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 & Pomeranian hybrid
Say hello to these adorable and cuddly Shih Tzu Mix puppies! These sweet little puppies are being family raised indoors and they love people and children. They are very friendly and well socialized and they will be the perfect companion and playmate for everyone in your family. They are very curious and playful and are always ready for fun and playtime. Each of these sweet

Shih Tzu & Pomeranian hybrid
Say hello to these adorable and cuddly Shih Tzu Mix puppies! These sweet little puppies are being family raised indoors and they love people and children. They are very friendly and well socialized and they will be the perfect companion and playmate for everyone in your family. They are very curious and playful and are always ready for fun and playtime. Each of these sweet

Shih Tzu & Pomeranian hybrid
Say hello to these adorable and cuddly Shih Tzu Mix puppies! These sweet little puppies are being family raised indoors and they love people and children. They are very friendly and well socialized and they will be the perfect companion and playmate for everyone in your family. They are very curious and playful and are always ready for fun and playtime. Each of these sweet

Shih Tzu & Pomeranian hybrid
Say hello to these adorable and cuddly Shih Tzu Mix puppies! These sweet little puppies are being family raised indoors and they love people and children. They are very friendly and well socialized and they will be the perfect companion and playmate for everyone in your family. They are very curious and playful and are always ready for fun and playtime. Each of these sweet

Shih Tzu
Are you looking for a wonderful, adorable, cuddly companion? If so, these Shih-Tzu puppies would be a great fit for you! These sweeties love to take naps and enjoy receiving lots of love and attention

Shih Tzu
Are you looking for a wonderful, adorable, cuddly companion? If so, these Shih-Tzu puppies would be a great fit for you! These sweeties love to take naps and enjoy receiving lots of love and attention

Shih Tzu
Are you looking for a wonderful, adorable, cuddly companion? If so, these Shih-Tzu puppies would be a great fit for you! These sweeties love to take naps and enjoy receiving lots of love and attention

Shih Tzu
Brown black and white brindle

Shih Tzu
Tan and white lemon

Shih Tzu
Tan and white lemon

Shih Tzu
Brown black and white brindle

Shih Tzu
Tan and white lemon

Shih Tzu
Brown and white

Shih Tzu
Brown black and white brindle

Shih Tzu
Luca is very attentive and loves taking naps!

Shih Tzu
Kenzo is the most playful puppy of the litter, he loves interacting with his brothers!

Shih Tzu
tino loves playing and taking naps!

Shih Tzu
Marco is the sweetest and most loving boy!
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.