Affiliate disclosure: Dog Product Picker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe in.
With a name that means “little lion” in Chinese, you might expect something more fierce. However, the Shih Tzu is more comfortable in your lap looking cute than outside prowling for prey. This adorable little dog was bred solely to be a companion and is ranked 20th out of 193 breeds by the American Kennel Club.
The Shih Tzu was developed centuries ago by imperial breeders for the Chinese Emperor. Well-suited for palace life, Shih Tzus spent most of their lives lounging and being pampered. However, they were also unknown to the outside world until the 1930s, when they were first brought outside of their palaces and breeding clubs started to form. Since then, the Shih Tzu has grown to become one of the most popular toy dog breeds in the U.S. and the U.K.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SHIH TZU
Here is some additional information about the appearance and temperament of the Shih Tzu.
APPEARANCE
Shih Tzus are classified as toy dogs: they stand roughly 10 inches tall and generally weigh between 9 and 16 pounds. They are small but much sturdier than you might expect. They have short legs and tire easily. Their flat faces make it breathing slightly more difficult, and it also makes them more susceptible to heat stroke. They do best when kept in a cool, air-conditioned environment.
Shih Tzus can come in a variety of colors, often mixed with white, such as gold, red, black, silver, and more. Their coats require a lot of upkeep – daily brushing is recommended. You will get what you put into it – a well-groomed Shih Tzu has a brilliant, gorgeous coat. It tends to mat easily, so take good care of it. Bathing them once a month or so is generally recommended to keep their coats clean. Additionally, their eyes can become irritated by their fur, so keep it in a topknot or trim it around their eyes, and periodically wipe them with a damp washcloth. Keep their coat dry by using a dog hair dryer.
TEMPERAMENT
Shih Tzus are a fun, playful breed who are eager to please their owner. They don’t require a ton of exercise – they are happy to follow you from room to room, burrowing in your lap when you take a seat. They are affectionate and excellent around kids and are a great choice for seniors as well. However, due to their small size, they may not be the best option around toddlers who can present danger. Their favorite activities seem to be watching TV and napping.
Shih Tzus are great with other dogs as well, though they can go either way on cats; if they are raised from an early age with cats they tend to do better. They can occasionally be mischievous, though – if you find that you’re missing a sock, odds are that your Shih Tzu has it. They are lively and alert, and they tend to bark when someone new enters the house. However, once they see and smell the person, they will make instant friends. Shih Tzus live long lives: often up to 18 years. They tend to do well on their own, so long as you come home and give them lots of attention.
CARING FOR A SHIH TZU
Shih Tzus are, besides their coat upkeep, a pretty low-maintenance breed, but they still have some needs. Here is some information about their nutrition, exercise, training, and health requirements.
NUTRITION
Some people consider Shih Tzus to be picky eaters; this is mostly an owner-created issue. Give your Shih Tzu time to adjust and they will be fine. They do best with high-quality dog foods full of nutrients. How much they eat will be dependent on their age, size, and activity level. Since they are a more sedentary breed, your Shih Tzu won’t require as much food as other breeds. Be careful not to overfeed, as toy breeds, in particular, can be prone to getting overweight. Consult with your vet to figure out which food is best for your dog. Also, get an automatic dog feeder to ensure you’re giving the same amount of food every time.
EXERCISE
Since the Shih Tzu was bred to be an in-house companion, they don’t require much exercise. Short daily walks are plenty, along with some indoor playtime. They don’t require big spaces or yards; for that reason, they make great apartment dogs. They are great at adapting to whatever living situation needed.
TRAINING
Shih Tzus are notorious for charming their owners into letting them have their way. As such, they can be fun, but frustrating, to train. However, training is very important for them, as it is with all dogs. Puppy and obedience classes should be started early on. As with many toy dogs, housebreaking can be difficult, so remain steadfast. Crate training is highly recommended. Avoid harsh corrections – stick to positive reinforcement and you will see better results.
HEALTH
Due to their thick, long coats, Shih Tzus do not like heat; air conditioning and cooling pads will be energetically welcomed by your companion. They also do not like swimming; many owners will get their Shih Tzu a raincoat for winter walks.
Shih Tzus, like most breeds, are generally healthy dogs. Be sure to work with a breeder who screens for the usual genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia, eye diseases, and patellar luxation. Allergies can be a problem for Shih Tzus as well, so be sure to understand the symptoms.
SIMILAR BREEDS
- Tibetan Spaniel
- Havanese
- Lhasa Apso
- Tibetan Terrier
Recommended Reading:
- How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?
- Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus
- Best Puppy Food for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Crate for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Bed for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Brush for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Toys for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Collar for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Harness for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Muzzle for Shih Tzus
- Best Dog Shampoo for Shih Tzus
- 10 Breeds Most Compatible with Shih Tzu
Best Puppy Food for Shih Tzus
Here are our Shih Tzu puppy food reviews.
