Shih Tzus make great companion dogs. Shih Tzus have been bred over centuries to be man’s best friend. It’s no surprise that Shih Tzu puppies are one of the most beloved tiny breeds.
You can find any type of dog from rescues or shelters, even Shih Tzu puppies.
PetCareStores also offers an adoption page where you can search for dogs that are available to adopt by zip code and breed. Adopt! Do not shop!
Do you think about getting a Shih Tzu puppy? Then continue reading to learn more!
Shih Tzu Puppies
This adorable dog could have such a fierce name!
Shih Tzu is Chinese for “lion dog”, which probably comes from the Buddhist legend that Siddhartha used a small dog that could transform into an lion.
Chinese royalty considered the Shih Tzu a highly prized dog. This breed is often depicted in paintings. It comes from Tibetan breeding stock. Most of the Ming Dynasty’s 1368-1644 period, the Shih Tzu was the household pet.
This breed was only accessible to royalty for centuries. Shih Tzus lived most of their lives behind palace walls, until fairly recently.
The Shih Tzu was not known to the general public until 1930s, when breed clubs were formed in England and Peking. The American Kennel Club finally recognized the breed in 1969.
The Shih Tzu is now a household name. Bill Gates, Mariah Carey and Queen Elizabeth all had Shih Tzus and they are still very popular at the royal court.
Shih Tzu Puppy Facts
A Shih Tzu puppy is a charming, miniature dog that is adorably affectionate and adorable. These are the facts to know before you get a Shih Tzu.
1. Their Name isn’t Pronounced like a Swear Word
This is not a problem with their sweet temperament or their prideful stance. We think that your furry friend would love you to correctly pronounce their breed name.
It is pronounced “Sheed Zoo,” which roughly means “Lion” (in Chinese).
As a companion dog and lapdog for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu was first bred in the 14th century. They are far too respectful to accept curse words.
2. They’ll Have One Coat, Then Two
The Shih Tzu’s luxurious double coat is composed of a thicker outer and softer inner coat. The Shih Tzu puppy’s first coat will be soft and manageable until seven months, when it will grow into a second.
While grooming will be easy in the beginning, it’s not difficult once your Shih Tzu puppy is older.
3. They will be at home anywhere, as long as they are with you
Shih Tzu puppies can adapt to any living space. This pup will be happy wherever you live, whether it’s in a tiny studio apartment or the vast countryside.
Shih Tzu puppies were specifically bred for companionship. Although they don’t excel at hunting or herding but they love their owners,
To build a strong and loving relationship with your Shih Tzu puppy, make sure you give him lots of attention.
4. They will be kind to strangers, even if they are accidentally hurt.
Shih Tzu puppies can be one of the friendliest types of dogs. They get along well with their humans, children and other pets.
You should monitor any larger animals or children who are rambunctious, and make sure your Shih Tzu puppy is always with them.
Shih Tzu puppies are as small as two-and-a-half pounds at eight weeks. They are delicate and fragile.
Shih Tzu puppies can grow fast and reach adult size in as little as seven months.
5. Their adorable faces can lead to breathing problems
Their cute, smiley face is one of the most beloved parts about Shih Tzu puppies.
This face shape can be a magnet for cuteness overload, but it can also cause problems for your dog.
While wheezing and snoring may occur in sleep, they are not a serious problem. This brachycephalic facial shape can lead to heat stroke and other health problems.
You should limit your Shih Tzu’s sun-bathing during summer heat. If you don’t like the sound of your Shih Tzu snoring, then get some earplugs.
Would you consider adopting a Shih Tzu puppy. What are some other facts about these adorable, tiny dogs? Comment below to let us know your thoughts!
Here are some facts you should know before getting a Shih Tzu:
Shih Tzu Puppies Details
Size | Small. Adults reach up to a height of 9-10.5 inches and weigh 9-16 pounds. |
Breed Characteristics | Built sturdily with a showstopping coat, the Shih Tzu is a toy dog through and through. They have a wide weight variation (a seven-pound difference can be quite extreme for a toy variety). Shih Tzus have a double coat that’s often kept long. The breed standard requires only a slight wave in the coat at most, but you may see a curly-coated Shih Tzu as well. They come in a variety of colors, often mixed in with white. Breeders will tie excess hair on top of their head. With wide-set, dark eyes, the Shih Tzu is a friendly, welcoming looking dog. |
Temperament | Deeply affectionate, the Shih Tzu loves being a lap dog. They’re easily trusting of most people and love children. Due to their royal ancestry of living in palaces, they’re quite content being inside most of the day. They do have energy to burn however, so playing indoors along with daily walks will keep this dog healthy and happy. |
Grooming and Health Needs | Though this breed doesn’t shed, the Shih Tzu’s luxurious coat doesn’t come easy. Their coats need daily brushing with a good quality dog brush that can take out tangles. Always include brushing the top knot on their head along with their mustache. Once a month, give a Shih Tzu a bath to keep the coat clean and shiny. If you’d prefer a different haircut that’s less maintenance, there are plenty of Shih Tzu friendly options as well.Due to their double coats, Shih Tzus need to be watched to make sure they don’t overheat. They also need to be checked for corneal inflammation due to improperly closed eyelids, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. |
Training | Beware! Shih Tzus gets what they want! Due to their heightened sense of charm, many new owners will find themselves giving too many treats, and letting the Shih Tzu get away with things they shouldn’t. Gentle but firm persistence with this breed is best, as they’re people-pleasers and ultimately want to make you happy. Puppy training classes are key so they learn how to socialize with other dogs and understand simple commands. |
Energy Level | Shih Tzus love being in the great indoors, but still benefit from short walks and playtime. They have shorter legs, so there’s a risk of exhausting them easily with too much stimulation. |
Life Span | Shih Tzus live between 10-18 years on average. |
Who is the greatest human being for a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus love to please people and are affectionate. They are a charmer with both children and adults.
Because of their small stature and minimal exercise requirements, they are a great apartment dog.
Getting a Shih Tzu puppy
Research is required to make an informed decision about whether to adopt or work with a breeder to get your Shih Tzu puppy.
There are many resources available to help you find a breeder or rescue that provides healthy Shih Tzu puppies.
It is important to be a responsible pet owner by knowing what you are getting when you buy a Shih Tzu puppy.
You can expect a friendly and energetic addition to your family, regardless of whether you are looking for a responsible breeder.
Finding a Shih Tzu breeder
Although it may seem surprising, adopting a Shih Tzu puppy can be done.
According to the AKC most rescues of breeds report that most rescue dogs are surrendered by their owners. The most common reason is a change in lifestyle, or the breed not being right.
This could mean that many dogs and puppies are out there looking for a forever home.
A rescue might not always have puppies for sale. This is the main difference between a rescue and a breeder.
However, most dog owners are required to adopt only microchipped or spayed/neutered dogs.
This could mean that your dog may be housebroken and not require these common medical procedures.
A Shih Tzu mix may be available that exhibits all the characteristics you desire, but has a few extra features.
Shih Tzu puppy resources
Once you have found the perfect Shih Tzu puppy for you, it is time to prepare your home. These are some resources to help you get started.