Shih Tzu FAQs: 42 Research-Backed Answers for Owners
New and experienced owners ask the same Shih Tzu questions again and again. How big will she get? How long will he live? Why is my dog so hard to house train? This page answers the most common questions in short, plain answers.
Each answer is based on current sources, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the ASPCA and peer-reviewed veterinary studies. Each one also links to our full guide on that topic.
What the research says: The largest study of Shih Tzus under primary veterinary care looked at UK clinic records (Dale et al., 2024). The median age at death was 12.7 years. The most common single disorders were periodontal (dental) disease at 9.5%, anal sac impaction at 7.4% and ear disorders at 5.5%. By disorder group, skin problems (16.6%), dental problems (13.3%) and eye problems (11.9%) were most common. The AKC lists the breed at 9 to 10.5 inches tall and 9 to 16 pounds, and ranked the Shih Tzu number 21 of all breeds in its 2025 registration figures.
Shih Tzu Quick Facts
| Trait | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 9 to 10.5 inches at the shoulder | AKC |
| Weight | 9 to 16 pounds | AKC |
| Life expectancy | 10 to 18 years (AKC range); median age at death 12.7 years in UK clinic data | AKC; Dale et al. 2024 |
| AKC group | Toy Group | AKC |
| Popularity | Number 21 in the AKC 2025 rankings | AKC |
| Coat | Long double coat; needs daily brushing if kept long | AKC |
| Exercise | Minimal: short daily walks and indoor play | AKC |
| Heat tolerance | Poor, because of the heavy coat and short face | AKC |
Breed Basics
What is a Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu is a small companion dog. According to the AKC, imperial breeders in the palace of the Chinese emperor developed the breed centuries ago from Tibetan stock. The name means “lion dog.” Read the full story in our Shih Tzu history guide.
How do you pronounce Shih Tzu?
The AKC gives the pronunciation as “sheed-zoo.” Many people also say “sheet-sue.” Both are widely understood.
What colors do Shih Tzus come in?
Shih Tzus come in many colors and patterns, including gold, white, black, brindle, liver and parti-colors. Puppy coats often change color as they grow. See our Shih Tzu colors guide.
Is an “imperial” Shih Tzu a separate breed?
No. “Imperial” is a marketing term for very small Shih Tzus. It is not a separate breed or an official size. Breeding for very small size can raise health risks. Read our imperial Shih Tzu guide.
How can I tell if my Shih Tzu is purebred?
Looks alone cannot prove it. Registration papers and a pedigree from a registry such as the AKC are the standard proof. DNA breed tests can estimate ancestry, but they are not purity certificates. See how to identify a purebred Shih Tzu.
Male or female: which is better?
Neither is better. Individual temperament matters more than sex. Compare size, behavior and care in our male vs female Shih Tzu guide.
Temperament and Family Life
What is the Shih Tzu personality like?
Shih Tzus are bred as companions, so most love to be near their people. The AKC describes the breed as charming, and says “giggles and mischief follow” wherever it goes. Read more in our Shih Tzu characteristics guide.
Are Shih Tzus good with kids?
Many Shih Tzus live happily with children who are gentle and calm. Toddlers can easily drop or step on a small dog, so always supervise young children. Teach kids to sit on the floor to hold the dog.
Do Shih Tzus get along with cats and other dogs?
Most can, with slow, supervised introductions. Early socialization helps a lot. See our guides on Shih Tzus and cats and the best companion dogs for a Shih Tzu.
Are Shih Tzus good guard dogs?
No. A Shih Tzu may bark to alert you, but it is too small to protect a home. Read can a Shih Tzu be a guard dog.
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
Some do. Barking is often linked to boredom, alerting or anxiety. Reward-based training can reduce it. See do Shih Tzus bark a lot.
Can a Shih Tzu be left alone?
Adult Shih Tzus can learn to stay alone for part of the day if you build up the time slowly. Puppies need frequent potty breaks. Signs such as constant barking, chewing or accidents when alone can point to separation distress. See our Shih Tzu anxiety guide.
