This article is all about the Shih Tzu temperament.
If you’re thinking of welcoming this charming breed into your home you’ve come to the right place!
Facts About The Shih Tzu
Who’s the “little lion”, the pet of empires past, and a cuddly cute lapdog today? The Shih Tzu, that’s who!
Long haired, fun-sized, and comically solemn at times, these dogs rejoice in a well-earned place in the long history of dogdom.
One of the oldest breeds that is still around, these dogs date back to the 600s. They are very small dogs, clocking in at about 9-16 pounds weight and 8-11 inches tall.
Their coats are long and flowing, requiring a fair bit of grooming and brushing.
In order to cut back on a Shih Tzu’s grooming needs, many of these pups sport a classic “teddy bear” cut, which is the general silhouette we all think of when we think “Shih Tzu.”
Easily one of the more recognizable breeds, a Shih Tzu is both cuddly and regal. This comes out in their physical and mental needs in charming ways.
What does this look like on a typical, day to day basis?
The Typical Shih Tzu Temperament
While individual dogs’ temperament will vary depending on a number of factors, the basics remain the same. A general Shih Tzu’s temperament can be summed up in four words:
- confident
- dignified
- trusting, and
- friendly.
These four characteristics are consistent throughout these pups’ lives. However, this is only half of the story. What changes about a Shih Tzu’s temperament over time and as they grow older?
Their enthusiasm and energy peak when they are puppies, sometimes in the most astonishing ways.
Stories abound of them leaping off of furniture and launching into the air, regardless of their fragile selves and the practicalities of jumping.
As they grow older, they can become little couch potatoes that need some stirring up from time to time to go for a walk or a romp. They can also become very clingy and needy, depending on the amount of time that you can spend with them.
Many times, it’s easy to look at these traits and think “how cute!” But it gets better!
All they want to do is love you in the best ways that they can think up. Maybe they will hold the remote hostage or try to eat your food. Maybe they will sleep right on top of you, guarding you through the night.
It varies from puppy to puppy, but a Shih Tzu will teach you just how much a human can love a dog and how much a dog can love a human.
While these lovable, goofy takes on life are key to why we love these dogs, they can make training interesting at best. Sometimes, these pups show us humans just how far we can stretch to accommodate them, instead of us training them to be the best dogs ever.
Which leads us right into the next section!
Are Shih Tzus Easy To Train?
Small, cuddly, cute, and friendly–what more could an interested person ask for in a first-time dog?
Actually, quite a lot as it turns out.
Shih Tzus haven’t forgotten that they originally graced the halls and rooms of emperors. This comes out in their two attitudes of “it’s my way or the highway, humans” and “what’s in it for me?”
This may make it tricky to keep them motivated during training.
Inexperienced dog owners might benefit from enlisting a pro dog trainer, or enrolling in puppy classes, to help navigate the way when their Shih Tzu puppy just doesn’t seem bothered by their best efforts.
Like many very small dogs, Shih Tzus might also take longer than average to fully master potty training.
In summary, Shih Tzus are not the easiest dogs to train, especially for first time owners.
Are Shih Tzus Friendly?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes!
Shih Tzus are friendly almost to a fault. Friendly to the families, other people, and almost all other pets, these dogs can’t help but be happy to see you.
These dogs are born and bred to love and be loved by all who they met. While the way they express themselves may change as they get older, they will always be a lovable fluff ball.
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Their friendly outlook on life manifests itself in a Shih Tzu running about in joy at seeing their friends, jumping about in your arms as you try to cuddle them, and in yapping or barking. It’s so exciting to see you!
While these behaviors are loved in the proper time and place, sometimes they can come off as aggressive or irritating.
To overcome this, positive reinforcement training to teach your Shih Tzu good manners from the time they are a puppy.
Even though they are small, a Shih Tzu can still frighten someone. Are these pups really aggressive?
Are Shih Tzus Aggressive?
Shih Tzus typically are not aggressive. Their cheerful personality make them some of the most friendly dogs around.
However, the way that a Shih Tzu was, or is being, raised can accidentally reinforce aggressive tendencies.
