Who this breed is NOT for
Anyone unwilling to commit to regular grooming, or expecting a rugged outdoor/athletic dog. The flat face also means real heat caution.
Bred to do
Ancient companion breed — bred purely to be a beloved lapdog and companion, historically to royalty.
Exercise needs
Low to moderate — short walks and indoor play are enough. A good option for less-active owners, but they still need daily movement and engagement.
Temperament
Affectionate, friendly, outgoing, and happy. Bred to be companions, so they're people-focused and generally get along with everyone. Can be a little stubborn.
Trainability
Moderate — willing but can be stubborn, and housetraining is often slow (common in small breeds). Consistency and patience win.
With kids & pets
Generally good with gentle kids and other pets. Small and somewhat delicate, so supervise with young children.
Living situation
Excellent apartment and city dog — small, adaptable, content indoors. Sensitive to heat (flat-faced), so avoid exertion in warm weather.
Grooming & shedding
Low shedding, but the long coat is high-maintenance: daily brushing if kept long, or regular professional grooming every few weeks (many owners keep them in a short 'puppy cut'). Grooming is the real ongoing cost.
Health & costs
A brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, so watch breathing and heat sensitivity, plus eye problems (those big eyes are vulnerable), dental disease, and ear issues. Budget for grooming and dental care.
Best fit
People — including less-active owners, seniors, and apartment dwellers — who want an affectionate indoor companion and will keep up with grooming.
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A note from Kerri
Shih Tzus are wonderful, low-drama companions — one of the better choices for a calmer household. Just go in knowing the coat is a lifelong grooming commitment and the flat face means you protect them from heat. Sweet dogs, easy temperament, real upkeep.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Casfuy 2-Speed Electric Rechargeable Dog Nail Grinder
A quiet, rechargeable nail grinder that provides a gentle alternative to clippers for at-home nail maintenance.
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
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Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
A critical preventative tool for deep-chested breeds to help avoid Bloat (GDV) by slowing down eating and reducing air ingestion.
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Virbac C.E.T. Dual-Ended Dog Toothbrush
A soft-bristled brush with a small head is ideal for the final stage of the week-by-week plan to reach the outer surfaces of the teeth.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.