Shih Tzu
Toy Small Hypoallergenic
The Shih Tzu, a small breed hailing from China, sits at #20 on the AKC popularity chart. Bred in the palaces of imperial China for over a thousand years, the Shih Tzu's name means 'lion dog' in Mandarin, referencing its resemblance to the guardian lions of Chinese mythology.
Quick Stats
Characteristics
| Family Friendly | |
| Energy Level | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Good with Kids | |
| Good with Dogs | |
| Apartment Friendly | |
| Grooming Needs | |
| Barking Level | |
| Exercise Needs | |
| Intelligence |
About the Shih Tzu
Bred exclusively as a companion for Chinese royalty. They lived in the imperial palace and were treasured as lap warmers and living hot water bottles for the royal family.. Ranked #20 by the AKC in 2026, their enduring popularity reflects the breed's adaptability and charm.
A small-sized dog measuring 9–10 inches at the shoulder and weighing 9–16 pounds, the Shih Tzu carries a presence that matches its personality. Shih Tzus are the original lap dogs, bred for centuries with no purpose other than to be a charming, affectionate companion, and they have perfected the art.
Happy, outgoing, and trusting, Shih Tzus are remarkably friendly and sociable. They carry themselves with a proud, arrogant bearing that belies their sweet, playful nature..
Lifespan Overview
The Shih Tzu typically lives 10–18 years. Learn more about Shih Tzu lifespan →
Price Overview
Expect to pay $800–$1500 from a reputable breeder. See full price breakdown →
Weight & Growth
Adult Shih Tzus weigh 9–16 lbs. View growth chart →
Temperament
With trainability at 3/5 and energy at 2/5, the Shih Tzu Happy, outgoing, and trusting, Shih Tzus are remarkably friendly and sociable. They carry themselves with a proud, arrogant bearing that belies their sweet, playful nature.. Full temperament guide →
History
Bred in the palaces of imperial China for over a thousand years, the Shih Tzu's name means 'lion dog' in Mandarin, referencing its resemblance to the guardian lions of Chinese mythology.. Nearly went extinct when the Chinese imperial palace fell. Fourteen dogs (seven pairs) are the foundation of all modern Shih Tzus, rescued by breed enthusiasts in the 1930s..
Consistently among the top 20 most popular breeds in the United States, valued as an adaptable, low-exercise companion dog ideal for urban living..
Common Health Issues
| Condition | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome | Common | Moderate |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca | Common | Moderate |
| Patellar Luxation | Common | Moderate |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease | Occasional | Severe |
| Renal Dysplasia | Occasional | Severe |
Compare Shih Tzu
Is the Shih Tzu Right for You?
Choosing the right dog breed is one of the most important decisions a future owner can make. The Shih Tzu is a small-sized breed belonging to the Toy group, which shapes much of its daily behavior and needs. Here is an honest assessment based on key traits to help you decide if this breed fits your lifestyle.
Energy and exercise: The Shih Tzu has low energy requirements, making it an excellent choice for less active owners. Short daily walks and some indoor play are typically sufficient. This breed is content with a calmer household and will not demand hours of vigorous exercise.
Living space: With an apartment friendliness rating of 5/5, the Shih Tzu adapts well to smaller living spaces. They can thrive in apartments or condos as long as their basic exercise needs are met and they receive enough mental stimulation throughout the day.
Children and family: Scoring 4/5 with children, the Shih Tzu is an excellent family companion. They tend to be patient, gentle, and tolerant of the unpredictable behavior of young children. Supervision is always recommended, but this breed naturally gravitates toward being protective and affectionate with kids.
Grooming commitment: With grooming needs rated 5/5, the Shih Tzu requires significant coat maintenance. Expect to invest time in daily or near-daily brushing, regular professional grooming sessions every 4–8 weeks, and ongoing attention to prevent matting and skin issues. Budget $63–67/month for grooming. This breed is considered hypoallergenic, producing less dander than average, which may be suitable for allergy sufferers - though no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
Ownership Cost Summary
Before bringing a Shih Tzu home, it is critical to understand the full financial commitment over their 10–18 year lifespan. The initial purchase price of $800–$1500 is only the beginning.
