Shih Tzu
Toy Group (AKC) / Toy Group (UKC) · Tibet and China — bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty during the Ming and Qing dynasties. · Small
Also known as: Chrysanthemum Dog, Lion Dog
Breed Group
Toy Group (AKC) / Toy Group (UKC)
Size
Small
Height
9 to 10.5 inches at the shoulder
Weight
9 to 16 pounds
Life Expectancy
10 to 16 years
Origin
Tibet and China — bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Energy Level
Low to Moderate — perfectly content with short daily walks and indoor play.
Trainability
Moderate — they can be a bit independent and stubborn, requiring patient, positive reinforcement methods.
Description
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, and affectionate toy dog known for its characteristic arrogant carriage with its head up and tail curved over the back. With large, dark, soulful eyes and a sweet expression, they make wonderful, devoted companion animals.
Key Features
Short muzzle, prominent dark eyes, undershot jaw, floppy drop ears hidden by long fur, and a plume-like tail carried curved over the back.
Coat Type
Long, dense double coat that is straight to slightly wavy with minimal shedding.
Coat Colors
Parti-color with white and combinations of black, gray, silver, brindle, and brown.
Temperament
Affectionate, playful, outgoing, and alert, though they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak.
Good with Children
Good — generally patient and gentle, though supervision is recommended around very young children.
Good with Other Dogs
Good — typically social and friendly with other dogs and household pets.
Grooming Needs
High — requires daily brushing to prevent mats if kept in a long coat, or regular professional clipping to a low-maintenance puppy cut.
Exercise Requirements
Low — short daily walks and indoor interactive games are more than enough to keep them happy and healthy.
Health Considerations
Prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, eye issues like corneal ulcers, dental problems, and patellar luxation.
Living Conditions
Extremely well-suited for apartment living and indoor life, with low tolerance for extreme heat or cold due to their brachycephalic facial structure.
History & Origin
Developed in Tibet by crossing the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese, these dogs were given as gifts to Chinese emperors. They were carefully guarded and bred within the imperial palaces for centuries before being introduced to Europe and the US.
Interesting Facts
The name translates to 'Lion Dog' in Chinese because they were bred to resemble the lions in traditional oriental art. Despite their royal background, they do not have hunting instincts.
Similar Breeds
Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Pekingese, and Havanese. Shih Tzus can be distinguished by their shorter muzzles, larger rounder eyes, and distinctive undershot bite.