
The charming Shih Tzu is one of America’s favorite small dog breeds. It’s easy to see why. These charming and affectionate little dogs first appeared in Tibet about 1000 years ago! Beloved by Chinese royalty for centuries and is now found all over the world. Researching a breed before you get a puppy is always a good idea so you can know what to expect and find the right fit for your household.
What should you know before taking home a Shih Tzu? What do the pros say about raising Shi Tzu’s? Silver Nickel Puppies has the answers to all your Shih Tzu puppy questions right here — let’s get started!
What Are Shih Tzus Like?
An adult Shih Tzu weighs between 9 and 16 pounds and is about 9 inches (from floor to shoulder). A Shih Tzu’s body is small — but their personalities are anything but! They aren’t as dainty and delicate as some small dogs, like Chihuahuas, for example.
Shih Tzus have wide, round heads and flat faces with very little snout area — that makes them super cute, but can sometimes cause some breathing issues, snoring, and so on. They have large, expressive eyes and a luxuriant double coat that often shows several different colors, including caramel brown, white, black, and grey.
Shih Tzu’s are affectionate and quickly form bonds with their humans. They are good with seniors, and children (as long as they know to be gentle with a small dog). They are playful and spunky but rarely aggressive. In general, they are pretty mellow and “go with the flow”. This adaptability makes Shi Tzu puppies and adults easy to live with and love.
Shih Tzu characteristics:
- Mellow: Shi Tzu’s tend to go with the flow, they’re not super needy or rambunctious.
- Spunky: Shi Tzu’s love to play, but they’re very rarely aggressive or hard to control.
- Alert: They pay attention to sounds and movement outdoors to keep you safe.
- Curious: The Shi Tzu likes to explore their environment, but doesn’t roam far.
- Sociable: Shi Tzu’s are usually pretty excited to see other dogs and play nicely.
- Communicative: Shi Tzu’s bark to alert you, but they don’t bark their heads off all day.


Where Did The Shih Tzu Come From?
The Shih Tzu breed has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. While its exact origins have been lost to the mists of time, Shih Tzus are believed to have been developed from Tibetan breeds such as the Lhasa Apso and have been associated with Chinese royalty since the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644 A.D.)
Shi Tzus were bred and cherished by the Chinese nobility for centuries. But the outside world at large didn’t become aware of this adorable breed until the 1930s. The Shi Tzu breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969. Isn’t it amazing to think about Chinese emperors and princesses cuddling with their sweet little Shi Tzus just like we do today?
FAQ About Shih Tzu Puppies
Here are answers to a few of the Golden Retriever puppy questions we get asked most often. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for here — please give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!
Shi Tzu puppies are tiny when they are born, weighing as little as 4-8 ounces. Just for reference, that’s about the same weight as a deck of cards! But like most small-breed puppies, Shi Tzu puppies grow fast. It’s not unusual for them to quadruple in weight after just 3 weeks.
A fully-grown Shih Tzu weighs between 9-16 pounds and stands roughly 9-10 inches tall at the shoulder. They’re small but sturdy and strong! Their compact size makes them a great choice for someone who lives in an apartment, travels often or just prefers a small and easy-to-manage dog.
Shih Tzu’s have sweet personalities and are pretty clever — but they
Yorkies are VERY smart and they learn quickly. They can be a little stubborn though, so training them requires consistency, but that’s true of any breed to some degree. Buy a good book about puppy training and follow it to the letter. Your praise, positive reinforcement, and patience will be well-rewarded.
Shi Tzus are generally pretty healthy. One thing to watch for though is breathing issues. Like all flat-faced breeds, Shi Tzus can sometimes have breathing difficulties. Usually, they aren’t serious and may amount to just some cute snoring sound. Just be sure to pay attention to the signs of anything more serious and consult with your veterinarian.
Shi Tzus have a wooly coat that requires a little more maintenance than a short-haired breed. But they shed very little fur and are considered hypoallergenic, so they’re a fine choice for many people with allergies. Note that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic though. Brush your little friend’s fur a few times a week to keep matting and tangles at bay.
Your Shih Tzu Puppy is Waiting for You at Silver Nickel Puppies
Your newest family member is at Silver Nickel Puppies and can’t wait to meet you! In addition to lovely Shi Tzu puppies, our Bergen County puppy boutique has a broad range of the most loveable breeds for you to choose from. They include Corgi, Cavapoo, Mini Dachshund, Chihuahua, Golden Retrievers, and more.
Silver Nickel Puppies is proud to work with only the most reputable and humane breeders in New Jersey and surrounding areas. Silver Nickel Puppies is here to help puppies find their forever homes. Give us a call at 201-871-8484, write us an email with any questions, or visit — just be prepared to fall in love!
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