The Shih Tzu: A Little Dog with a Very Big Personality
Small in size, big in personality and almost impossible to ignore, the Shih Tzu is one of those breeds that seems to have perfected the art of being both companion and character. With their flowing coat, expressive eyes and confident little strut, Shih Tzus may look like royalty — and historically, they were.
A Little History
The Shih Tzu is an ancient companion breed with roots in Tibet and China. The breed is closely associated with Chinese imperial courts, where these small dogs were treasured as companion animals. Their name is commonly translated as “lion dog”, reflecting the lion-like appearance valued in traditional Chinese culture.
Today, the Shih Tzu remains what it was bred to be: a devoted companion who would much rather be wherever their people are.
Size & Appearance
A fully grown Shih Tzu is typically around 20–28 cm tall and weighs approximately 4–7.5 kg. They are small, sturdy dogs with a surprisingly confident presence.
Their beautiful double coat can come in many colours and combinations, including:
- White and gold
- Black and white
- Black
- Gold
- Liver
- Brindle
- Red
- Silver
- Blue
- Parti-coloured combinations
- Their coat can grow long and flowing, but many families choose a shorter “puppy cut” that is easier to maintain.
What Is a Shih Tzu Really Like?
Shih Tzus are generally affectionate, cheerful, sociable and people-oriented. They tend to form strong bonds with their families and are happiest when included in everyday life.
They can also be surprisingly independent. A Shih Tzu may adore you completely — while still making it very clear that they have their own opinions!
The good bits
❤️ Loving and affectionate
❤️ Excellent companion dogs
❤️ Adaptable to apartments and smaller homes
❤️ Usually sociable and friendly
❤️ Don't require huge amounts of exercise
❤️ Often good with children and older family members
❤️ Generally happy to be included in family life
The challenging bits
They aren't completely maintenance-free.
Their beautiful coat requires regular grooming, brushing and attention to prevent knots and mats. Some Shih Tzus can also be stubborn or selective about listening, particularly when training isn't made interesting.
Because they are so attached to their people, they may also dislike being left alone for long periods.
And yes — some Shih Tzus believe they are considerably larger and more important than they actually are!
Is a Shih Tzu Right for Your Family?
A Shih Tzu can be an excellent choice for:
Families with children:
With proper supervision and gentle handling, Shih Tzus can be wonderful family companions. Children should be taught to respect their small size and personal space.
Older people:
Their relatively modest exercise needs and affectionate nature can make them lovely companions for seniors. Short walks, playtime and plenty of companionship are often enough.
Apartment living:
Absolutely. They don't need a huge garden and can adapt well to apartment life, provided they receive daily walks, mental stimulation and interaction.
First-time dog parents:
They can be a good choice, particularly for someone looking for a companion rather than a highly athletic dog. However, their grooming requirements should not be underestimated.
What About Other Pets?
Shih Tzus can live happily with other dogs and, when properly introduced and socialised, can also coexist with cats and other household pets.
Early socialisation is important. Introduce new pets gradually and give each animal their own safe space, food and belongings.
Remember: small does not necessarily mean submissive. Your Shih Tzu may be the smallest member of the household — and still appoint themselves CEO!
Training a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are intelligent, but they aren't always eager to prove it.
Their independent streak can make training feel like a negotiation. Positive reinforcement, treats, praise and short, enjoyable sessions generally work much better than harsh correction.
Start early with:
- Toilet training
- Name recognition
- Recall
- Loose-leash walking
- Basic commands
- Handling of paws, ears and face
- Grooming tolerance
- Socialisation with people, dogs and different environments
One particularly important lesson is teaching your Shih Tzu that brushing, bathing, nail trimming and having their face handled are normal parts of life.
Exercise & Mental Stimulation
A Shih Tzu doesn't need marathon walks, but they still need daily activity.
Short walks, gentle play and sniffing opportunities are excellent. Puzzle toys and simple training games can also keep their clever little minds occupied.
Avoid assuming that because they are a small breed, they don't need exercise or enrichment.
What Should a Shih Tzu Eat?
A complete and balanced diet appropriate for their age, size and life stage is the best foundation.
Puppies, adults and seniors have different nutritional requirements, so their diet should change as their needs change.
