There are hundreds of dog breeds, and each one is unique in its own way. Dogs differ from each other both visually and in personality. These differences are due to their breeding intentions and genetic factors. The wide selection means that there is a dog for everyone. Shih Tzu is also a breed with unique characteristics. These dogs are lovely companions. But they also need a great deal of care. Do you want a Shih Tzu? So, it is good to know what you can expect in the future as an owner of this breed. Learn if a Shih Tzu might be your friend.

Appearance

A Shih Tzu is a small dog with a unique look. They are robust with a proportionate build, and their back are short. A Shih Tzu is a good dog to consider, especially if you do not want one that will be huge after it grows up. Their coat is long and silky and covers the whole body. It is double-coated. Also, the fur can be straight or slightly wavy. This is why Shih Tzu needs regular grooming. This breed has a varied coat, but the most common is white with markings in any color.

It is interesting that people in China said these dogs had lion heads because of their proportions and beautiful flowing coats. Shih Tzu dogs have short faces with a broad, round skull and big, deep-set eyes. The nose is flat and black on a short, wide muzzle. They have large, low-set ears that droop on the side of the head and are covered in long hair. Their tails are similarly feathered, and they frequently hold them aloft.

They exhibit a gentle sweetness and an elegant appearance. This friendly disposition is part of the reason they are such popular family dogs. These dogs may look like stuffed animals to children. And that’s what makes most of us unable to resist their charm.

Shih Tzu Breed History

The Shih Tzu breed is one of the oldest  and has an interesting and extensive history. Its history began in ancient China. Shih Tzu is a Chinese word that refers to lion dogs in terms of their looks. With a flowing coat and proud expression, they resemble lions in miniature. These dogs were highly valued in Chinese palaces, as they looked majestic and were status symbols. The Chinese aristocracy and even emperors bred Shih Tzu. Back then, these canines were exclusive to the upper classes.

These dogs were also popular in monasteries because of their religious significance. Buddhists cherished Shih Tzus since lions play a significant role in their faith. Over the ages, statues of lions have often stood in front of entrances to protect the place. Lion-like dogs similarly served as emblems of strength and valor. Hence, dogs were maintained to protect temples and tombs, which were important, sacred places.

However, eventually, the breed nearly became extinct. The majority of Shih Tzu were killed in the Chinese Communist Revolution as they were linked to the rich elites that the people were fighting against. Private collections kept the breed alive. It is not confirmed which dogs were crossed to make this particular breed. The signs suggest they were Pekingese and Lhasa Apso.

They were recognized in the West only towards the end of the 19th century when they were bred again and popularised. Finally, the breed was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club. In modern days, Shih Tzus all around the world still carry their status of being part of elegance and loyal friendship. Their history reflects the long tradition of China. Therefore, Shih Tzus are not just pretty dogs but part of national history and culture.

Shih Tzu Personality

If you think Shih Tzus are just like other dogs, wait until you discover their temperament and personality. They are sweet and gentle dogs, making them suitable companions for everyday life. Loyalty towards the owner is one of their innate characteristics. Highly affectionate and social, they quickly bond with other people with strong emotional attachments. They want to be near their owners all the time. This is why they require full-time companionship and are not ideal for people who live alone and are out of the house for long periods of time.

Their temperament is rather stable. They are resistant to stress and do not get upset easily. This is why they are great for quiet life lovers, although they can bark in some situations, especially when left at home alone. They are also great for seniors because they are calm and make a loving and loyal companion.

Shih Tzus can also get along very well with other pets thanks to early socialisation. They quickly become friends with other dogs they live with and the dogs they meet on walks. Owners need not worry much when these dogs play with other animals. Shih Tzus is also excellent with kids because they are gentle and tender-hearted. Adding to that, these dogs are playful and joyful, hence making this breed great for families with kids.

Furthermore, they are ideal for those who do not live an active lifestyle since they are not high-energy dogs. People who want a cuddly, friendly, and loyal companion dog will do well with a Shih Tzu. They are the ideal breed for older people, families with kids, seniors, and those who value companionship and closeness.

Shih Tzu Health

Purebred dogs have a smaller gene pool than mixed breeds, and while this ensures they pass on certain physical characteristics, it also means they are more likely to inherit certain diseases. Hence, when selecting a purebred, you should be mindful of its ancestors’ health. You must visit the vet regularly and seek preventive care to avoid more serious diseases in your dog. Awareness of diseases common to a particular breed helps you respond early with proper treatment.

