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Meet the breedA companion with a royal pastCharacter, size, and what surprises new owners
The Shih Tzu was shaped for companionship, with a face and coat that ask for regular care. Keep hair clear of the eyes, check the skin beneath it, and make room for short games between naps.
Adults commonly weigh 9–16 lb; a typical lifespan guide is 10–18 years. These are breed-wide guides, never targets or forecasts for an individual pet.
Daily life & exerciseA day with a Shih TzuExercise, play, and a practical daily rhythm
Your Shih Tzu may prefer a gentler routine, with walks and play adjusted to the individual. Low activity does not mean no activity: watch how your dog moves and ask your veterinarian about any breathing or mobility concerns.
For the Shih Tzu, make room for an unhurried walk with chances to explore, then adjust distance to age and stamina.
What would your Shih Tzu love?
Add their age, size, and favorite things. We’ll find a few good places to start.
Training & temperamentLearning together with a Shih TzuGood manners and individual personality
The Shih Tzu is often playful, affectionate, and outgoing.
Use patient, rewarding lessons and let your Shih Tzu build confidence at a comfortable pace. A harsh correction teaches less than a clear, repeatable cue.
Coat & groomingThe Shih Tzu coatGrooming and everyday care
The Shih Tzu's longer hair can catch at friction points such as ears, legs, and collar; work through little knots before they tighten. Plan on daily coat work, with a lighter touch for a puppy or sensitive skin. A professional groomer may help keep the coat comfortable.
Bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy?
Plan their first days with a little help from our puppy welcome kit.
Build a puppy welcome kitProduct starting pointsGood finds for your Shih TzuFood, play, care, and rest
Choose food for your Shih Tzu's life stage and measured weight. The breed range is a clue, but the portion and fit should follow the individual. Use this smaller dog's measurements for a harness, carrier, crate, or bed; a breed name is not a size chart.
For your Shih Tzu, start with something suited to longer walks, plus a brush chosen for the actual coat. Add a comfortable rest spot; a good product list should follow this dog's interests, not a breed stereotype.
Health & lifespanCaring for a Shih Tzu over time10–18 years is a guide, not a forecast
The Shih Tzu has a lifespan guide of 10–18 years, though no range predicts one dog's future. Keep a record of weight and changes in appetite or activity, and plan preventive care with your veterinarian.