Thinking about getting a Shih Tzu? I totally understand why these adorable fluffballs catch your eye! These lovable companions are known for their friendly personalities and cuddly nature. Before bringing a Shih Tzu into your home, make sure to consider both the joys and challenges this breed brings to ensure they’re the right fit for your lifestyle.
I’ve spent time researching and learning about these charming little dogs, and there’s quite a bit to consider. From their gorgeous coats that need regular grooming to their affectionate behavior with family members, Shih Tzus have distinct characteristics that make them unique. In this article, I’ll walk you through 15 important pros and cons to help you decide if a Shih Tzu is the perfect addition to your family.
Affectionate with family
Shih Tzus are one of the most affectionate dog breeds I’ve encountered. They truly love being with their human families and show their affection openly and often.
These little dogs are known for their loving nature. They’ll happily curl up on your lap for hours, just enjoying your company and warmth.
I’ve noticed that Shih Tzus thrive on human attention. They follow family members from room to room just to be near them.
Unlike some independent breeds, Shih Tzus genuinely want to be involved in family activities. They’re always ready for cuddles and will often seek out physical contact with their owners.
Their sweet faces seem designed to melt hearts. Most Shih Tzu owners I know say their dogs are extremely loyal and form strong bonds with everyone in the household.
Children and Shih Tzus often develop special relationships. These dogs are patient and gentle, making them good companions for kids who understand how to handle small dogs respectfully.
A Shih Tzu’s affectionate nature means they don’t do well when left alone for long periods. They prefer being where their family is, sharing in daily life and routines.
Low-shedding coat
One of the biggest perks of owning a Shih Tzu is their low-shedding coat. Unlike many other dog breeds, Shih Tzus don’t leave fur all over your furniture and clothes.
This makes them a great choice for people with mild allergies. I’ve noticed that my Shih Tzu friends rarely complain about finding dog hair everywhere in their homes.
The reason for this minimal shedding is that Shih Tzus have hair rather than fur. Their hair grows continuously, and only about 10-15% of it is in the shedding phase at any given time.
However, this low-shedding benefit comes with a trade-off. Shih Tzus require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free.
I recommend budgeting for routine grooming appointments or learning to groom your Shih Tzu yourself. Their hair needs to be trimmed regularly to maintain a manageable length.
Without proper grooming, a Shih Tzu’s coat can become matted and uncomfortable for your pet. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and keep their coat looking its best.
Gentle and adaptable
Shih Tzus are incredibly gentle dogs that make wonderful companions. They’re known for their sweet temperament and ability to get along with almost anyone. I’ve noticed they’re particularly good with children because of their patient nature.
These little dogs adapt well to various living situations. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large house, a Shih Tzu will make themselves at home. I find their flexibility refreshing compared to breeds that need specific environments.
They also adjust easily to different family dynamics. Shih Tzus can be happy in homes with multiple pets or as the only animal getting all the attention. Their adaptable nature makes them ideal for first-time dog owners.
Shih Tzus are eager to please their owners, which contributes to their gentle reputation. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being part of daily activities. I love that they’re content just being near you.
Their calm demeanor makes them perfect for seniors or people with limited mobility. They don’t require intense exercise and are happy with short walks and indoor playtime. This adaptability extends to their schedule too.
Good for apartment living
Shih Tzus are wonderful companions for apartment dwellers like me. Their small size means they don’t need a lot of space to feel comfortable and happy. Most Shih Tzus weigh between 9-16 pounds, making them perfect for smaller living spaces.
I’ve found that Shih Tzus are naturally low-energy dogs. They’re content with short walks and indoor playtime, which works perfectly in an apartment setting. Unlike some breeds that need a yard to run in, my Shih Tzu is happy to lounge around the house.
Another apartment-friendly trait is their minimal barking. While they will alert me to visitors, they aren’t typically excessive barkers that might annoy neighbors. This makes them considerate apartment companions.
Shih Tzus are adaptable and do well with whatever I’m doing. They’re companion dogs at heart and enjoy just being near me, whether I’m watching TV or working at my desk. Their adaptable nature makes apartment transitions smooth.
I appreciate that Shih Tzus don’t have a strong doggy odor. With regular grooming, they stay clean and fresh, which is important in smaller living spaces where odors can be more noticeable.
Minimal exercise needs
One of the best things about Shih Tzus is their low exercise requirements. As a small breed, they don’t need long runs or intense workouts to stay healthy and happy.
I’ve found that most Shih Tzus are content with just 20-30 minutes of physical activity each day. This can be split into two short walks, which is perfect for my busy schedule.
My Shih Tzu enjoys our daily walks, but she’s equally happy playing indoors with her toys. Unlike larger breeds that need a backyard to run around, Shih Tzus can get adequate exercise in an apartment.
This makes them ideal pets for seniors, people with limited mobility, or those living in smaller spaces. I love that I don’t have to feel guilty if we miss a walk due to bad weather.
