Personality
The Shih Tzu was bred for one purpose - to be a companion - and they are exceptionally good at it. They're friendly, outgoing, and alert, typically at ease with strangers, children, and other animals. They don't have the wariness of some small breeds. They approach most situations from a position of confident interest.
They're playful without being frantic, affectionate without being clingy in the same degree as some spaniel types. They enjoy being part of family life, and while they love a lap, they're also happy to potter around and investigate things.
They can be stubborn in training - not unintelligent, but selective about when they choose to comply. Positive methods and consistency work; repetitive drilling doesn't. Housetraining can take longer than with some breeds, requiring patience and a consistent routine.
Exercise
30 minutes of daily exercise covers the Shih Tzu's needs. This suits flat-dwellers and people with more modest outdoor access. Two short walks, with some indoor play, keeps them content and in good condition.
Avoid exercising in hot weather. Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed - their short muzzle limits airflow and they overheat more quickly than longer-nosed breeds. Cool morning and evening walks during summer, with rest indoors during the hottest part of the day, is the sensible approach.
Weight & Feeding
Adult Shih Tzus weigh 4–7.5 kg. They should look compact and well-muscled, not round. Overfeeding is common in small companion breeds and contributes to joint problems and aggravates breathing issues.
Small breed-specific food with measured portions works well. Two meals daily is preferred over one. Because of their flat faces, some Shih Tzus do better with shallow bowls that allow them to access food without straining their necks.
Health
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is the primary health concern in the breed. Their flat faces create restricted airways that can cause significant breathing difficulty. Signs include noisy breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, and gagging. Severely affected dogs may need surgical correction. When buying, look for dogs with visible nostrils (not pinched shut) and an alert, comfortable breathing pattern. Track Brachycephalic Syndrome →
Hip dysplasia occurs in Shih Tzus despite their small size. Breeding dogs should be hip scored. Track Hip Dysplasia →
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) causes gradual vision loss. DNA testing is available for the most common form. Track Progressive Retinal Atrophy →
Hereditary cataracts are found in some lines. Eye testing of breeding parents is recommended. Track Cataracts →
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) can affect the breed. Avoiding high-impact activities and jumping from height in puppies is sensible. Track IVDD →
Dental disease is common in small breeds with compact jaws. Regular brushing and dental checks are important throughout their life. Track Dental Disease →
Grooming
Grooming is the biggest commitment a Shih Tzu owner makes. The coat grows continuously and, in full show length, requires daily brushing and combing to remain mat-free.
Most pet owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" maintained with professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Even with a short coat, brushing a few times per week and keeping the facial hair tidy is necessary.
Daily attention to the face is essential - moisture and food can collect around the muzzle, and the area under the eyes can stain from eye discharge. Wiping the face daily and keeping hair trimmed away from the eyes prevents most issues.
The ears should be checked weekly for infection. The hair inside ear canals may need regular plucking - your groomer can advise.
Common Conditions
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Dental disease
- Kidney disease (found at higher rates in older Shih Tzus)
FAQs
Do Shih Tzus shed? Very little. Their long, continuous-growth coat doesn't shed in the way double-coated breeds do. This comes with a trade-off - it requires more active grooming management.
Are Shih Tzus suitable for flats? Yes - they're one of the better breeds for flat living. Their exercise needs are modest, and they don't require large outdoor spaces.
How long do Shih Tzus live? 10–16 years is the typical range, with many reaching the upper end of that. They're among the longer-lived breeds of their size when health conditions are managed appropriately.