History of Shih Tzus: Origins, 8 Types, and Everything New Owners Need to Know

Few dog breeds carry a history as long, layered, and genuinely royal as the Shih Tzu. This small companion has been revered in Tibetan monasteries, pampered in the halls of the Chinese imperial court, nearly wiped out by political upheaval, and today sits comfortably among the most popular toy breeds in the United States. Understanding where this breed came from helps any owner appreciate what makes it so distinct — temperamentally, physically, and medically.

This guide covers the full history of Shih Tzus, the eight recognized types you will encounter today, and the practical care essentials every owner needs from the start.

History of Shih Tzus

According to BilJac, “Shih Tzus were mentioned in documents and seen in different paintings from Ancient China and Tibet dating as far back as 624 A.D.”

The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. DNA analysis has confirmed that Tibetan breeds, including the Shih Tzu, share ancestry with ancient dogs dating back more than 10,000 years. Historians believe the breed traces its lineage to Tibetan holy dogs that were gifted to Chinese emperors as sacred diplomatic offerings.

The name “Shih Tzu” translates directly from Mandarin Chinese as “lion.” This reflects the breed’s physical resemblance to the lion — an animal of profound importance in Buddhist iconography and mythology. According to tradition, the Tibetan Buddhist God of Learning traveled with a small lion dog that could transform into a full-sized lion. Tibetan monks and Chinese lamas selectively bred toy dogs to echo this sacred image, and the Shih Tzu emerged from that effort.

The American Kennel Club notes that the Shih Tzu lived with Chinese royalty throughout the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644 A.D.) and was so prized that the Chinese refused for many years to sell, trade, or give the dogs to outsiders. Court artists depicted them on wall hangings inside imperial palaces. Imperial eunuchs competed with each other to produce specimens that pleased the emperor, and those who succeeded were rewarded handsomely.

By the 19th century, the Dowager Empress Cixi maintained a formal kennel devoted to the breed. When she died in 1908, the kennel dissolved and random breeding produced overlapping results with Pugs and Pekingese. The breed’s survival became uncertain.

Near Extinction and the Breed’s Rescue

The history of Shih Tzus includes two moments of near extinction. The first occurred during the fall of the Chinese imperial dynasty in the early 20th century. The second came during the Chinese Communist Revolution of 1949, when the breed’s association with the aristocracy made it a target. At that point, all Shih Tzus remaining in China were killed.

What saved the breed entirely was the foresight of a small number of individuals outside China. Lady Brownrigg, an Englishwoman living in China, imported several dogs to England before the situation deteriorated. A British military officer stationed in China at the time did the same. These few animals formed the genetic foundation of every living Shih Tzu today.

The American Shih Tzu Club confirms that every Shih Tzu alive today descends from just 14 dogs imported to England and Scandinavia between 1928 and 1952. This makes the Shih Tzu one of the most narrowly bottlenecked purebred populations in the world — a fact with real implications for breed health that every owner should understand.

In 1934, the Shih Tzu Club of England was founded to establish breed standards and promote recognition. The United Kingdom Kennel Club formally recognized the breed in 1940.

From England to America

World War II again threatened the breed, as food shortages forced many kennels across Europe to close. Dedicated owners hid or relocated their dogs. After the war, American servicemen stationed in England encountered the breed and began bringing dogs home with them.

The American Shih Tzu Club’s published history records that three separate groups of Shih Tzu enthusiasts formed in the United States — one in Texas and two in the Eastern states. These groups merged in 1963 to form the American Shih Tzu Club, with the specific purpose of pursuing AKC recognition. The Shih Tzu was admitted to the AKC Stud Book in March 1969 and approved for AKC conformation shows on September 1, 1969, as a member of the Toy Group.

In 1969 alone, 2,811 Shih Tzus were registered with the AKC. By 1978, that number had grown to 14,894. The breed has ranked consistently among the 20 most popular dogs in the United States ever since, holding the number-20 position as recently as 2024 according to AKC registration data.

The AKC Breed Standard — What It Defines

The AKC’s official Shih Tzu breed standard describes the breed as “a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with long flowing double coat, distinctly arrogant carriage with head held high and tail curved over the back.” The standard specifies that a Shih Tzu should stand no more than 10.5 inches at the withers and ideally weigh between 9 and 16 lb (4.0 to 7.25 kg).

Key physical traits defined by the standard include a round, broad skull; large, wide-set dark eyes; a short muzzle that does not impede breathing; drop ears covered in long hair; and a required undershot bite. The double coat may be any color, though white with gray blazes appears frequently.

8 Types of Shih Tzus You Will Encounter

The word “type” is used here to describe recognized varieties, regional standards, color patterns, and size variants — not separate breeds. The AKC and the American Shih Tzu Club recognize only one Shih Tzu breed. Variations in appearance, size, and color exist within that single standard.

