Shih Tzu: Breed Profile, Size, Temperament, Colors and Care
The Shih Tzu is a toy companion dog that weighs 9 to 16 lb (4.1 to 7.3 kg) and stands 8 to 11 inches (20 to 28 cm) at the shoulder. Most live 10 to 18 years. It was bred purely as a companion, and it shows: Shih Tzus are friendly, outgoing and happiest close to their people.
The trade-off is the coat. A Shih Tzu sheds little but needs brushing most days or a short trim, plus regular eye and face cleaning. This guide covers size, temperament, colors, health, care and how the breed compares with other tiny dogs, so you can decide if it fits your home.
Shih Tzu Quick Facts
- Weight: 9 to 16 lb (4.1 to 7.3 kg)
- Height: 8 to 11 inches (20 to 28 cm) at the shoulder
- Lifespan: 10 to 18 years
- Breed group: Toy Group (AKC); Utility Group (UK Kennel Club)
- Coat: long, dense double coat that sheds little and needs regular brushing
- Colors: all colors and markings are accepted by the AKC
- Temperament: friendly, affectionate, outgoing and trusting
- Origin: China, from dogs brought from Tibet to the imperial court
- Exercise: low; short daily walks and indoor play
UK readers: the Kennel Club standard gives an ideal weight of 4.5 to 7.5 kg (10 to 16 lb) and a maximum height of 27 cm (10.5 inches).
Shih Tzu Breed Characteristics
Adaptability
Barking Tendency
Dog Friendly
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Territorial
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Affectionate
Cat Friendly
Exercise Needs
Intelligence
Social Needs
Trainability
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App. Friendly
Child Friendly
Grooming
Energy Level
Stranger Friendly
Watchdog Instincts
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What Is a Shih Tzu?
A Shih Tzu (said “sheed-zoo”) is a small, sturdy toy breed developed in China as a palace companion. The name comes from the Chinese word for lion, and the breed is often called the “little lion” or “lion dog”.
Unlike terriers or herding breeds, the Shih Tzu was never bred for a job. Its purpose was company, which is why it bonds closely with people, enjoys laps and does not need much exercise. It feels heavier than it looks because it has solid bone under all that hair.
Shih Tzu Temperament and Personality
The breed standard asks for a dog that is outgoing, happy, affectionate and trusting toward everyone, and most Shih Tzus fit that description. Expect a dog that follows you from room to room, greets visitors warmly and gets along with other dogs and cats, especially when raised with them.
- People-focused: Shih Tzus do not cope well with being left alone for long periods. They suit homes where someone is around for much of the day.
- Friendly, not a guard dog: they will bark at the door, but they are more likely to welcome a stranger than warn one off.
- Playful but calm indoors: short bursts of play, then a long nap on the sofa.
- Bright with a stubborn streak: they learn quickly when training is fun and rewarding, and switch off when it is not.
What a Shih Tzu Looks Like: Coat, Colors, Face and Tail
A Shih Tzu has a broad, round head, large eyes and a short muzzle. The breed standard calls for an undershot bite, so a slight underbite is normal. The tail is set high, heavily plumed and carried in a curve over the back.
The coat is a luxurious double coat: long, dense and flowing, and it may have a slight wave. It is hair rather than fur, so it sheds little, but it tangles and mats quickly if it is not brushed. Many pet owners keep it in a short “puppy cut” instead of the long show coat.
Shih Tzu Colors
The AKC accepts all colors and markings equally. You will see black, white, blue and gold, and many combinations of these. In the UK, the Kennel Club accepts all colors except merle. Color makes no difference to temperament or health, so be wary of breeders who charge more for “rare” colors.
Imperial, Teacup and Mini Shih Tzu
“Imperial”, “teacup” and “mini” are sales terms, not separate breeds or types. The AKC does not recognize them. They usually mean a dog bred to be smaller than the standard 9 lb, which can bring more health problems. Very small Shih Tzu puppies are also prone to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and need frequent meals. If a seller leads with “teacup”, treat it as a warning sign and choose a healthy, standard-sized dog instead.
Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan
Shih Tzus are generally a long-lived breed. The AKC gives a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years, and VCA Animal Hospitals gives 11 to 14 years. Good dental care, a healthy weight and regular vet checks help a Shih Tzu reach the upper end of that range.
- Short face, heat and breathing: the short muzzle makes Shih Tzus prone to overheating. Keep walks short and cool in warm weather and never leave one in a parked car.
- Teeth: the breed is prone to periodontal (gum) disease. Regular tooth brushing helps prevent it.
- Eyes: large, unprotected eyes are easily injured, and stray hairs can irritate them. Wipe the eye corners daily and see a vet for redness, squinting or discharge.
