
Shih Tzu dogs have played a significant role in Chinese culture since the Tang dynasty, where they were beloved companions of royalty and acted as attentive watchdogs, notifying their owners of any strangers. Primarily bred for companionship, these energetic and sociable dogs can flourish with sufficient exercise, even in smaller living environments. Although they require more grooming than many other breeds due to their long, luxurious double coat, they generally exhibit a friendly demeanor towards both people and other pets. It is crucial to handle them gently during interactions, particularly during their formative years, to avoid any rough treatment.

The Shih Tzu is a breed with ancient roots, though its exact ancestry is somewhat unclear. Most specialists believe it emerged from a combination of the Lhasa Apso from Tibet and a small Chinese dog, likely the Pekingese. These delightful dogs were highly valued by Chinese royalty, residing in imperial courts as early as the Tang dynasty, which lasted from 618 to 907. Their popularity eventually spread to the broader population during the Ming dynasty. Unfortunately, the Chinese Revolution brought them to the brink of extinction, with only fourteen dogs—seven males and seven females—surviving. All modern Shih Tzus can trace their lineage back to these fourteen ancestors. In the early 20th century, Shih Tzus began to make their way to other countries, including Norway, England, and North America. Initially, they were often confused with Apsos, and it wasn't until 1934 and 1935 that organizations were established to differentiate between the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso breeds. A formal breed standard outlining the Shih Tzu's unique characteristics, such as its wider skull and less curled tail, was created in 1938. After World War II, many American veterans returning from England brought these loving dogs with them, leading to their classification as a toy breed by the American Kennel Club in 1969. Their popularity soared in the United States, and they are currently ranked as the twentieth most popular dog breed by the AKC.
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy and compact breed, distinguished by its elongated body in proportion to its height, a broad, rounded skull, and a short, square muzzle featuring an undershot bite. Their fur should gracefully frame their face, ensuring that their large, expressive eyes remain visible. Typically, their ears are richly furred and hang down like elegant pendants, while their tail arches over their back, adorned with a lush plume of fur. This breed is recognized for its traditional show coat, which is long, flowing, and generally straight, although some may display a subtle wave. To keep their hair from obscuring their face, a topknot is often styled, in accordance with the official breed standard set by the AKC. Shih Tzus are available in a wide array of colors, from black to white and everything in between, with acceptable markings that include black and tan patterns as well as black masks. Maintaining their luxurious show coat demands considerable grooming to prevent tangles and matting, which can irritate the skin underneath. As a result, many owners choose a more practical trim, commonly known as a puppy cut or teddy bear cut.


The Shih Tzu is renowned for its beautifully long and elegant coat, which requires significant care. It is important to bathe them regularly, ideally once a week, and to brush and comb their fur daily to keep it clean and healthy. While this breed typically sheds less than many others, owners should be prepared for a more substantial shedding period around the age of two, as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat. Establishing grooming routines early in a Shih Tzu puppy's life can help them become more amenable to grooming as they mature. Some owners prefer to have their dog's fur professionally trimmed to a shorter style for easier upkeep, while others may take the initiative to learn grooming techniques themselves. Even with a shorter cut, these dogs still require brushing and combing every two to three days, and their faces should be wiped several times a day to prevent staining. Shih Tzus benefit from short exercise sessions at least once or twice daily to stay fit, but they are not overly active, making them well-suited for smaller living spaces. Due to their brachycephalic characteristics, they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it’s essential to protect them from excessive heat or cold; on particularly hot or cold days, indoor exercise may be a better option. Furthermore, regular dental care is vital, as their unique facial structure and small size can heighten the risk of dental problems.
The character of this small dog contrasts sharply with its fierce-sounding name, “Little Lion.” These dogs are energetic, alert, and generally well-behaved; they are typically friendly towards both humans and other animals, adapting well to a range of living environments, from snug apartments to larger homes. They will bark to notify their owners of unfamiliar guests, but if this behavior isn't managed early on, it can lead to excessive barking. Training them is usually a straightforward process, although they can show a stubborn streak that may complicate matters, and housebreaking can be particularly challenging. While this breed is generally sociable and somewhat playful with most people, it's important to supervise their interactions with other pets or small children, especially during their puppy stage, as their small size makes them susceptible to accidental injuries from rough play or neglect.


