Shih Tzu Colors & Coat Guide

All recognized Shih Tzu colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.

Shih Tzu Colors Overview

Shih Tzu coat colors are governed by a complex interplay of genetics. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Understanding which colors are standard versus non-standard helps buyers make informed decisions. Color should never be the primary selection criterion—health and temperament come first.

Recognized Colors

Gold and White Standard

Red and White Standard

Black and White Standard

Brindle Standard

Liver and White Standard

Blue and White Standard

Solid Black Standard

Silver and White Standard

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($800–$1500)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$450–$750)

Coat Genetics

Shih Tzu coat color is controlled by several genes that determine pigment production and distribution. The primary genes include the E (extension) locus, A (agouti) locus, K (dominant black) locus, and B (brown) locus.

DNA color testing is available and can help breeders predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive genes. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Rare vs Standard Colors

Rarity in Shih Tzu colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 8 color varieties, with standard colors including Gold and White, Red and White, Black and White, Brindle, Liver and White, Blue a. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Shih Tzu breeder will never compromise health testing (for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $800–$1500 standard range.

Do Shih Tzu Colors Change with Age?

Shih Tzu puppies often look quite different from their adult selves. With 8 recognized color varieties, coat color may lighten, darken, or develop new markings during the transition from puppy to adult coat, typically between 4 and 12 months. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Controversial Colors

When shopping for a Shih Tzu, be skeptical of breeders who advertise unusual colors at prices above $1500. Non-standard colors beyond Gold and White, Red and White, Black and White, Brindle, Liv can indicate mixed breeding or genes linked to health issues. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Frequently Asked Questions

The Shih Tzu comes in Gold and White, Red and White, Black and White, Brindle and other colors. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Rarity depends on genetics. Non-standard colors may be less common but should not be prioritized over health and temperament. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Yes, many Shih Tzu puppies experience color changes between 4 and 12 months as the puppy coat transitions to the adult coat. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance.. The breed's long double coat coat may show particularly noticeable changes during this transition.

For the Shih Tzu, standard colors have no known health associations. Some non-standard colors in certain breeds can be linked to deafness, eye problems, or skin sensitivity. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..

Among Shih Tzus, the most commonly seen colors are Gold and White, Red and White, Black and White, Brindle. As the breed standard recognizes 8 color variations, there is good variety to choose from. Shih Tzus come in an extraordinary range of colors and markings. Many change color as they mature due to a graying gene, making puppy color an unreliable predictor of adult appearance..