- Ears: check and clean the ears weekly, because the heavy coat keeps air out.
- Small puppies: very small puppies can develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Feed them small, frequent meals.
- Kidneys: juvenile renal dysplasia is a rare inherited kidney condition. Poor growth and heavy drinking in a young dog need a vet check.
Shih Tzus also tolerate heat poorly and are weak swimmers, so supervise them around pools. If you notice any change in breathing, eating, drinking or energy, see your vet. Read our Shih Tzu lifespan and health guide for more detail.
Grooming, Exercise and Daily Care
A Shih Tzu needs little exercise but steady grooming. Plan for a few minutes of coat care most days and one longer session every few weeks.
- Brushing: daily for a long coat, so mats never form. A short puppy cut cuts this down, but it still needs brushing a few times a week.
- Bathing: every two to three weeks. Remove mats before the bath, because water tightens them.
- Face and eyes: wipe the eye corners daily with a damp cloth and comb the mustache and topknot. Tie the topknot up or keep it trimmed so hair stays out of the eyes.
- Trims: keep the nails short, and trim the hair between the paw pads, on the belly and around the rear for hygiene. Many owners use a professional groomer for trims.
- Exercise: a couple of short walks plus indoor play is enough for most adults. Skip long or hot walks. For indoor play, see the best small dog toys.
- Food: feed a complete diet made for small breeds and watch the waistline, since extra weight adds strain to joints and breathing.
Our Shih Tzu grooming guide covers brushing technique, haircuts and tools step by step.
Training a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus learn quickly but have an independent streak. Short, upbeat sessions with treats and praise work far better than harsh corrections, which tend to make them shut down.
- Housetraining takes longer than with many breeds. Take your dog out on a fixed schedule, reward every success and be patient.
- Socialize early. Puppy classes and calm, positive meetings with people, dogs and new places build a confident adult.
- Handle the face and paws daily from puppyhood, so grooming and vet checks stay easy for life.
For a full plan, see how to train a Shih Tzu.
Is a Shih Tzu a Good Pet for Your Home?
For most homes, yes. A Shih Tzu suits apartments, families, first-time owners and older owners, as long as someone is home much of the day and the grooming fits your routine.
- Apartments: a good fit. They need little space and modest exercise. They will bark at noises, so start quiet-at-the-door training early.
- Children: affectionate with kids, but small enough to be hurt by rough handling or a fall. Supervise young children and teach them to sit on the floor to cuddle.
- Other pets: usually friendly with other dogs and cats, especially when raised together.
- Time alone: not a breed for long workdays alone. Plan for a dog walker, daycare or a family member at home.
- Warm climates: keep the coat trimmed and the house cool, and walk early or late in the day.
A Shih Tzu may not suit you if you want a running or hiking partner, are out most of the day, or do not want daily coat care.
Still deciding? Compare the Shih Tzu with other low-shedding companions in our tiny dog breeds directory, or read the Shih Tzu grooming guide to see what daily coat care really involves.
Shih Tzu vs Similar Tiny Breeds
Shih Tzus are often compared with other long-coated or low-shedding toy breeds. Here is how they differ in size and character. Other small companions worth comparing include the Bichon Frise and, for a short coat and a flat face, the Pug breed profile.
| Breed | Adult weight | Height | Main difference from a Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shih Tzu | 9 to 16 lb (4.1 to 7.3 kg) | 8 to 11 in (20 to 28 cm) | Pure companion; friendly with everyone |
| Lhasa Apso | 12 to 18 lb (5.4 to 8.2 kg) | 10 to 11 in (25 to 28 cm) | Bred as a monastery sentinel, so more wary of strangers; longer muzzle; heavier, harder coat |
| Maltese | Under 7 lb (3.2 kg); 4 to 6 lb (1.8 to 2.7 kg) preferred | Not set in the AKC standard | Smaller and more fragile, so less suited to homes with young children |
| Toy Poodle | 4 to 6 lb (1.8 to 2.7 kg) | 10 in (25 cm) or under | Much smaller; curly coat that needs regular clipping |
| Havanese | 7 to 13 lb (3.2 to 5.9 kg) | 8.5 to 11.5 in (22 to 29 cm) | Lighter on average; a good option if you want a slightly smaller long-coated dog |
Shih Tzu or Lhasa Apso? They look alike, but the Lhasa is a little larger, has a longer muzzle and is more reserved with strangers, while the Shih Tzu is friendlier with everyone. Browse all tiny dog breeds to compare more options.
