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
Black and white male

Shorkie
Stacy is the smaller of her siblings and loves to cuddle. She is black with hints of white on her chin, paws and chest.

Shorkie
Oreo, like her sisters is adorable and very loving. She is completely black with white patches on her chin, paws and chest.

Shorkie
Smores is a bit spunkier than her sisters. She loves to cuddle and play. Unlike her siblings she is the only one with a unique coloring but is equally as beautiful. She is tan with brown.

Shorkie
Bailey is adorable and such a sweetheart. She loves cuddling and scratches behind her ears. She is completely black with patches of white on her chin, paws and chest.

Shih Tzu
Brown black and white brindle

Teddy Bear
Sassy is a pretty little Shichon puppy! She has beautiful, unique coloring of black, chocolate and white. She is super friendly, absolutely loves meeting new people and loves to play! She is great wit

Shih Tzu
Brown black and white brindle

Mixed Breed & Shih Tzu hybrid
All white tail with black dot on bottom of his back

Mixed Breed & Shih Tzu hybrid
Black and white look like she mite be changing to gray a bit

Shih Tzu
Martha May is the sweetest little girl she has been vet checked current on vaccinations and wormings. She has been raised in our home with lots of love and snuggles. Her mom is a gorgeous little liver

Shih Tzu
Come meet your forever best furbaby, Cindy lou and has been vet checked current on vaccinations and wormings. She has been raised in our home with lots of love and snuggles. Her mom is a beautiful lit

Shih Tzu & Pug hybrid
He is very playful and energetic. He gets along with others. His hair color is black and white. He’s looking for a new home. He has recently taken his first shots.

Shih Tzu & Pug hybrid
She is very playful and energetic. She gets along with others. Her hair color is black and white. Shes looking for a new home. She has recently taken her first shots.

Shih Tzu
Born on Veterans Day , 1 black female with white tips on the paws , 1 black male with white tips on his paws, and 2 males brindle with black faces absolutely adorable. Both parents on premises and are

Shih Tzu
Born on Veterans Day , 1 black female with white tips on the paws , 1 black male with white tips on his paws, and 2 males brindle with black faces absolutely adorable. Both parents on premises and are

Shih Tzu
Born on Veterans Day , 1 black female with white tips on the paws , 1 black male with white tips on his paws, and 2 males brindle with black faces absolutely adorable. Both parents on premises and are

Teddy Bear
Black and white

Teddy Bear
Black and white with brown spots

Shih Tzu
Born on Veterans Day , 1 black female with white tips on the paws , 1 black male with white tips on his paws, and 2 males brindle with black faces absolutely adorable. Both parents on premises and are
The average cost of a purebred Shih Tzu puppy in the United States is approximately $1256, though prices can vary based on factors such as pedigree, breeder reputation, and location.