Affectionate and Friendly

Shih Tzus are loving and enjoy being close to their families, making them excellent companion dogs.

Good with Children and Pets

They are generally tolerant and friendly, making them suitable for families with kids and other pets.

Compact and Adaptable

Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living and smaller spaces.

Low Exercise Needs

They require only moderate exercise, making them a good choice for less active households.

High Grooming Needs

Their long, flowing coat requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting.

Prone to Health Issues

Shih Tzus can be prone to certain health problems, such as respiratory issues and eye conditions.

Can Be Stubborn

Training may require patience, as Shih Tzus can have an independent streak.

Heat Sensitivity

Due to their short noses, they are prone to overheating and require care in warmer climates.

Exercise Needs

Shih Tzus have moderate exercise needs and enjoy daily walks and playtime. They are not overly energetic, making them suitable for owners with less active lifestyles.

Walks

Shih Tzus benefit from one or two short walks per day, combined with indoor playtime. Care should be taken in hot weather to prevent overheating.

Training

Shih Tzus are intelligent but can be stubborn, requiring consistent, patient training. Positive reinforcement methods work best, and early obedience training is essential to ensure good behavior. They respond well to treats and praise but may need gentle encouragement to stay focused.

Purchase Price

$2,000 - $5,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $400 - $700 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $600 - $1,000 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs.

Grooming

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks can cost around $500 - $800 AUD per year. Daily at-home brushing is essential for maintaining their coat.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $500 - $800 AUD per year, with additional expenses for managing potential respiratory or eye issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 10-16 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $20,000 - $35,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Shih Tzus typically stand 20-28 cm (8-11 inches) tall and weigh between 4-7 kg (9-16 lbs).

Coat

They have a long, flowing double coat that requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Many owners choose to keep their Shih Tzu's coat trimmed in a "puppy cut" for easier maintenance.

Colour Options

Shih Tzus come in a variety of colours, including gold, white, black, silver, red, and brindle. They often have unique markings, adding to their individuality.

Temperament

Shih Tzus are known for their friendly, outgoing, and affectionate temperament. They are social dogs that enjoy being around their families and often greet strangers with curiosity and warmth. While they can be playful and energetic, they are equally content lounging at home with their owners. Shih Tzus are intelligent but may exhibit stubbornness, requiring patience during training.

Good with Children

Shih Tzus are generally good with children due to their gentle and tolerant nature. However, supervision is recommended around very young children to ensure safe and respectful interactions.

Socialisation

Early socialization is important to help Shih Tzus become well-adjusted and comfortable in different environments. Proper socialization helps reduce the risk of shyness or over-dependence on their owners.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Shih Tzus prefer to live indoors and are well-suited to apartment living. They thrive in environments where they can spend time with their families and do not require large outdoor spaces.

Apartment Living

Shih Tzus are ideal for apartment living due to their small size and moderate exercise needs. They are content with short walks and indoor playtime.

Time Alone

Shih Tzus do not do well when left alone for long periods. They thrive on companionship and may develop separation anxiety if isolated for extended periods. They are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day.

Climate Adaptability

Shih Tzus are sensitive to hot weather due to their brachycephalic features. In warmer climates, it’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. They adapt well to indoor living with climate control.

Common Health Issues

Shih Tzus are prone to certain health conditions, including Brachycephalic airway syndrome (due to their short noses), Eye problems (e.g., dry eye, cataracts), Dental issues (common in small breeds), patellar luxation. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and dental care are essential for maintaining their health.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.

Guarding Ability

Shih Tzus are not natural guard dogs, but they may bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual activity.

Affectionate Nature

Shih Tzus are loving and enjoy spending time with their families. They are known for their cheerful and charming personalities.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Shih Tzus can be social with other dogs, but supervision is recommended in dog parks due to their small size. Early socialization helps ensure positive interactions with other pets.