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 Guy, a Tri color male Shih-Tzu puppy raised with intentional care, early socialization, and daily interaction to support confidence and companionship. He receives daily interaction and thoughtful
Shih Tzu
Toast is a tri color male Shih-Tzu puppy raised in a hands-on family environment with thoughtful early development and daily interaction. He receives daily interaction and thoughtful development to he
Shihpoo
Ripley is an absolute little treasure wrapped in soft, fluffy curls 🐶✨. He’s the kind of Shihpoo who wins hearts instantly with his bright eyes, gentle nature, and playful spirit. Whether he’s bounci
Shihpoo
Rascal is an absolute little treasure wrapped in soft, fluffy curls 🐶✨. He’s the kind of Shihpoo who wins hearts instantly with his bright eyes, gentle nature, and playful spirit. Whether he’s bounci
Shihpoo
Rocky is an absolute little treasure wrapped in soft, fluffy curls 🐶✨. He’s the kind of Shihpoo who wins hearts instantly with his bright eyes, gentle nature, and playful spirit. Whether he’s bouncin

Shihpoo
A Shih-poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, known for being a small, affectionate, and playful companion dog. They are typically low-shedding but require significant grooming, including daily brushing and regular professional trimming, to prevent matting. These dogs can have a wide variety of coat types, from straight to curly, and colors, and are best suited fo

Shihpoo
A Shih-poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, known for being a small, affectionate, and playful companion dog. They are typically low-shedding but require significant grooming, including daily brushing and regular professional trimming, to prevent matting. These dogs can have a wide variety of coat types, from straight to curly, and colors, and are best suited fo

Shihpoo
A Shih-poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, known for being a small, affectionate, and playful companion dog. They are typically low-shedding but require significant grooming, including daily brushing and regular professional trimming, to prevent matting. These dogs can have a wide variety of coat types, from straight to curly, and colors, and are best suited fo

Shih Tzu
Meet Pickles he is a tri color white/black and brown. He is the smallest of the litter. He already flips over when he’s petted for belly rubs just like his dad, even just being 18 days old. He seems t
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.