You didn’t land on the Shih Tzu by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. Affectionate and people-devoted, adaptable to almost any home, and surprisingly sturdy for their size, they’re a natural fit for apartment dwellers, seniors, and anyone who wants a devoted companion that lives for your company who want a charming, low-energy lap dog with a surprisingly big personality. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Shih Tzu?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Shih Tzu? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Shih Tzus are smart but have a famously independent streak. Training works best when it is fun, consistent, and loaded with rewards |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | They will follow direction when properly motivated, but they have a mind of their own and may test boundaries if training gets repetitive |
| Focus | 2 out of 5 | Easily distracted, especially by people and activity nearby. Short, engaging sessions work far better than long structured drills |
| Stubbornness | 4 out of 5 | One of the more stubborn toy breeds. They are not defiant so much as self-directed, and they respond poorly to stern or repetitive training |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Bred for centuries to be a royal companion. Shih Tzus thrive on family closeness and want to be involved in everything |
| Good with children | 4 out of 5 | Gentle and patient with children, though their small size means interactions with very young kids should always be supervised |
| Good with strangers | 4 out of 5 | Warm and friendly with strangers by default. Early socialization helps them stay confident in new environments |
| Good with other dogs | 4 out of 5 | Generally gets along well with other dogs and household pets. Their easygoing nature makes introductions relatively smooth |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 5 out of 5 | Originally bred to live inside royal palaces, the Shih Tzu is one of the best apartment dogs around. Quiet, compact, and perfectly content without a yard |
| Cold weather | 2 out of 5 | Their small size makes them susceptible to cold. A warm coat or sweater in cooler weather is a practical necessity, not just an accessory |
| Hot weather | 1 out of 5 | Brachycephalic anatomy makes heat dangerous. Limit outdoor activity in warm weather, keep them in air conditioning, and never leave them in a hot car |
| Routine flexibility | 4 out of 5 | Highly adaptable to different routines and living situations. One of the more easygoing toy breeds when schedules shift |
| First time owner | 4 out of 5 | A great choice for first-time owners. Low exercise demands and an affectionate temperament make them approachable, though grooming needs require real commitment |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 2 out of 5 | Low energy overall. Shih Tzus enjoy short play sessions and leisurely walks, followed by long stretches of couch time |
| Endurance | 2 out of 5 | Limited stamina, partly due to their brachycephalic build. They are not built for sustained activity and should never be pushed in heat or humidity |
| Exercise needs | 2 out of 5 | Around 20 minutes of light daily exercise is enough. A short walk and an indoor play session keeps most Shih Tzus happy and healthy |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Curious and clever, but not demanding in terms of mental stimulation. Puzzle toys and short training games satisfy their need for engagement |
| Grooming needs | 5 out of 5 | High grooming needs. Their long double coat grows continuously, tangles easily, and requires daily brushing or a regular short clip to stay manageable |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 | Playful and spirited in short bursts. Shih Tzus enjoy games and interactive toys, though they are just as happy snuggling on the couch |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Deeply affectionate and craves constant closeness. They are true lap dogs who do not do well with long stretches alone |
| Loyalty | 4 out of 5 | Loyal and bonded to their people. They will follow you from room to room and notice quickly when you are gone |
| Independence | 2 out of 5 | Low independence. Shih Tzus are prone to separation anxiety and thrive on consistent human company |
| Alertness | 3 out of 5 | Alert enough to notice changes in their environment, and historically bred to alert royals to visitors. Not aggressive, but they will let you know |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 3 out of 5 | Can be vocal. Some Shih Tzus develop a barking habit, particularly if bored or under-stimulated. Early training helps keep it in check |
| Digging tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not a natural digger. Boredom may occasionally trigger some digging, but it is not a defining tendency of the breed |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not known as strong chewers, largely due to their short muzzle. Soft toys are preferred over hard chews |
| Prey drive | 1 out of 5 | Very low prey drive. Shih Tzus are companion dogs through and through, with little interest in chasing |
| Guarding instincts | 2 out of 5 | Not a guarding breed by nature today, though their history as palace alert dogs means some will bark at unfamiliar sounds or visitors |
What are common health issues of a Shih Tzu?
Like all breeds, Shih Tzus are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Shih Tzus have naturally narrow airways that make breathing harder than it looks. Heat, excitement, and exercise can all make symptoms worse. Keeping them cool is key.
Read more about Brachycephalic Airway SyndromeIntervertebral Disc Disease
When spinal discs bulge or rupture, they press on the spinal cord. In Shih Tzus, signs include back pain, reluctance to move, and sudden weakness in the legs.
Read more about Intervertebral Disc DiseaseHip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia occurs in Shih Tzus more than many small breeds. The joint develops poorly, causing pain and stiffness, though smaller dogs often manage it well.
Read more about Hip DysplasiaDental Disease
Shih Tzus have small, crowded mouths that trap tartar fast. Without regular brushing and cleanings, gum disease and tooth loss are very common outcomes.
