Shih Tzu: a sweet, elegant, and endearing little dog
Small, elegant, and cheerful, the Shih Tzu is a royal dog… in the literal sense of the word! Originating from Tibet, it was bred in the Chinese imperial palaces as the privileged companion dog of the emperors.
Its name, in fact, means “lion dog”, a symbol of protection and happiness. Today, this little companion with an expressive gaze charms with its balanced personality, its sumptuous coat, and its affectionate character.
Shih Tzu puppy
A Shih Tzu puppy is an irresistible ball of fluff, full of sweetness and curiosity.
- It quickly bonds with its family and loves cuddles.
- It quickly learns the rules of the house if trained with patience and consistency.
- Its calm temperament makes it an excellent first dog.
Shih Tzu baby
Very playful and sociable, a Shih Tzu baby loves to explore and discover its environment. It is also the ideal time to teach it housebreaking and recall.
Shih Tzu characteristics
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Height: 20 to 28 cm at the withers.
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Weight: between 4 and 8 kg.
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Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years.
- Coat: long, silky, often straight.
It is a robust little dog despite its delicate appearance.
Shih Tzu coat colors and types
Black Shih Tzu
Refined and elegant, it turns heads with its shiny coat.
Black and white Shih Tzu
Classic and very popular, this contrast gives its face an even more expressive look.
Long-haired Shih Tzu
This is the signature of the breed: an abundant coat that requires regular brushing and constant care.
Short-haired Shih Tzu
Some families prefer to trim their Shih Tzu for easier maintenance, especially in summer. This does not change its charm!
Shih Tzu temperament
The Shih Tzu is a dog that is:
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Affectionate and calm: it loves to be close to its humans.
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Intelligent: it learns quickly, especially if motivated by rewards.
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Playful: it loves to have fun, but also knows how to be quiet.
- Sociable: it gets along well with children and other animals.
It is an ideal companion for families, seniors, and apartment living.
Shih Tzu drawbacks and faults
Even though the Shih Tzu has many qualities, it also has a few minor drawbacks:
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Regular coat maintenance, especially if it is long.
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Tendency toward stubbornness, especially if not trained early.
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Respiratory sensitivity: its short muzzle makes it sensitive to heat.
- Frequent tearing: must be cleaned to avoid stains under the eyes.
15 reasons not to adopt a Shih Tzu
- You don't like brushing a dog.
- You are looking for a guard dog.
- You are often absent.
- You don't have time for daily care.
- You prefer athletic dogs.
- You live in a very hot climate.
- You don't like "clingy" dogs.
- You don't want grooming maintenance.
- You are not patient.
- You want an obedient dog at all costs.
- You want a very high-stamina dog.
- You have a tight budget (maintenance to be expected).
- You cannot stand hair in the house.
- You have trouble managing barking.
- You are looking for an “effortless” companion.
These “faults” quickly disappear when you know and understand the gentle and sensitive nature of the Shih Tzu.
Discover our collection of harnesses for small dogs.
Can a Shih Tzu live in an apartment?
Yes, the Shih Tzu is made for apartment living.
- It loves to be close to its humans.
- It does not need long walks (two 20-30 minute walks are sufficient).
It is an indoor dog par excellence, satisfied with a calm and stable lifestyle.
Shih Tzu price and life expectancy
Shih Tzu price
The price of a pedigree (LOF) Shih Tzu puppy varies between €1,000 and €2,000, depending on the lineage, color, and reputation of the breeder.
Shih Tzu life expectancy
The Shih Tzu is a solid dog for its size: it lives on average 13 to 15 years, sometimes more if well cared for.
An adapted diet and regular care (eyes, teeth, coat) prolong its longevity.
Difference between Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso
These two breeds look alike, but here are the main differences:
- Origin: the Lhasa Apso comes from Tibet, the Shih Tzu from China.
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Muzzle: the Shih Tzu's is shorter.
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Coat: the Lhasa has a coarser coat, the Shih Tzu a silkier one.
- Temperament: the Lhasa is more independent, the Shih Tzu more cuddly.
In summary, the Shih Tzu is often more “affectionate” and easier to live with on a daily basis.
History of the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed, resulting from the crossbreeding of Tibetan dogs and Pekingese.
Bred in Buddhist temples and Chinese imperial courts, it symbolized luck, loyalty, and prosperity.
Long reserved for the nobility, it crossed the centuries before becoming the preferred companion of modern families.
The Shih Tzu is a small dog with a big heart, as elegant as it is endearing.
Gentle, intelligent, and sociable, it brightens the lives of those who understand it.
👉 Whether black, white, red, or bicolor, the Shih Tzu is not just a lapdog: it is a true life companion, affectionate and loyal.
A little care, a lot of love, and it will return it to you a hundredfold
