Best Companion for a Shih Tzu: Another Dog, Two Shih Tzus, or a Cat?
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How we researched this article: This guide is based on advice from VCA Animal Hospitals and the American Kennel Club on adding a second dog, the AKC breed standard, and a 2022 genetics study in Science on breed and behavior. Every source is listed at the end. Last reviewed: September 2026.
Shih Tzus were bred to be companions, so many owners wonder whether their dog needs a friend. The answer depends on your dog, your time, and your home. This guide covers whether to get a second dog, the pros and cons of two Shih Tzus, which companions tend to work best, and how to introduce them safely.
It replaces our earlier separate articles on the best companion for a Shih Tzu and on owning two Shih Tzus.
Does a Shih Tzu Need a Companion?
Not always. A Shih Tzu’s main need is people. Many Shih Tzus are perfectly happy as the only pet in a home where someone is around much of the day. A second dog is not a cure for loneliness or anxiety. The American Kennel Club warns against adding a dog to fix a behavior problem, because an anxious dog can pass its anxiety to the newcomer. If your dog struggles when left alone, start with our guide to Shih Tzu anxiety.
Pros and Cons of Two Shih Tzus
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A playmate of the same size and play style | Double the grooming, food, and vet bills |
| Company for each other when you are busy at home | Two dogs to train and house train |
| Similar exercise needs make walks easier | Each dog still needs one-on-one time with you |
| Similar coat care, so one routine works for both | Possible competition over food, toys, or attention |
Timing matters
The AKC suggests waiting until your first dog is out of puppyhood, trained, and bonded to you. Many breeders recommend that the first dog be at least one to two years old. The AKC also notes that two puppies raised together may bond more strongly to each other than to you, and training two puppies at once is much harder.
Choosing the Best Companion for a Shih Tzu
Match size and play style
VCA Animal Hospitals recommends choosing a dog close in size to your current dog, to lower the risk of accidental injury during play. For a Shih Tzu, that usually means another small dog. Large, boisterous dogs can hurt a Shih Tzu without meaning to.
Match energy level
The AKC notes that dogs with similar energy levels tend to be the best companions. Shih Tzus have moderate exercise needs and flat faces, so a calm-to-moderate companion is usually a better fit than a high-energy sporting breed.
Consider sex
VCA notes that a male and a female living together is the pairing least likely to have serious relationship problems. Two females are more likely to have conflicts. Spaying and neutering are also important in a mixed pair.
Individual personality matters more than breed
A 2022 study in Science of more than 18,000 dogs found that breed explained only about 9 percent of the variation in behavior between individual dogs. In other words, a calm, friendly dog of any small breed may be a better match than a dog chosen for its breed label. Meet the dog, ideally more than once, before you decide.
Small breeds of similar size to a Shih Tzu include the Maltese, Bichon Frise, Havanese, and another Shih Tzu. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a little larger but often have a gentle play style. Any of these can be a good match, or a poor one, depending on the individual dog.
What about a cat?
Many Shih Tzus live well with cats when introduced slowly. See our guide to Shih Tzus and cats.
How to Introduce a New Dog to Your Shih Tzu
VCA Animal Hospitals recommends these steps:
- Meet on neutral ground, such as a quiet park neither dog knows.
- Keep both dogs on loose leashes, with a helper for the second dog.
- Walk side by side at a comfortable distance before letting them greet.
- Watch body language. Stiff posture, a tucked tail, staring, or growling mean you should add distance and slow down.
- Let them sniff briefly, then move on. Do not force interaction.
- Supervise at home. Start in a neutral room, and keep the dogs apart when you cannot watch them.
Prevent squabbles over resources
- Feed the dogs in separate spots, or in separate rooms.
- Give each dog its own bed, water bowl, and crate.
- Put away your first dog’s favorite toys and chews at first.
- Give each dog one-on-one time with you every day.
Size safety: if the new dog is much larger, supervise every play session closely, and separate them when you are not home. A single jump or tumble can injure a small dog.
Helpful Gear for a Two-Dog Home
- Carlson Extra Wide Walk-Through Pet Gate. A pressure-mounted gate with a small pet door, useful for keeping dogs apart during introductions and meals. Check price on Amazon →
- MidWest iCrate, 24-inch. A second crate gives each dog its own safe space. Sized for small breeds from 12 to 20 pounds. Check price on Amazon →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Shih Tzus need another dog?
Not necessarily. Many Shih Tzus are happy as the only pet if they get plenty of time with people. A second dog should not be used to fix anxiety or behavior problems.
Is it better to have two Shih Tzus?
Two Shih Tzus can be great company for each other, but they double the grooming, costs, and training. Many breeders suggest waiting until the first dog is one to two years old.
What is the best companion dog for a Shih Tzu?
A small, calm-to-moderate energy dog of similar size is usually safest. The individual dog’s personality matters more than its breed.
Should I get a male or female companion for my Shih Tzu?
VCA notes that male-female pairs are least likely to have serious conflicts. Two females are more likely to fight.
How do I introduce a new dog to my Shih Tzu?
Meet on neutral ground with both dogs on loose leashes, walk side by side, keep greetings short, and supervise closely at home at first.
Sources
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Getting a Second Dog.
- American Kennel Club. When Should You Get a Second Dog?.
- Morrill K, Hekman J, Li X, et al. Ancestry-inclusive dog genomics challenges popular breed stereotypes. Science, 2022.
- American Kennel Club. Official Standard of the Shih Tzu.
This article is for general information. It is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Read our medical disclaimer.
