The Shih Tzu is a charming and affectionate companion with a rich history. From the laps of the royalty to the laps of a lot of homes today, not too much has changed throughout history for these little cuddle pies.
Maddi and Flynn, our March 2026 Dogs of the Month.
Origin of the Shih Tzu 🏯
The Shih Tzu is believed to be a descendant of the Lhasa Apso, likely crossed with breeds such as the Pekingese.
They are an ancient breed that developed in the city of Peking, now known as Beijing, in China during the 17th century.
However, paintings and historical documents dating back to the 16th century depict dogs that closely resemble the Shih Tzu, suggesting the breed may have existed even earlier.
Purpose 👑
The Shih Tzu was highly regarded and was a favourite companion of Chinese royalty. They were considered so valuable that they were rarely sold or traded and were typically kept within the imperial court.
Their small size made them ideal lap dogs, and they have been bred primarily as companion animals throughout history.
The Shih Tzu’s Appearance and Accepted Coat Colours 🎨
The Shih Tzu is one of the few dog breeds for which kennel standards accept all coat colours. Their coat may be solid, a combination of colours, or include various markings. Common colours include black, white, red, liver, brindle, brown, gold, and grey.
They are a sturdy, compact dog with a characteristic round head and large, expressive eyes. They have a short muzzle with wide nostrils.
Breed standard size:
• Both males and females: up to 7 kg in weight and approximately 27 to 28 cm in height.
Grooming and Care of the Shih Tzu ✂️
The Shih Tzu has a beautiful, long and dense double coat that requires dailymaintenance. If not clipped, the hair around the face must be tied back to keep it out of their eyes. The fur around the mouth and muzzle should be kept short to prevent the build up of food and debris, as they naturally develop a beard and moustache.
This breed is not suitable for owners seeking low-maintenance grooming. Daily brushing is recommended, especially when the coat is kept long. Due to their low height, they can easily collect dirt and moisture, particularly in wet weather. It is important to thoroughly clean and dry their coat to prevent skin issues such as hot spots.
Their facial structure can make them prone to eye sensitivity. The folds around the face should be gently cleaned every couple of days to remove buildup.
They are considered low-shedding, which may make them more suitable for some allergy sufferers.
Temperament and Personality 🐾
A happy, affectionate, and sturdy little dog, the Shih Tzu is a loyal companion that enjoys being involved in daily family life. They are playful and sociable, often getting along well with both people and other animals.
They are full of personality and generally eager to please, responding well to calm and consistent guidance. Without proper structure and leadership, they may develop undesirable behaviours such as stubbornness or excessive barking.
They enjoy daily walks and social interaction. With sufficient exercise, they adapt well to apartment living and prefer an indoor lifestyle. They are not well suited to being kept outdoors full time.
They thrive on companionship and will happily spend long periods with their owners, making them ideal for people seeking a close companion animal or those with a quieter, laid back lifestyle.
Health of the Shih Tzu Breed 🩺
The Shih Tzu is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health conditions. These can include eye issues, ear infections, and spinal problems due to their body structure. Care should be taken to limit excessive jumping to reduce strain on the back.
Due to their short muzzle, they may experience respiratory issues, particularly in hot or humid conditions. They can also be prone to weight gain, so a balanced diet and regular exercise are important.
The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is typically between 10 and 16 years.
Do you have a beautiful Shih Tzu in your life? Share them with us at our socials – we would love to see them!
