The Shih Tzu, which translates to "Little Lion Dog" as an homage to their long, silky coat resembling a mane, is an ancient breed with origins that genetic testing has proven date back centuries, possibly to Tibet where lamas bred them to replicate tiny lions. The breed developed its modern form in China during the late 1800s where it was bred for a more stylized appearance and used as companions and guard dogs dating as far back as the first century. The Shih Tzu suffered significant decline after imperial rule ended in China and faced another setback during World War II, but breeding picked up in the 1950s and 60s, leading to recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1969. These dogs are longer than they are tall with heavily feathered ears that hang low, and hair that often hangs in front of their eyes and muzzle which owners frequently style into top knots.
Lively, alert, and loyal, Shih Tzus are affectionate companions with fun and mischievous personalities who love being around their people and are content doing anything with family members, from woodland walks to couch relaxation. Friendly and approachable around strangers, they tend to do well with children and other dogs when properly socialized, though training may require patience and extra time due to their occasional mischievous streak. Bred as house companions, these dogs get their energy out in short bursts during playtime and enjoy short walks and indoor games, with insufficient playtime potentially leading to destructive behavior. Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing and regular grooming trips to prevent matting, with many owners opting for shorter clips for easier maintenance, though their low-shedding coat makes them considered hypoallergenic despite having dander.
Shih Tzu
Meet our Ultimate Princess: Nicknamed "Twin B"! 💖 Looking for the sweetest, most elegant, and loving companion? Meet our gorgeous little princess, affectionately nicknamed "Twin B"! While she’s the s
Shih Tzu
Meet Sammi!!:)🐾♥️🐾the darkest pup of the litter….he has a very playful and outgoing personality and loves to be cuddled!!:)
Shih Tzu
Meet Our Confident "Big Boy"! First Born & Smartest in the Litter. Looking for a stunning, healthy Shih Tzu with a huge personality? Our first-born male, affectionately nicknamed "Big Boy," is ready t
Shih Tzu
Hi, I'm Gary! I'm a 14-week-old male Shih Tzu with a beautiful brindle & white coat, born on January 15. I am ready now to plan my trip to my forever family. Once I reach my adult size, I'm expected t
Shih Tzu
Spriggs is an energetic and adorable Shih Tzu puppy! He is happy to meet new friends! Every day is a good day for him. Do you need someone cheerful in your life? Spriggs could be the one.❤️ He is lo
Shih Tzu
Carols is a sweet loving girl! She has been potty trained, and in a loving home, however due to disease and sickness, she was not able to stay with this loving family. She’s available to come home wi
25Shih Tzu
Theon is a dapper red and white Shu Tzu expected to be 8 to 14 pounds full grown. He adores people and is always eager to meet new friends--human or canine! Theon is very playful and loves his toys as
22Shih Tzu
Aztec is a striking liver and white Shu Tzu expected to be 7 to 9.5 pounds full grown. Aztec is always soaking up our attention and loves when he gets belly rubs! He is ready to bounce into your home
13Shih Tzu
Andre is a dapper red and white Shu Tzu expected to be 8 to 14 pounds full grown. He adores people and is always eager to meet new friends--human or canine! Andre is very playful and loves his toys as
20Shih Tzu
Freckles is a lovely red sable and white Shih Tzu expected to be 7 to 12 pounds full grown. Freckles always lights up the room when she bounces in the door and can put a smile on any face! This fun gi
15Shih Tzu
Tramp is a striking red and white Shih Tzu expected to be 9 to 14 pounds full grown. He is always soaking up our attention and loves when he gets belly rubs! Tramp is ready to bounce into your home an
19Shih Tzu
Flash is a charming red sable and white Shih Tzu expected to be 7 to 12 pounds full grown. Flash has been very well socialized with children and adults of all ages, and it really shows! This precious
21Shih Tzu
Flower is a precious red sable and white Shih Tzu expected to be 7 to 12 pounds full grown. Flower does great with other dogs and has always been a wonderful playmate to others! She is ready to bounce
17Shih Tzu
Fox is a red sable and white Shih Tzu expected to be 7 to 12 pounds full grown. Fox has grown from being a snuggle bug in our laps to a peaceful play companion at our feet. This precious boy has such
6Shih Tzu
AKC Registered Raja is the tiniest little princess with the most gorgeous sable coat and a personality that will absolutely melt your heart. This sweet girl loves being cuddled, spoiled, and adored
3Shih Tzu
AKC Registered McSpunkie is a tiny bundle of fluff, sass, and sweetness all rolled into one adorable little sable Shih Tzu boy. This precious puppy has the cutest little face, the fluffiest coat, a
5Shih Tzu
AKC Registered Grizzie is the sweetest little sable Shih Tzu boy with a face so precious it could melt hearts in seconds. His soft, fluffy features make him look like the cutest little cuddle bug i
5Shih Tzu
AKC Registered Teddy Bear is an adorable little black Shih Tzu boy that is truly as cute as a button and impossible not to fall in love with. With his fluffy coat, sweet puppy eyes, and tiny little