Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus were bred to be companions to Chinese royalty, and they carry that regal heritage with charm and grace. They are affectionate, playful, and get along beautifully with everyone — children, other dogs, even cats. Their low-shedding coat makes them popular with allergy sufferers, and their adaptable nature makes them ideal apartment dogs.

Shih Tzus need only 20–30 minutes of gentle exercise daily. Short walks and indoor play sessions are sufficient. They are heat-sensitive due to their flat face and should not be exercised in hot weather.

The Shih Tzu's long coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Many owners opt for a shorter 'puppy cut' that requires less maintenance. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is recommended. The hair above the eyes should be tied up in a topknot or trimmed to prevent eye irritation.

Coat type: Long, flowing double coat; low-shedding

Shih Tzus are generally healthy and can live 10–18 years. Eye care and dental health are the primary concerns. Their flat face requires monitoring in hot weather.

The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest and most ancient dog breeds, with a history spanning over 1,000 years. They were bred in Tibet and China as royal palace dogs, kept exclusively by Chinese emperors and their families. The name means 'Lion Dog' in Chinese, reflecting their resemblance to the lions depicted in Buddhist art. The breed was a closely guarded secret of the Chinese imperial court — it was illegal to sell, trade, or give away a Shih Tzu. They didn't reach the Western world until the 1930s.

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  Shih Tzus were so prized by Chinese emperors that it was illegal to sell or give one away — they were exclusively imperial palace dogs.

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  The name 'Shih Tzu' means 'Lion Dog' in Chinese, reflecting their resemblance to Buddhist lion imagery.

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  They are one of the few breeds whose DNA most closely resembles that of ancient wolves.

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  Shih Tzus were unknown in the Western world until the 1930s, when they were brought to England.

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  Their hair grows continuously like human hair and never stops — without regular grooming, it can grow to floor length.

Owning a Shih Tzu is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Shih Tzus remain consistently popular as low-exercise, hypoallergenic companion dogs, particularly among seniors and apartment dwellers. Their regal history and flowing coat make them perennial favorites at dog shows. Demand has remained steady despite competition from other small hypoallergenic breeds.

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