1. Instinct Puppy Grain Free Natural Dry Dog Food
The Instinct Puppy Grain Free Natural Dry Dog Food is a high-protein kibble perfect for Shih Tzus in their formative years. It is made with calcium and phosphorus for bone and teeth strength, and natural DHA for brain and eye development.
- Limited component diet with single animal protein source
- Dried natural cage free chicken
- Fiber blends promotes healthy digestion
2. NUTRO WHOLESOME ESSENTIALS Puppy Dry Dog Food
The NUTRO WHOLESOME ESSENTIALS Puppy Dry Dog Food is a nutrient-dense food ideal for puppy Shih Tzus. This dog food is made with calcium to build strong bones and joints, which is important for an active dog like a Shih Tzu.
- Essential antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- Omega 3 fatty acids to support development
- Available with chicken or lamb as main component
3. Royal Canin Size Nutrition Mini Puppy Dry Dog Food
The Royal Canin Size Nutrition Mini Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great deal on a high quality dog food for puppy Shih Tzus. The small kibble size is designed for puppies during their intense growth period. It will help to boost a Shih Tzus immune system with a blend of anti-oxidants and vitamins.
- Meets the high energy needs of a puppy
- Highly digestible proteins and prebiotics promote healthy digestion
- Perfect for Shih Tzus up to 10 months old
4. Natural Balance Mixture L.I.D Dry Dog Food
The Natural Balance Mixture L.I.D Dry Dog Food is a good value, varied food for puppies. It provides a range of nutrition that a Shih Tzu puppies need. Smaller kibble is used to support smaller teeth and easy digestion.
- Grain free formula
- Made from real, natural components
- Includes prebiotics and omega
5. NUTRO ULTRA Puppy Dry Dog Food
The NUTRO ULTRA Puppy Dry Dog Food is a highly nutritional food for Shih Tzu puppies. This dog food contains a trio of proteins and is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies. It also promotes brain growth development.
- Contains chicken, lamb and salmon
- Contains 15 super foods
- Specially formulated for puppies
Puppy Food for Shih Tzu Buyer’s Guide
Purchasing the right puppy food for a Shih Tzu is an absolutely essential choice for a dog owner. The price of around $20 is well worth the cost when you consider the benefits healthy food can have on the development of a dog in its formative months. This is especially true with Shih Tzus as they are active dogs and so need good quality nutrients to help their muscles to repair and grow. Therefore it is vital to fuel them with high quality nutrition.
Our buying guide reviews the best dog food for Shih Tzu puppies on the market so you can choose the right food for your puppy. The following are attributes commonly found when looking at dog food for Shih Tzus which will help you to choose the best food for your dog.
Development
Diets vary for Shih Tzu depending on whether they are fully developed yet. Adults can handle whole meats and more nutrient dense food, whereas puppy Shih Tzus will need smaller food as their teeth may not be able to break down larger chunks. Antioxidants are especially important for puppies as they help to develop their immune system and fight off viruses.
Proteins & Carbohydrates
Shih Tzu will thrive when eating a diet rich in animal proteins and some carbohydrates. This is due to their high speed output, and their energetic instincts, which burns off a lot of energy throughout a day. With all of this physical work, it is vital that they get proteins to repair and strengthen their muscles while they rest. Meat based protein is great for Shih Tzu puppies.
Digestion
The more easily digestible the dog food is for a Shih Tzu puppy, the easier it will be for it to absorb the vital nutrients from the food.
Vitamins & Fatty Acids
The level of importance of vitamins in a Shih Tzu puppy’s diet shouldn’t be overlooked. Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids will help their coat growth. Vitamins are also vital to help the immune system to develop in a puppy Shih Tzu. A mixture of fatty acids and vitamins will make for a happy, healthy and thriving dog.
