Shih Tzu Puppies Breed Profile: Essential Facts
Discover how to care for Shih Tzu puppies, from grooming to training, and learn fun facts about this adorable and affectionate breed. Start here!
Shih Tzu
- AKC Group: Toy
- Weight: 9-16 lbs.
- Height: 9-10.5 in.
- Life Span: 10-16 years
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Key Characteristics of Shih Tzu Puppies
Shih Tzu puppies are known for their compact size and distinctive appearance. Here are some of their notable features:
- Coat: Shih Tzu puppies have luxurious long hair with a moderate undercoat, often showcasing a variety of coat colors, making each one unique.
- Build: They are small, slightly longer than tall, with a tail that curls gracefully over their back.
Where Shih Tzu Puppies Come From
The rich history of Shih Tzu puppies spans centuries and continents, tracing back to their sacred origins.
- Recognition: The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1969, cementing its status as a beloved companion.
- Tibetan Roots: Shih Tzus are believed to have originated in Tibet around 624. They were considered sacred pets, often kept in temples, and are the oldest and smallest of the Tibetan holy dogs. Their name translates to "lion" or "little lion."
- Royal Favorites: These dogs became popular among Chinese royals, possibly bred as a cross between the Lhasa Apso or Tibetan mountain dog and the Pekingese.
- Journey to the West: Shih Tzus were bred in England in the 20th century, with the Shih Tzu Club forming in 1933. They gained popularity in the United States after American soldiers brought them home following World War II.
How Friendly Are Shih Tzu Puppies?
Shih Tzu puppies are known for their charming personalities and strong desire for companionship. Here’s what makes them such delightful pets:
- Training Challenges: Their stubborn streak can make training a bit challenging. Patience and consistent training methods are essential to ensure they grow into well-behaved dogs.
- Affectionate and Trusting: These puppies are intelligent, outgoing, and naturally trusting of people, making them great family companions.
- Lively and Alert: Shih Tzus thrive on human interaction and love being the center of attention. However, they don't do well when left alone for long periods, as they can feel anxious without company.
Are Shih Tzu Puppies Right for You?
Exercise Needs
LOW: Shih Tzus are small dogs with minimal exercise needs. A daily walk to expel energy should suffice, and indoor play can also keep them active.
- Safety Tip: Always supervise your Shih Tzu around larger dogs, as their small size may make them vulnerable to injuries caused by strong predatory instincts.
Grooming Needs
HIGH: Shih Tzus require daily brushing to keep their long coats tangle-free. Gather hair around their face in a bow or knot to keep it out of their eyes.
- Bathing and Drying: Bathe your Shih Tzu every few weeks or as needed. Their long hair takes time to dry, so early exposure to a hair dryer is recommended. Learn how to bathe your dog here.
- Eye and Ear Care: Regularly clean their eyes and ears to prevent infections. Their large eyes are prone to tearing and staining facial fur. Consult your vet for suitable eye drops.
- Nail Trimming: Keep their nails trimmed to avoid discomfort or injury. Learn how to trim your dog's nails here.
Health Problems
MEDIUM: Shih Tzus have few inherited illnesses. Here are some that the breed is more susceptible to experiencing: Intervertebral disc disease (IVD) Patellar luxation Stenotic nares Harderian gland prolapse Hypothyroidism
More Stats About Shih Tzus
| Friendliness | ★★★★★ |
| Ease of Training | ★★★☆☆ |
| Barking/Howling | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Shedding | ★★★☆☆ |
| Tolerate Being Alone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Very Good With Kids | ★★★★☆ |
Learn a little more about these affectionate dogs in this video:
How to Adopt a Shih Tzu
If you're thinking of getting a Shih Tzu, please turn first to adoption resources. Even purebred animals sometimes land in shelters.
Try Petful's free adoptable pets search. You can also check with rescue groups and breeders, but just make sure the breeder is reputable.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Shih Tzu puppies typically cost between $600 and $1,500, depending on the breeder and pedigree.
A Shih Tzu can have an average litter size of 4–6 puppies, though it can vary from 1 to 10.
Shih Tzus are moderately intelligent, excelling in social intelligence and companionship but sometimes being stubborn during training.
Shih Tzus shed minimally due to their long, continuous-growing hair, which reduces loose fur around the home.
Shih Tzus are not completely hypoallergenic but are considered low-allergy dogs due to minimal shedding.
References
- "Shih Tzu." American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/shih-tzu/.
- White, Jo Ann. "What Is a Shih Tzu?" American Shih Tzu Club. June 2015. https://shihtzu.org/what_is_a_shihtzu.
- "Breed History." Shih Tzu Club (UK). http://www.theshihtzuclub.co.uk/shih-tzu/breed-history/.
- "The Right Breed for You? Looks and Characteristics of the Breed." Shih Tzu Club (UK). http://www.theshihtzuclub.co.uk/shih-tzu/right-breed-you/.
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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