Small breed
Shih Tzu Puppies
Shih Tzu loosely translates to ‘Little Lion’ in Mandarin. Ironically, it was named after its looks because there is absolutely no fierceness to this adorable dog breed. From the laps of emperors in ancient China to the hearts of its present-day owners, Shih Tzus have always been leaders in the hall of fame for canine companionship. Discover more about our Shih Tzu puppies for sale below!
We do not have Shih Tzu puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 9–16 lbs
- Height 9–10 in
- Lifespan 10–16 years
- Exercise 30 min a day
About the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a charming little companion with a rich history that dates back to ancient China, where they were cherished by royalty as regal lap dogs. Known for their affectionate nature, these small, sturdy dogs thrive in family settings, making them a wonderful fit for homes with young kids. They maintain an amiable disposition, getting along well with both other dogs and cats, which makes them an ideal choice for families looking to expand their furry circle.
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Despite their royal roots, Shih Tzus are content with a relaxed lifestyle and require only moderate exercise. Their low energy level means that a couple of short walks or play sessions each day will suit them just fine. Apartment living is not a challenge for these adaptable pups, and their endearing personalities will undoubtedly bring joy to your home. However, be prepared for some grooming duties; their luxurious coats require professional grooming to keep them looking their best, and they do shed a bit more than some other breeds.
When it comes to training, Shih Tzus can be independent thinkers. Their trainability is on the lower side, so patience and consistency are key. With gentle guidance, they can learn commands and even some tricks, but don’t be surprised if they throw in a bit of their playful stubbornness along the way. Their affectionate nature, combined with their tendency to bark, makes them excellent watchdogs despite their small size. If you are considering welcoming a Shih Tzu into your life, you will find a loyal, loving friend who will thrive in your care, especially if you’re looking for a sweet companion right here in Petland Iowa City, Iowa.
Shih Tzu breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Very playful
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With strangers Friendly
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Sociable
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Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
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Energy Low
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Mental stimulation Moderate
Training
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Trainability Takes patience
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Intelligence Bright
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Stubbornness Stubborn
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Heavy
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Drooling Minimal
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Barking Vocal
Home life
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Apartment living Well suited
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Needs a coat
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Warm weather Comfortable
A good match for
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First-time owners Ideal first dog
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Senior owners Excellent
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Running partner Not suited
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Hiking Not suited
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Low
Living with a Shih Tzu
Temperament & Family Fit
The Shih Tzu is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it a wonderful addition to any family. These small dogs have a knack for getting along with children, other dogs, and even cats, creating a harmonious household. Their loving disposition means they'll often be right by your side, ready for cuddles and companionship.
Energy & Exercise
With a low energy level, the Shih Tzu is perfectly suited for apartment living and can get their exercise with short, leisurely walks. They enjoy playtime, but they're not overly demanding when it comes to physical activity, making them great for those with a more relaxed lifestyle. A few play sessions each day will keep them happy and content!
Care & Grooming
Grooming is an important aspect of caring for a Shih Tzu, as their luxurious coat requires professional grooming to maintain its beauty and health. Although they do shed, regular grooming can help manage loose hair and keep their coat looking fabulous. It's also nice to note that their minimal exercise needs means you can dedicate more time to keeping them well-groomed!
Training Notes
While Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn, early socialization and consistent training efforts can yield great results. They may not be the easiest to train, but with patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach them basic commands and tricks. Just remember that these little bundles of joy thrive on affection, so mixing training with lots of love will keep both you and your pup motivated!
Caring for a Shih Tzu
- Grooming
- Professional grooming
- Grooming cost
- High
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
- Allergy friendly
- Often suits allergy sufferers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a Shih Tzu like?
Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They love being around their human companions and are generally very good with young kids, making them great family pets.
How suitable are Shih Tzus for apartment living?
Shih Tzus are incredibly apartment-friendly! Their small size and low energy level mean they can happily live in smaller spaces without needing vast areas to run around.
Do Shih Tzus get along with other pets?
Yes, Shih Tzus typically do well with other dogs and even cats! Their social nature means they'll likely enjoy interacting with other animals in the home.
How often do I need to groom my Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus require professional grooming regularly due to their long, luxurious coats. Keeping their fur in good shape is important for their comfort and health.
Are Shih Tzus easy to train?
While Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn, they respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle training methods. With patience and consistency, you can successfully teach them new commands, but do be prepared for a little extra effort!
