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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Coton-Tzu for sale
Shih Tzu Richmond (Virginia) June 5, 2025 $ 700.00Frosty is a sweet, loving 11 week old Coton-Tzu. He is microchipped. Vaccination records will be provided. Will come with his crate, food, and favorite chew toys! We are unable to keep him due to unforeseen circumstances. He will be a great addition ...
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Adorable full bred shih tzu female puppy
Shih Tzu Altoona (Pennsylvania) May 30, 2025 $ 600.00Adorable full bred shih tzu female puppy She's 14 weeks old She's going to be small around 6-8 lbs adult She incorporates vaccinations paper and vet checked certicate She is puppy potty pad and Crate trained Asking 600.00 firm Must call
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Male and female Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Los Angeles (California) May 18, 2025 $ 1800.00Male and female Shih Tzu puppies for sale, tricolor and white / brown available. They are in excellent health, are lovely, and are intelligent. Shots were given for the first time, and the puppy was dewormed four times. They come with CKC registratio...
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6 month old shih tzu full breed
Shih Tzu Jacksonville FL (Florida) May 18, 2025 $ 800.00Selling my sweet little girl Shih tzu, Coco. She's a 6 month old shih tzu full breed and that i hold the documents for your also. Unfortunately life hit a turn on i and me cant manage her you can forget. I'm positioned in Jacksonville Fl and i also D...
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1 Male & 1 Female Shih Tzu puppy
Shih Tzu Claremore (Oklahoma) May 10, 2025 $ 500.00These adorable AKC Shih Tzu puppies are up for sale, and they are of exquisite quality. There is only one male and one female puppy available, both of whom are eight weeks old, vet checked, and have received their necessary shots and wormings. They h...
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10 weeks old female Shih tzu puppy sale
Shih Tzu San Antonio (Texas) May 7, 2025 $ 500.0010 weeks old female Shih tzu puppy sale. She's VERY smart, she is not fixed, she's purebred but not papered, she's approximately 4 lbs, she's licensed, housebroken, kennel/crate trained, knows basic commands like: sit stay lay down come out and down....
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10 months old Shih Tzu mix
Shih Tzu Rochester (New York) April 28, 2025 $ 1000.00I have a puppy about 10 months old needing a fantastic home jane is a Shih Tzu mix not sure exactly what the other mix is but she is a great dog we only not have the time to deal with her, jane is trained to head outdoors as well as crate trained she...
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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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Purebred 8 weeks old male Shih Tzu puppies
Shih Tzu (California) April 27, 2025 $ 1000.00I currently have two male Shih Tzu puppies that are purebred and available for an ew homes. They are 8 weeks old and have received their first set of vaccinations. I will provide their shot records as well. These puppies belong to the imperial variet...
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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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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...
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Gorgeous Shih Tzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Miami (Florida) April 15, 2025 $ 1000.00Gorgeous Shih Tzu puppies, eight weeks old, are available for sale! They come with vaccinations and ACA registration papers, and they're all set to find a loving home. If you're interested, please call Luis or Maritz.
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3 yrs old ShihTzu mix for Adoption
Shih Tzu Portland (Oregon) April 11, 2025 $ 800.003 yrs old, a ShihTzu mix, and weighs 20 lbs, but could use to lose a few of those, so leashed walks are something she will learn how to love! Right now, she's less than sure and choose to follow treats and cuddles! She selected her first real car rid...
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Red Shih Tzu for sale 1 girl and 3 boys left
Shih Tzu Charlotte (North Carolina) April 11, 2025 $ 800.00Red & White color Shih Tzu Puppies for sale. 1 girl and 3 boys left, girl 900/ boy 800 I send my puppies off with the greatest care I can offer up until they are taken to their fur-ever home. They come with: CKC registration papers, have been de-...
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Shihtzu boy puppy 5 months old
Shih Tzu Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) April 7, 2025 $ 1500.00We're getting out of the Shih Tzu business, so he'll need a new home! He is a 5-month-old baby. He enjoys car rides, has initiated wearing a harness, is a good boy who does not go potty in the kennel building, and gets along well with other dogs, cat...
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ShihTzu / Bichon Frise puppies available
Shih Tzu Augusta (Georgia) April 7, 2025 $ 500.00I have 3 ShihTzu / Bichon Frise puppies available for Re-homing at this time. They are update on all shots, dewormers and shot records, 8 weeks old and ready to go. They are healthy Teddy bear puppies, friendly and they use crate-trained puppy pads. ...
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Gorgeous white and black male Shih-Tzu puppy
Shih Tzu Rockford (Illinois) April 5, 2025 $ 500.00Gorgeous white and black male Shih-Tzu puppy. Just turned 9 weeks old. Asking $500. Parents on premises. To great home only. He or she is VERY loving and friendly. Would rather take place and present kisses. Loves kids and other animals. He doesn't h...
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Full-blooded Shihtzu puppies for sale
Shih Tzu Atlanta (Georgia) April 5, 2025 $ 650.00Full-blooded Shihtzu puppies for sale. Both mom and dad have been recorded and since puppies they have been our babies. The puppies are approximately 3 weeks old and inspected. Shihtzu puppies are 10 pounds, not allergic and non-shedding, which are c...
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10 weeks old fullblooded Female Shih Tzu puppy for sale
Shih Tzu Douglasville (Georgia) April 3, 2025 $ 1750.0010 weeks old fullblooded Female Shih Tzu puppy for sale. She has been vet checked/examined and is a healthy little girl. The veterinarian administered the first vaccines and dewormers. She is toy-sized in height and will not weigh more than 10 pounds...
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4 Shih Tzu puppies needing new homes
Shih Tzu Kansas City (Missouri) April 3, 2025 $ 950.00We still have four Shih Tzu puppies available, which were born on February 9th, 2023. They have received their initial dewormer, shots, and registration. The paperwork is included, and we currently have one female puppy and three male puppies remaini...