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.

Teddy Bear
Give me the chance to wiggle my way into your heart! Tis the season to spend time and joy with a puppy in your house! I have a puppy kiss just for you! Cute and friendly, with charming temperaments,

Teddy Bear
Give me the chance to wiggle my way into your heart! Tis the season to spend time and joy with a puppy in your house! I have a puppy kiss just for you! Cute and friendly, with charming temperaments,

Teddy Bear
Give me the chance to wiggle my way into your heart! Tis the season to spend time and joy with a puppy in your house! I have a puppy kiss just for you! Cute and friendly, with charming temperaments,

Teddy Bear
Give me the chance to wiggle my way into your heart! Tis the season to spend time and joy with a puppy in your house! I have a puppy kiss just for you! Cute and friendly, with charming temperaments,

Teddy Bear
Give me the chance to wiggle my way into your heart! Tis the season to spend time and joy with a puppy in your house! I have a puppy kiss just for you! Cute and friendly, with charming temperaments,

Shih Tzu
Let me bounce into your heart with this holiday spirit! I will make the perfect present to surprise your family with! Put my hair in a bow and wrap me up for Christmas! When its chilly in the evenings

Shih Tzu
Let me tell you a secret..... I want to make your Christmas wishes come true! Hello! Arf! Arf! I cant wait to run into your arms! I have a loving temperament and snuggles are my favorite thing! I am

Shih Tzu
Tis the season to adopt a puppy to cuddle with and keep your warm all this chilly time of year! Soft fur, bright eyes, sloppy kisses! Are you ready for a cute and adventurous puppy? These charming Sh

Shih Tzu
Let me bounce into your heart with this holiday spirit! I will make the perfect present to surprise your family with! Put my hair in a bow and wrap me up for Christmas! When its chilly in the evenings

Shih Tzu
Let me bounce into your heart with this holiday spirit! I will make the perfect present to surprise your family with! Put my hair in a bow and wrap me up for Christmas! When its chilly in the evenings

Shih Tzu
Let me tell you a secret..... I want to make your Christmas wishes come true! Hello! Arf! Arf! I cant wait to run into your arms! I have a loving temperament and snuggles are my favorite thing! I am

Shih Tzu
Hello friends! My name is Chilly and I am a happy, playful Shih Tzu puppy!! I am looking for a fur-ever family who will spoil me with lots of love and attention everyday. I will be the perfect little

Shih Tzu
Adorable, playful, precious is what I am! Hey there Im King a bubbly, sweet, cuddly little Shih Tzu puppy. Havent found the perfect Christmas present yet? I think I might be able to help you solve tha

Shih Tzu
Adorable, playful, precious is what I am! Hey there Im Kline a bubbly, sweet, cuddly little Shih Tzu puppy. Havent found the perfect Christmas present yet? I think I might be able to help you solve th

Shih Tzu
Adorable, playful, precious is what I am! Hey there Im Kipp a bubbly, sweet, cuddly little Shih Tzu puppy. Havent found the perfect Christmas present yet? I think I might be able to help you solve tha

Shih Tzu
Hi, my name is Judy ! I am from New Jersey/Philly area, but would love to see the world with you. My parents are 7 lb Akc Shih Tzu and a 10 lb Shih Tzu , so I will not be too big at all! I will come v

Shihpoo
Sweet, fun with lots of love and kisses

Shihpoo
Sweet, fun with lots of love and kisses!

Shihpoo
Sweet, fun with lots of love and kisses!
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.