Are Shih Tzus good family dogs?

Yes, Shih Tzus can make good family dogs with proper training and socialization. They form strong bonds with their family members.

How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?

Shih Tzus need 20-30 minutes of exercise daily. This should include walks, play, and mental stimulation.

Do Shih Tzus shed a lot?

Shih Tzus have low shedding. Regular brushing will help manage loose fur.

Are Shih Tzus easy to train?

Shih Tzus can be challenging to train due to their independent nature. They require patient, experienced handling and respond best to respectful, consistent training methods.

How long do Shih Tzus live?

Shih Tzus typically live 10-16 years. Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care can help ensure a healthy lifespan.

Are Shih Tzus good with other dogs?

Shih Tzus can get along well with other dogs when properly socialized from a young age.

Can Shih Tzus live in apartments?

Shih Tzus can adapt to apartment living with adequate exercise and mental stimulation.

Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?

Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic or low-shedding, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers.

Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?

Shih Tzus tend to be vocal and bark frequently. Training can help manage excessive barking.

Shih Tzu Dog Breed: Temperament, Care & Facts | Dogfluence

Q: What health problems do Shih Tzus have?

Common health concerns for Shih Tzus include Periodontal Disease (9.5% prevalence), Anal Sac Impaction (7.4% prevalence), Ocular Surface Diseases (e.g., Dry Eye, Corneal Ulcers). Regular vet checkups and health screening are important.

Size

Small

5-10kg

Grooming

High Maintenance

Daily grooming

Family

Great with Kids

Patient & gentle nature

Family-friendly

Health Overview

View full health guide →

Patologia % della razza colpita

Periodontal Disease9.5% prevalence

Anal Sac Impaction7.4% prevalence

Ocular Surface Diseasese.g., Dry Eye, Corneal Ulcers

Ask breeder for:

Renal Dysplasia (wedge biopsy or ultrasound)CERF/CAER eye clearances

Ownership Costs

View full breakdown →

Initial Cost

$1,000-2,500

BudgetAveragePremium

Monthly Cost

$70-120

LowModerateHigh

Estimated Yearly Cost

$840-1,440

Includes food, insurance, vet visits, grooming, and supplies

Living Situation

Apartment Living

Suitable

Work From Home

Suitable with adequate exercise

Alone Time

Moderate - 4-6 hours

First-Time Owner

Better for experienced owners

With Other Pets

Dogs

Generally friendly

Cats

Generally safe with proper introduction

Small Mammals

Supervision required

Birds & Reptiles

Caution advised

Climate & Seasonal Care

Heat Tolerance 1/5

Cold Tolerance 2/5

Winter Needs

Needs coat/boots

Summer Care

Limit exercise in heat

Seasonal Shedding

Low

Adjust activities based on weather conditions.

Breed Origins

Origin

Tibet) with the Pekingese

Original Purpose

The Shih Tzu ("Lion Dog") was developed in the palaces of the Chinese Emperor, likely by crossing th

Living With a Shih Tzu

Odor Level

Moderate

Coat Feel

Varies by coat type

Surrender Risk: Medium

Underestimated exercise needs
Behavioral challenges
Cost of care

Exercise Menu

20-30 min/day

Physical

20 minutes

Mental

15 minutes

Physical Exercise20-30 min

20–30 minutes daily. Two short walks are ideal. They do not require running; a "sniffari" walk where they can smell their environment is sufficient.

Mental Stimulation15 min

15 minutes daily. Puzzle feeders, licky mats, or trick training.

Total Requirement45 min

~45 minutes of engagement per day.

Method15-20 min

Positive reinforcement only. This breed shuts down or becomes defensive with harsh correction.

The "What's in it for me?" Factor15-20 min

Shih Tzus are intelligent but not biddable. They will not obey a command simply to please you; they need a high-value motivator (liver treats, cheese).

Repetition15-20 min

They rank #70 in Stanley Coren’s intelligence list, meaning they may need 80-100 repetitions to learn a new command. Patience is key.

Heat Tolerance (1/5)15-20 min

**Critical Risk.** Temperatures above 25°C can be dangerous if humidity is high. They should be kept in air conditioning during summer.

Cold Tolerance (2/5)15-20 min

They have hair, not fur, and lack a thick insulating undercoat in the same way a Husky does. They get wet and cold easily. Winter coats are necessary in freezing temps.

Life Stages

Puppy0-12 months

Shih Tzu puppies require consistent training and patience.

Adolescent6-18 months

Peak energy age: 1-3 years

Adult2-8 years

Prime years - energy stabilizes but remains active

Senior8+ years

Senior care varies by individual health.

First Year Reality Check

7/10

Puppy Difficulty

Moderate

House Training

Medium

Crate Training Success

4-10

Destructive Phase (months)

This breed commonly experiences adolescent regression - training may temporarily regress around 6-18 months

Travel & Adventure

Car Travel

Good

Hiking Companion

Camping

Suitable

Beach Friendly

Yes

Cabin Eligible

Too large

Hotel Friendly

Yes

Adapts well to travel with proper preparation.

Safety & Containment

Dog Park

Suitable

Off-Leash

Not recommended

Escape Risk

Low

Min Fence Height

5-6 feet

Resource Guarding

Low

Small Animal Safe

Yes

Proper containment and supervision recommended.

Breeding Information

Avg Litter Size

(range: 4-8)

Varies

C-Section Rate

Medium

Whelping Difficulty

Low

Puppy Mortality

Special Abilities

Sensory Friendly Coat

Training Guide

Recommended Method

Positive reinforcement

Learning Speed

repetitions

Training Tips

**: Positive reinforcement only. This breed shuts down or becomes defensive with harsh correction.

Common Challenges

Requires consistent, patient training

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Care Tips for Shih Tzus

Tip #1

Ensure regular exercise for your Shih Tzu.

Tip #2

Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their size and energy level.

Tip #3

Regular grooming and veterinary check-ups are essential.

Breed Characteristics

Trainability

Independent Spirit

Energy Level

Couch Potato

Grooming Needs

High Maintenance

Size

Small

Hypoallergenic

Yes

Apartment

Suitable

Kids

Great

Weight

5-10kg

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