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
Lively, adorable Shih Tzu pup; ACA registered and expected to be 11-13 pounds full grown. Loves exploring, tussling and causing mischief. Hypoallergenic, well suited to a semi-active, indoor lifestyle with daily walks and lots of socialization. Mom (Izzy) is a sweet, beautiful grey/white dog weighing 13 pounds; dad (Lonnie) is brown/white and weighs 11 pounds. Both are we

Shih Tzu
Lively, adorable Shih Tzu pup; ACA registered and expected to be 11-13 pounds full grown. Loves exploring, tussling and causing mischief. Hypoallergenic, well suited to a semi-active, indoor lifestyle with daily walks and lots of socialization. Mom (Izzy) is a sweet, beautiful grey/white dog weighing 13 pounds; dad (Lonnie) is brown/white and weighs 11 pounds. Both are we

Shih Tzu
Beautiful, sweet Shih Tzu pup; toddler approved, hypoallergenic and AKC registered. Expected to be just 11-14 pounds full grown, both parents are genetic tested (results available on request). Well suited to a semi-active indoor, urban lifestyle with moderate daily activity and mental stimulation. Loves exploring, being cuddled by his favorite kiddo hooman and tussling wit

Shih Tzu
Beautiful, sweet Shih Tzu pup; toddler approved, hypoallergenic and AKC registered. Expected to be just 11-14 pounds full grown, both parents are genetic tested (results available on request). Well suited to a semi-active indoor, urban lifestyle with moderate daily activity and mental stimulation. Loves exploring, being cuddled by his favorite kiddo hooman and tussling wit

Shih Tzu
Lively, adorable Shih Tzu pup; ACA registered and expected to be 11-13 pounds full grown. Loves exploring, tussling and causing mischief. Hypoallergenic, well suited to a semi-active, indoor lifestyle with daily walks and lots of socialization. Mom (Izzy) is a sweet, beautiful grey/white dog weighing 13 pounds; dad (Lonnie) is brown/white and weighs 11 pounds. Both are we

Shih Tzu
Beautiful, sweet Shih Tzu pup; toddler approved, hypoallergenic and AKC registered. Expected to be just 11-14 pounds full grown, both parents are genetic tested (results available on request). Well suited to a semi-active indoor, urban lifestyle with moderate daily activity and mental stimulation. Loves exploring, being cuddled by his favorite kiddo hooman and tussling wit

Shih Tzu
Sparrow is Charting at 6 lbs 6 oz adult weight

Shih Tzu
Finch is Charting at 4 lbs 5 oz adult weight

Shih 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

Shih Tzu
Duke is a striking red and white Shih Tzu expected to be 11 to 14 pounds full grown. This little lover is all about people and has been socialized with humans of all ages since he was a baby. Duke lov

Shih Tzu
Barnaby is a dapper red and white Shih Tzu expected to be 11 to 15 pounds full grown. This fun boy is always excited to be next to you, thriving on the attention and affection! Barnaby has been very w

Shih Tzu
Dover is a handsome red and white Shih Tzu expected to be 11 to 14 pounds full grown. Dover is always soaking up our attention and loves when he gets belly rubs! He has been very well socialized and g

Shih Tzu
John is a dapper gold with white Shu Tzu expected to be 8.5 to 14 pounds full grown. He adores people and is always eager to meet new friends--human or canine! John is very playful and loves his toys

Shih Tzu
Dale is a striking red and white Shih Tzu expected to be 11 to 14 pounds full grown. Dale is always soaking up our attention and loves when he gets belly rubs! He adores people and is always eager to

Shih Tzu
Nacho is an amazingly beautiful dog! He is sweet and loving! He is full of energy, however he will love to sit and snuggle with you. His beautiful coat is thick and soft. He is currently 13 pounds a

Shih Tzu
Arya is a striking liver and white Shih Tzu expected to be 7 to 9.5 pounds full grown. This little lover is all about people and has been socialized with humans of all ages since she was a baby. Arya

Shih Tzu
Salsa is a happy, energetic, Shih Tzu boy, he is currently 12 pounds. Which is close to his adult size. He is sweet and loving and will do well in a home where he gets all the attention. However, he
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.