What is the temperament of a Shih Tzu?

Shih Tzus are known to be clever, spunky, outgoing, friendly, affectionate, lively, alert, loyal, independent, playful, gentle, intelligent, happy, active, courageous. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?

Shih Tzus have low energy levels and require minimal daily exercise, typically 15-30 minutes of gentle activity.

How often should I groom my Shih Tzu?

Shih Tzus require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a Shih Tzu?

Shih Tzus have moderate trainability and benefit from consistent, positive training approaches.

Are Shih Tzus good with children?

Shih Tzus are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Shih Tzu unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Shih Tzu stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from China, specialized abilities for lapdog. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Shih Tzu?

Before bringing a Shih Tzu into your home, potential owners should consider: They have relatively low exercise needs (2/5), making them suitable for less active households. Their coat requires significant maintenance (4/5) with regular grooming sessions. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Shih Tzu. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Shih Tzus originally bred for?

Shih Tzus were originally bred for lapdog. This companion-focused breeding has resulted in their affectionate, people-oriented temperament that makes them excellent pets. As part of the Toy group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Shih Tzu's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Shih Tzus are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Shih Tzus typically live?

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is 10 - 18 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Shih Tzus may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Shih Tzu

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: December 18, 2025

Temperament

Clever, Spunky, Outgoing, Friendly, Affectionate, Lively, Alert, Loyal, Independent, Playful, Gentle, Intelligent, Happy, Active, Courageous

Weight

9 - 16 lbs

Height

8 - 11 inches

Life Span

10 - 18 years

Breed Group

Toy

Bred For

Lapdog

Origin

China

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Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability3/5

Energy Level2/5

Grooming Needs4/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs2/5

They have a low to moderate energy level and need regular but not extensive exercise.

Grooming Requirements4/5

They have high grooming needs requiring frequent brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability3/5

Moderately trainable with consistent methods

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Shih Tzu Guide

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Overview

About the Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics. завод сабакаў

Breed Purpose

Lapdog

Temperament

Clever, Spunky, Outgoing, Friendly, Affectionate, Lively, Alert, Loyal, Independent, Playful, Gentle, Intelligent, Happy, Active, Courageous

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Shih Tzu

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