đ Breeds
Shih Tzu: A Complete Breed Guide
đ Breeds
âą 10 min read
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đŞ Beginner
Breed Basics
| Characteristic |
Details |
| Origin | Tibet / China (over 1,000 years old) |
| AKC Group | Toy Group (recognized 1969) |
| Size | Typically 9-16 lbs (4.1-7.3 kg), 9-10.5 inches tall at shoulder (AKC standard). Note: Some pet-quality individuals may exceed these ranges. |
| Lifespan | Roughly 10-16 years (average about 13 years) |
| Coat | Long, double coat; all colors accepted. Shedding is minimal as loose hair remains trapped in the coat rather than falling to the floor. |
| Exercise Needs | Low-Moderate (20-30 min/day) |
| Temperament | Affectionate, playful, stubborn, alert |
Personality & Temperament
Shih Tzus were bred exclusively for companionship, and they take that role seriously. They thrive on human attention and are often described as "big dogs in small bodies." Key traits include:
- Affectionate: They prefer proximity to youâon your lap, at your feet, or in your bed. They are not independent dogs and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
- Playful but not hyper: They enjoy short play sessions and walks but are equally happy napping. They adapt well to apartment living, provided their barking is managed through training.
- Stubborn: Training requires patience. They respond best to positive reinforcement (treats, praise) and short sessions. Harsh corrections backfire immediately.
- Alert barkers: They make good watchdogs but may bark excessively at strangers or noises. Early socialization helps mitigate this.
- Good with kids and other pets: Generally gentle, but their small size makes them vulnerable to rough handling. Supervise interactions with young children strictly.
Common Health Issues
Shih Tzus are prone to several breed-specific conditions. Responsible breeding includes health testing for these issues.
1. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Also known as Brachycephalic Syndrome, this condition affects their breathing due to shortened airways. Signs include snoring, wheezing, and exercise intolerance. Never leave a Shih Tzu in a hot carâthey overheat faster than long-nosed breeds. Avoid strenuous exercise when temperatures exceed roughly 80°F (27°C).
2. Eye Problems
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic condition causing gradual blindness. Reputable breeders test for this via CERF/CAER (Canine Eye Registration Foundation).
- Dry Eye (KCS): Insufficient tear production leading to redness and discharge. Requires lifelong management with eye drops.
- Corneal Ulcers: Their prominent eyes are prone to scratches from dust or grass. Urgent Care: If an ulcer occurs, seek veterinary care within 24 hours to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Proptosis Warning: Due to shallow eye sockets, forceful pulling on a collar or excessive struggling can cause the eyeball to dislocate (proptosis). This is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery.
3. Patellar Luxation
The kneecap slips out of place, causing skipping or hopping. Common in toy breeds; severe cases may require surgery.
4. Dental Disease
Crowded teeth lead to tartar buildup. Daily tooth brushing is essential, plus annual professional cleanings under anesthesia.
5. Allergies & Skin Issues
Food and environmental allergies are common, causing itchy skin or ear infections. Managed with hypoallergenic diets and medication.
6. Anesthesia Risks
Due to BOAS, Shih Tzus have higher risks during anesthesia used for dental cleanings or surgeries. Always choose a veterinarian experienced with brachycephalic breeds who monitors oxygen levels closely.
Grooming: The Biggest Commitment
Shih Tzu coats grow continuously like human hair and require significant maintenance to prevent painful mats.
- Daily brushing: Spend 10-15 minutes using a pin brush and metal comb. Start this routine as a puppy.
- Professional grooming: Costs roughly $50-$80 per visit. Frequency depends on coat length:
- Show Coat: Every 4-6 weeks.
- Puppy Cut: A short trim (1-2 inches) reducing daily brushing needs; groom every 6-8 weeks.
Annual costs typically range from $400-$1,000 depending on the cut chosen.
- Sanitary Trim: Hair around the anus and abdomen must be kept short to maintain hygiene and prevent matting.
- Eye Cleaning: Wipe corners daily to manage tear staining caused by oxidized porphyrins in tears. Ensure tear ducts are clear; consult a vet if staining is sudden or severe.
