Toy group · Small

Shih Tzu

Also known as Chrysanthemum dog, Lion dog

Bred for laps and royalty — sweet apartment companion with serious grooming needs.

Apartment FriendlyLow SheddingHypoallergenic-ishFamily DogAffectionatePlayfulOutgoing

Puppy.College Rating85/ 100

Weight

9–16 lbs

Height

9–10.5 in

Lifespan

10–18 years

Exercise

20–40 minutes/day

Origin

Tibet → China

First-time owner

5/5

Overview

Bred for laps and royalty — sweet apartment companion with serious grooming needs.

The Shih Tzu is a small breed in the Toy group, typically standing 9–10.5 in and weighing 9–16 lbs. Expect a lifespan of 10–18 years with good preventive care. Personality is best described as affectionate, playful, outgoing.

Breed history & origin

The Shih Tzu traces its origins to Tibet → China, with the breed taking recognisable form in the Ancient (refined ~1600s). Its original purpose — imperial chinese palace companion — shaped almost every physical and temperamental trait still visible in the breed today.

As a small member of the Toy group, the Shih Tzu was selectively bred for independent decision-making, steady temperament and an even pace. Modern owners describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing — qualities deeply rooted in that working heritage.

The American Kennel Club formally recognised the Shih Tzu in 1969.

Several moments shaped the modern Shih Tzu. ‘Shih Tzu’ translates from Chinese as ‘little lion’. Bred exclusively in Chinese imperial palaces for centuries — owning one outside the court was forbidden.

Today the Shih Tzu thrives as a lap dog and family companion. It remains one of the more recognisable breeds at North American dog shows and in homes across Canada and the United States, where its combination of affectionate and family-suitability continues to draw new owners every year.

Like every purebred, the Shih Tzu carries genetic risks tied to its small founding gene pool. Conscientious modern breeders screen for the conditions listed in the health section below and breed for longevity, structural soundness, and stable temperament — the three pillars of a responsibly preserved breed.

Origin snapshot

Country of origin: Tibet → China
Era: Ancient (refined ~1600s)
Original purpose: Imperial Chinese palace companion
Modern purpose: Lap dog and family companion
AKC recognition: 1969

Breed timeline

Ancient (refined ~1600s)
Shih Tzu develops in Tibet → China
1969
Formal kennel club recognition in the Toy group
Today
Established as a lap dog and family companion

Appearance

Male

Height

9–11 in

Weight

9–17 lbs

Female

Height

8–10 in

Weight

8–15 lbs

Coat length: Long
Coat texture: Tight single coat
Undercoat: None / minimal
Body: Compact, agile build

Temperament

Shih Tzus are affectionate, playful, outgoing. With early socialization and positive-reinforcement training in the critical 8–16 week window, they grow into well-adjusted adults that fit a wide range of households.

Exercise & activity

Adult Shih Tzus need 20–40 minutes/day, split between leashed walks and off-leash play. Under-exercised dogs of this breed are the #1 source of behaviour complaints — chewing, barking, and pulling.

Grooming & shedding

Shih Tzus are high-maintenance coats. Plan on daily brushing and a professional groom every 4–6 weeks.

Minimal shedding — one of the cleaner breeds to live with.

Nutrition guide

Feed a high-quality small-breed puppy formula with calorie-dense kibble in tiny pieces. Shih Tzu puppies thrive on 3 measured meals per day until 6 months, then 2 meals. Look for AAFCO statements naming "growth" or "all life stages," and skip filler-heavy grocery brands.

Puppy nutrition

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

Adult nutrition

Adult Shih Tzus do well on a high-quality kibble (≥ 25% protein, ≤ 15% fat) split into two meals. Free-feeding is the #1 cause of obesity in this breed.

Senior nutrition

From age 8, transition to a senior formula with glucosamine/chondroitin and reduced calories.

Daily calories (adult)

350–600 kcal/day

Common allergies: Most common triggers in this breed: chicken, beef, dairy, wheat. A novel-protein diet (duck, salmon, venison) helps if itching or GI issues persist.