The first year is the most expensive, totaling approximately $3,545. This includes the purchase price, initial veterinary visits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, supplies (crate, bed, bowls, leash), and early training classes. Many owners underestimate this initial outlay and find themselves financially stressed within the first few months.
Ongoing monthly costs average $91, broken down as follows: food ($38–61/mo), grooming ($63–67/mo), insurance ($42–71/mo), with annual costs for veterinary care ($430–702/yr) and supplies ($267–474/yr). As a small breed, the Shih Tzu is relatively economical on food and supplies, though veterinary and dental costs remain consistent regardless of size.
Over a full 10–18 year lifespan, total ownership costs typically reach $15,000–$30,000+ depending on health, not including emergency veterinary care which can add $2,000–$10,000 over the dog's lifetime. Pet insurance at $42–71/month is strongly recommended to manage unexpected health expenses.
Hidden costs often overlooked: Many prospective Shih Tzu owners fail to budget for training classes ($150–$500 for basic obedience), boarding or pet sitting during vacations ($30–$75/night), dog-proofing the home ($100–$300), replacement of chewed items during puppyhood, and potential property damage. Additionally, renters may face pet deposits ($200–$500) and monthly pet rent ($25–$75). Factor these real-world costs into your decision to ensure the Shih Tzu fits your financial situation comfortably without requiring sacrifices in the quality of care you can provide.
Breed Traits Explained
The Shih Tzu belongs to the Toy group, which historically means these dogs were developed primarily for companionship. Toy breeds are affectionate, sociable, and well-suited to indoor living. Despite their small size, many have bold personalities and require proper socialization and training to prevent small-dog syndrome.
With a family friendliness score of 5/5, intelligence at 3/5, and shedding rated 1/5, the Shih Tzu presents a specific profile that works best for owners who understand and appreciate these characteristics. Their exercise needs (2/5) and barking tendency (3/5) should factor heavily into your decision, especially if you live in close proximity to neighbors or have limited outdoor space.
Intelligence and engagement: With moderate intelligence (3/5), the Shih Tzu learns at a reasonable pace and responds well to consistent training without requiring constant mental stimulation. They benefit from regular training sessions but are less likely to get into trouble from boredom compared to highly intelligent breeds.
Shedding and home cleanliness: The Shih Tzu's low shedding (1/5) makes them easier to maintain in a clean home. Combined with their hypoallergenic qualities, this breed is one of the better options for those who prefer minimal pet hair or have mild allergies.
Shih Tzu Quick Decision Guide
Making an informed decision about the Shih Tzu requires weighing all factors together. Here is a consolidated assessment to help you decide confidently whether this breed matches your situation.
You will love the Shih Tzu if: You prefer a calm, relaxed companion that does not demand constant exercise, have children or plan to start a family, live in any housing situation including apartments, and enjoy or do not mind regular grooming routines. The Shih Tzu's toy heritage brings specific qualities that dedicated owners find deeply rewarding.
Consider a different breed if: You want an energetic running or hiking partner, are unwilling to invest time and money in regular grooming, or if your living situation cannot accommodate a small breed comfortably. Being honest about these factors prevents rehoming situations that are stressful for both dog and owner.
Next steps: If the Shih Tzu seems like a good match, explore our detailed sub-pages on lifespan, cost, temperament, and health for deeper information. Connect with Shih Tzu owners through breed clubs and online communities to hear firsthand experiences. If possible, spend time with Shih Tzus before committing - attending dog shows, visiting breed-specific meetups, or fostering through a rescue organization. Use our Puppy Weight Calculator and Dog Age Calculator for practical planning, and review our expert guides for training, nutrition, and health care advice tailored to all breeds and life stages.