![\"Shih](\"https:\/\/puppyintraining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/shih-tzu-pic-700x525.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nI\u2019ve had three shih tzus and have trained many for other people. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
They\u2019re adorable and look like stuffed toys. And they are full of personality and spunky. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although they\u2019re smart dogs, shih tzus aren\u2019t the easiest to train. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
My first shih tzu, Cuddles (appropriately named as she was cuddly), was a tan-and-white ball of fur. She loved everyone and learned many cues and tricks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
My second, a black-and-white tzu, named China became a therapy dog<\/a> and obedience dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trevor, my third, was a rescue who also became a therapy dog and was shown in obedience and rally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They are small, sturdy dogs for their size. The breed is pronounced \u201csheed-zoo.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n As long as you can meet their needs (discussed below), shih tzus are fine for novice owners<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They are pets who were bred to be lap dogs. So you don\u2019t have to meet any needs that you would for working dogs such as herding or sporting breeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the 14 oldest dog breeds, they have existed as early as 8,000 B.C. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Imperial breeders in the palace of the Chinese Emperor developed the shih tzu many centuries ago from Tibetan breeding stock. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although there is some mystery how the breed developed, it is thought that shih tzus were originally bred from two Sino-Tibetan breeds, the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cherished lap dogs of Chinese emperors and their families, shih tzus were hidden behind palace walls until the 1930s. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Then breed clubs began forming in Peking and England. The first shih tzu was registered by the AKC in 1969.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although they are far from fierce, shih tzus are known as \u201clion dogs.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike working breeds, shih tzus don\u2019t require a lot of exercise. A short walk and a few play sessions meet the dog\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, if you\u2019re looking for a couch potato and lap dog, a shih tzu is a great companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re interested in having a dog who will accompany you on hikes or while biking or jogging, a shih tzu isn\u2019t for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They don\u2019t have the stamina. With their short legs and long bodies, they couldn’t keep up. And a shih tzu would overheat on such ventures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because of their body conformation, shih tzus also don\u2019t generally swim very well<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are naturally friendly, confident dogs. But they still require socialization<\/a> so that they become all that they should be. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And, if they aren\u2019t properly socialized, they may become fearful of the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Or, they can potentially develop \u201csmall dog syndrome\u201d and become protective and aggressive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although shih tzus are intelligent, they will quickly tire of robotic obedience drill sessions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Patience is a virtue when training a shih tzu. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They were bred to be pets, not tireless workers. And they have an independent, stubborn streak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So keep training sessions<\/a> short with just a few repetitions of each cue, then move on. Play in between. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Use positive reinforcement<\/a> of yummy treats<\/a>, praise, petting, and play. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are very bonded to their owners and will love to train if you make the session fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although many people have noted that they may require many repetitions to learn a command, I\u2019ve found that they are willing learners when trained properly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n No, they\u2019re not going to be border collies or Aussies, but they can learn many commands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You may have to break down some more complicated behaviors and teach them in more steps than you would for a working breed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And you may have to, over time, do more repetitions for reliability, but they can learn even complicated tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n My shih tzu Cuddles won trick contests and even learned complicated behaviors. For example, I taught her to \u201canswer\u201d a child\u2019s phone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When I said \u201canswer the phone,\u201d she picked up and dropped the receiver, then spoke. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When I taught it, I broke the trick down into four behaviors: take the receiver; hold it; drop it; and speak. It took weeks for reliability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n My shih tzu China was a top obedience shih tzu who learned many tricks and to take and retrieve a dumbbell, go over jumps, heel, scent work, long sit and down stay, and much more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Trevor, my rescued shih tzu, also learned tricks, formal obedience, and rally obedience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, yes, shih tzus are capable of learning complicated behaviors if you have the patience to teach them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So that they don\u2019t become bored and to expand their minds, play games with them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Have your shih tzu fetch. Provide enrichment activities<\/a> such as puzzle toys<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since shih tzus are very friendly and