0.7 Cups
30 Minutes
14 Years
ancient times
Pure Breeds
Small
Tibet and China
Daily
Straight
Your kids have been begging for a pet forever, and you've recently decided that it's time for your family to get a new addition -- a dog! While everyone is excited for the new arrival, you're wondering if you need to have a dog license. How much does it cost? Is it required? Where do you get one?

Companion Dog

Toy Group

Companion Dog
Male: 13 lbs (6 kg) , Female: 13 lbs (6 kg)
Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 10 inches (25 sm)
6 lbs ( m 6 lbs, f 6 lbs )
5 inches ( m 5 inches, f 5 inches )
11 lbs ( m 11 lbs, f 11 lbs )
9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )
12 lbs ( m 12 lbs, f 12 lbs )
9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )











The Auss-Tzu, a charming blend of Miniature Australian Shepherd and Shih-Tzu, is a small, friendly dog recognized for its plush, dense coat that requires daily grooming. These lively dogs benefit from a diet high in fats and proteins to support their well-being. Initially developed as companion animals, they are not suited for guarding duties but shine in activities such as flyball, agility, and trick training. Although they thrive in homes with at least a small yard, they can adjust to apartment living if given enough exercise and attention, as they tend to be quiet and well-mannered pets.
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Blue Tzu Heelers are a mixed breed that emerges from the combination of Australian Cattle Dogs and Shih Tzus. Bred primarily for companionship, these dogs are known for their friendly, energetic, and loving demeanor, though they can occasionally display a stubborn streak. They need a moderate amount of exercise and flourish with ample human interaction. Their lifespan typically falls between 10 to 14 years, with heights ranging from 11 to 18 inches and weights between 16 to 35 pounds. In appearance, Blue Tzu Heelers have a shaggy look reminiscent of Cattle Dogs, while also showcasing some unique features of Shih Tzus. As a relatively recent breed, their standards are still being developed, and they have yet to gain recognition from the American Kennel Club, although they are included in the Designer Breed Registry as hybrids.
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The Bully-Tzu is a mixed breed that emerges from the combination of a Bulldog and a Shih Tzu. While specific details about the Bully-Tzu are scarce, we can glean valuable information by looking at its parent breeds. The Bulldog, once a working dog, was historically employed for various roles, such as herding cattle and, regrettably, participating in the brutal sport of bull-baiting. Today, Bulldogs are celebrated for their gentle and protective demeanor, often found lounging comfortably beside their human friends. In contrast, the Shih Tzu hails from China and has long been cherished as a companion of nobility. Consequently, the Bully-Tzu typically exhibits a gentle temperament paired with a strong-willed and occasionally stubborn personality. If you’re in search of a devoted companion who loves to stay close, the Bully-Tzu might be an ideal choice. However, it’s important to note that this breed can suffer from separation anxiety, so integrating them into your daily life is advisable.
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The Cava-Tzu is a mixed breed that emerges from the combination of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Shih Tzu. Typically, they bear a closer resemblance to the Shih Tzu, although this can differ depending on which parent breed's traits are more pronounced. This breed showcases a variety of colors, such as black, brown, white, tan, and ruby, often featuring a blend of two or three of these hues. Cava-Tzus are small dogs, with both males and females generally weighing up to 16 pounds and standing between 9 and 18 inches tall. Renowned for their intelligence and playful demeanor, they are wonderful companions for families and tend to get along well with children and other animals. Furthermore, they are relatively easy to train and do not need extensive exercise to stay healthy and fit.
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The Coton Tzu is a small breed, usually weighing no more than 16 pounds. They are available in a range of colors, such as white, black, cream, brindle, brown, and gold, often showcasing a blend of these hues. Their coats tend to be medium to long, featuring a soft and fluffy texture. Grooming a Coton Tzu is fairly straightforward; they need regular brushing and occasional haircuts to maintain their appearance. These dogs make wonderful family pets and are especially gentle with children. Although they may present some challenges in training, requiring a patient and consistent approach from their owners, they are energetic and playful, which means they need regular exercise to stay healthy and active.
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The French Bull Tzu is a delightful hybrid that blends the lively French Bulldog with the graceful Shih Tzu. These compact dogs boast medium to long fur and come in various colors. Renowned for their loving and cheerful disposition, they make wonderful companions. To ensure your French Bull Tzu is comfortable with children, early socialization and obedience training are essential. Thankfully, this breed doesn’t require a lot of exercise; a simple daily walk is sufficient to satisfy their activity requirements.
