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.

This cute gal has a brindle and white coat. Her ears are trimmed with black and there is a narrow white band that trails down the center of her face but only on the left side. So, half of her muzzle
$1,350
Shih Tzu
This cute gal has a brindle and white coat. Her ears are trimmed with black and there is a narrow white band that trails down the center of her face but only on the left side. So, half of her muzzle

This cute lad has a gold and white coat. His ears are trimmed in black and black wisps outline the white blaze that trails down the center of his face. HIs chest and legs are white and his body is g
$1,350
Shih Tzu
This cute lad has a gold and white coat. His ears are trimmed in black and black wisps outline the white blaze that trails down the center of his face. HIs chest and legs are white and his body is g

This pretty gal has a gold and white coat. Her ears are trimmed with black and her black mask pops against the white blaze running down the center of her face. Her chest is white and her front legs
$1,350
Shih Tzu
This pretty gal has a gold and white coat. Her ears are trimmed with black and her black mask pops against the white blaze running down the center of her face. Her chest is white and her front legs

This handsome fellow has a gold and white coat. His ears are trimmed with black and black wisps outline his white blaze. His right shoulder is white and the white continues down his chest and right
$1,350
Shih Tzu
This handsome fellow has a gold and white coat. His ears are trimmed with black and black wisps outline his white blaze. His right shoulder is white and the white continues down his chest and right

This sweet little lady has a brindle and white coat. Her ears are trimmed with black and her white blaze is outlined with black. All four legs are white as well as her chest. Her left side has mor
$1,350
Shih Tzu
This sweet little lady has a brindle and white coat. Her ears are trimmed with black and her white blaze is outlined with black. All four legs are white as well as her chest. Her left side has mor

This little lady has a gold and white coat. Her ears are black trimmed and the white blaze down her face is outlined with black hues. She has a white collar and her chest and legs are white. Her go
$1,350
Shih Tzu
This little lady has a gold and white coat. Her ears are black trimmed and the white blaze down her face is outlined with black hues. She has a white collar and her chest and legs are white. Her go

Bailey is adorable and such a sweetheart. She loves cuddling and scratches behind her ears. She is completely black with patches of white on her chin, paws and chest.
$450
Shorkie
Bailey is adorable and such a sweetheart. She loves cuddling and scratches behind her ears. She is completely black with patches of white on her chin, paws and chest.

Oreo, like her sisters is adorable and very loving. She is completely black with white patches on her chin, paws and chest.
$450
Shorkie
Oreo, like her sisters is adorable and very loving. She is completely black with white patches on her chin, paws and chest.
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.