Last reviewed October 2026. This guide is educational and is not veterinary advice. Some links are affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate, PetBoo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
⚡ Quick answer
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate toy breed that weighs about 9 to 16 lb and often lives 10 years or more. It is a good fit for apartments and needs only moderate exercise, but its long coat needs daily brushing and regular professional grooming. Its flat face means it can struggle with breathing and heat, so avoid hot-weather exercise and keep your dog lean.
✅ Key takeaways
- Grooming is the big commitment. Plan for daily brushing and regular trims.
- Heat is a risk. Short-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs overheat easily.
- They are people dogs and do not like being left alone for long hours.
- They gain weight quickly, so measure meals and limit treats.
- Housetraining can take patience and consistency.
Shih Tzu at a glance
Sizes and lifespan vary between lines and sources. No breed is completely hypoallergenic, even though Shih Tzus shed little.
Personality and temperament
The Shih Tzu was bred as a lap companion, and it shows. These dogs are friendly, cheerful and happiest when they are near their people. They usually get along with children and other pets, though they do not enjoy rough play, so supervise young kids. They can be stubborn during training, and they are known to bark to announce visitors. They also tend to dislike long periods alone, so a Shih Tzu is better for a home where someone is around for much of the day.
Exercise and training
Shih Tzus are lively indoors and outdoors, but they do not need long runs. A daily walk of about 30 minutes plus play at home suits many adults. Because of their short noses, avoid heavy exercise in hot or humid weather. Use a harness rather than pulling on the neck (see our dog harness guide and leash buying guide).
Use gentle, reward-based training, and keep sessions short. Housetraining is often the trickiest part, so read our step-by-step potty training guide and start with basic commands.
Grooming a Shih Tzu
🛒 Shih Tzu care shortlist
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Watch: Shih Tzu breed video
This educational video covers the breed’s traits, characteristics and grooming tips. It is included for information only and is not affiliated with PetBoo.
Common health concerns
⚠️ Heat warning: heavy panting, drooling, blue or very red gums, weakness or collapse can signal heatstroke, which is an emergency. Keep your Shih Tzu in the cool in hot weather, and see our guide to signs your dog may be unwell.
Is a Shih Tzu right for you?
✅ A good match if you
- Are home much of the day
- Want a small, affectionate companion
- Can commit to daily grooming
- Live in an apartment
🚫 Think twice if you
- Are away for long hours
- Dislike regular brushing or grooming costs
- Want a running or hiking partner
- Live somewhere very hot and humid without air conditioning
🧠 Quick quiz
What is the biggest ongoing commitment with a Shih Tzu?
Grooming. The long coat needs daily brushing and regular professional care.
Why are Shih Tzus sensitive to heat?
Their short, flat faces make it harder to breathe and cool down by panting.
Frequently asked questions
Are Shih Tzus good for first-time owners?
Many people find them friendly and manageable, but the grooming workload and potential breathing issues surprise some new owners. Be ready for both.
How big do Shih Tzus get?
Most adults are about 9 to 10.5 inches tall and weigh around 9 to 16 lb.
Do Shih Tzus shed?
Very little, but their long hair mats easily and needs regular brushing and trims.
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
They can. They were bred as alert companions and will often announce visitors. Early training helps. See how to stop a dog from barking.
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
Typically a daily walk of about 30 minutes plus indoor play, adjusted for age, weather and health. See how much exercise a dog needs.
Can Shih Tzus be left alone?
Only for short periods. They tend to want company and can develop separation distress, so build up alone time gradually.
Final thoughts
A Shih Tzu offers affection, charm and a manageable size, in exchange for grooming, heat care and company. If that suits your life, you will gain a loyal lap companion. For more information, see the American Kennel Club’s Shih Tzu page and ask your vet about breed-specific health screening. If you are still comparing breeds, read how to choose the right dog breed.
This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.