If a puppy learns that barking or small nips get your attention, that is the way that they know how to communicate.
We tend to indulge these behaviors from small puppies of toy breeds, because they’re too small to be threatening.
But as they grow up, they can fall into the trap of becoming “spoiled ankle biters.”
Shih Tzus are no exception to this small dog situation. Generally, they are not aggressive, but they can seem aggressive.
Loving (and perhaps professional) training will go a long way to helping both you and your Shih Tzu if your pup has any problems.
Do Shih Tzus Like Other Dogs?
Shih Tzus very much like other dogs and generally have no problems. Small groups, larger groups, other pets…Shih Tzus like them all!
As with all canine introductions, it’s still important to provide proper supervision, gentle introductions, and positive reinforcement whenever your Shih Tzu meets a new canine pal.
When all the dogs are well-socialized, it only gets better for everyone.
At the end of the day, Shih Tzus like other dogs and will happily make their place among them.
Natural Instincts
Now that we’ve covered some of the major parts of these puppies’ temperaments, what natural instincts can you expect to see from a Shih Tzu?
Expect these dogs to be a bit stubborn, alert, and very attentive to their surroundings. Shih Tzus were, and are, bred to be companions to humans. And they take this job very seriously.
Unlike working dogs, Shih Tzus are more than happy to stay with their human all day, every day. Sometimes, they can get anxious if they don’t see you enough. And they can be very small couch potatoes if you let them be.
There’s not much else to say about a Shih Tzu’s natural instincts. Because of the impact that their breeding and training had on them in the past, it’s important to remember that they are first and foremost a companion and should be treated as such.
Are Shih Tzus Good Family Pets?
Finally, are Shih Tzus good family pets?
Shih Tzus thrive on human companionship, but they are not very tolerant of pestering or rough handling. For this reason, they are best suited to grown up households.
They are also vulnerable to some hereditary health problems which can cut short the number of happy years you get to spend with them.
Before committing to a Shih Tzu puppy or rescue dog, try and spend time with the breed, to find out if they’re really your perfect match.
Only purchase a puppy from health tested parents, and insist on meeting both parents first.
Do you have a Shih Tzu?
Have we done them justice here? How would you sum up Shih Tzu personality?
Tell us in the comments box!
References and Resources
The American Shih Tzu Club
Joris, V., 2018, History of Shih Tzu, North Star Shih Tzu Rescue
Christmas, R.E., 1992 Common ocular problems of Shin Tzu dogs
Kathy M says
My Shiz Tsu, Maddie is currently 10 years old. She resembles many of the comments made here. She has that Eye condition which causes me to clean her eyes daily. She is very afraid of loud noises and can’t get close enough to me when it thunders. She barks at the mailman but if I open the door she kisses him to death….she’s like that with friend or foe. She LOVES my grandchildren and they love her BUT I am her favorite……she follows me everywhere. And if I go out she sits by the door or window until I return and is so happy upon my return. However she does not like me to hug her…..I do anyway but she is anxious to get away from my loving arms. And she is smart. She seems to know what I’m saying most of the time. If I tell her grandkids are coming, she runs to the front door. She also knows her toys…..and leaves them in the middle of the living room floor – if I put them away, she has them back out there shortly. She is a great dog. I’m older now and think she will be my last dog. Buy I may be tempted to get another Shiz Tsu when she’s gone.
Jeanette says
My female Shih-Tzu is now 15 years old and was a rescue dog that I got when she was 3 years old. She came to me with a skin condition consisting of angry red hot spots she would get on her body and they were so uncomfortable for her that she would pull her hair out biting at them. I changed her to a diet that didn’t contain red meat or any grains and it has kept her skin condition under control. She is extremely friendly and excited to see anyone and everyone. She thinks anyone who comes to the house is there to see her and pay attention to her and she relishes any attention she gets. She is great with very young children too. She is very well potty trained and has never had an accident in the house, even when she has been inside for a long time. She also has a particular place in the garden that she uses as a toilet. She can become very anxious and her feelings get hurt very easily if she is told off for anything. She is also very particular about which other dogs she likes. She usually doesn’t like female dogs and will bark at them to warn them off, but she loves male dogs – especially large dogs, however, she wants to be dominant and she wants playtime with other dogs to be by her rules or she will tell them off and refuse to play. She is very stubborn and hard to train because she will not do anything unless there’s something in it for her. Despite growing up with a cat, she will chase cats if they run. She is always ready for a cuddle and is always trying to get people’s attention to get cuddles.