Read more about Dental DiseaseKidney Disease
Shih Tzus have a breed-level predisposition to kidney problems. Increased thirst, reduced appetite, and low energy can all be early signs worth flagging to your vet.
Read more about Kidney DiseaseWhat are the recommended health tests for Shih Tzus?
Your Shih Tzu can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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ACVO eye exam (CAER, annually throughout breeding career) -
Patellar luxation evaluation (OFA, minimum age 1 year)
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Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist (recommended by ASTC)
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Hip dysplasia evaluation (OFA, recommended)
Do Shih Tzus need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Shih Tzu owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Shih Tzu owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Lion Dog specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Shih Tzus are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Lion Dogs age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Shih Tzu owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $40-$45 |
| 2 years old | $40-$45 |
| 3 years old | $40-$45 |
| 4 years old | $40-$45 |
| 5 years old | $45-$50 |
| 6 years old | $50-$55 |
| 7 years old | $60-$65 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Lion Dog?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Shih Tzu and your budget.
History of the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest and most storied companion breeds in the world, with roots tracing back to ancient Tibet and imperial China. The breed is believed to have descended from a cross between the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese, and was treasured by Chinese royalty for centuries, particularly during the Ming Dynasty. The Dowager Empress Cixi maintained a celebrated breeding program, and the dogs were so prized that China refused for years to sell or trade them. During the Chinese Communist Revolution, Shih Tzus were widely killed due to their association with wealth and the imperial court. As a result, every Shih Tzu alive today is believed to descend from just fourteen dogs that were exported to England and Scandinavia between 1928 and 1952. Lady Brownrigg brought the first two Shih Tzus to England in 1928, and the Shih Tzu Club of England was founded in 1934. The breed reached the United States after World War II, brought home by returning military personnel, and was officially recognized by the AKC in 1969.
Caring for a Shih Tzu
Training
Training a Shih Tzu takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are independent and sometimes stubborn, which means owners need to make training feel like play rather than work to keep them engaged. Short, reward-based sessions with high-value treats and a patient, upbeat attitude tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Shih Tzus have a long, silky double coat that requires high grooming. Daily brushing is required for dogs kept in a long coat, and the occasional trim keeps them looking their best. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended for dogs maintained in a shorter puppy clip.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Lion Dog looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Shih Tzus have low energy levels and need 20 to 30 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Short walks, indoor play sessions, and gentle interactive games are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Shih Tzus are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they can become clingy, yappy, and prone to attention-seeking behaviors. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Shih Tzu will actually love.
Nutrition
Shih Tzus are small dogs with low energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 400 to 600 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $25 to $45 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Shih Tzu here.
Shih Tzu costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Shih Tzu?
Before your Shih Tzu even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$1,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$500 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $100-$300 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $100-$200 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Shih Tzu each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Shih Tzu owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $300-$600 | Based on the recommended portion for your Shih Tzu |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $400-$800 | Every Every 4 to 6 weeks, Long continuously growing coat requires daily brushing between professional appointments. |
| Toys and Supplies | $100-$300 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Shih Tzu names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Shih Tzu we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Shih Tzu puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Shih Tzu puppies are curious, affectionate, and surprisingly lively for such a small dog. That charm and genuine love of people is part of what makes them a devoted, adaptable companion that thrives in almost any home environment, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Shih Tzu brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Shih Tzu’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Shih Tzus are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
2. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
3. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
4. Florida
Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.
5. New Jersey
New Jersey consistently ranks among the top states for Lyme disease cases, so tick prevention is critical for any dog spending time outside, even in suburban backyards. Proximity to the Jersey Shore also means dogs can encounter jellyfish washed ashore, and saltwater ingestion during beach trips can cause stomach issues.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Shih Tzu? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Lhasa Apso
Both are small, long-coated companion breeds with ancient roots. Lhasa Apsos are more independent and aloof. Shih Tzus are friendlier, more outgoing, and better with young children.
Read more
Maltese
Both are small, affectionate companion dogs. Maltese are more energetic and easier to train. Shih Tzus are sturdier, more laid-back, and slightly better with other pets and children.
Read more
Havanese
Both are small, friendly companion dogs. Havanese are more energetic and easier to train. Shih Tzus are more laid-back, slightly sturdier, and better suited to quieter households.
Read more
Pekingese
Both are small, ancient companion breeds. Pekingese are more independent and reserved with strangers. Shih Tzus are more sociable, easier to train, and better suited to busy homes.
Read more
Bichon Frise
Both are small, low-shedding companion dogs. Bichons are more energetic and easier to train. Shih Tzus are more laid-back and better for owners who prefer a calmer companion.
Read moreIs a Shih Tzu right for you?
Shih Tzus reward the right owner with steady companionship and a gentle, loving presence in any kind of home and a cheerful, adaptable personality that fits into almost any lifestyle. They just need consistent grooming, daily dental care, and plenty of time and closeness with their people in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Shih Tzu. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.