Shih Tzus: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Origin

The Shih Tzu origin is steeped in history, dating back over a thousand years to ancient China. Bred by Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu was a cherished companion in the imperial court, often given as precious gifts. This breed symbolizes nobility and majesty, reflecting its royal connections.

After near extinction following the Chinese Communist revolution, the modern Shih Tzu was bred from just thirteen dogs and a "lion dog" imported to England.

The 14th Dalai Lama gifted Shih Tzus to prominent individuals like the President of India, and one of Nicole Richie’s many pets is a Shih Tzu named Honeychild.

That’s what we'd call "range.”

Appearance

The Shih Tzu captivates with its luxurious, flowing double coat that sweeps the ground like a royal robe – a hallmark feature that demands daily attention but rewards owners with show-stopping beauty. These dogs sport a distinctive pushed-in face with large, round eyes that seem to peer directly into your soul, giving them an almost human-like expressiveness that owners find irresistible.

Shih Tzus pack tremendous character into a compact frame. Their short muzzle, prominent underbite, and large head create that cherished "chrysanthemum face" look that fans of the breed adore. While their flat faces can cause breathing issues in extreme heat, responsible breeding has helped minimize these concerns in many modern lines.

The breed's coat comes in virtually every color imaginable – from solid black, white, and gold to striking combinations of black mask, brindle, or parti-color patterns. Many Shih Tzus feature the distinctive white blaze on the forehead and white-tipped tail that enthusiasts prize. Though many owners opt for the practical "puppy cut" for easier maintenance, the full show coat – parted down the middle and flowing to the ground – showcases the breed's imperial Chinese palace heritage that dates back over a thousand years.

Similar breeds

If Shih Tzus are your style, maybe you could see yourself hanging out with a Maltese, as they have a similar size and coat to Shih Tzus. The Lhasa Apso is another popular pick, and the Pekingese is a breed with similar connections to Chinese royalty. The Bichon Frise is another of comparable stature and look.

Temperament

Shih Tzus were bred specifically for companionship, and it shows in every aspect of their personality. These dogs live to love their people, often following their owners from room to room and claiming prime lap real estate whenever possible. Unlike some toy breeds, they rarely show nervousness or aggression, instead approaching life with an easygoing confidence that makes them adaptable to various living situations and family dynamics.

What truly sets the Shih Tzu apart is their remarkable versatility with children, strangers, and other pets. Their non-sporting background means they lack the strong prey drive or territorial instincts that can make some breeds challenging in multi-pet households. Even first-time dog owners find themselves charmed by these adaptable companions who seem equally content in city apartments or country homes.

Behind their sweet expression lies a surprisingly bold character with an independent streak. Shih Tzus aren't pushovers – they know what they want and aren't afraid to express their opinions. While intelligent, they approach training with a "what's in it for me?" mindset that requires patience and positive reinforcement. Their playful antics often continue well into their senior years, bringing joy to families across generations. Despite their royal heritage, most Shih Tzus are perfectly content being treated like the beloved family member they quickly become.

Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?

They sure are! The Shih Tzu is considered a hypoallergenic breed. Their coat tends to hold onto shed hair, reducing allergens in the environment. Regular grooming can further minimize potential allergy triggers.

Looking for other allergy-friendly dogs? Take a look at our guide to hypoallergenic breeds.

Illness/health concerns

This breed is prone to specific health issues, including Brachycephalic Syndrome due to their flat faces, Hip Dysplasia, a common joint problem, and eye issues.

Keep up with regular vet visits to prevent and detect these issues early, and make sure to maintain consistent grooming and cleanliness around the eyes.

How big do Shih Tzus get?

Shih Tzus are on the smaller side, reaching up to 11 inches tall and weighing up to 16 pounds.

As with most breeds of dog, the Shih Tzu’s age, whether they’re male or female, and their overall activity levels can affect their adult size. Mixed breeds will be a little more complex to estimate in this area.

Life expectancy

The Shih Tzu's life expectancy ranges from 10 to 16 years, depending on their genetics, diet, and overall care.

Expected lifetime cost

Owning a Shih Tzu can cost approximately $17,000 throughout their lifetime. That’s roughly $1,300 per year, accounting for food, grooming, training, treats, and fabulous bows and other accessories (let’s be honest).

Estimated cost to insure

Pet insurance is a great way to prepare for the unexpected. Insurance for a Shih Tzu may range from $25 to $40 per month. This cost can vary based on factors like age, health, and where you live.

The good, the bad, the ugly

Thinking about bringing home a Shih Tzu? Keep these less-than-fabulous quirks in mind.

• Grooming needs: Their luxurious coat requires a little TLC to maintain that shine. Expect to keep up with regular grooming for your Shih Tzu.

• Training challenges: This breed can be stubborn, so training will likely require some patience on your end.

• Health issues: These pups are prone to a few health problems, including Hip Dysplasia, Brachycephalic Syndrome, and general eye problems.

• Low activity levels: Shih Tzus are happy to play but don’t expect them to go on hikes or long runs, as they have relatively moderate exercise needs.

• Potential for weight gain: That being said, proper diet and exercise are essential to maintaining a healthy weight, so make sure to find a balance between being a lap dog and doing a few laps around the block.

So you want a Shih Tzu...

The Shih Tzu's affectionate nature and elegant appearance make it a popular choice for those searching for a soulful sidekick. Understanding the Shih Tzu can help you to make an informed decision, embracing both the glamorous and less glamorous aspects of this remarkable, royal breed.