Top 6 vital stats about the Shih Tzu...
Social
Good with kid and other pets
Exercise
20+ mins per day
Grooming
4 to 6 weeks
Feeding
2 times a day
Training
Highly intelligent but stubborn
Shedding
Low shedding
Shih Tzu health conditions & temperament
Do Shih Tzus need a lot of grooming?
Yes, Shih Tzus do need a lot of grooming. This cute and cuddly breed has a double coat of hair that tends to grow continuously, much like human hair. If not properly maintained, their hair can get matted and cause discomfort for the pet.
Any health conditions?
Yes, Shih Tzus are prone to several genetic and breed-specific issues, including eye problems, brachycephalic syndrome, hip dysplasia, and allergies.
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
No, Shih Tzus aren't known for being excessive barkers, but they will certainly make their presence known if they feel ignored or see a stranger approaching. Their barking is more of a way to communicate with their owners than a nuisance.
Shih Tzu feeding & attention
Amount of food?
Puppies should be fed three to four times a day, while adult Shih Tzus can be fed twice daily.
Are they social?
Yes, they are always eager to meet new people and animals, making them perfect companions for social gatherings. Shih Tzus relish in playtime and enjoy daily walks, reflecting their active side.
Easy to train?
Shih Tzus are intelligent and eager to please, which can make training a rewarding experience. However, they are also known for their stubborn streak which can make training a bit challenging.
Shih Tzu personality & good to knows
Good with children?
Yes, Shih Tzus are often a perfect choice for families with children. Known for their friendly and loving nature, these little furballs can make a child's day brighter with their playful antics. They are incredibly gentle and patient, typically getting along well with kids of all ages.
Good with small living spaces?
Yes, Shih Tzus are adaptable and can comfortably reside in an apartment setting. They are not particularly active or energetic dogs, but they do enjoy their playtime. A small yard or even a few indoor toys can keep them perfectly happy.
Good with other pets?
Yes, Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. These little fur balls are not just great with humans, but they also get along very well with other dogs. Their sociable personality makes them quite popular in the dog park.
Did You Know?
The breed is more than 1,000 years old and is more closely related to wolves that you’d imagine
The Shih Tzu breed nearly became extinct. In fact, all today’s pooches can be traced back to just 14 dogs (seven males and seven females) that were used to rebuild the breed in the 1930s
Celebrity Shih Tzu owners include: Beyoncé; Bill Gates, Nicole Richie, and the Queen
Package available for your Shih Tzu includes
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Complementary treatment
Up to
£500
per illness/injury
Up to
£750
per illness/injury
Up to
£1000
per illness/injury
3rd Party Liability (dogs only)
Up to
£1M
per illness/injury
Up to
£2M
per illness/injury
Up to
£2M
per illness/injury
Death from Illness*
*Death from illness does not apply to dogs aged 9 and over & cats aged 11 and over
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
Death from accident
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
Shih Tzu training & exercise
- Shih Tzus respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. Focus on important areas such as housebreaking, socialisation, and basic obedience commands.
- Start with short, frequent training sessions to accommodate their shorter attention spans. Use treats and praise to motivate your Shih Tzu, but be careful not to overfeed them.
- Regular grooming is crucial; their long, silky coats require daily brushing to prevent matting and keep them comfortable.
- Exercise is important too, but don't overdo it – short walks and indoor play sessions are perfect for these small pups.
- Shih Tzus benefit from moderate, low-impact activities that suit their short legs and brachycephalic (flat-faced) nature.
- A daily 20-30 minute walk at a leisurely pace is ideal, allowing them to explore their surroundings and burn off energy.
- Indoor play sessions with interactive toys can also provide mental stimulation and physical exercise.
- Gentle games of fetch or hide-and-seek are excellent options, especially for older or less active Shih Tzus.
Shih Tzu health & social maintenance
- An adult Shih Tzu should be fed around ½ to 1 cup of high-quality dry dog food a day.
- Start by brushing your Shih Tzu's coat daily using a slicker brush, paying extra attention to areas prone to tangles like behind the ears and under the legs.
- Bathe your furry friend every 3-4 weeks using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to keep their coat clean and shiny.
- Don't forget to trim the hair around their eyes regularly to prevent irritation and improve visibility.
- Shih Tzus respond best to owners who have lots of free time to spend with them as they are known to suffer from separation anxiety.
- Shih Tzus are classic companion dogs – they're friendly, loyal and love spending time with their owner.
- Often active and social, lighting up any room with their vibrant energy and infectious cheerfulness.
- Renowned for their friendly and outgoing nature, these adorable furballs love to be the center of attention.