Can a Shih Tzu be a service dog?
A Shih Tzu can be trained as a service dog for some tasks, but size limits what it can do. Emotional support animals are not service dogs under the ADA. Read can a Shih Tzu be a service dog.
Health
What health problems are common in Shih Tzus?
In UK clinic data, the most common problems were dental disease, anal sac impaction and ear disorders (Dale et al., 2024). The AKC says responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and eye conditions. See our Shih Tzu health problems guide.
Why does my Shih Tzu have breathing problems?
The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic (short-faced) breed. Some dogs have narrow nostrils or other airway problems. Loud breathing at rest, gagging or collapse needs a vet visit. Read Shih Tzu breathing problems and reverse sneezing in Shih Tzus.
Why are Shih Tzu eyes prone to problems?
Their large, prominent eyes are exposed and easy to injure. Eye disorders made up 11.9% of recorded problems in the Dale study. Squinting, a cloudy eye or a red eye is urgent. See our Shih Tzu eye care guide.
Why does my Shih Tzu have brown stains under its eyes?
Those are tear stains: an iron-containing pigment in tears spills onto the fur because of the breed’s face shape. Our Shih Tzu tear stains guide covers safe cleaning and the warning signs.
How do I prevent dental disease?
Brush her teeth daily with a dog toothpaste. Products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal have data behind their claims. Book dental checks at every wellness visit. See our Shih Tzu teeth care guide.
How often should my Shih Tzu see the vet?
AAHA says most puppies should visit every 3 to 4 weeks until about 4 to 5 months old. Healthy young adults should go at least once a year. Healthy seniors should go at least twice a year. See our puppy vaccine schedule and senior Shih Tzu care guide.
Why does my Shih Tzu smell?
Common causes include ear infections, yeast on the skin, dental disease and full anal sacs. A sudden new smell should be checked by a vet. Read why does my Shih Tzu smell.
Should I spay or neuter my Shih Tzu?
Many owners spay or neuter their pet Shih Tzu. The best choice and timing depend on your dog. Discuss it with your vet. See our neutering guide.
Safety first: The AKC notes that Shih Tzus do not tolerate heat well and are not good swimmers. A 2020 UK study found that brachycephalic dogs overall had 2.10 times the odds of heat-related illness compared with medium-faced dogs (Hall et al., 2020). Shih Tzus had some of the lowest odds among the breeds studied, likely because of their small size, but they can still overheat. Walk in the cool part of the day and never leave her in a parked car. If your dog eats chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, xylitol or macadamia nuts, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). Heavy panting that does not settle, collapse, blue gums or trouble breathing is an emergency.
Food and Weight
What should I feed my Shih Tzu?
The AKC advises a high-quality food that fits her life stage: puppy, adult or senior. A food that meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for that stage is a good starting point. See our best puppy food for Shih Tzus, food for allergies and food for a sensitive stomach.
How much should a Shih Tzu eat?
It depends on her weight, age and activity. Start with the calories on the food label and adjust to keep her lean. Use our Shih Tzu feeding guide.
How much should a Shih Tzu weigh?
The AKC standard range is 9 to 16 pounds. Body condition matters more than the number. You should be able to feel her ribs easily. See how much should a Shih Tzu weigh.
What human foods are dangerous for Shih Tzus?
The ASPCA lists chocolate, coffee, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, xylitol, alcohol, raw yeast dough and very salty or fatty foods. See can a Shih Tzu eat human food.
My Shih Tzu is a picky eater. What can I do?
First rule out dental pain or illness with your vet. Then set fixed meal times and remove the bowl after 15 to 20 minutes. Read how to get a picky Shih Tzu to eat.
Exercise and Activity
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
Not much. The AKC says short daily walks and indoor play meet the needs of this breed. See our Shih Tzu exercise guide.
Can Shih Tzus handle hot weather?
Not well. Keep walks short on hot days and provide shade and water. Read can a Shih Tzu tolerate hot weather.
