Shih Tzu

Like every breed, the Shih Tzu is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Start reward-based training and socialisation from a young age.
• Be consistent, and consider accredited training classes if you need help.
• Teach walking on a harness and lead, and coming back when called.
• Socialise them with a variety of people, dogs and experiences so they grow up confident.
• Tackle problem barking early, before it becomes a habit.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Usually sociable with other dogs.

• Cats and small pets

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Often adapts to flats and smaller homes.

• Garden

  A garden is helpful.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Often suits first-time owners.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

  The shorter face can cause breathing problems, from noisy breathing and reduced ability to exercise to severe breathing difficulty. The Royal Kennel Club recognised breathing testing under the KC Respiratory Function Grading scheme for the breed in August 2026.

• Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)

  The eyes do not produce enough tears, or the right type, which can lead to painful dryness, infections and ulcers.

• Cataracts

  Clouding of the lens of the eye that affects vision.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

  A gradual loss of sight over months or years.

• Retinal detachment

  The light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye comes loose, which can lead to blindness.

• Eye ulcers and skin fold problems

  Prominent eyes are more at risk of injury and ulcers. Skin folds on the face can become sore and infected.

• Dental problems

  A shortened jaw can leave teeth crowded or displaced, which can cause dental and gum problems.

• Renal dysplasia

  An inherited condition in which parts of the kidney do not develop properly, which can lead to kidney failure at a young age.

• Intervertebral disc disease

  An abnormality of the discs that cushion the bones of the spine.

• Patellar luxation

  The kneecaps can slip out of place.

• Other conditions

  The breed can also develop Cushing's disease, a hormonal disorder where the body produces too much cortisol, and umbilical hernia, a swelling at the belly button caused by a weakness in the abdominal wall.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Shih Tzu home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Shih Tzu home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Shih Tzu suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Shih Tzus do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.