Mark says
There will, of course, be variances, but I think the description in this article is fairly spot-on. We’re on our second Shih Tzu now. Our first lived 15 years. When he passed, we were heartbroken and didn’t want to get another. About a year later, I came home from work and my wife was online looking at Shih Tzu puppies. So now, here we are again. And no regrets.
Our two Shih Tzus, that we’ve had at different times, had quite a lot in common, but do have some very distinctive differences. Common traits include:
* Friendliness with any person or other pet;
* Barking when there’s a knock at the door or the sound of voices outside the door until;
whoever it is enters, then the barking stops and desire to play with whomever it is begins;
* Always wanting to be with us, where ever we were;
* A taste for certain fruits, like oranges, grapes, blueberries, and cherries.
Where they have differed is:
* One is a much more finicky and sporadic eater, whereas the other ate what we gave him on a regular cycle;
* One is more stubborn and opinionated (making the decisions on which way to go during a walk), whereas the other would go easily where ever we steered him;
* One decides when it was play time and demand to be played with by pressing his toy against you or growling at you, whereas the other was more docile and would just chill all the time unless you prompted the playing (and even then, only if he was in the mood, too);
* One is more emotionally needy and clingy, experiencing a little separation anxiety when we’re away, while the other was more chill while we were away.
All in all, both very lovable and definitely an integrated part of the family.
Linda Richardson says
So interesting to read about the differences in your two Shih tzus. Mine turned 12 last month and I can’t imagine life without her. I’ve wondered if I should get her a playmate but my friend gave her to me 8 years ago because she was jealous of one of the smaller dogs in the household. So I don’t want to bring out what might be a bad match. She’s a very happy, calm dog and I wouldn’t want anything to change that.
BT Bozeman says
Please say no to grapes! Otherwise I have to agree..adopted a 9yr old “Macy” when her moma passed away…she has not been around other dogs but is learning! Sweet adorable and very affectionate!
Lana D says
We have had our DJ for 7 years. He is the joy of my life. He, however, has NOT mastered potty training by any stretch of the imagination. He does not like walking in grass and avoids it as much as possible. He will hold his wee for hours and then will not be able to hold it any longer. He does the same with poo. It doesn’t matter how much negative or positive reinforcement he gets. He loves people and has no fear. The other day he ran away from me out into a field in front of a giant tractor so he could greet the tractor driver. Fortunately the driver was alert and stopped for him. He does not like to be disturbed when he is napping and attaches himself to my hip or between my legs at night. He is brave as can be and has been kicked by a deer that he was chasing which threw him rolling like a soccer ball. This only made him madder and he now wants to “kill” any deer he sees. He loves the vet and anybody who pays him any attention. So I think you hit all the highlights. I love him with all my heart and wouldn’t change a thing about him. The only thing is the grooming issue. He has continual problems with hair in his eyes and the stinky drainage under his eyes. He hates his face being groomed. He needs to be groomed every six weeks which can get costly. I can’t do it as he squirms so much. You might also mention that they have the same number of teeth as normal dogs who have long snouts even though their snouts are squished in. They need to have teeth removed to prevent gum issues which can lead to bone damage. DJ suffered a fractured jaw during his dental work and now has a crooked face and his tongue hangs out. I just tell him he has more character now. So that’s all. They are the greatest dogs and other than the things I mentioned I would definitely recommend them as a family companion.
Alissa K says
I’ve had my baby for about 10 years now, I got him when he was a few years old. He was bullied by his previous wonders dogs so I think that’s why he has had a bit of anxiety since I’ve had him. He’s grown up with me and he’s so loveable. He does very well with other dogs and now that he’s about 14yrs old he’s not very active that is until he wants attention. He is very loving, knows how to communicate his needs, and has a very big personality. My only complaints are that he is VERY needy and he has a bad habit of begging for human food, but I am to blame for his want for human food; I can’t resist his cute face. He is VERY intelligent, funny, and feisty. He prefers to be carried up the stairs.