1. American Shih Tzu

The American Shih Tzu reflects the preferences developed by US breeders after 1969. American lines tend to produce a dog with a square-shaped head, a shorter neck, a broader chest, and legs that angle slightly outward. The overall appearance is compact and sturdy. Weight typically falls between 9 and 16 lb (4.1 to 7.3 kg), and height sits at approximately 9 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 cm) at the withers.

American Shih Tzus are registered as purebred by the AKC. Their temperament is confident, outgoing, and strongly people-oriented.

2. European Shih Tzu

European Shih Tzus were shaped by UK and Scandinavian breeders working from the original imported stock. The UK Kennel Club granted the breed Championship status in 1940 — nearly three decades before AKC recognition. European lines tend to produce a slightly longer neck, a broader chest, a rounder skull, and front legs with a wider stance and a mild bend. Weight and height are broadly comparable to American Shih Tzus, though the gait and overall outline differ noticeably to experienced observers.

3. Imperial Shih Tzu

The Imperial Shih Tzu is a marketing term, not an AKC-recognized variety. Dogs sold under this label are simply undersized Shih Tzus, typically produced by selectively breeding the smallest dogs from successive litters. They generally stand 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) tall and weigh under 9 lb (4.1 kg).

The American Shih Tzu Club explicitly does not recognize the Imperial designation and cautions buyers that dogs bred to remain this small carry substantially elevated health risks. For a full discussion of the Imperial Shih Tzu, see our dedicated article: The Imperial Shih Tzu: Cute or Complex?.

4. Black Shih Tzu

A fully black Shih Tzu — solid black with no white patches, no markings, and entirely black pigmentation on the nose, eye rims, lips, and paw pads — is one of the rarer color expressions within the breed. The coat may darken to a deep silver as the dog ages, but the base color does not disappear entirely. True solid black Shih Tzus carry two copies of the recessive black gene.

For information on health considerations specific to black-coated dogs, see our article: Health Considerations for Black Shih Tzus

5. Blue-Eyed Shih Tzu

Blue eyes in a Shih Tzu result from a dilution of the black pigment gene. The condition is rare within the breed. Dogs with blue eyes also typically display gray or dark brown noses, lighter paw pads, and lighter eye rims than the standard dark pigmentation. Blue eyes are not penalized in AKC competition but are not considered typical of the breed standard.

6. Brown Shih Tzu

Brown, or liver-colored, Shih Tzus have a warm chocolate coat that can range from a deep mahogany to a lighter milk chocolate shade. Pigmentation on the nose, lips, eye rims, and paw pads is brown or liver rather than black. The AKC recognizes liver as a standard color. It is worth noting that brown Shih Tzu coats often lighten gradually as the dog matures. For a full breakdown of this color variety, see: Mysteries of Brown Shih Tzus

7. Teacup Shih Tzu

Like the Imperial label, “teacup” is not an AKC designation. Dogs marketed as teacup Shih Tzus typically weigh under 7 lb (3.2 kg) at full maturity and stand under 6 inches (15 cm) tall. Breeders produce these dogs by selecting the smallest, most underweight runts from multiple generations.

The health consequences are significant. Very small Shih Tzus face elevated risks of hypoglycemia, fragile bones, organ abnormalities, brachycephalic complications, and shortened lifespan. Prospective buyers should approach teacup labeling with caution and verify health screenings carefully before purchasing.

8. Brindle Shih Tzu

Brindle refers to a coat pattern rather than a single color. A brindle Shih Tzu displays a base coat with a secondary color applied in irregular stripes or streaks, creating a tiger-like pattern. The pattern can appear in various color combinations — dark brindle, gold brindle, and silver brindle being the most common. The AKC recognizes brindle as a valid color pattern within the breed standard.

Shih Tzu Temperament — What the History Explains

The Shih Tzu was bred for one purpose across centuries of documented history: companionship. It was never a hunting dog, a herding dog, or a working dog. Every aspect of its temperament reflects this selective history.

The American Shih Tzu Club’s breed description notes that the Shih Tzu must be “of sound mind as well as body” and cautions that temperament weakness is a real breeding concern. A well-bred Shih Tzu should be outgoing, confident, alert, and affectionate — not timid, anxious, or snappy.

Shih Tzus typically get along well with children, other dogs, and cats when properly socialized. They adapt well to apartment living. However, they do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods without stimulation. Their companion nature is a fixed genetic trait, not a learned behavior.

