Shih Tzu Breed Information & Characteristics

The Shih Tzu is a breed that has an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing

Shih Tzu will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

The Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Tibet
China

Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Ancient Times

Toy (AKC:1969)
Companion Dog (UKC)

Brown

Black
Brown

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

The coat of a Shih Tzu dog is generally known for its length.

Straight

A Shih Tzu can have a litter of 10-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Shih Tzus are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

The Shih Tzu is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate

Eye
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Shih Tzus may be a good breed for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to have a lower energy level than other breeds of dogs.

Shih Tzu have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

The Shih Tzus a breed that requires only a small amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These breeds are ideal for people with busy lifestyles, elderly people or those who have limited mobility. They also make great pets for those who live in small apartments or have limited outdoor space.

The Shih Tzu breed is known for their relaxed and calm nature and tendency to sleep for long periods of time.

The Shih Tzu is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Shih Tzu dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Walk, Bike ride, Brushing, Running, Sleeping, Resting, Short walks, Play, Play with lea, Sniffing, Dog Parks, Go to Park, Being pet, Sit, Eating Snacks, Fetch, Walking, Snuggling, Run, Treats, Petting, Scenting, Marking, Runnig, Watching tv, Playing, Cuddling, Trick training, Shopping, Training

Shih Tzus are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih Tzu, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Shih Tzus usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

This breed is known for having high grooming needs.

Ideally, Shih Tzu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

For an average 9-16 pound (4 - 7 kg) Shih Tzu feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

The average cost of a Shih Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average per month expenses of a Shih Tzu is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The Shih Tzu have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence. This breed is an independent "freethinker" and gets on the dumbest dog breeds list since they can also be stubborn — training a Shih Tzu is an exercise in patience.

Shih Tzu dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Shih Tzus are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Shih Tzus are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you might want to reconsider adopting another dog as a companion.

Shih Tzus are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Shih Tzus are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Shih Tzus are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.

Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.

Shih Tzu dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.