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 this sweet , energetic, friendly, young man! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text me today to schedule an appointment or ar

Lhasa Apso & Shih Tzu hybrid
Meet this sweet , energetic, friendly, young woman! She’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text me today to schedule an appointment or

Lhasa Apso & Shih Tzu hybrid
Meet this sweet , energetic, friendly, young man! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text me today to schedule an appointment or ar

Shih Tzu
Meet this sweet , energetic, friendly, young man! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text me today to schedule an appointment or ar

Shih Tzu
Meet this sweet, friendly, and energetic little girl! She is up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a new home! Call or text me today at 315-745-9924 to schedule a

Shih Tzu
Meet this sweet, energetic, handsome , friendly little boy! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text him today to schedule an appoin

Shih Tzu
Meet this sweet, energetic, handsome , friendly little boy! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text him today to schedule an appoin

Shih Tzu
A super fun and friendly little boy . Raised around children.

Shih Tzu
Meet this sweet, energetic, handsome , friendly little boy! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text him today to schedule an appoin

Shih Tzu
Meet this sweet, energetic, handsome , friendly little boy! He’s up to date with vaccinations and deworming, microchipped and ready now for a forever home. Call or text him today to schedule an appoin
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.