Learn what are the most frequent diseases of Shih Tzu breed based on a few years of research. Find out which key symptoms to watch out for. Bear in mind that you need to get some knowledge before getting a Shih Tzu to provide your dog with the best life possible.

Skin Problems

This breed is extremely prone to a great variety of skin issues. These are some of the most common conditions in Shih Tzus. These problems are also more prevalent in males and in females.
This breed is prone to skin disorders mainly because of their anatomy. Because of their flat faces, Shih Tzus falls into the group of dogs known as the brachycephalic breed. Short-snouted dogs have too many skin folds, making it easy for moisture and dirt to build up on the skin. This can result in infectious diseases such as atopic dermatitis, manifesting as redness and increased pruritus.

Long hair also implies time for care that owners may not take, leading these dogs to skin diseases. Because of this, grooming matters a lot for this breed and is one of the most important protective measures.

Dental Problems

Another issue with Shih Tzu dogs is dental problems. That is mainly due to how the skull is structured in these dogs. They are tend to have malocclusion. An underbite, which has become the breed standard, is a distinct visual trait of these dogs. It is a genetic malocclusion characterized by a shorter lower jaw than the dog’s upper jaw. This can create an obstacle in the alignment of the teeth. This explains why Shih Tzu dogs might experience issues with eating and hypersalivation.

These pets are also prone to periodontal disease. While these diseases make your breath smell bad and your gums appear red, they can develop into far more serious issues like premature tooth loss if not treated accordingly. As such, dental hygiene is equally important for these dogs.

Eye Disorders

Like some other dog breeds, Shih Tzu also has eye problems that are quite common with them. The physics of these animals has to do with the structure of their anatomy, too. The breed has shallow eye sockets that lead the eyes to protrude more than in other dogs. This makes them susceptible to eye diseases like corneal ulceration. It is a corneal surface trauma, which in turn translates to tearing, squinting, and the dog rubbing their eye.

Shih Tzus are also prone to prolapse of the nictitating membrane gland, aka cherry eye. Injuries, among others, may increase the chance of these problems, so proper care and regular eye examinations by a veterinarian are very important for the breed.

Ear Disorders

Shih Tzus can also have some ear troubles. The breed comes with floppy, near-head ears. This ear type is associated with a greater risk of infections in breeds, as pathogens can accumulate in the enclosed space more readily. Moreover, there is a lot of hair on and near the ears, which also limits access to the air.

Some of the more common problems are otitis externa (ear infection). It can cause symptoms such as ear redness and swelling, ear discharge, and pain. An increase in head shaking may also occur. These types of infections require a visit to the vet and a proper course of treatment. Prevention is equally important here; owners should closely monitor their dog’s ear cleanliness.

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Shih Tzus are also susceptible to disorders due to their tiny size. Joint dysplasia and patellar luxation are the two most prevalent problems of this type  in dogs. Such problems can result in pain, lameness, and reduced ability to move. While these conditions are typically seen more often in larger breeds, small breeds may also be affected. Dogs with short legs may experience more weight being placed upon the joint.

Small dogs may also be susceptible to joint and bone injuries during play, so keep an eye on them while they play and customize their physical activity to what they can handle. Providing protection in the form of a safe environment for these dogs is another component of their well-being.

Digestive System Disorders

Another issue that owners may identify in their dogs is digestive disorders. The problems are identified as enteropathy. This term refers to diseases or an inflammation of the intestines with subsequent digestive disorders of nutrient absorption. Dogs often have vomit, diarrhea, or other disorders of digestion. As a result, the dogs may experience weight loss, weakness, and dehydration.

The causes of enteropathy are diverse; they may include infections, food allergies, autoimmune diseases, and more. The treatment may involve changing the diet, using medication, and other therapies to enhance the function of the intestine.

Heart Diseases

Cardiovascular problems may affect Shih Tzu dogs as well. Heart murmurs are frequently diagnosed in this breed. The veterinarian hears those sounds with a stethoscope. These are caused due to an irregular flow of blood through the heart valves or vessels. Murmurs differ in severity and character and can be benign or indicative of severe heart disease (like valve defects or cardiomyopathy). Identifying heart murmurs in earlier stages gives you the opportunity to treat your dog and monitor their health status.

Heart disease is one of the most prevalent causes of death in this dog. Because of this, Shih Tzu dogs need to be cared for the right way. Since this is another breed that is prone to obesity, owners need to make sure their dogs are on a good diet.