have a stable temperament when bred, trained, and socialized properly, they can make great therapy dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They shouldn’t be skittish. A shih tzu shouldn\u2019t be fazed by the equipment found in nursing homes and hospitals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two of my shih tzus were therapy dogs who visit hospital patients on a weekly basis. They loved it as much as the patients and staff enjoyed meeting with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus can also be exceptional trick dogs. They get bored with repetitive commands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So learning new tricks should be a fun learning experience. Dance, beg, roll over<\/a>, and speak can be great party tricks for a shih tzu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When trained using positive reinforcement, shih tzus can do well in many canine activities, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Two people who I became friendly with at dog shows achieved advanced titles with their shih tzus in agility and rally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And mine were very accomplished in tricks and competitive obedience and rally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A shih tzu who has been well-bred, trained, and socialized should be friendly to everyone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, if you have children who respect a dog and aren\u2019t rough, it could be a great match.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But you have to ensure your shih tzu\u2019s safety from toddlers and other dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a friendly companion who wants to be with you, a shih tzu can be a great companion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although they love to be with you, they aren\u2019t needy like some breeds and can be left to occupy themselves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As long as a shih tzu\u2019s socialization, exercise, and training needs are met, he\u2019s not likely to develop separation anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike their cousin, the Lhasa apso (for which they\u2019re often mistaken), shih tzus love being a lap dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are notoriously hard to house train<\/a>. Some other small breeds are much easier even though both have small bladders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I got lucky with my first shih tzu puppy, Cuddles. She house trained pretty quickly and was pretty reliable within weeks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But my second, China, was the normal shih tzu. It took months for her to be reliable. I even took some time off to help her along the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But, with patience and persistence, I haven\u2019t met a healthy shih tzu who couldn\u2019t be reliably house trained. Also, you can train them to use potty pads<\/a> for your convenience and in case they need to go to the bathroom when you\u2019re away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are great in apartments<\/a> or houses. They adapt to where you live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are a brachycephalic breed. Their flat face makes them prone to heat exhaustion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So, if you live where it gets very hot, make sure that your shih tzu isn\u2019t taken outside except for a quick potty break during the hottest part of the day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Have him remain in air conditioning, relaxing. After all, they were bred as treasured companions who lived in Imperial palaces. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And when it\u2019s too cold, a shih tzu shouldn\u2019t be taken out for more than a potty break. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In cold weather, you can put a coat<\/a> or sweater<\/a> on your shih tzu. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although shih tzus may bark occasionally, they aren\u2019t a noisy breed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus measure nine to 10.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh between nine and 16 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus should be between nine and 16 pounds. Run from unscrupulous breeders who try to sell miniature or larger versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get your shih tzu used to traveling when he\u2019s young so that he doesn\u2019t become car sick.<\/a> Then you can take him with you on your adventures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many car seats<\/a> for small dogs that will be perfect for a shih tzu. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And there are small kennels<\/a> and soft travel bags<\/a> to transport him. You can even carry him in a pouch made for that purpose<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I used to take my shih tzus in stores in a shopping cart. I\u2019d place a dog bed in the bottom of the cart, and my canine would happily accompany me on my spending spree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s best to take your shih tzu for walks in a well-fitting harness<\/a>. Their necks are prone to tracheal damage if too much pressure is put on their neck as can occur in a collar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A shih tzu who is kept in a long, flowing double coat that isn\u2019t cut requires daily brushing and combing that gently reaches to the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Grooming is for his health as well as his appearance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can use a pin brush<\/a>, slicker brush<\/a>, and greyhound comb<\/a>. The facial hair and topknot must be combed daily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If not properly groomed, a shih tzu can become a matted mess. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Daily cleaning of the corners of the eyes is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And don\u2019t forget to brush the heavily plumed tail that\u2019s carried in a curve over his back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can choose to keep your shih tzu in a puppy cut for easier coat care. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You still need to brush the coat and facial hair. But the brushing and combing are much easier on you\u2013and the dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A puppy cut keeps your shih tzu looking young and stylish. