Good care starts with getting to know your dog.

Know your dog · Pedigree breed

Shih Tzu care guide.

A small companion whose long coat needs real maintenance. Comfort, clear vision and easy breathing matter more than a show-style finish.

General education · See individual source dates below

Original editorial illustration of an adult Shih Tzu
Original editorial illustration. An illustrative example. Not a breed identification or health assessment.

From China, with Tibetan ancestry

The Royal Kennel Club describes the Shih Tzu as originating in China with ancestry from Tibetan breeds. Dogs were shown in England in 1933, initially alongside Lhasa Apsos before the breeds were distinguished.

Read the evidence: Shih Tzu breed background — Royal Kennel Club

Small, alert and ready to learn

PDSA describes an alert, sociable companion that can enjoy learning. Individuals differ in confidence and tolerance of handling. Introduce grooming patiently rather than assuming that a companion breed automatically enjoys being brushed or carried.

Read the evidence: Shih Tzu — PDSA

Long hair does not mean one layer

The breed standard describes a long outer coat with a moderate undercoat. This is a double coat, even when kept in a practical pet trim. Hair should not obstruct vision or movement; a groomer can help choose a comfortable length.

Read the evidence: Shih Tzu breed standard — Royal Kennel Club

Make grooming predictable

Reward brief, comfortable handling. Start with an easy brush touch and stop before your dog becomes worried; avoid forcing cooperation.

Read the evidence: Reward-based training — Australian Veterinary Association

Food and portions

Choose complete life-stage food. Review portions, body condition and treats with your vet.

Read the evidence: Nutrition — Virginia Tech Veterinary Teaching Hospital

Movement without pushing through discomfort

Offer walks and play suited to your dog’s comfort. Their short face can bring breathing problems; noisy or effortful breathing should not be dismissed as normal. Ask your vet about exercise tolerance, especially in warm weather.

Read the evidence: Shih Tzu — PDSA · BOAS — Cornell University

As your dog grows older

Growing puppies need growth-appropriate food; older dogs need individual dietary review, especially with illness.

Read the evidence: Nutrition — Virginia Tech Veterinary Teaching Hospital

Take eye and breathing changes seriously

PDSA lists eye problems, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and dental crowding among concerns. Squinting, a painful eye or altered breathing needs veterinary assessment. Severe breathing difficulty is urgent; a diet change is not treatment for these problems.

Read the evidence: Shih Tzu — PDSA · BOAS — Cornell University

Daily attention to a long coat

PDSA recommends daily brushing. Keep handling gentle and check beneath the surface. A shorter trim still needs maintenance, especially where hair tangles.

Read the evidence: Shih Tzu — PDSA · Coat Care: Preventing Matted Hair — USDA APHIS

Bathing is separate from brushing

Use lukewarm water and suitable dog shampoo, then rinse thoroughly. Keep water and shampoo away from eyes and ears.

Read the evidence: Dog grooming tips — ASPCA

Comfort comes first

Avoid cotton buds. Pain, redness or unusual ear odour needs veterinary advice rather than more cleaning.

Read the evidence: How to clean your dog’s ears — Cornell University

Sources & scope

Source retrieval dates are recorded individually below. Written as general owner education by Good Dog; not clinically reviewed or endorsed by the organisations linked below. Breed standards describe ideals, not guarantees. Screening advice can change. These are selected considerations, not a complete list of conditions.