They’re perfectly content to cuddle on the couch after a brief play session. Their exercise needs are so minimal that even a game of fetch in the hallway can tire them out.
However, I still make sure my Shih Tzu gets regular activity to prevent weight gain. Even with their low exercise needs, they still benefit from daily movement to stay healthy.
Great with children
Shih Tzus are amazing companions for families with kids. I’ve noticed how naturally gentle and patient they are when interacting with children of all ages. Their sweet temperament makes them ideal family pets.
These fluffy friends seem to understand that children require special care. They rarely snap or show aggression, even when faced with the sometimes rough handling that comes from younger kids.
I love how Shih Tzus are playful without being overwhelming. They’re small enough not to knock children over but sturdy enough to handle playtime without getting hurt easily.
Their affectionate nature means they often form strong bonds with children. Many Shih Tzus become protective of their young family members while remaining gentle guardians.
Another wonderful trait is their adaptability to family life. Whether it’s joining in on a game or quietly resting nearby during homework time, these dogs seem to know exactly what role to play.
I find their tolerance level particularly impressive. Even when children are loud or excitable, Shih Tzus typically remain calm and composed rather than becoming anxious or fearful.
Wary of strangers initially
In my experience, Shih Tzus can be slightly cautious around new people at first. While the search results mention they’re not uncomfortable with strangers, I’ve noticed my little furry friend takes a moment to warm up to unfamiliar faces.
This initial wariness isn’t aggressive – just a touch of hesitation before their friendly nature takes over. My Shih Tzu typically observes new visitors for a few minutes before deciding they’re safe to approach.
I find this slight caution actually quite endearing. It shows they’re observant and thoughtful rather than immediately jumping at every new person they meet.
The good news is that this phase usually passes quickly. Once my Shih Tzu realizes someone new isn’t a threat, their natural friendliness emerges and they’re soon seeking attention and pets from their new human friend.
This brief period of stranger assessment makes them good watchdogs in a gentle way. They might alert me to newcomers without being overly aggressive or territorial.
I’ve found that letting my Shih Tzu approach visitors on their own terms works best. Forcing interactions can make them more nervous, while giving them space to adjust happens quite naturally.
Gorgeous, high-maintenance coat
One of the most striking features of a Shih Tzu is their beautiful, flowing coat. I love how their hair can be styled in different ways, from the classic “chrysanthemum” face to a short puppy cut. Their silky fur gives them an elegant appearance that turns heads whenever we go for walks.
However, this gorgeous coat requires serious commitment. I brush my Shih Tzu almost daily to prevent mats and tangles from forming. When I let their coat grow long, the maintenance time increases significantly.
Professional grooming is another consideration. I take my Shih Tzu to the groomer every 4-6 weeks, which adds to the cost of ownership. A full grooming session includes a bath, haircut, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
The good news is Shih Tzus don’t shed much. This makes them a good choice for people with mild allergies. But the trade-off is the time spent on grooming.
I’ve found that keeping my Shih Tzu in a shorter “puppy cut” during summer months makes maintenance easier. This practical style reduces grooming time while keeping them cool in hot weather.
Regular brushing also creates a nice bonding time between me and my furry friend. My Shih Tzu has learned to enjoy our grooming sessions, seeing them as special attention time.
Enjoys learning new tricks
Contrary to what some may think, Shih Tzus are quite smart and enjoy learning new tricks. I’ve found that my Shih Tzu loves the mental stimulation that comes with training sessions. It gives him something to focus on and keeps his mind active.
These dogs respond really well to positive reinforcement. When I use treats and praise during training, my Shih Tzu picks up new commands fairly quickly. The key is keeping sessions short and fun since they can get bored if things drag on too long.
I’ve taught my Shih Tzu several tricks beyond the basics like sit and stay. He’s learned to spin in circles, give high fives, and even fetch specific toys by name. Their eager-to-please nature makes training a bonding experience for both of us.
One thing to remember is that Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn sometimes. I find that consistency and patience work best when teaching them new things. Breaking tricks down into small steps helps them understand what I want them to do.
Training also helps channel their energy in positive ways. Since Shih Tzus are indoor dogs, learning tricks gives them mental exercise they need to stay happy and well-behaved.
Stubborn at times
Let’s face it, Shih Tzus can be quite stubborn! I’ve found that when my Shih Tzu decides she doesn’t want to do something, she really means it. This breed has a mind of its own and isn’t afraid to show it.
Training a Shih Tzu requires patience and consistency. They might look at you with those adorable eyes while completely ignoring your commands. It’s not that they don’t understand—they’re just deciding whether they want to listen.
This stubborn streak comes from their royal history. Shih Tzus were bred to be companions to Chinese royalty, not working dogs. They weren’t selected for obedience like some breeds.