Shih Tzu History and Origins
The Shih Tzu is a Chinese breed with Tibetan roots. Small lion-like dogs were sent from Tibet to the Chinese imperial court, where they were bred with Pekingese and other palace dogs. In the late 1800s they were bred in the palace kennels of the Dowager Empress Cixi, who is credited with helping to develop the breed.
The breed disappeared from China after the Communist revolution. Today’s Shih Tzus descend from 14 dogs taken to England and Scandinavia, with one later cross to a Pekingese in England. US military families brought Shih Tzus home in the 1940s and 1950s, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1969.
Find a Shih Tzu Rescue
Many Shih Tzus need new homes, often adults whose owners could no longer keep up with grooming or care. Adopting an adult lets you see the dog’s size, coat and personality before you commit.
- Check your local shelters and humane societies, and ask to be told when a small dog comes in.
- Search for Shih Tzu and small-breed rescue groups in your state, province or region. Many place dogs through foster homes, which can tell you how a dog behaves day to day.
- Ask about grooming history, house training, teeth and eyes, and how the dog does with children, other pets and time alone.
- If you buy a puppy, meet the parents, see where the puppies are raised and get health records. Walk away from sellers who offer “teacup” or “imperial” puppies, have puppies always available, or want to ship a puppy you have never met.
Tiny Loving Canines is not a rescue and does not rehome or sell dogs. We help you find reputable rescues and shelters near you.
Ready to look for your Shih Tzu? Start with your local shelter and breed rescues, and read our Shih Tzu lifespan and health guide so you know what questions to ask about any dog you meet.
Shih Tzu FAQs
Is a Shih Tzu a good pet?
Yes, for most people who are home a lot. Shih Tzus are friendly, affectionate and adaptable, and they suit apartments, families and older owners. The main commitments are daily coat care and company, because they dislike long hours alone. They are not a good match for owners who want an active hiking dog.
Are Shih Tzu dogs low maintenance?
For exercise, yes; for grooming, no. A couple of short walks and indoor play are enough, but a long coat needs daily brushing, a bath every two to three weeks and daily eye cleaning. A short puppy cut makes coat care much easier. See our Shih Tzu grooming guide.
Are Shih Tzus smart?
Yes. Shih Tzus are described as lively, intelligent and alert, and they learn quickly. They can also be stubborn, so they respond best to short, fun sessions with treats and praise rather than repetition or harsh corrections. House training usually takes longer than with many breeds, so patience and a fixed routine matter.
Is a Shih Tzu a Japanese breed?
No. The Shih Tzu is a Chinese breed with Tibetan roots. Small lion-like dogs from Tibet were bred at the Chinese imperial court, where the modern breed developed. It is sometimes confused with the Japanese Chin, a different toy breed from Japan. The name Shih Tzu comes from the Chinese word for lion.
What does Shih Tzu mean?
Shih Tzu means “lion” in Chinese, and the breed is often called the “little lion” or “lion dog”. The lion was a holy creature in Buddhism, which helps explain the name. In China the breed was also called the “chrysanthemum-faced dog”.
Which is better, a Shih Tzu or a Toy Poodle?
It depends on your home. A Shih Tzu is sturdier at 9 to 16 lb, while a Toy Poodle weighs 4 to 6 lb, and a smaller dog is easier to injure with rough play or a fall. Both need regular grooming: a long double coat for the Shih Tzu, a curly coat that needs clipping for the Poodle. Read the Toy Poodle profile to compare.
What is an imperial Shih Tzu?
“Imperial” is a sales term for a Shih Tzu bred smaller than the standard 9 to 16 lb, not a separate breed. The AKC does not recognize imperial or teacup Shih Tzus. Breeding for very small size can bring more health problems, including low blood sugar in puppies. Choose a healthy dog of standard size from a rescue or responsible breeder.
Do Shih Tzus shed?
Very little. Shih Tzus have a long double coat of hair that sheds below average, so you will see few hairs on furniture. Loose hair tangles into the coat instead, which is why regular brushing matters to prevent mats. No dog is fully allergy-free, so spend time with a Shih Tzu before committing if anyone in your home has allergies.
Is a Shih Tzu a good apartment dog?
Yes. Shih Tzus need little space and modest exercise, and they are content with short walks and indoor play. They will bark at noises in the hallway, so teach a quiet cue early. The bigger question is time alone: they do best when someone is home for much of the day.
Are Shih Tzus brachycephalic?
Yes. Shih Tzus have a short muzzle, which makes them a brachycephalic (short-faced) breed. That means they overheat easily and can struggle with breathing during exercise in warm weather. Walk early or late on hot days, keep the coat trimmed in summer and see a vet for loud breathing or collapse. More detail is in our Shih Tzu lifespan and health guide.