Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a compact, confident companion with roots in the Chinese imperial court, where these dogs were bred solely for human company. In daily life, they are calm enough for apartment living yet playful enough to entertain themselves and their owners with bursts of clownish energy. They bond deeply with every household member and tend to follow their favorite person from room to room, content simply to be nearby. Shih Tzus can be stubborn during training sessions, so patience and positive reinforcement matter more than repetition or firmness. Their flat face means they overheat quickly in summer, and owners in warm climates should plan outdoor time around cooler hours. They generally get along well with other dogs and cats, making multi-pet households manageable. On the downside, their luxurious coat demands daily brushing or a regular short trim to prevent painful matting, and their prominent eyes are prone to injury and infection. Prospective owners should also be aware of chronic dental issues — small mouths and crowded teeth mean professional cleanings are not optional. Homes with gentle older children or retirees looking for a low-exercise, high-affection dog will find the Shih Tzu a rewarding match, but families wanting an athletic hiking partner should look elsewhere.
History
The Shih Tzu was developed in China, likely from crosses between the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese, and served as a treasured lap dog in the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. When the imperial court collapsed in the early 20th century, the breed nearly disappeared, surviving largely through a handful of dogs brought to England and Scandinavia in the 1930s. The breed gained popularity in the United States after returning soldiers brought them home following World War II. The AKC recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969, and it has consistently ranked among the top 20 most popular breeds in the U.S. ever since.
Characteristics
Compatibility
Care Guide
The Shih Tzu's long, silky coat mats rapidly and requires daily brushing with a pin brush down to the skin — surface brushing alone hides tangles that can pull and ulcerate the skin underneath. Many owners opt for a practical "puppy cut" every 6-8 weeks to reduce grooming burden. Because of their brachycephalic airway, exercise should be kept to moderate walks of 20-30 minutes, avoiding heat and humidity, and a harness is strongly preferred over a collar to reduce tracheal pressure. Dental care is critical: brush teeth at minimum three times weekly and schedule annual veterinary dental cleanings, as the breed's crowded jaw makes tartar buildup and tooth loss almost inevitable without intervention. Feed a high-quality small-breed kibble portioned carefully, as Shih Tzus gain weight easily and excess weight worsens their breathing difficulties.
Common Health Issues
- brachycephalic airway syndromeNarrowed nostrils and an elongated soft palate restrict airflow, causing noisy breathing, snoring, and exercise intolerance. Severe cases may require surgical correction of the nares or palate to improve quality of life.
- patellar luxationThe kneecap slips out of its groove, causing intermittent skipping or lameness in one or both hind legs. Maintaining lean body weight reduces stress on the joint, and surgical repair is recommended for grades III-IV.
- corneal ulcersTheir large, prominent eyes are easily scratched by furniture, other pets, or even their own hair, leading to painful ulcers that can progress to perforation if untreated. Keep facial hair trimmed away from the eyes and seek veterinary care immediately if you notice squinting or excessive tearing.
- keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)The tear glands produce insufficient moisture, resulting in thick discharge, redness, and eventual corneal scarring. Lifelong topical immunosuppressive drops (cyclosporine or tacrolimus) are the standard treatment to restore tear production.
- dental diseaseOvercrowded teeth in a small jaw trap food and bacteria, leading to early-onset periodontal disease, tooth loss, and potential systemic infections. Preventive care — daily brushing and professional cleanings — is the most effective intervention.