Always deserves the best.
Shih Tzu
Weight
4
- 7
kg
Length
23
- 27
cm
Average lifespan
10
- 18
Years
About the Breed
That irresistible face, with its large dark eyes and gentle, endearing expression, explains why Shih Tzu owners have cherished this little “Lion Dog” for over a thousand years. Wherever a Shih Tzu goes, joy, laughter, and playful mischief are sure to follow.
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are surprisingly sturdy, typically weighing between 9 and 16 pounds and standing about 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder. Their luxurious coat appears in a wide range of colors and rewards the time and care devoted to grooming—few sights are as striking as a beautifully maintained Shih Tzu. Charm and cuteness are simply part of the breed’s nature. Exceptionally affectionate with children, the Shih Tzu was bred to spend its days indoors within royal palaces, making it an ideal companion for apartment living or homes without large yards. While some dogs find happiness in digging or chasing, a Shih Tzu’s favorite pastime is curling up in your lap, delightfully soaking up attention as you relax together.
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are surprisingly sturdy, typically weighing between 9 and 16 pounds and standing about 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder. Their luxurious coat appears in a wide range of colors and rewards the time and care devoted to grooming—few sights are as striking as a beautifully maintained Shih Tzu. Charm and cuteness are simply part of the breed’s nature. Exceptionally affectionate with children, the Shih Tzu was bred to spend its days indoors within royal palaces, making it an ideal companion for apartment living or homes without large yards. While some dogs find happiness in digging or chasing, a Shih Tzu’s favorite pastime is curling up in your lap, delightfully soaking up attention as you relax together.
Breed Traits
Affectionate with Family
Independent
Lovey-Dovey
How affectionate the breed is with family and familiar people; some are reserved except with their owner, while others are friendly with everyone they know.
Good with Young Children
Not Recommended
Good With Children
How patient the breed is with children and how family-friendly it is overall; always supervise around young kids or those unfamiliar with dogs.
Good with Other Dogs
Not Recommended
Good With Other Dogs
How friendly the breed is toward other dogs; while supervision is always needed, some breeds are naturally more comfortable around dogs at home and in public.
Shedding Level
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere
How much shedding the breed typically has; heavier shedders need more brushing, may trigger allergies more, and require frequent cleaning to remove fur.
Coat Grooming Frequency
Monthly
Daily
How often the breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other coat care; consider your time, patience, and budget, and note that all breeds need regular nail trimming.
Drooling Level
Less Likely to Drool
Always Have a Towel
How prone the breed is to drooling; if you prefer cleanliness, breeds that leave noticeable slobber may not be a good fit.
Coat Type
Coat Length
Trainability Level
Self-Willed
Eager to Please
How trainable the breed is and how willing it is to learn; some aim to please their owners, while others are more strong-willed and prefer doing things their own way.
Energy Level
Couch Potato
High Energy
How much exercise and mental activity the breed needs; high-energy breeds stay active all day, while low-energy breeds are happy to relax and sleep.
Barking Level
Only To Alert
Very Vocal
How often the breed makes sounds like barking or howling; some are very vocal, others only in certain situations, and even quiet breeds may communicate in other ways.
Mental Stimulation Needs
Happy to Lounge
Needs a Job or Activity
How much mental stimulation the breed needs; working breeds often need challenges to stay engaged, or they may create their own (often unwanted) entertainment.
📚 Sources & references
The breed standard information is based on reliable references, with the content rephrased to suit the reader.
-
American Kennel Club (AKC)
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/shih-tzu/ -
Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shih_Tzu
🎯
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Openness to Strangers
Playfulness Level
Protective Nature / Watchdog
Adaptability Level