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.

Brown and white parti with phantom markings
$2,000
Shihpoo
Brown and white parti with phantom markings

Phantom markings with a parti coat!
$2,000
Shihpoo
Phantom markings with a parti coat!

Phantom markings with a parti sable and white coat
$2,000
Shihpoo
Phantom markings with a parti sable and white coat

Black and white parti
$2,000
Shihpoo
Black and white parti

Cream and white parti
$2,000
Shihpoo
Cream and white parti

White with some buff markings.
$2,000
Shihpoo
White with some buff markings.

Light brown and white
$1,300
Shih Tzu
Light brown and white

Colored boy
$800
Shih Tzu
Colored boy

Colored boy
$800
Shih Tzu
Colored boy

White girl
$800
Shih Tzu
White girl

Colored girl
$800
Shih Tzu
Colored girl

Colored boy
$800
Shih Tzu
Colored boy

Colored girl
$800
Shih Tzu
Colored girl

White
$1,300
Shih Tzu
White

White
$1,300
Shih Tzu
White

Black and brown with white
$1,300
Shih Tzu
Black and brown with white
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.