- Ear Cleaning: Check weekly. Floppy ears trap moisture, leading to infections.
â ď¸ Reality check: If you cannot commit to daily brushing and regular professional grooming, a Shih Tzu may not be the right breed for you. Matted coats are painful and lead to skin infections. Consider pet insurance to help offset potential high grooming and health costs.
Exercise & Training
Exercise: Provide 20-30 minutes of walking or play daily. Use a harness instead of a neck collar to avoid pressure on the trachea and risk of proptosis. Avoid intense activity in heat.
Training: Start early. House training can be slow; use crate training and consistent schedules. Socialize them during the critical window (3-16 weeks) with various people, sounds, surfaces, and animals to prevent fear-based barking.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Get a Shih Tzu
Good fit for:
- Apartment dwellers or those with small yards
- Retirees or people who work from home
- Those who enjoy grooming or can afford professional services
- Families with older, gentle children
- First-time owners willing to invest time in training
Not a good fit for:
- People away from home more than 4-5 hours daily (separation anxiety risk)
- Those unwilling to perform daily grooming
- People wanting a high-energy running or hiking partner
- Families with toddlers who may handle the dog roughly
- Those on a very tight budget (grooming and health care add up)
Finding a Responsible Breeder
Expect to pay roughly $1,000-$2,500 for a pet-quality Shih Tzu from a reputable breeder, though prices vary by region. Red flags include:
- Puppies available "always" or multiple litters simultaneously
- No health testing documentation (OFA for patellas, CERF/CAER for eyes)
- Refusal to let you meet the mother or see living conditions
- No contract or health guarantee
- Pressure to buy immediately
Consider adoption: Many Shih Tzus end up in breed-specific rescues. Check local shelters or Shih Tzu rescue organizations.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Always consult a veterinarian for health concerns specific to your dog.
â VIP Guide
Shih Tzu: A Complete Breed Guide
Daily Routine
- Morning: 10-min walk, breakfast, eye wipe, quick brush
- Afternoon: Play session or short walk, potty break
- Evening: 15-min walk, dinner, 10-min thorough brushing, teeth brushing
- Weekly: Ear cleaning, nail trim (if needed), bath touch-up
- Every 4-6 weeks: Professional grooming
Feeding Guide
- Adult: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food per day, split into 2 meals
- Puppies: 3-4 small meals daily
- Avoid overfeedingâShih Tzus gain weight easily, worsening breathing and joint issues
- Watch for food allergiesâcommon triggers include chicken, beef, grains
- Fresh water always available (use a filtered fountain to encourage drinking)
Grooming Step-by-Step
- Spray coat with detangling spray (never brush dryâcauses breakage)
- Brush with pin brush in sections (legs, body, chest, tail)
- Follow with metal comb to find any remaining mats
- Use slicker brush gently on matsâdo NOT cut mats with scissors (risk of cutting skin)
- Clean eye corners with damp cotton
- Check ears for redness or odor
Recommended Health Tests (for breeding dogs)
- OFA Patellar Luxation evaluation
- CAER/BAER eye exam (annually)
- Cardiac exam (congenital heart defects)
- DNA test for PRA (prcd-PRA)
Vaccine Schedule
- Puppies: DHPP at 8, 12, 16 weeks; Rabies at 16 weeks
- Adults: DHPP every 3 years; Rabies per local laws (1-3 years)
- Bordetella (kennel cough) if boarding/grooming
- Heartworm prevention monthly (year-round in most climates)
Senior Care (8+ years)
- Bi-annual vet visits (bloodwork, urinalysis)
- Watch for: increased drinking/urination (diabetes, kidney disease), lumps/masses, dental disease, stiffness
- Switch to senior diet if weight or activity changes
- Joint supplements (glucosamine, omega-3) may help
- Keep them comfortableâramps for furniture, orthopedic bed
Emergency Warning Signs
- Difficulty breathing or blue gums (brachycephalic emergency)
- Sudden blindness or eye pain
- Not eating for >24hrs
- Vomiting/diarrhea with blood
- Seizures or collapse
House Training Tips
- Take out every 2-3 hours, after meals, after naps, and first thing in morning
