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.

Shihpoo
Meet Jona, the most darling little Shih-poo puppy! Every step he takes is an adventure, his tiny paws patter across the grass looking for toys or anything she can explore. His ears perk up at the slig

Shih Tzu
Meet Charlie — an irresistibly adorable Shih Tzu with a heart full of love and a playful sparkle in his eyes! His soft, fluffy coat and sweet little face make him impossible not to adore. He loves exp

Shih Tzu
Meet Layla — an irresistibly cute little Shih Tzu with a loving heart and a playful sparkle in her eyes! Her soft, fluffy coat and endearing expression make her absolutely impossible to resist. She en

Shihpoo
My boy Pepper is looking for his new forever home! He loves other dogs, is pretty good on a leash, does well with children age 9 and older (he hasn't been exposed to younger children), and likes to pl

Shih Tzu
Meet Winkie — an irresistibly adorable Shih Tzu with a heart full of love and a playful sparkle in his eyes! His soft, fluffy coat and sweet little face make him impossible not to adore. He loves expl

Shih Tzu
Meet Waldo — an irresistibly adorable Shih Tzu with a heart full of love and a playful sparkle in his eyes! His soft, fluffy coat and sweet little face make him impossible not to adore. He loves explo

Shih Tzu
Very cuddly, happy and sweet as can be and loves kids and adults alike . Shave coat for summer due to heat, will grow back beautifully and fluffy . Is around other dogs and cats and does great wit

Shih Tzu
Bright eyes, fur as soft and fluffy as a cloud and the sweetest personality! What more could you possibly ask for in a puppy? These adorable Shih Tzu puppies are sure to steal your heart the moment yo

Shih Tzu
Bright eyes, fur as soft and fluffy as a cloud and the sweetest personality! What more could you possibly ask for in a puppy? These adorable Shih Tzu puppies are sure to steal your heart the moment yo

Shih Tzu
Bright eyes, fur as soft and fluffy as a cloud and the sweetest personality! What more could you possibly ask for in a puppy? These adorable Shih Tzu puppies are sure to steal your heart the moment yo

Shih Tzu
Say hello to these absolutely adorable, sweet, and bighearted little Shih Tzu puppies! These puppies are sure to steal your heart with their love able personalities and big puppy kisses. They love att

Shih Tzu
Hello friends! My name is Cuddles 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
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
Crumpet is the sweetest little man, he is vet checked and current on vaccinations and wormings. Crumpet has been family raised in our home with lots of love . His mommy is a beautiful 7lb little liver

Shih Tzu
Martha May is the sweetest little girl she has been vet checked current on vaccinations and wormings. She has been raised in our home with lots of love and snuggles. Her mom is a gorgeous little liver

Shih Tzu
Come meet your forever best furbaby, Cindy lou and has been vet checked current on vaccinations and wormings. She has been raised in our home with lots of love and snuggles. Her mom is a beautiful lit

Shih Tzu & Havanese hybrid
This little puppy is super sweet and shows a willingness to learn. He loves people and toys.
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.