Can I travel with my Shih Tzu?
Yes, with planning. Many airlines restrict short-nosed breeds in cargo. A cabin carrier is the safer choice if allowed. See our Shih Tzu travel guide.
Training and Behavior
Why is my Shih Tzu hard to house train?
The AKC notes the breed can charm owners into letting it have its way, which can lead to a dog that is not fully house trained. A steady schedule and rewards fix most cases. Follow our Shih Tzu potty training guide and crate training guide.
What training method works best?
The AKC says praise and rewards work best, and harsh corrections should not be used. Early socialization and puppy classes are recommended. Start with our Shih Tzu training guide.
How do I stop biting, nipping or aggression?
Puppy nipping is normal and fades with training. The AKC suggests ignoring nipping or jumping until the dog settles, then praising. Sudden aggression in an adult can signal pain, so see your vet. Read Shih Tzu behavior problems and why is my Shih Tzu aggressive.
Grooming
How often should I groom my Shih Tzu?
The AKC says a long coat needs daily brushing, down to the skin, and a bath about every 3 to 4 weeks. Many owners keep a shorter puppy cut to save time. See our Shih Tzu grooming guide and summer haircut ideas.
What tools do I need?
A pin brush, a metal comb, dog shampoo and nail clippers cover the basics. Compare options in our guides to the best brushes, best shampoo and best clippers for Shih Tzus.
How do I clean Shih Tzu ears?
Check the ears weekly. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and never push anything deep into the canal. Ear disorders were among the top 3 problems in the Dale study. See our Shih Tzu ear care guide.
Buying, Adopting and Breeding
Should I adopt or buy a Shih Tzu?
Both can work. Rescue groups often have adult Shih Tzus with known personalities. If you buy, choose a breeder who health-screens parents and lets you meet them. Read Shih Tzu adoption pros and cons.
What are common Shih Tzu mixes?
Popular mixes include the Shih-Poo (with a Poodle) and the Mal-Shi (with a Maltese). Mixes vary a lot in size and coat. See our Shih Tzu mixes guide.
What should I know before breeding?
Breeding involves health testing, costs and risks for the mother. Delivery problems can happen, so plan veterinary support before the due date. Read our Shih Tzu breeding guide before you decide.
How long do Shih Tzus live?
The AKC gives a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years. In a large UK study of dogs under veterinary care, the median age at death for Shih Tzus was 12.7 years (Dale et al., 2024). Good dental care, a lean weight and regular vet checks help her live a long life.
Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?
No dog breed is truly hypoallergenic. A 2012 study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology measured the main dog allergen, Can f 1, in the hair and homes of many breeds. It found no evidence to call any breed hypoallergenic. A Shih Tzu sheds little hair, but it still produces allergens.
How big do Shih Tzus get?
The AKC lists adult Shih Tzus at 9 to 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder and 9 to 16 pounds.
Do Shih Tzus shed?
Shih Tzus shed lightly. Loose hairs tend to get caught in the long coat instead of falling out, which can cause mats. Daily brushing removes this hair.
Are Shih Tzus easy to train?
They can be. The AKC says praise and rewards work best, and harsh corrections should not be used. House training often takes longer than with some breeds, so keep a steady routine.
Sources
- American Kennel Club. Shih Tzu Dog Breed Information
- American Kennel Club. The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2025
- American Kennel Club. About the Shih Tzu (breed flyer)
- Dale F, Brodbelt DC, West G, Church DB, Lee YH, O’Neill DG. Demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzu dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Companion Animal Health and Genetics, 2024
- Hall EJ, Carter AJ, O’Neill DG. Incidence and risk factors for heat-related illness in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Scientific Reports, 2020
- Vredegoor DW, et al. Can f 1 levels in hair and homes of different dog breeds: Lack of evidence to describe any dog breed as hypoallergenic. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2012
- AAHA. How Often Should My Dog Go to the Vet? A Dog Life Stage Guide, 2025
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
This article is for general information. It is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Read our medical disclaimer.