- Use a consistent phrase ('go potty') and reward immediately
- Crate trainâmost Shih Tzus won't soil their sleeping area
- Expect accidents until 5-6 months oldânever punish, just clean with enzymatic cleaner
- If struggling, try potty pads as a transition, but phase them out
Separation Anxiety Management
- Gradually increase alone time (start with 5 min, build up)
- Leave special toys (Kong with peanut butter) only when you leave
- Don't make a big fuss when leaving or returning
- Consider doggy daycare or a pet sitter for long workdays
- Severe cases may need medication + behaviorist consultation
Excessive Barking
- Identify triggers (doorbell, people walking, other dogs)
- Teach 'quiet' commandâreward silence, not barking
- Desensitize to triggers (record doorbell, play at low volume while giving treats)
- Don't yellâthey think you're barking too
- Ensure they get enough mental and physical exercise
Stubbornness During Training
- Keep sessions short (5-10 min), end on a positive note
- Use high-value treats (chicken, cheese)âregular kibble won't motivate them
- Be consistentâeveryone in household uses same commands
- Never use physical punishmentâthey shut down or become defensive
- Consider clicker training for precise communication
Tools You'll Need
- Pin brush (soft bristles, won't break hair)
- Metal greyhound comb (fine and coarse side)
- Slicker brush (for mats, use gently)
- Detangling spray or leave-in conditioner
- Round-tip scissors (for sanitary trimming only)
- Dog-specific shampoo (human shampoo disrupts pH)
- Cotton balls and dog ear cleaner
- Nail clippers or grinder
Bath Time Step-by-Step
- Brush thoroughly BEFORE bath (water tightens mats)
- Use lukewarm water (test with your wristâtoo hot burns their skin)
- Wet coat, apply shampoo, lather carefully (avoid eyes and ears)
- Rinse completelyâleftover shampoo causes itching
- Apply conditioner, leave 2-3 min, rinse
- Towel dry gently, then use blow dryer on LOW/COOL setting (heat damages coat and skin)
- Brush while drying to prevent tangles
Common Grooming Mistakes
- Brushing only the topcoatâmust get down to the skin
- Cutting mats with scissors (you WILL cut skinâuse a dematting tool or go to a pro)
- Using human shampoo (pH mismatch causes dry, itchy skin)
- Neglecting the area behind ears and under armsâwhere mats form first
- Waiting too long between grooms (matted dogs may need to be shaved down, which is stressful)
Q: Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?
A: No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but Shih Tzus shed less than many breeds (their hair grows like humans). However, their dander and saliva still trigger allergies. Spend time with the breed before committing.
Q: Do Shih Tzus smell bad?
A: They shouldn't if groomed regularly. Odor usually comes from: ear infections, dental disease, skin infections, or needing a bath. If your Shih Tzu smells despite regular grooming, see a vet.
Q: Can Shih Tzus be left alone during work?
A: Short periods (4-5 hours) are okay for adults, but they thrive on companionship. Long periods alone often lead to separation anxiety, barking, and destructive behavior. Consider a dog walker or daycare.
Q: How do I know if my Shih Tzu is overweight?
A: You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs with light pressure. There should be a visible waist when viewed from above. If you can't feel ribs, cut back calories and increase exercise. Obesity worsens breathing and joint problems.
Q: Should I get a male or female?
A: Both make great pets. Males tend to be more affectionate and clingy; females can be more independent and stubborn. Personality varies more by individual than sex. Spaying/neutering reduces many behavior differences.
Q: My Shih Tzu snores loudlyâshould I worry?
A: Some snoring is normal for brachycephalic breeds, but loud snoring with gasping, waking up, or exercise intolerance could indicate BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome). Have your vet evaluateâsurgery can improve quality of life.
Q: Are Shih Tzus good with cats?
A: Generally yes, especially if raised together. Their playful but gentle nature usually coexists well with cats. Introduce slowly and supervise initially.