For a deeper look at how Shih Tzus communicate and what their behavior signals mean, see: How Shih Tzus Communicate With You

Health Considerations Every New Owner Should Know

The same genetic bottleneck that saved the Shih Tzu from extinction — descent from just 14 individuals — has also concentrated certain hereditary health conditions within the breed. New owners benefit from understanding these before bringing a dog home.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS):

The Shih Tzu’s short muzzle is its most distinctive feature and its most significant health vulnerability. BAOS affects many brachycephalic breeds and can cause breathing difficulties, exercise intolerance, and heat sensitivity. For detailed information, see: Shih Tzu Breathing Problems

Eye conditions:

The Shih Tzu’s large, prominent eyes are susceptible to corneal ulcers, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), and proptosis. Routine eye checks are essential. See: Shih Tzu Eye Care: Problems, Symptoms, and Treatments

Dental disease:

The breed’s small jaw creates crowded teeth that are highly prone to periodontal disease. The American Veterinary Dental College identifies small-breed dogs as among the highest-risk groups for early-onset dental disease. See: Shih Tzu Teeth Care: Complete Guide

Lifespan:

Despite the health considerations above, Shih Tzus are among the longer-lived small breeds. The typical lifespan ranges from 10 to 16 years. For a full breakdown, see: How Long Do Shih Tzu Dogs Live?

Essential Gear for New Shih Tzu Owners

The Shih Tzu’s double coat — a soft undercoat beneath a longer outer layer of silky hair — requires consistent, correct grooming from the start. Choosing the wrong tools can damage the coat, cause pain, or miss mats forming close to the skin. These are the products recommended by professional groomers for Shih Tzu coats specifically.

1. Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush

Professional groomers consistently identify the Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush as the gold standard for Shih Tzu coats. Its flexible pins glide through the double coat without scratching the skin, and the curved head conforms to the dog’s body. This brush is dense enough to reach the undercoat and gentle enough for daily use. It is the most commonly recommended single grooming tool by certified groomers working with this breed.

2. Andis Steel Greyhound Comb

After brushing, finishing with a quality steel comb is essential for checking that no mats remain close to the skin. The Andis Steel Greyhound Comb has both wide and narrow tooth sections in a single tool — wide for working through the body coat, narrow for the face, ears, and topknot. Professional groomers carry this comb as a standard tool.

3. BioSilk for Dogs Detangling Spray

Misting the coat before brushing reduces breakage and makes detangling significantly easier, particularly in friction areas such as behind the ears and under the armpits. BioSilk for Dogs Silk Therapy Detangling and Conditioning Spray is formulated for dogs and uses silk proteins to smooth the hair shaft without leaving greasy residue. It is safe for use between baths.

4. Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothbrush and Toothpaste Kit

Given the Shih Tzu’s well-documented susceptibility to dental disease, a daily brushing routine should start from puppyhood. The Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothbrush and Toothpaste Kit uses natural enzymes and baking soda to break down plaque. The kit includes a finger brush suitable for puppies and a standard brush for adults. It is one of the highest-rated dental care products for small breeds on Amazon.

5. Puppia Soft Step-In Dog Harness

Because Shih Tzus are prone to brachycephalic airway complications, a collar that applies pressure to the trachea during walks creates unnecessary respiratory risk. A harness is the strongly recommended alternative for this breed. The Puppia Soft Step-In Dog Harness is designed for small breeds, uses a soft air-mesh fabric, distributes pressure across the chest rather than the throat, and comes in a wide range of sizes and colors. It is consistently among the top-rated small dog harnesses on Amazon.

For a full breakdown of the best brushes for Shih Tzus and how to use each one, see our dedicated guide: Best Brushes for Shih Tzus

Bringing a Shih Tzu Home — What the History Tells Us to Expect

A breed shaped by more than a thousand years of companion selection will behave accordingly. The Shih Tzu does not want to work. It does not want to roam. It wants to be where its person is.

This has practical implications. A Shih Tzu left alone for long hours without stimulation will develop anxiety behaviors. A Shih Tzu that lacks structure will test boundaries confidently, because confidence is part of its temperament. A Shih Tzu that is not groomed regularly will develop mats that cause pain and skin infection beneath the coat.

The breed rewards attentive ownership generously. Its documented lifespan of 10 to 16 years means the investment in proper early care pays dividends over a very long relationship.

For help preparing for that relationship, see our complete guide: Shih Tzu Puppy Care Guide

Conclusion

The history of Shih Tzus is not background reading — it is directly relevant to every decision an owner makes today. A breed shaped by Tibetan monasteries, Chinese imperial courts, near-extinction, and a narrow genetic rescue from just 14 surviving dogs carries those origins in its temperament, its health vulnerabilities, and its unwavering need for human companionship. Understanding where the Shih Tzu came from explains why it behaves the way it does, why certain health conditions appear consistently across the breed, and why the right care tools matter from day one. Whether you are bringing home your first Shih Tzu or deepening your knowledge of one you already own, the breed rewards informed ownership generously — and with a lifespan of 10 to 16 years, that investment pays returns for a very long time. For everything you need next, start with our complete Shih Tzu Puppy Care Guide.

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