They shed very little but need a lot of grooming: regular brushing plus professional trims, or a short clip for easier care.

Why do Shih Tzus have eye problems?

Their large, prominent eyes can be prone to dry eye, corneal injury and irritation from hair. Clean eye corners daily and keep head hair trimmed or tied up.

Can Shih Tzus handle heat?

Not well. As a short-faced breed they can struggle to breathe and overheat, so keep them cool and limit activity in hot weather.

Accueil Races DogShih Tzu

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Race Dog🏆 #22 Plus PopulaireToy Group

Shih Tzu

Canis lupus familiaris · China / Tibet

The Shih Tzu, often called the “Lion Dog,” is a beloved toy breed known for its luxurious coat, charming personality, and affectionate nature. Originating from ancient China, this breed was treasured as a royal companion. Today, the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular breeds worldwide, cherished for its versatility as a lapdog and family pet. Here’s everything you need to know about the Shih Tzu, from its physical traits to care requirements.

Amabilité★★★★★

Intelligence★★★☆☆

Adaptation Familiale★★★★★

Facilité de Dressage★★★☆☆

Faits Rapides

Weight

9–16 lbs

Height

9–10.5 in

Life Span

10–18 years

Temperament

Playful, Affectionate, Outgoing

Energy Level

Low to Moderate

Trainability

Good

Shedding Level

Low

Good With Children

Very Good

Good With Other Pets

Very Good

Exercise Needs

30 min daily

Anecdotes Amusantes

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Chrysanthemum Dog

The Shih Tzu is nicknamed the chrysanthemum dog for its flower-like face.

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Chinese Palace Dog

This breed was kept in Chinese palaces for centuries.

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Lion Dog

The name Shih Tzu means lion dog in Chinese.

Tags de la Race

#HighMaintenanceGrooming#Affectionate#CompanionDog#Small#LongCoat

Caractéristiques de la Race

Friendliness

90%

Intelligence

60%

Affection Level

92%

Energy Level

45%

Protectiveness

45%

Playfulness

78%

Adaptability

78%

Trainability

58%

Apartment Suitability

95%

Beginner Owner Suitability

85%

Informations Détaillées sur la Race

Health

Shih Tzus live 10 to 18 years, a wide range reflecting how much care affects outcome. Brachycephalic airway issues cause breathing difficulties, especially in heat. Intervertebral disc disease affects their long back, so limit jumping. Eye conditions including proptosis and dry eye occur given their prominent eyes. Dental crowding is serious in this breed and requires consistent brushing.

Grooming

Your Shih Tzu needs brushing every day if you keep the coat long to prevent painful matting. Most pet owners keep a shorter puppy cut that needs brushing every two to three days and a groom every six to eight weeks. The topknot needs daily attention to keep hair out of the eyes. Bathe every two to three weeks.

Exercise

Your Shih Tzu needs 20 to 30 minutes of gentle activity daily. Short walks and indoor play sessions suit them well. Avoid exercise in heat or humidity entirely since their flat face limits airflow and causes overheating quickly. Watch for heavy panting or labored breathing and stop activity immediately if either appears.

Training

Shih Tzus are bright and responsive to positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and fun since they disengage quickly with repetition. Housetraining takes longer than most breeds, so use a crate and be consistent. Socialize your puppy early with different people and situations. They respond very poorly to any harsh handling.

Nutrition

Feed a quality small breed formula twice daily with carefully measured portions. Shih Tzus gain weight easily and extra weight worsens their breathing problems. Keep treats calorie light and minimal. Brush teeth daily or near daily since periodontal disease is one of the leading health problems in this breed.

History

The Shih Tzu developed in Tibet and was later refined in China, where Chinese emperors kept them as treasured palace dogs for centuries. The name means lion dog in Mandarin, reflecting the lion imagery of Tibetan Buddhist art that the breed was bred to resemble. The breed nearly went extinct during the Chinese Revolution. A small breeding population that escaped to England formed the foundation of today global population. The AKC recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969.