Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is an excellent family dog because of its exceptionally affectionate, outgoing, and happy nature. They thrive on human companionship and are generally excellent with children and other pets.

Family dog: 10 / 10

They are generally excellent with children. They are playful, affectionate, and relatively sturdy for a toy breed. However, due to their small size, interactions with very young or boisterous children should be supervised to prevent accidental injury to the dog.

Good with kids: 10 / 10

Shih Tzus are highly recommended for first-time owners. They are bred specifically to be companions, making them eager to please and relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement. Their low exercise needs also make them very manageable for novices.

First-time owner: 10 / 10

They are outstanding apartment dogs. Their small size and low energy levels make them perfectly suited for indoor living. They are relatively quiet and do not require a yard, making them ideal companions for city dwellers or those with limited space.

Apartment dog: 10 / 10

A yard is not required for a Shih Tzu. Their exercise needs can be easily met with short daily walks and indoor play. They are primarily indoor dogs and should not be left outside unattended, especially in extreme weather.

Yard need: 10 / 10

Shih Tzus are bred to be constant companions and do not tolerate being left alone for long periods. Prolonged isolation can lead to severe separation anxiety, depression, and destructive behaviors. They prefer homes where someone is usually present.

Can be left alone: 1 / 10

Shih Tzus are generally excellent with cats and other pets. They have a very low prey drive and a friendly, accepting nature. They often enjoy the company of other animals and integrate well into multi-pet households.

Good with cats: 10 / 10

Shih Tzus are not aggressive. They are famously friendly, trusting, and outgoing, even with strangers. They make very poor guard dogs because they are more likely to greet an intruder with a wagging tail and a request for pets.

Aggression tendency: 10 / 10

No, Shih Tzus are low-energy dogs. While they enjoy short bursts of play and daily walks, they are perfectly content spending most of their day relaxing and cuddling on the sofa with their owners.

Energy level: 2 / 10

A Shih Tzu needs only about 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily. Short, leisurely walks and some indoor playtime are sufficient to keep them healthy and happy. They do not require vigorous exercise and should not be overexerted.

Exercise need: 4 / 10

Shih Tzus are highly susceptible to heatstroke due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) facial structure and thick coat. They must be kept in air-conditioned environments during hot weather, and exercise should be strictly limited and avoided during the heat of the day.

Hot weather tolerance: 1 / 10

They can handle moderately cold weather, but their small size means they can get chilled easily. They should wear a warm dog sweater or coat when going outside in cold or freezing temperatures, and their time outdoors should be limited.

Cold weather tolerance: 2 / 10

Shih Tzus are rarely affected by apartment breed bans, as they are widely regarded as ideal city pets. Their small size and quiet nature typically fall well within weight and noise limits for most rentals. However, always check specific landlord policies regarding pet deposits or general weight restrictions before moving in.

Rental restriction risk: 10 / 10