Because Shih Tzus can be prone to dental problems, maintaining good dental hygiene is particularly important. Their facial structure can also make eating and drinking a little messy — something many Shih Tzu parents will recognise!
Treats are useful for training, but keep them moderate so your little companion doesn't gradually become a very well-trained little balloon.
Health Matters to Know
Like many purebred dogs, Shih Tzus can have certain breed-associated health concerns. Responsible breeding, regular veterinary care and maintaining a healthy weight can make a significant difference.
Things worth discussing with your veterinarian include:
- Brachycephalic airway problems because of their short muzzle
- Eye problems, including corneal irritation and injuries
- Dental disease, particularly because of their small mouths and crowded teeth
- Patellar luxation and other joint problems
- Ear infections, especially with their hairy ears
- Skin allergies and dermatitis
- Hip and other orthopaedic issues
- Heat intolerance
- Their prominent eyes deserve particular care. Keep hair around the face neatly maintained and seek veterinary advice if you notice persistent redness, squinting, discharge or rubbing.
And because of their short noses, heat deserves special attention. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather and never leave a Shih Tzu in a parked car.
Grooming: The Shih Tzu Non-Negotiable
If you love the Shih Tzu's gorgeous coat, be prepared to care for it.
Regular brushing helps prevent painful mats and keeps the coat comfortable. Many Shih Tzu parents opt for professional grooming every few weeks, particularly when maintaining a longer coat.
Bathing should be gentle and followed by thorough drying. Their facial folds, eyes, ears and paws also deserve regular attention.
This is where having the right grooming routine makes life much easier.
Pupr Picks for Your Shih Tzu
If you're bringing a Shih Tzu home — or already have one ruling the household — a few Pupr essentials can make everyday care a little easier.
Pupr Deep Cleansing Shampoo
A gentle, pH-balanced shampoo formulated to cleanse while helping keep the coat feeling soft and nourished. Particularly useful for maintaining the beautiful Shih Tzu coat.
Pupr Moisturising Conditioner
For Shih Tzus with longer, silky or easily tangled coats, conditioner can make brushing considerably easier and help keep the coat soft and manageable.
Pupr Grooming Wet Wipes
Handy for cleaning paws, faces and little everyday messes between baths.
Pupr Paw Foam Cleaner
Perfect for quick paw clean-ups after walks, especially when your Shih Tzu has been exploring muddy gardens or city streets.
Pupr Paw Butter
A lovely addition to a paw-care routine, particularly during dry weather or when paws need some extra moisturising.
Pupr Dry Bath
Useful between full baths when your Shih Tzu needs a quick freshen-up without a complete wash.
For families who enjoy a fresh-smelling pup, this gentle fragrance mist can be used as part of a grooming routine — always avoiding the eyes and broken or irritated skin.
Pupr Walk Collection
A comfortable, well-fitted collar or harness and lightweight leash are ideal for a small breed like the Shih Tzu. Always check the fit carefully; small breeds need secure equipment without unnecessary weight or pressure.
And for those well-earned naps after ruling the house, a cosy Pupr bed or blanket gives your little companion a comfortable place to retreat.
A Few Shih Tzu Rules to Remember
If you are bringing a Shih Tzu home, remember:
1. Don't underestimate grooming.
That beautiful coat needs commitment.
2. Protect those eyes.
Their prominent eyes need particular attention.
3. Take dental care seriously.
Small mouths can mean big dental problems.
4. Keep them cool.
Short noses make overheating a genuine concern.
5. Socialise early.
People, dogs, grooming, sounds and different environments should all become familiar.
6. Train with patience.
Your Shih Tzu isn't necessarily ignoring you. They may simply be considering your proposal.
7. Keep them close, but teach independence.
They are companion dogs and love being with their people, but gentle training for alone time can help prevent separation-related problems.
The Pupr Verdict
The Shih Tzu is not a dog for someone looking for a jogging partner or a backyard watchdog.
It is a dog for someone looking for company, affection, personality and a little bit of royalty in the living room.
They can be wonderful family dogs, loving companions for older people, happy apartment dwellers and affectionate friends to other pets when introduced thoughtfully.
Small enough to fit comfortably into your home, but with enough personality to take over the entire house — the Shih Tzu really does live by one simple philosophy:
Life is better when you're loved, pampered and never too far from your favourite human.
And, of course, that's very much the Pupr way.