Never feed:

• Grapes & raisins
• Chocolate
• Onions & garlic
• Xylitol (peanut butter labels!)
• Cooked bones
• Macadamia nuts

Training guide

Housebreaking

Crate-train from day 1. Shih Tzu puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Crate training

Use a crate just large enough to stand and turn around. Never use it as punishment. Most Shih Tzus accept the crate within 2 weeks with kong-and-meal pairing.

Obedience

Shih Tzus have an independent streak. Keep sessions ≤ 5 minutes, very high-value rewards, and end on a win.

Socialisation

Critical window is 8–16 weeks. Aim for 100 new people, 50 new dogs, and 25 new environments before 4 months — vaccinated, controlled, positive exposures only.

Advanced training

Focus on rock-solid basics first; advanced sports work best from 18+ months with this breed.

Common mistakes to avoid

×Skipping puppy class because the dog ‘seems fine’
×Using punishment for fear-based behaviour (escalates it)
×Repeating the cue word — say it once, then enforce
×Free-feeding (kills food motivation for training)

Health database

Lifespan: 10–18 years. Below are the conditions vets most commonly screen for in this breed — for education only, always consult your veterinarian.

Hip dysplasia risk

Lower than average

Elbow dysplasia risk

Low

Eye disease risk

Standard screening recommended

Cancer risk

Average

Dental risk

Elevated — small breeds prone to crowding and tartar

Annual vet cost

$400–$700 CAD

Common health concerns

▸Dental disease
▸Obesity (over-feeding)
▸Patellar luxation

Recommended screening

▸Patella evaluation
▸CERF / OFA eye exam
▸Cardiac auscultation
▸Skin & coat dermatology check

Educational only — always consult your veterinarian.

Living requirements

Apartment: Excellent
House: Yes — ideal
Urban: Strong
Rural / farm: Strong
Cold weather: Average — needs a jacket below freezing
Hot weather: Tolerant
Barking level: Average
Separation anxiety: Above average — bred for human company
Escape risk: Average
Space: Apartment-friendly

Cost of ownership (Canada)

Reputable Canadian breeders typically charge $1,500–$2,800 for a Shih Tzu puppy. Plan for $1,600–$2,600 in annual cost of ownership covering food, vet visits, insurance, training, and grooming.

Puppy purchase

$1,500–$2,800

Annual all-in

$1,600–$2,600

Insurance

$45–$90 / month CAD

Pros & cons

Pros

+Excellent with children and other family pets
+Adapts well to apartments and condo living
+Low shedding — easier on furniture and allergies
+Travel-friendly size; fits under airline seats and in small homes

Cons

−High grooming costs — professional groom every 4–6 weeks

Ideal owner profile

First-time ownersFamilies with kidsApartment & condo dwellersSeniors and slower-paced households

Fun facts

1.‘Shih Tzu’ translates from Chinese as ‘little lion’.
2.Bred exclusively in Chinese imperial palaces for centuries — owning one outside the court was forbidden.
3.The entire modern breed descends from just 14 dogs that survived the fall of the Chinese empire.
4.Shih Tzus live 10–18 years on average with good preventive care.
5.Adults stand 9–10.5 in and weigh 9–16 lbs.
6.Daily exercise needs: 20–40 minutes/day.
7.Classified in the Toy group.

Shih Tzu vs popular breeds

Trait	Shih Tzu	Labrador Retriever	Golden Retriever	German Shepherd	French Bulldog	Poodle (Standard)
Size	Small	Large	Large	Large	Small	Large
Lifespan	10–18 years	11–13 years	10–12 years	9–13 years	10–12 years	10–18 years
Energy	2/5	5/5	4/5	5/5	2/5	4/5
Trainability	3/5	5/5	5/5	5/5	3/5	5/5
Family-friendly	5/5	5/5	5/5	4/5	4/5	5/5
Apartment	5/5	2/5	2/5	2/5	5/5	3/5
Shedding	1/5	4/5	4/5	5/5	3/5	1/5
Exercise	20–40 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day	20–40 minutes/day	60–90 minutes/day

Frequently asked

Shih Tzu — 30 questions answered.

