8 Weeks Old
Shih Tzu Harrington (Washington) October 31, 2025 $ 1500.003 precious 8-week-old Shih Tzu puppies are looking for loving families – 2 playful males and 1 sweet female. Mom is AKC registered, Dad is purebred (non-registered). Both parents on-site for you to meet. These sweet pups are ready for their new famil...
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Imperial Shih-tzu puppies for Sale
Shih Tzu Chestnut Mound (Tennessee) June 12, 2025 $ 500.00Imperial (teacup) sized Shih-tzu puppies. 9 weeks old. Vaccinated and dewormed. Non-shedding, thick coats. 1 brindle girl, 2 brindle boys, 2 black and white boys Parents are 4 and 5 lbs. They'll be ready to go home this weekend. We deliver if needed....
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2 males CKC Shihtzu puppies $700
Shih Tzu Jackson (Mississippi) June 8, 2025 $ 700.002 males CKC Shihtzu puppies available. Puppies Raised inside. Parents on premises. First parvo shot and wormed twice $700 Will be READY TO GO on JAN 7,
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4 male Shih tzu puppies left
Shih Tzu (Oregon) May 30, 2025 $ 800.00We are looking for new homes for our adorable Purebred Shih Tzu puppies. These puppies have a striking black and white spotted coat. We currently have two puppies ready to go to their new families on July 19th, and two more will be available on July ...
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Gold and white AKC Shih Tzu puppy for sale
Shih Tzu (Florida) May 23, 2025 $ 1000.00Our dogs are cherished members of our family, and we raise our puppies around kids, cats, and plenty of love. We think Shih Tzus make the ideal family pets. They have just the right amount of energy to enjoy a day at the park with the kids, but they ...
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Liver chocolate Imperial Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu San Diego (California) May 23, 2025 $ 1500.00We have Liver chocolate Imperial Shih Tzu puppies for sale. Liver is a relatively uncommon coat color in this breed. I am not a breeder, but I am looking for loving homes for these puppies. Both parents belong to me. Unfortunately, due to personal re...
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Shih Tzu puppies 4 females and 2 males
Shih Tzu Tucson (Arizona) May 19, 2025 $ 550.00There are 4 females and 2 males. They're going to be 8 weeks old on April 5. I am currently taking deposits so when they're ready to go they'll have homes. You're welcome to come and see them in person at my place. Parents are at the premises. They a...
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1 girl and 1 boy Imperial ShihTzu Puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Tampa (Florida) May 18, 2025 $ 1000.00I've 1 girl and 1 boy Imperial ShihTzu Puppies for sale. They will come with themselves certificate, estimateing these to be 5-6 Ibs full grown similar to the parents. They are offered from the loving home, handled daily and raised around other anima...
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3 males 1 female Shih Tzu Puppies
Shih Tzu Visalia (California) May 16, 2025 $ 500.003 males 1 with female Shih Tzu Puppies for sale. They're going to be prepared on Halloween for their forever home. They're not going to last long as I sold my last litter in an hour. Rehome fee is appropriate both parents are on site.
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Male and female Shih tzu puppies
Shih Tzu Stockton (California) May 15, 2025 $ 1000.00Male and female Shih tzu puppies for sale. The puppies are ready to go home 1/31/20. They're coming with the first shots and all the scheduled deworms. Puppies are pretty small, the most black female is extra small. Along with a one-year health guara...
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Charming purebred Shih-tzu
Shih Tzu Daytona Beach (Florida) May 11, 2025 $ 500.00Totally charming purebred shih-tzu, in search of form and caring owners.Puppies are 3 months old and can be able to go away their parents in four-five weeks. Fees include My number: (813) 375-2444
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Shih Tzu puppies 1,000
Shih Tzu Arlington Heights (Illinois) May 4, 2025 $ 1000.00Shih Tzu puppies 1,000 completely vet consult first group of shots, deworming & puppy kit DOB: 11/14. I own both mom and dad female weights 7lbs & male weights 13lbs puppies wont get any bigger that....I added photos of parents!! I'll have a ...
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Shih tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Georgetown (Kentucky) May 4, 2025 $ 900.00This beautiful litter had one male and one female left. They were born on September 29th and will be ready on November 11th. Both parents are full-blood ShihTzu. Both the mother and father dogs are CKC registered, and the litter will be as well. If y...
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2 male and 3 female Shih Tzu Puppies
Shih Tzu Athens (Georgia) April 29, 2025 $ 800.00We have Shih Tzu puppies in search of a caring forever home! This litter was born on Easter, and we currently have 2 males and 3 females available. The puppies are CKC registered, and they will be vet checked, vaccinated, dewormed, and ready to go to...
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Five Shih tzu puppies available to be rehomed
Shih Tzu Raleigh (North Carolina) April 28, 2025 $ 800.00Five Shih tzu puppies were born on 10 February 2020. Mother (liver colour, 13 lbs); father (tri-colour, 14.5 lbs). They been raised with both parents in our house, with our 5 family and our pet. Mom was given prenatal care, puppies and mom went for r...
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6 week old CKC Shih"Tzu puppies available
Shih Tzu Euharlee (Georgia) April 24, 2025 $ 1000.00Hello, We've 6 week old CKC Shih"Tzu puppies available. They are very beautiful healthy puppies. We have (3girls) (3boys) available, the parents or guardians are in the home when camping. Puppies happen to be toilet trained. Serious inquiries only......
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5 Shih tzu puppies available
Shih Tzu Atlanta (Georgia) April 22, 2025 $ 500.00I have 5 Shihtzu babies available for re-homing. There is a boy and 4 girls. Black tri, white, and chocolate. Both parents on site. Puppies will come with shots and vet checked they also will be registered to CKC. There's a small rehoming fee on each...
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Shih tzu puppies for sale (3 males and 3 females)
Shih Tzu Winston-Salem (North Carolina) April 20, 2025 $ 700.00Shih tzu puppies for sale (3 males and 3 females). They will be at home forever on June 12, will have the first set of shots and will come with CKC registration and dewormed until now. A deposit must be made to hold. Both parent on site. Liver puppie...
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Beautiful Shih Tzu puppies looking for their forever homes
Shih Tzu Eagle (Idaho) April 20, 2025 $ 1000.00We've four beautiful Shih Tzu puppies searching for their forever homes. 2 girls (solid colored puppies) 2 male puppies (white and brown and white and black.) Single parents take presctiption site. Rehoming fee applies.
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8 week old imperial Shihtzu
Shih Tzu Atlanta (Georgia) April 19, 2025 $ 500.00She is an eight-week-old imperial Shih-Tzu puppy who is very playful and enjoys being around people; she would be perfect for someone who has a family or can spend time with her. These puppies are not cheap to look after; they require grooming and gr...