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Shih Tzu Puppy & Dog Guide

Affectionate lap dog with regal charm

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Breed Snapshot

Size: Small

Size: Small

Energy Level: Low

Energy Level: Low

Grooming Needs: High

Grooming Needs: High

Shedding: Low

Shedding: Low

Trainability: Fair

Trainability: Fair

Good With Children: Excellent

Good With Children: Excellent

Good With Dogs: Excellent

Good With Dogs: Excellent

Apartment Friendly: Excellent

Apartment Friendly: Excellent

Exercise: 30-45 minutes a day

Exercise: 30-45 minutes a day

Life Expectancy: 10-16 Years

Life Expectancy: 10-16 Years

Weight: 4-7 kg

Weight: 4-7 kg

Coat Type: Long

Coat Type: Long

Breed Group: Toy

Breed Group: Toy

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Barking: Medium

Barking: Medium

First Time Owner: Excellent

First Time Owner: Excellent

The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate companion breed originally developed as a lapdog. It is friendly, adaptable, and enjoys being close to its family.

Life Stages

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Shih Tzu Puppy (0-12 months)

Common Issues

  • Toilet training delays
  • Tear staining
  • Grooming resistance
  • Chewing and mouthing
  • Separation anxiety
  • Eye irritation

Advice

  • Establish a toilet routine
  • Introduce daily brushing early
  • Clean around the eyes regularly
  • Build confidence when left alone
  • Provide safe chew toys
  • Use positive reinforcement training
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Adolescent Shih Tzu (12-18 months)

Common Issues

  • Coat matting
  • Lead pulling
  • Barking
  • Separation anxiety
  • Weight gain
  • Boundary testing

Advice

  • Maintain a regular grooming schedule
  • Brush several times a week
  • Reinforce loose-lead walking
  • Measure food portions carefully
  • Continue obedience training
  • Encourage calm independence
A small Shih Tzu dog standing in a grassy field. The dog has long, fluffy white and tan fur with dark brown ears and eyes.

Adult Shih Tzu (1.5-8 years)

Common Issues

  • Coat maintenance needs
  • Dental disease
  • Eye problems
  • Weight gain
  • Separation anxiety
  • Skin irritation

Advice

  • Schedule professional grooming
  • Brush teeth regularly
  • Keep facial hair and eyes clean
  • Maintain a healthy body weight
  • Exercise daily in moderation
  • Continue positive training and enrichment
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Senior Shih Tzu (8+ years)

Common Issues

  • Arthritis
  • Dental disease
  • Vision decline
  • Reduced mobility
  • Weight changes
  • Heart disease

Advice

  • Provide gentle exercise
  • Maintain dental care
  • Use supportive bedding
  • Attend regular veterinary check-ups
  • Monitor appetite and mobility
  • Keep a stable routine

Frequently Asked Questions