Shih Tzu - MAIN HUB
BREED GROUP
Toy Dogs
Country of origin
China
BREED SIZE
Small
BREED HEIGHT
8 -
11 IN
20 -
28 cm
BREED WEIGHT
9 -
16 LB
4 -
7 KG
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
american kennel club (AKC) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1969.
International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1957.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
Are Shih Tzus good family dogs?
Excellent
10 out of 10
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.
Are Shih Tzus good with kids?
Excellent
10 out of 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.
Are Shih Tzus good dogs for first time owners?
Exceptional
10 out of 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.
Are Shih Tzus good apartment dogs?
Exceptional
10 out of 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.
Do Shih Tzus need a yard?
Not Required
10 out of 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.
Can Shih Tzus be left at home alone?
Not Recommended
1 out of 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.
Do Shih Tzus tolerate cats well?
Exceptional
10 out of 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.
Are Shih Tzus known to be aggressive?
Very Gentle
10 out of 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.
Do Shih Tzus have a lot of energy?
Very Low
2 out of 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.
How much exercise do Shih Tzus need?
~30 min a day
4 out of 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.
Do Shih Tzus tolerate hot weather well?
Danger
1 out of 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.
Are Shih Tzus good with cold weather?
Danger
1 out of 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.
Are Shih Tzus sometimes banned from rentals?
Never Banned
10 out of 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.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
