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 Ace. He seems to be the leader of the pack and often the first one to learn how to do something new. He has a beautiful tri colors: brown with white and black markings.

Shih Tzu
Meet Avery! Avery is the youngest of the pack and she definitely has some youngest characteristics about her. ;) She is the perfect mix of feisty and also loves to nap. She is the lightest colored pup of the color and gets her unique brown color from her dad and she also has special white markings as well.

Shih Tzu
Meet Axel! Axel loves to pick a fight and pick on his sisters. He always comes bouncing over and wants to play when we are close by. He tries very hard to keep up with his big brother Ace and he is the perfect bundle of spunk and sweetness. He takes after his dad with his unique brown color and has beautiful black markings on his face, paws, and down his back.

Shih Tzu
Meet Aspen. Aspen is our snuggle bug and loves to cuddle but can definitely pick on her siblings. She is our darkest colored pup and has beautiful white markings on her and is very similar to what her mama looked as a puppy.

Teddy Bear
Jingo’s soft cream coat is as warm and inviting as his personality. This mini teddy bear puppy is gentle, sweet, and affectionate, always seeking connection with humans and fellow pups. Playful yet c

Shih Tzu
🐾 Boy Puppy – Handsome Little Gentleman Ad Title: Handsome Shih Tzu Boy – White & Brown/Gray – Born Dec 31, 2025 Meet our adorable little Shih Tzu boy, born on December 31, 2025. He has beautiful w

Shih Tzu
Ru Paw is a happy, laid back furbaby with a sleepy calm spirit and a heart full of love. He enjoys exploring his surroundings (very nosey) playing with his siblings, and soaking up attention from ever

Shihpoo
Maverick is up to date on shots and deworming wee wee pad trained and loves to kids very calm personality and will be small toy size
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.