Are Shih Tzus good family dogs?+

Yes — Shih Tzus score 5/5 for family friendliness and are widely considered one of the better breeds for households with children.

Are Shih Tzus good for first-time owners?+

Yes — they rank 5/5 for first-time suitability.

How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?+

How much does a Shih Tzu puppy cost in Canada?+

Reputable Canadian breeders charge $1,500–$2,800 for a well-bred Shih Tzu puppy. Adoption through breed-specific rescues runs $400–$900.

What's the annual cost of owning a Shih Tzu?+

Plan for $1,600–$2,600 CAD per year covering food, vet care, insurance, training, and grooming.

Do Shih Tzus shed a lot?+

Minimal shedding — one of the cleaner breeds to live with.

Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?+

Shih Tzus are among the lower-allergen breeds, but no dog is truly hypoallergenic.

How long do Shih Tzus live?+

Typical lifespan is 10–18 years. Lean body weight and routine vet care add years.

What health problems are Shih Tzus prone to?+

Most commonly: Dental disease, Obesity (over-feeding), Patellar luxation. Buy from a breeder who screens for these and provides documentation.

Are Shih Tzus good apartment dogs?+

Yes — they adapt well to apartments when exercised daily.

How often should I groom my Shih Tzu?+

Shih Tzus are high-maintenance coats. Plan on daily brushing and a professional groom every 4–6 weeks.

How smart is a Shih Tzu?+

Shih Tzus rank 3/5 for trainability — in the average range. They learn best with short, motivated sessions.

Are Shih Tzus good with kids?+

Yes — patient and tolerant with children, especially when raised together. Always supervise toddler interactions.

Are Shih Tzus good with cats and other dogs?+

Generally yes, when socialised from puppyhood.

Can Shih Tzus be left alone?+

Shih Tzus bond closely with their people; 4 hours alone is a reasonable maximum for adults. Build alone-time slowly to prevent separation anxiety.

Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?+

Average barking. Most Shih Tzus alert to strangers but settle quickly.

How big do Shih Tzus get?+

Adults typically stand 9–10.5 in and weigh 9–16 lbs.

What should I feed a Shih Tzu puppy?+

Feed an AAFCO-approved small-breed puppy formula. 3 meals/day until 6 months, then 2/day.

How many calories does an adult Shih Tzu need?+

Roughly 350–600 kcal/day for an average-activity adult. Active or working dogs need 20–40% more.

When does a Shih Tzu stop growing?+

By 9–12 months.

How do I housebreak a Shih Tzu?+

Crate-train from day 1. Shih Tzu puppies can hold their bladder roughly (age in months) hours — set a timer and take them out after every nap, meal, and play session.

Do Shih Tzus do well in cold weather?+

Average — needs a jacket below freezing

Do Shih Tzus tolerate hot weather?+

Tolerant

Are Shih Tzus good guard dogs?+

No — most Shih Tzus are too friendly to make true guard dogs but will alert-bark at strangers.

Do Shih Tzus like water and swimming?+

Variable — small breeds are at higher risk in water; use a life jacket.

Can Shih Tzus do agility or dog sports?+

Possible, but recall and focus take longer to develop in this breed.

Are male or female Shih Tzus better?+

No meaningful temperament difference at the breed level — individual personality, socialisation, and training matter far more than sex.

Should I get pet insurance for a Shih Tzu?+

Strongly recommended. Expect $45–$90 / month CAD for accident & illness coverage.

What questions should I ask a Shih Tzu breeder?+

Health clearances on both parents (hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac as applicable), the right to return the dog at any age, contract terms, references from previous puppy buyers, and a meet-and-greet with the dam.

Where can I adopt a Shih Tzu in Canada?+

Start with breed-specific rescues on Petfinder.ca and the Canadian Kennel Club's breed club referrals, then check provincial humane societies.

What's the difference between Canadian, American, and European Shih Tzu lines?+

Bloodlines differ in size, structure, and working drive. North American show lines are typically larger and calmer; European working lines are leaner and drivier. Ask the breeder which lines they breed and why.

Shih Tzu curriculum