Shih Tzu Care

Having a dog is a serious responsibility with many factors to consider. It may be helpful to contemplate whether or not a specific breed of dog is right for you, your home life, and your lifestyle. Many breeds require a particular sort of living habitat, type of food, and required exercise. Grooming and training are also essential.

Owning a dog comes at a price, so potential owners must evaluate their financial situations. The next big thing you need to take into account is the time you have in hand. A Responsible owner needs to ask themselves if they are ready for the long-term commitment of ownership and care. See if you could take care of a Shih Tzu. While, in many ways, these are easy dogs to live with, they have certain needs that not everyone can satisfy.

Safe Environment

Shih Tzus are little dogs that do not require much space. They also require minimal physical exercise, making them ideal for apartment dwellers. Just remember to provide your dog with a space to sleep and play. You may also need to dog-proof your house to make sure that those dogs will not harm themselves by jumping high or falling over. Special stairs and ramps for dogs are available for purchase. These dogs also have long hair that can collect dirt, so you have to maintain the cleanliness in the home.

Diet and Nutrition

Well, Shih Tzus are a toy breed of dog, so they are not gonna eat much. But people who have these dogs must monitor their diet. Many of this breed suffer from digestive issues and allergies. To save them from these problems, you have to select food that is not harmful to them. Check with the vet for diet and any allergies. You should additionally watch your pet with different components in the meals and make modifications slowly. This breed should also be fed moderate daily portions and careful not to overfeed because it can cause obesity and digestive problems. Also, do not give your dog any food intended for humans, especially if it is fat, sweet, or processed.

Physical Activity

This breed is not going to ask much from you in terms of exercise. Shih Tzus are smaller dogs that are very mellow and require only mild exercise. They possess a relatively low level of energy, which can be fulfilled with quiet walks on a daily basis. This also means Shih Tzus is great for anyone who has a more homebody-type lifestyle and does not have a lot of free time to exercise. Note, though, that they are incredibly sociable dogs and still need a little playtime with their owners or other pets occasionally. Owners must be careful not to overwork these dogs in terms of exercise, as it can lead to joint issues.

Grooming

Grooming dogs of this breed is extremely high maintenance, and potential owners need to consider this. Keep in mind that if you like these long-haired dogs, you also have to commit some of your time to proper care. Their long hairs often tangle and house dirt, resulting in skin infections. This is why these dogs need brushing every single day to keep their coats from matting. Baths and trims should be done regularly to keep the coat healthy and avoid skin issues.

Also, Shih Tzus are especially susceptible to eye infections. Their eyes need regular cleaning with purity solutions on a regular basis. Besides that, they have very sensitive ears and are more likely to get ear infections if they are not kept clean. Owners must also check and brush their teeth. This requires a lot of consistency and patience to prevent health problems. As such, these dogs will need plenty of your time and attention or the cost of a professional groomer.

Training

Shih Tzus is an affectionate, gentle-natured dog. However, as with any dog, you will need to train and socialize with them. So, you can learn them basic commands to keep them well-mannered. Training a Shih Tzu is fast and simple since they do not create many problems.

However, these dogs require tons of love and attention from their people, as they are very social and do not thrive when left alone for extended periods. They can bark due to lack of contact and loneliness, which is something to take into account when raising them. In unfavorable situations or when not socialized properly, Shih Tzu can show a little more aggression, which is why training and correct care are so necessary.

Shih Tzu Dog FAQs

Do you already have a full understanding of the Shih Tzu breed? These dogs are gorgeous and have an interesting history. However, they are sometimes needy. You can read the questions and answers here if you are still unsure. They may assist you in determining if this breed of dog is right for you.

Is a Shih Tzu a Good Family Dog?

Shih Tzus are fantastic family dogs because of their friendly, gentle nature. They have a lot of patience and are good with children. They are perfect little pals for playtime because of their small size and joyful spirit. And their adorable toy look should certainly attract children!

What Size Is a Shih Tzu?

Small in stature, Shih Tzu is a member of the toy group. Matured hounds are an estimated 13 lbs / 6 kilos and 10 inches / 25 cm high.

How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?

Well, the cost of purebred dogs varies because it’s up to the breeder. But typically, a Shih Tzu puppy can cost you from $500 to thousands of dollars.

Source

• Fiona Dale, Dave C. Brodbelt, Gabriella West, David B. Church, Yan Hui Lee, Dan G. O’Neill (2024). Demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzu dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK.
  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10807147/