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can have a professional groomer perform a puppy clip. But I won\u2019t fool you: a good groomer is expensive but worth it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Your shih tzu will need to be clipped every six to eight weeks, depending on how fast his coat grows. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You still need to brush and comb daily, but the sessions will be shorter than when a shih tzu is kept in full coat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I\u2019ve kept my shih tzus in puppy cuts, with the facial beard and tail hair kept longer to maintain the look of the breed. I learned how to groom them from breeders and groomers I know. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, you also need to trim their nails<\/a> every week or two and check\u2013and clean if necessary\u2013their ears<\/a> on a weekly basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because they require such routine, extensive grooming, get them used to being handled and groomed as puppies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although no dog is truly hypoallergenic, shih tzus come close. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They have hair, not fur. And, if groomed and bathed regularly, they may be fine for some people who are allergic to dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus can also have a black facial mask or black, tan, or white markings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want a canine companion who will be with you on many adventures, a shih tzu may fit the bill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They have a life expectancy of 10 to 18 years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two of my shih tzus lived to be 13.5 years old. My rescued shih tzu lived to be about 16. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The oldest recorded shih tzu lived to be 23 years old.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are a brachycephalic breed, which means that their head is both broad and short, resulting in small nostrils, long palates, and a narrow trachea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This can lead to brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome, which can result in severe respiratory distress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n They are also at risk in extremes of temperature and humidity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus also can have a reverse sneeze, in which he will snort and gag to remove mucuous, for a minute or two at most. Although not harmful, hearing a shih tzu with a reverse sneeze can be frightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re a light sleeper, be prepared to sleep with ear plugs. Because of their flat muzzles, shih tzus tend to snore. <\/p>\n\n\n\n My shih tzu China weighed only 11 pounds. But she sounded like a freight train coming through when she was soundly sleeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because their beautiful, large, round eyes are very prominent, shih tzus are prone to eye injuries. So, although shih tzus are sturdy for their size, take care in playing with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n All breeds can have certain health problems. Because of their long back, short legs, and flat muzzle, shih tzus are prone to some health issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So be careful that your shih tzu doesn\u2019t jump on or off furniture that\u2019s too high. If you want him to be on the furniture, teach him to use stairs<\/a> or a ramp<\/a> made for that purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Make sure that you get your shih tzu from a reputable breeder or rescue group<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Potential health issues in include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even though their human baby-like adorable face stares up at you when you\u2019re eating, don\u2019t give in to temptation and share your meal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus can tend to become obese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Brachycephalic breeds tend to have more dental problems than other breeds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n So regular teeth brushing<\/a> and veterinary care is important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because of their prominent eyes, problems may occur from dust, pollen, humidity, or brushing against a surface, So check your shih tzu\u2019s eyes for signs of redness or irritation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Make sure that the facial hair on your shih tzu doesn\u2019t rub against his eyes, which can also cause injury to his eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus rank 20th out of 284 breeds according to the AKC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because the breed is so popular, there are many unscrupulous puppy mill<\/a> and back yard breeders selling the dogs at various prices, both high and low. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But a shih tzu from a reputable breeder can cost from $1,500 and up, depending on where you live and whether the dog is show or pet quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is known as coprophagia<\/a>. Just make sure to clean up any feces so that this doesn\u2019t become a habit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may decide to get a shih tzu from a reputable breed or rescue organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For rescue information about shih tzus, contact the American Shih Tzu Club<\/a>, Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc.<\/a>, or Tzu Zoo Rescue<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n For breeder referrals, contact the American Shih Tzu Club<\/a> or the American Kennel Club<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes! They are quiet dogs who aren\u2019t excessive barkers. They also don\u2019t require tons of exercise. A walk or two and some play should meet their physical exercise needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You must be willing to regularly groom a shih tzu (or hire a professional groomer). But be aware it may take longer than some breeds to house train a shih tzu. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes. If you get a well-bred shih tzu who is properly trained and socialized, a shih tzu can be a great travel buddy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are portable and love everyone and adapt to new environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Plus, they are very bonded to their pet parents and love to accompany them on new adventures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Probably not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They require regular–daily\u2013grooming. But if you keep the dog in a short puppy clip and are willing to groom him, it can work out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shih tzus are friendly, spunky, outgoing adorable dogs. They don\u2019t require a lot of exercise and are portable lap dogs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But they are difficult to house train and need daily grooming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a sweet, charming dog to accompany you everywhere, a shih tzu can be a great choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do you have a shih tzu?<\/p>\n\n\n\n If so, what made you choose the breed?<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are thinking about getting a shih tzu, did this article help you to decide?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tell us about it in the comments section below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So you\u2019re thinking about getting a shih tzu but wonder whether it\u2019s the right breed for your family. Shih tzus are sweet, friendly dogs and…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":35298,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1897],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-35099","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-breeds"],"yoast_head":"\n36 Facts About Shih Tzus: What\u2019s Good About Them and What\u2019s Bad About Them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Shih Tzus Are Classified as Toy Dogs by the American Kennel Club (AKC)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Shih Tzus Are Fine for Novice Owners<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Shih Tzus Are an Ancient Breed Who Are Companions, Not Working Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Shih Tzus Are Known as Lion Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Shih](\"https:\/\/puppyintraining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Trevor-Closeup-in-show.jpg\")
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5. Some Shih Tzus Are Famous<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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6. Shih Tzus Don\u2019t Require Much Exercise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. They Don\u2019t Make Good Hiking, Jogging, Biking, or Swimming Buddies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Socialization Is Crucial for a Friendly, Confident Dog<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Obedience Training Should Be Fun With Short Sessions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. They Require Mental Stimulation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. They Are Great Trick Dogs and Therapy Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. Not Just Another Pretty Face: Shih Tzus Can Excel at Canine Sports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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13. Shih Tzus Love Everyone: Adults, Children, and Other Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
14. They Are Playful and Love Attention<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"4](\"https:\/\/puppyintraining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Trevor-4-photos-when-I-got-him-700x963.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n15. Shih Tzus Are Great Lap Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
16. They Are Difficult to House Train<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. They Adapt To Most Places<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. They Don\u2019t Do Well in Temperature Extremes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
19. They Are Quiet Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
20. They Are Small<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
21. There Is No Teacup or Imperial Shih Tzu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
22. Shih Tzus Are Portable and Great Travel Companions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
23. Take Your Shih Tzu Out on a Harness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
24. Shih Tzus Require Regular Grooming, Which Can Be Expensive<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
25. They Don\u2019t Shed and Are \u201cHypoallergenic\u201d<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
26. Shih Tzus Come in a Wide Variety of Colors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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27. Shih Tzus Have Long Lives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
28. Their Flat Faces Cause Them To Be Prone to Certain Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
29. They Are Also Prone To Other Health Issues To Be Aware Of<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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30. Shih Tzus Can Be Beggars and Put on Too Much Weight<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
31. They Tend To Have Dental Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
32. Check Their Eyes Regularly To Avoid Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
33. They\u2019re Popular<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
34. A Well-Bred Shih Tzu Isn\u2019t Cheap<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
35. They Tend To Eat Poop More Than Some Breeds Do<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
36. There Are Valuable Resources To Find a Great Shih Tzu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
I live in an apartment and need a dog who doesn\u2019t bark often or need a fenced yard. Would a shih tzu be a good choice?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
I love to travel. Would a shih tzu be a good choice? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
I love dogs but don\u2019t love grooming. I\u2019ve only had only short-coated breeds. My friend has a shih tzu who I love. Would a shih tzu be a good choice?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Save To Pinterest<\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"So](\"https:\/\/puppyintraining.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/so-you-want-shih-tzu-700x1050.jpg\")
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