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The Havashu is a vibrant little dog known for her energetic and loving personality. While she can sometimes display moments of hyperactivity, she is typically very friendly and excited to welcome guests. These dogs fit effortlessly into family dynamics, getting along well with other pets and joyfully interacting with children. They love to snuggle and are always open to receiving affection and attention. When it comes to training, you might find her a bit headstrong if she has her own ideas, but with patience and positive reinforcement, you can guide her effectively. Eager to please, she strives to bring happiness to her family. While a large yard isn't essential, having one would be beneficial since she enjoys running and exploring. However, she also adapts well to apartment living, as long as she gets daily walks and some playtime at the dog park.
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The Italian Tzu is a hybrid dog that emerges from the combination of an Italian Greyhound and a Shih Tzu. This breed is relatively easy to care for, requiring little grooming and exhibiting minimal shedding. Training an Italian Tzu is generally uncomplicated, and they do not require a lot of exercise. Since their parent breeds are not designed for extended outdoor activities, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on them when outside to avoid overheating. The Italian Tzu can be left alone for reasonable durations, such as during a workday, and typically does not suffer from separation anxiety. Known for their affectionate, energetic, and playful nature, they make excellent companions for children.
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The Jack Tzu is a charming hybrid breed, born from the union of a Jack Russell Terrier and a Shih Tzu. This small dog typically mirrors the body shape of the Jack Russell but boasts slightly longer fur and a more compact build. While the Jack Tzu may show some sensitivity in training and discipline, he generally copes well with brief periods of being alone. As a family companion, the Jack Tzu truly excels, getting along wonderfully with everyone, including young children, other pets, and even unfamiliar faces. Despite his diminutive size, this lively dog needs plenty of exercise, making him a great fit for homes of all sizes. It's essential to keep in mind that without regular physical activity, the Jack Tzu can easily become overweight, so fostering an active lifestyle is vital. If you're looking for a small dog full of character that can easily adapt to family life, the Jack Tzu might be the perfect choice. However, potential owners should be mindful that this breed can exhibit a stubborn streak, which may present challenges for those new to dog training.
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The Jatzu, often called a designer or boutique dog, is a thoughtfully created hybrid that emerges from the deliberate breeding of two sociable and lively breeds: the Japanese Chin and the Shih Tzu. This delightful little canine is celebrated for its friendly nature and is generally well-behaved, making training a straightforward process. While Jatzus tend to be gentle and friendly with humans, they might become anxious around young children or particularly active pets. They don’t require a lot of exercise, which makes them ideal companions for both spacious and compact living environments. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that they demand more grooming than many other dog breeds.
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This delightful hybrid breed has resulted in a small dog that is well-regarded for its affectionate personality and loving character. The Mini Fo-Tzu is an ideal companion pet, making it a fantastic option for families. These dogs are gentle with children and thrive on attention. Playful and energetic, they enjoy following their owners around the house and love spending time outdoors in the yard, if available. Their adaptable nature makes them well-suited for apartment living. While they do need a daily walk, they also relish playing games that engage children. Typically, they are quiet and do not bark excessively, and they can adapt to various climates, including warmer temperatures, although this may vary based on their coat type. As a relatively new hybrid, the Mini Fo-Tzu can display a variety of appearances, shaped by the traits of its parent breeds, the Toy Fox Terrier and the Shih-Tzu.
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If you adore small, fluffy dogs, the Sheltie Tzu is likely to win you over. This delightful hybrid, a mix of the Shetland Sheepdog and the Shih Tzu, makes for an affectionate companion. Typically weighing between 15 and 25 pounds and standing around 10 to 16 inches tall, they are excellent family pets, flourishing in environments with children and other animals, including cats. Although they are generally straightforward to train, housebreaking can be a bit tricky and demands consistency and patience. Their coats can easily become matted, so regular grooming is crucial; however, they shed very little and are known for their strong health, often living well into their teenage years.
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The Shichon is a hybrid breed created by crossing the Bichon Frise with the Shih Tzu. This designer dog was specifically bred to merge the Shih Tzu's compact stature with the Bichon Frise's affectionate personality. Renowned for their loyalty and loving nature, Shichons are friendly and welcoming, making them excellent companions for both individuals and families, especially those with young children. They adapt seamlessly to various living environments, whether in an apartment or a house, and do not require a fenced yard. Generally, this breed remains small, typically weighing no more than fifteen pounds as adults. Their playful antics are sure to bring joy and entertainment to any household.