Sue says
My little girl is almost 3. Lacey has been my complete savior after what I went through with my first Shih Tzu, my doll baby Chewy. He died a 3 when he was hit in front of our house by a hit and run and then taunted and tortured by two neighboring asshole dogs that were biting his neck after he managed to get up off the road and flee into the woods across our road. Then we had to take and get him euthanized. Heart wrenching!!But my Lacy is an adorable little baby who is always on my lap or following me around! She is just beautiful!! She still has some accidents still but only when it’s raining hard😂😂
Kandy says
I have to disagree with the statement about making sure you know both doggy parents .. I got both of my shih tsus from rescuers and they are both wonderful dogs!!! I wouldn’t go any other way.. it saves lives!!
catherine bailey says
So many different experiences from everyone – just goes to prove how each dog is different. My Mimi is 7 months old, and I think the four adjectives you used – confident, dignified, trusting and friendly – pretty much sum her up. She’s a bundle of fun and very affectionate, would love to be cuddled all day. And yes, she’s confident, although she’s the first dog I’ve had who is afraid of fireworks (guess I’ve been lucky before). She loves everybody and every dog she meets, and trusts everyone. Some people say they are good watch dogs, but Mimi has never barked at the postman, garbage men, or even when the doorbell rings (again a first amongst my dogs). The only time she barks is if she wants attention! (I ignore that.) She’s an absolute joy, but has been hard to train. She is not food orientated at all – often leaves half of her dinner, even last night roast chicken which was supposed to be a treat! She can be very stubborn – if she’s playing in the garden and I call her in she won’t come unless she wants to (having a think on how to deal with that- at the moment my strategy is to shut the door and just leave her out there until she gets fed up, but that’s hardly a permanent answer!), and also she absolutely refuses to go up or down the stairs, although again I’m working on it! I’ve had better behaved and more easily trained dogs, but she’s so loving that one look makes her so easy to forgive (actually that’s another thing, she really ‘looks’ at me – great eye contact). If anyone has any tips on the stairs problem I would be grateful to hear them!
Cathy Belcher says
My baby girls name is Sozi. She will be 13 in April. I know her days are growing short and I just can’t imagine life without her. She’s with me 24/7, follows me room to room, won’t go to bed until I go. She’s absolutely a perfect pet. Doesn’t beg for food, seldom barks, house broken, Never runs out of house, just perfect. The worst complaint I have is she hates other dogs. She wants to fight them no matter ho big they are. I will always have a ship tzu but none will ever take the place of my little Sozi. I love her with all my heart. I was never a dog lover and absolutely refused to have an indoor dog until I got our first shih tzu, named Maggie. She died at age 11 and it ripped my heart right out of my chest. I would recommend a shih tzu to anyone who can afford one. The upkeep isn’t cheap with hair cuts costing over 50.00 and the vet costs. So please don’t consider getting a shih tzu if you’re not committed to spend the money to keep them healthy. They will love you forever.
Connie Murray says
We rescued a Shihpoo male that is 6 1/2 years old. His original owner had him from a puppy until she died, he was 6 years old. He was rescued by an older lady who also passed away and only had him for 2 months. We have had him for 4 months. He is doing great except for grooming. He doesn’t mind his body being clipped but hates anything to do with his face, feet, toenails and inside his ears. We try to hold him gently and encouraging with treats. He becomes so agitated with snarling and biting we have to stop. We are desperate for help because he needs grooming so often. When we got him, he was just a mound of fur so I assume he may have always like this.
Judy says
I’ve had my Chloe Belle for about 6 months now. I never knew my life was incomplete before her. Now it is complete. She is so smart, easily trained to fetch her leash for her twice daily walks,(no matter the weather conditions)! She loves to cuddle and ear and belly rubs. Wherever I am, there she is too? If left alone for a long time, she will chew up anything other than furniture and shoes! I have learned how to Chloe proof before leaving her! She has trained me well!
