The Shih Tzu is one of the ancient toy breeds — originating in Tibet and developed in the Chinese imperial court, they were never working dogs; they existed solely to be companions. This history shaped a dog that is happiest being close to people, adaptable to varied living situations, and surprisingly robust for a flat-faced breed. The 2024 RVC study offered some reassurance compared to French Bulldogs and Pugs — but health matters still require attention.
Quick Facts
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | Small (4.5–8 kg; 20–28 cm at shoulder) |
| Coat | Long, flowing double coat — daily grooming required. Many owners prefer a short “puppy cut” |
| Exercise | 30–60 minutes per day — low to moderate |
| Lifespan | 10–16 years |
| Good for families? | Yes — with older, gentle children |
| Good for elderly owners? | One of the best choices — low exercise, low energy, high companionship |
| Puppy cost (UK 2026) | £600–£1,800 (rare colours such as “blue” command premium pricing) |
| KC group | Utility |
BOAS — The 2024 RVC Study in Context
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed — they have a shortened skull and flat face. However, a 2024 RVC (Royal Veterinary College) VetCompass study found that Shih Tzus had a significantly better overall health profile for common disorders compared to French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and Pugs. This is encouraging, but does not mean BOAS is absent:
- Shih Tzus do have stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils) and elongated soft palates — both BOAS risk factors
- Many Shih Tzus have clinically relevant respiratory compromise, though typically less severe than in French Bulldogs
- Signs to watch: noisy breathing at rest, snoring that interferes with sleep, exercise intolerance, regurgitating food
- Assessment by a vet familiar with brachycephalic breeds is recommended if any respiratory symptoms are present
- BOAS surgery (nostril widening, soft palate correction) is available and often significantly improves quality of life
The Grooming Commitment — What It Actually Takes
This is the section many Shih Tzu buyers underestimate. The full coat is beautiful but requires genuine daily maintenance:
- Full long coat: Minimum 30 minutes of brushing per day. Special attention to areas most prone to matting: behind ears, armpits, collar area, inside hindlegs. Mats form close to the skin and cause pain and infection if unmanaged
- Practical alternative — the “puppy cut”: Many/most UK pet Shih Tzu owners keep their dog in a short all-over clip (usually 2–4 cm). This dramatically reduces home brushing to 5–10 minutes per day and is the realistic choice for most owners
- Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks for a full bath, blow-dry and clip or trim. Cost: £45–£75. Annual cost: £370–£600
- Eyes: The face hair must be kept clear of the eyes — facial hair trapping against the cornea causes irritation, corneal ulcers, and staining. Tie the topknot or keep face hair trimmed
Heat Safety — Critical for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are at high heatstroke risk due to their brachycephalic airways. Their compressed respiratory system makes panting (dogs’ primary cooling mechanism) less effective:
- Never walk in temperatures above 20°C in direct sun — UK summer mornings above 22°C can be dangerous
- Walk before 9am and after 7pm in summer
- Never leave in a car — even on mild days, car interiors reach dangerous temperatures within minutes
- Signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, disorientation, collapse. This is a veterinary emergency — wet the dog’s coat with room-temperature water (not ice cold), contact the vet immediately while cooling
- Cooling mats, ventilation fans, and air conditioning are beneficial for Shih Tzus in warm UK summers
Eye Safety
Shih Tzus have large, protruding eyes relative to their skull. These are vulnerable to injury from sharp objects, cat scratches, and even rough play:
- Foreign bodies (dust, grass seeds) cause a dog to squint and paw at the eye — see a vet same day
- “Proptosis” (eye displacement from socket) can occur from trauma — extremely rare but extremely serious — immediate emergency vet required
- Regular eye checks for cloudiness, redness, or discharge; “dry eye” (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is common and requires daily eye drops (cyclosporin)
Temperament
- Affectionate and people-focused — Shih Tzus were bred to be companions; this is not incidental to their character, it is their entire purpose. They thrive when close to their person
- Playful and energetic in bursts — despite low overall exercise needs, they enjoy play and have surprising energy for short periods
- Adaptable — flat, house, city, countryside — Shih Tzus adjust well when their exercise needs are met
- Stubborn streak — they have strong opinions and selective compliance. Positive reinforcement with patience and consistency is essential; they do not respond to harsh training
- Good with other pets — generally excellent multi-pet household dogs
FAQs
Is a Shih Tzu a good dog for a first-time owner?
Yes — with realistic expectations about grooming and basic dog training commitment. Their temperament is forgiving for first-time owners. The main requirements are: willingness to groom or pay for regular professional grooming, awareness of brachycephalic heat and respiratory risks, and basic training investment during puppyhood. They are significantly lower-effort than Border Collies or German Shepherds, but not zero-effort dogs.