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The Shih Apso is an endearing hybrid breed, born from the combination of a Lhasa Apso and a Shih Tzu. This small dog showcases a delightful blend of characteristics inherited from both parent breeds, making it an ideal companion and lapdog. Generally, Shih Apsos reach a height of 9 to 12 inches and weigh between 12 and 18 pounds, with females typically being smaller than males. Their coats can differ in texture, often featuring long hair that is either wavy or straight. This affectionate breed thrives on companionship, making it a wonderful option for older adults in search of a small pet that enjoys being held and receiving plenty of attention.
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The Shinese is a charming blend of the Shih Tzu and Pekingese breeds. This small dog typically weighs less than 16 pounds and can grow to a height of about 13 inches. Renowned for its playful demeanor, the Shinese is energetic and possesses a strong protective instinct towards its family, often barking to alert you to the presence of strangers. Although this hybrid can exhibit stubbornness, consistent training is crucial for establishing authority. Generally, the Shinese is friendly with children and other pets, but it’s advisable to supervise interactions with larger animals and young kids to ensure safety for all involved.
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The Shiranian is a charming hybrid breed that emerges from the crossbreeding of a Pomeranian and a Shih Tzu. These small, lively, and friendly dogs flourish in social settings and are especially great companions for both children and seniors. However, they can be prone to separation anxiety, so if you frequently find yourself away from home, you might want to consider other hybrid breeds. Nevertheless, the Shiranian is a delightful, playful, and smart dog that can bring immense joy to a caring family. Like its parent breeds, it features long, silky fur that can be straight or wavy, and it comes in a wide range of colors, such as red, sable, chocolate, black, gold, orange, and brindle.
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The Shorgi is a charming new designer dog breed created by crossing two purebred dogs: the Corgi and the Shih Tzu. These affectionate companions flourish in settings where their owners are nearby, as they require consistent attention and may experience anxiety if left alone for too long. Although they usually cope better in cooler weather than in heat, they can adjust to different climates with ease. Their small size and sociable temperament make Shorgis a fantastic choice for those living in apartments. Furthermore, their gentle and devoted nature makes them ideal pets for families.
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The Smooth Fo-Tzu is an enchanting hybrid that combines the Shih Tzu and the Smooth Fox Terrier. This distinctive mix fuses the Shih Tzu's gentle and loving temperament with the lively and tenacious spirit of the Smooth Fox Terrier, resulting in a companion overflowing with affection, patience, and vitality—guaranteed to bring happiness to your life for years to come. While these breeds were initially bred for different purposes—companionship for the Shih Tzu and hunting for the Fox Terrier—they now excel as wonderful family pets in any environment. Additionally, this delightful hybrid is always ready to demonstrate its talent for lap-sitting, making it an ideal snuggle partner at any moment.
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The Standard Auss-Tzu is a medium-sized breed designed specifically as a companion dog. This distinctive and clever hybrid results from crossing the Standard Australian Shepherd with the Shih Tzu. Its beautiful, thick, and silky coat, which combines traits from both parent breeds, features an endearing beard around the muzzle and expressive eyebrows. Available in a variety of colors, this coat is low-shedding. When it comes to personality, the Standard Auss-Tzu is incredibly loving and has a genuinely kind disposition. He interacts wonderfully with children of all ages, showcasing a playful and delightful character. If socialized with other pets from a young age, he typically adjusts well to living in multi-pet environments. This breed is perfect for those looking for a joyful and affectionate companion, although it may be more suitable for individuals with some prior dog experience. This is mainly due to his occasional stubbornness during training. Nevertheless, with consistent and gentle instruction, the Standard Auss-Tzu can learn proper behavior and manners in various situations. Given his energetic nature, he may not do well in an apartment setting and generally needs plenty of space to run and play.
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The delightful Tzu Basset is a charming blend of Shih Tzu and Basset Hound. These loving companions generally fall within the small to medium size range, standing between 9 and 13 inches tall and typically weighing under 40 pounds as adults. Their coats can vary widely, from short and smooth to long, silky, and straight, and they are available in various colors, including white, brown, and brindle. Many Tzu Bassets display bi-colored or tri-colored patterns. With moderate exercise needs, they are well-suited for urban environments and apartment living. However, due to their Basset Hound lineage, they possess a strong tracking instinct, which means they may wander off if not kept on a leash or secured within a fenced area.
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