Carly says
I rescued a shih tzu when he was 11 months he is now 5 years old Mealo his name is. He was fully trained and never had any accidents in the house. So loveable and spoiled rotten but not bratty with it. Hes the best companion I could have ever wished for. And great around kids even when they try pulling his tail. Never snapped at anyone and lucky for me he doesn’t really bark. He is a couch potato and he knows it. Hes so chilled out.
Gena says
I have now had 2 shitzus and I can honestly say they are a one of a kind breed!!! My first one, Sassy, I got when she was 2 and had her for 10 years. And let me tell you she truely lives up to her name! She was by my side 24/7, and I was completely lost when she passed! She would pout at me when she didn’t get her way, especially when it was bath time! She would walk out of the room when I came in and would turn her head when I would try to talk to her. That usually lasted for 3 days after her bath. She wasn’t big on being around kids. She wasn’t mean or aggressive towards them, she would just leave the room. Also the only time she would ever bark was when her water wasn’t cold enough lol. Then I got Oreo. And let me tell you he is something else! He is 6 now and still thinks he is a puppy, or a better description would be a baby! He will not stay n a room with out me, he literally follows me around the house all day, always carrying his favorite toy with him (which changes every few months all depending on his mood) and lord help us all if he can’t find his toy! The whole house has to stop whatever we are doin (even if that is at 3 n the morning and we are sound asleep and he has knocked his toy off the bed) cuz he isn’t goin to get off the bed and get it, that’s just preposterous lol, we are expected (and do) get up to retrieve it for him lol. He does bully my Great Dane-Zander- tho. And even Zander accommodates him. Even tho Sassy and Oreo have/had CONPLETELY different attitudes, they both are/was stubborn, loyal, loving, spoiled, and by far two of the biggest blessings in my life!!
Jackqulyn White says
I have Milo my shih tzu he is 11 weeks old and he is a spoiled brat. He barks when he wants to be picked up and he likes belly rubs. He loves to cuddle and sleep either on my lap or right next to me or the kids. I never knew I would fall in love with my fur baby.
Pat says
We rescued our Shih Tzu when he was around 2, now he is 3, we think. We later found out he had serious issues being left alone or put in a crate of any kind. He is a doll but we cannot ever leave him alone. Another problem we wonder is why he sleeps so much. Our vet says not to worry but it’s just way too much. Unless people or other dogs comes over he is like depressed. We walk him every morning and he is so lovable and sweet but he should have more get up and go shouldn’t he?
Ruth says
I love my doggie so much I can’t think of him being away from us we love him so much and is so cute . Ruth
Jessica says
This is my first Shih Tzu and he is now 2 years old. He is such a spoiled pup I have him since 6 months and he is playful, no health issues thank God. I try to take good care of him he does not like to be touch by no one just his owners he is afraid. I don’t know why that’s the way they gave him to me. Love my baby.
Anna says
I got a retired confirmation Shih Tzu at age 7 from a show kennel. He has ended up being the best little companion for my Bichon. They are now 13 and 8. The Shih Tzu had no people skills and was slow when we first got him. The Bichon was dominant over him but he held his own. After about 1.5 years he had gained people and dog skills and good health with the fermented food that I gave him. He has had no health problems (stopped snoring and snorting on the good food). He was not housebroken when we got him, but the Bichon made quick work of that as she was indignant about his messes and would not come out of her bed. They have been such an odd couple, but the younger Bichon looks after him and let’s me know when he should come in. He is the best little lap dog I have ever had. My Bichon has her Utility Dog title and does nose work. But the Shih Tzu is totally different in that department. I believe This Shih Tzu would be a nice pet for any age.
Chris says
I’ve had two Shih Tzus and though loving, neither have been cuddlers or lap dogs. That and the stubborn trait are the only issues to note. They are wonderful pets that love attention and every living thing! The one I have now was traumatized by noise right before I got her, so she is afraid of anything that clangs or makes noise when it moves.
Other than that she’s pretty fearless.