Shih Tzu
Sweet-natured and friendly
Shih Tzus 101
Toy groupAlthough they were developed to reign in the royal courts of China, the Shih Tzu has never been a dog to look down on anyone. Today they are just as comfortable in posh pied-à-terres as they are in more modest homes, a friendly face to all and a happy companion to families of all kinds.
What we love about Shih Tzus
Few breeds are more loving than this one
Bright and eager to please, Shih Tzus are especially good companions for seniors. As is common with short-nosed dogs, they are prone to overheating. Their favorite place will always be the closest lap, preferably in air-conditioned home.
- Talkative
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult Shih Tzu
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Urinary bladder stones
Ocular (eye) trauma
Senior Shih Tzu
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Cataracts
Urinary bladder stones
Valvular heart disease
Shih Tzu puppy
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Umbilical hernia
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Ear infection
Young adult Shih Tzu
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Constipation
Ocular (eye) trauma
Mature adult Shih Tzu
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Urinary bladder stones
Ocular (eye) trauma
Senior Shih Tzu
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Cataracts
Urinary bladder stones
Valvular heart disease
Shih Tzu puppy
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Umbilical hernia
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Ear infection
Young adult Shih Tzu
Risk level for common Shih Tzu conditions
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Constipation
Ocular (eye) trauma
Nationwide can help you save on your Shih Tzu's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your Shih Tzu’s health information in a free report
In Mandarin, "Shih Tzu" translates to "lion dog" due to the breed's resemblance to traditional Chinese guardian lions, also known as "foo dogs." Statues of foo dogs were believed to have protective qualities and were often placed around palaces and temples. The breed’s name pays homage to its majestic appearance and the role it held as a cherished companion in ancient China.
Shih Tzu coat care and colors
The Shih Tzu has a glorious coat, but without daily combing and brushing it quickly becomes a tangled mess. For that reason, most Shih Tzus are kept clipped short by a professional groomer. While that makes home coat care easier, it does make for cold dogs on winter days, so it’s best to have a sweater on hand for warmth as needed. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.
Can I groom my Shih Tzu's hair in different styles, or should I stick to a specific cut?
Do Shih Tzus shed a lot?
How often should I groom my Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzu exercise & training
Shih Tzu fun facts
Top girl names for Shih Tzus
of Shih Tzus are female
of Shih Tzus are male
Top boy names for Shih Tzus
Nationwide loves Shih Tzus of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like Shih Tzus
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