SOURCES
Additional Recommended Reading:
About the author
Natural Flea Treatments for Dogs That Help Keep Pests Away
Fleas can quickly turn a happy, healthy dog into an itchy and uncomfortable one. If you’ve ever noticed your dog scratching more than usual, you already know how frustrating flea problems can be. Many dog owners prefer natural flea treatments because they avoid harsh chemicals while still helping keep pests under control. There are many natural flea treatment products available for dogs on the market. In this guide, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best natural flea treatments for dogs, covering a wide range of options so dog owners can find something that fits their dog’s size, lifestyle, and sensitivity. Want to Boost Your Dog’s Flea Protection Naturally? Choosing the best natural flea treatment for dogs is a great first step, but many dog owners find that combining a few natural approaches works even better. For example, plant-based sprays and […]
10 Best Natural Dewormer for Dogs
A natural dewormer is essential for your furry friend. The dewormer will eliminate all types of intestinal worms and parasites (like Giardia Intestinalis, and other) and keep your dog healthy. In this article, we have listed down the 10 best natural dewormers for dogs that are available on the market: 1.NaturPet D Wormer Homeopathic Medicine This is homeopathic medicine and is manufactured by NaturPet. NaturPet is one of the best dog medicine brands on the market. The NaturPet D Wormer Homeopathic Medicine comes in a liquid form and will eliminate all the parasitic worms from your furry friend’s stomach. This 100 % natural wormer is made of papaya leaf, fennel seed, sage, cumin seed, black walnut hull, and wormwood. This homeopathic medicine eliminates roundworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and pinworms from the dog's digestive tract. The NaturPet D Wormer Homeopathic medicine will […]
Can Cats Eat Roses?
As cat owners, this should be common knowledge for us that our furry friends are obligate carnivores and anything other than animal protein is not the best thing for your cat's health. So, giving your beautiful feline flowers, outdoor plants, indoor plants, garden plants, or any plant material is not a good idea. However, the good news is that there are a few parts of plants that your feline friend can enjoy, and are rose plants one of them or not? Let's find out. Is Rose Plant Poisonous to Cats? We know cats are curious creatures, and if their owner's attention is not on them, you will find them in a flower garden looking for their prey and playing with beautiful flowers. However, this is dangerous for them as there are toxic flowers, different sprays, and other things in the […]
Cat Cats Eat Raw Bacon?
Many believe that since cats are obligate carnivores, cat food must include raw foods like raw meat, raw bacon, turkey bacon, pork bacon, and other human foods. However, that is not the case with your feline friend, a cat's health can be affected if given raw foods because these human foods may contain harmful bacteria that can cause health issues. So, can our furry friend eat raw bacon? Is Bacon Good or Bad for Cats? Giving you cat bacon is fine, but what about the bacon grease, too much salt, and other ingredients in regular bacon? Because of these ingredients, bacon can be given to your feline friend as an occasional treat. However, passing your cat bacon regularly harms them as too much bacon can cause digestive issues and other health problems. So, if your furry friend needs animal protein, […]
Cat Cats Eat Raspberries?
Raspberry is a human food that contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and other essential vitamins and has a more excellent nutritional value for human beings. However, that does not mean that this fresh fruit completes your feline friend's dietary needs and can be included regularly in your cat's diet. You can give your cat raspberries in small amounts as it is not great for your cat's health. So, what should a cat's diet include? What Should Be a Cat’s Diet? When it comes to a cat's diet and health, cat owners giving your feline friend new foods is not a good idea. Your furry friend might get digestive issues, allergic reactions, and other health issues. So, in simple words, human foods are not an excellent option for your feline friend as cats are obligate carnivores, and the cat's digestive system […]
Can Cats Eat Pumpkin Seeds?
Cats have sensitive digestive tracts, and giving them anything other than the cat’s regular food can damage your cat's health. Human foods have many health benefits. A few such foods can be significant for your feline friend's health, but changing a cat's diet entirely to human foods can cause digestive issues and affect your furry friend's overall health. So, the question arises can adult cats eat fresh pumpkin or raw pumpkin seeds? Benefits of Feeding Pumpkin to Cat The short answer is yes. You can give your feline friend some plain pumpkins because it has many nutritional benefits for your furry friend and is even part of some good quality cat food. They are suitable for cats' body, as it provides them with healthy skin and coat. Even though cats are obligate carnivores, the high fiber content in the pumpkin […]
Related
Emotional Support Dog vs Service Dog Explained
Emotional support dogs and service dogs are not the same. This guide breaks down the real-world differences that matter in housing, travel, and everyday life.
Best DIY Guides for Building a Dog House
Ready to build a cozy dog house this year? Here are six DIY guides you can trust, from recycled pallet builds to insulated plans for colder climates.
What is a Dapple Dachshund?
Discover what sets the dapple dachshund apart, including coat patterns, temperament, and key health considerations for responsible ownership.
Most Presidents Had Dogs. Here’s Who Didn’t — and Why It Matters
Most U.S. presidents kept a loyal dog at their side. This guide explores famous presidential pets, standout breeds, and the surprising presidents who skipped having a White House pup entirely.
Funny Dog Breeds: Goofy, Dorky, and Downright Lovable
Looking for a pup that makes you laugh? Our guide to funny dog breeds highlights pugs, corgis, dachshunds, and more — plus care tips and gear suggestions to match each breed’s playful personality.
Is Trump the Only President to not Have a Dog?
Curious why Donald Trump never had a dog in the White House? This quick, factual guide explains the history, context, and how his choice compares to long-standing presidential pet traditions.
