Shih Tzu

Yes, Shih Tzus can be excellent family dogs! They’re gentle and affectionate with children, and their small, sturdy bodies means they’re unlikely to knock anyone over in excitement. However, they commonly like to have fuss and attention on their own terms, and don’t appreciate being picked up, cuddled, or played with roughly. If they feel anxious or upset, they may growl or snap to ask you to leave them alone. They’re best placed with children who are old enough to understand adults when they say the dog needs space.

They enjoy being part of family activities but are equally happy lounging around. Their calm nature makes them a great choice for families of all sizes. Like all dogs, it’s important to keep watch of Shih Tzus around children to prevent any accidents.

Shih Tzus are often incredibly affectionate and thrive on human interaction. They love being close to their favourite people, often following them around the house and curling up on their laps. However, many Shih Tzus appreciate their personal space and prefer affection and interaction on their own terms. They won’t tolerate being picked up, carried or disturbed when they’re resting. The best way of respecting a Shih Tzu is to read their body language and avoid things that make them uncomfortable or worried.

Their affectionate nature means they form strong bonds with their families and can become very attached, so make sure to practice leaving your dog in other rooms or home alone without you to prevent them from developing separation-related issues. 

Shih Tzus are happiest when they’re showered with love and attention, making them perfect for those seeking a loyal and loving companion.

Although Shih Tzus aren’t as energetic as other breeds, they do have a playful side. They enjoy short bursts of play, including a game of fetch or chasing after a toy. They’re also quite intelligent and like using their brains to solve interactive toys and puzzles. However, they’re just as happy to relax and enjoy some quiet time with their owners.

Shih Tzus can be quite barky at times. They may be trying to alert you to visitors or unusual noises, and sometimes just to remind you they’re here. Good news is, they aren’t known to be excessive barkers. With proper training, you can manage and minimise unnecessary barking. Ensuring they have plenty of activities to keep them mentally and physical active can help reduce barking from boredom.

Because Shih Tzus love people so much, they can become anxious when they’re left home alone. They’re easily pleased though, so as long as you give them the attention they crave, they’re not likely to bark, whine or jump up.

Like many other small dogs, Shih Tzus are often treated differently to larger dogs. This means people can sometimes ignore their signs of discomfort like cowering, growling, or snarling until it’s a problem. Shih Tzus are more likely to develop issues when touched or handled, because they appreciate their own personal space. However, by listening to your dog and reading the signs of when they’re uncomfortable, you can build their confidence and prevent this behaviour. 

It can be tricky trying to train a Shih Tzu because they’re so relaxed. You need to give them lots of time and patience if you want to teach them new things

Shih Tzus can live happily in apartments, flats, and small homes due to their petite size and low exercise needs. A home with a small garden is a bonus but not essential. A green space outside for them to sniff and use the toilet is perfect!

Shih Tzus thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and love. They live their best lives when someone is around for most of the day, as they can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long. Shih Tzus can also live well with other pets and children.

Shih Tzus only need a short, 20 to 30 minute walk each day to stretch their little legs and explore their local surroundings. They weren’t bred to hunt, catch or herd, so they’re the perfect little dog for those who live a more relaxed lifestyle. However, you can still get out with them each day for a bit of fresh air to satisfy their curious noses.

Whilst they’re not that energetic, they still need to keep their intelligent brains busy! Shih Tzus benefit from mental stimulation through interactive toys and games, food puzzles, and interesting indoor play sessions.

All puppies need to learn how to be around people, pets, and other dogs, in a calm and polite way (known as socialisation). They also need help to feel calm, comfortable, and confident in everyday situations like travelling, the sound of traffic, and being in busy places (known as habituation). This is essential to prevent tricky behavioural problems in the future, and you'll be off to a great start with your ongoing training.

Shih Tzus are quite easy to train but they’re harder to motivate than other dogs and need more patience. They respond well to rewards like treats, toys and praise. It’s best to try short but frequent training sessions to learn new things.

Don’t just stop training when your Shih Tzu becomes an adult. As dogs mature, they go through several life stages that can change their behaviour and require you to focus on certain aspects of training. 

The common behavioural issues to watch out for with Shih Tzus include handling difficulties, housetraining issues, separation related behavioural problems, barking and fussy eating.

Shih Tzus are known for their long, silky coats so they have high grooming needs. Although they don’t tend to shed much fur, regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling, keeping your dog comfortable and happy. 

It's recommended to have them professionally groomed every four to six weeks to keep their coats manageable and in tip-top condition. Some people prefer to clip their Shih Tzu’s coat short, which makes it much less likely to tangle and has the added benefit of giving them a sweet, teddy-bear-like appearance!

Regular baths, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important for your dog’s overall wellbeing. This can be done at home if you train your dog to enjoy grooming from the start.

Shih Tzus are prone to certain health conditions, including:
Breathing difficulties: Conditions like brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome are common due to their short snouts.
Eye Problems: Issues like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (a health condition that can affect a dog’s eyes)
Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't fit properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates, causing pain and lameness.
Dental Problems: Due to their small mouths, they are prone to tooth decay and gum disease.

With good care, regular vet visits, and a healthy lifestyle, many of these risks can be minimised, ensuring your Shih Tzu lives a long and happy life.