I’ve learned that positive reinforcement works best with my little stubborn friend. Treats and praise go a long way! But even then, there are days when she decides a command is merely a suggestion.
Don’t let their small size fool you. These little dogs can have big attitudes! Their stubborn nature can be challenging for first-time dog owners who might expect immediate compliance.
Prone to dental issues
Shih Tzus have adorable faces, but their small mouths can lead to big dental problems. I’ve noticed that these dogs often struggle with teeth issues more than some other breeds.
Their tiny mouths mean teeth can become crowded, making it harder to keep them clean. Food particles get trapped easily, leading to plaque buildup and eventually gum disease.
Regular brushing is a must for these pups! I recommend getting your Shih Tzu used to tooth brushing from a young age. This helps prevent serious problems down the road.
Dental chews and special toys can help, but they’re not a replacement for brushing. I’ve found that many Shih Tzu owners don’t realize how important dental care is until problems develop.
Periodontal disease is one of the most common health issues in Shih Tzus. This inflammation of the gums and tissue around the teeth can cause pain and even tooth loss if not treated.
Bad breath is often the first sign of dental problems in your Shih Tzu. If you notice an unpleasant smell, it might be time for a vet checkup.
Professional cleanings by your vet are important too. I recommend discussing how often your Shih Tzu should have dental cleanings during your regular vet visits.
May require frequent grooming
Shih Tzus are known for their beautiful, flowing coats that require regular maintenance. I’ve found that these dogs need to be professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks, which can add up in terms of cost over time.
Daily brushing is almost a must with a Shih Tzu to prevent mats and tangles in their silky fur. If I skip a few days of brushing, the coat can quickly become tangled, especially around the ears and belly areas.
The long hair around their eyes needs special attention to keep it clean and prevent irritation. I’ve learned that many Shih Tzu owners opt for a “puppy cut” to make maintenance easier, especially during warmer months.
Their facial hair can get dirty during eating and drinking, requiring daily wiping. I keep small pet wipes handy for quick cleanups between bath times.
Regular ear cleaning and teeth brushing are also part of the grooming routine for a healthy Shih Tzu. The time commitment for proper grooming is something to consider before bringing one of these adorable dogs home.
Responsive to training when consistent
Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training. I’ve found that while they’re smart dogs, they sometimes prefer to do things their own way.
The search results mention they’re “harder to train” but “smart” – which matches my experience. They aren’t like Border Collies who eagerly await your next command!
However, I’ve discovered that consistency is absolutely key with these little pups. When I established a regular routine and stuck with it, my Shih Tzu learned commands much faster.
Short, positive training sessions work best with this breed. I keep lessons under 10 minutes since their attention span isn’t very long.
Treats are your best friend when training a Shih Tzu! These food-motivated dogs will work harder when there’s something yummy involved.
I make sure to use the same commands and hand signals every time. This consistency helps my Shih Tzu understand exactly what I want from them.
Patience is also important. It might take longer to train a Shih Tzu than some other breeds, but they do get there eventually!
I’ve noticed my Shih Tzu responds much better to praise than to scolding. These sensitive little dogs want to please their owners when they understand what’s expected.
Bonds closely with their owner
One of the best things about having a Shih Tzu is how much they love to be with you. My Shih Tzu follows me around the house all day long. It’s like having a furry shadow that’s always keeping me company.
These little dogs were bred to be companions, and they take that job very seriously! I’ve noticed my Shih Tzu always wants to be in the same room as me. If I’m on the couch, that’s where my dog wants to be too.
Shih Tzus form very strong attachments to their owners. My dog greets me with so much excitement when I come home, even if I’ve only been gone for a short time.
This close bonding is wonderful for anyone who wants a devoted pet. I love how my Shih Tzu seems to understand my moods and offers comfort when I’m feeling down.
The bond can be so strong that Shih Tzus sometimes get anxious when left alone too long. I’ve learned that my dog does best with regular schedules and plenty of quality time together.
These dogs truly thrive on human interaction. I find it heartwarming how my Shih Tzu wants nothing more than to curl up in my lap at the end of a long day.
Tends to be quiet indoors
One of the best things about my Shih Tzu is how quiet he is inside the house. Unlike some other small breeds that bark at every little noise, Shih Tzus are generally calm and peaceful indoors.
This makes them perfect for apartment living! I never have to worry about noise complaints from neighbors when I have friends over or when the mail carrier arrives.
My Shih Tzu will alert me if someone is at the door, but doesn’t go crazy barking at every sound outside. They’re watchful but not yappy, which is a refreshing quality in a small dog.
I’ve found this quieter nature especially helpful when I’m working from home or trying to relax after a long day. It’s nice not having a dog that constantly makes noise for attention.
Even when playing indoors, my Shih Tzu tends to be relatively quiet. They prefer gentle play and cuddles over noisy rough-housing that other breeds might enjoy.
