The Shih Tzu has been winning hearts for centuries, and it's not hard to see why. These small dogs pack enormous personality into a compact frame, but they come with specific care demands that catch many first-time owners off guard. Before you bring one home, you need to understand what you're signing up for—because grooming alone will consume more time and money than most people expect.
The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet before becoming treasured companions in Chinese imperial courts. These dogs were bred purely for companionship, not for hunting, herding, or guarding. That breeding history shows in everything they do today.
Physical characteristics are distinctive. Adult Shih Tzus typically weigh 9 to 16 pounds and stand 9 to 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Their most recognizable feature is that long, flowing double coat that can reach the floor if left untrimmed. The breed standard accepts all colors and combinations—solid, parti-color, or tricolor patterns are all common.
The face structure sets them apart from other toy breeds. That pushed-in nose and large, round eyes create their signature expression, but the brachycephalic skull shape also creates health vulnerabilities we'll cover later. Their underbite is normal for the breed, not a defect.
In the US, Shih Tzus consistently rank in the top 20 most popular breeds according to AKC registration statistics. Their size makes them apartment-friendly, and they adapt well to...