Despite their toy-sized stature, Shih Tzus were once exclusively owned by Chinese royalty — commoners caught with one could face the death penalty.¹ That regal heritage still shows in every confident strut your Shih Tzu takes down the footpath, completely unbothered by dogs three times their size. These “lion dogs” have spent centuries perfecting the art of being adored — and they’re exceptionally good at it.
But here’s what the cute photos don’t reveal: that gorgeous flowing coat requires serious commitment, and the Shih Tzu temperament isn’t quite as simple as “friendly lap dog.” This guide covers everything you need to know — from realistic grooming expectations to the true Shih Tzu lifespan and what ownership actually costs in Australia.
What You’ll Learn
- Breed traits & temperament
- Health concerns to know
- True cost in Australia
- Grooming & exercise needs
- Is this breed right for you?
Shih Tzu Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Toy (ANKC Group 1) |
| Origin | Tibet/China |
| Size Category | Small/Toy |
| Height (Adult) | 20-28 cm at shoulder |
| Weight (Adult) | 4-7.5 kg (ideal: 4.5-7 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-16 years (average 13 years) |
| Coat Type | Long, dense, double coat — daily grooming required |
| Exercise Needs | 20-30 minutes/day (low intensity) |
| Trainability | 3/5 — Intelligent but can be stubborn |
| Good with Children | Yes (best with gentle, older children) |
| First-Time Owner Suitable | 4/5 — Good choice with grooming commitment |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $2,000 – $4,500 |
Data sourced from ANKC Breed Standards and Dogs Australia registry.²
History of the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu dog breed has roots stretching back over 1,000 years. These dogs were developed in the Chinese imperial palace, likely from crosses between Lhasa Apsos from Tibet and Pekingese.³ The name “Shih Tzu” means “lion dog” in Mandarin — a reference to their resemblance to traditional Chinese lion guardian statues.
For centuries, Shih Tzus were palace dogs, bred solely for companionship. They nearly went extinct during the Chinese Revolution, with the breed surviving through just fourteen dogs (seven pairs) that were used to rebuild the entire modern Shih Tzu population. The breed arrived in Australia in the 1950s and has remained consistently popular ever since, valued for the same qualities emperors appreciated: devoted companionship, manageable size, and undeniable charm.
Shih Tzu Temperament
Many Shih Tzu owners report that their dog’s personality is the perfect blend of affectionate and independent. Unlike some toy breeds that can be nervous or yappy, the Shih Tzu temperament tends toward confident and outgoing. They’re bred to be companions, and they take that job seriously — but on their own terms.
- Affectionate: Your Shih Tzu wants to be with you — ideally on your lap, but they’ll settle for nearby. They bond deeply with their family.
- Friendly: Generally good with strangers, other dogs, and even cats. They’re social dogs who enjoy meeting new people.
- Confident: That royal heritage shows — Shih Tzus carry themselves with surprising dignity for a small dog. They’re not typically fearful or anxious.
- Stubborn: As one Brisbane breeder put it: “A Shih Tzu will do what you ask — once they’ve decided it was their idea in the first place.” They’re intelligent, just selectively motivated.
This varies between individual dogs, but Shih Tzus generally do well with children who understand gentle handling. Their sturdy build (for a toy breed) means they’re less fragile than some small breeds, but they can become snappy if pestered or handled roughly. Teaching children to respect the dog’s space — especially during rest — prevents most issues.
Good news here — Shih Tzus typically get along well with other pets. They lack strong prey drive, so cats and small animals are usually safe. They enjoy canine company and often do well in multi-dog households, though proper introductions matter.
You might have seen “why Shih Tzu are the worst dog” pop up in searches — let’s address that honestly. If your Shih Tzu develops “small dog syndrome” (excessive barking, snapping, demanding behaviour), it’s almost always due to owners treating them like babies rather than dogs. Consistent boundaries, proper training, and not carrying them everywhere prevents these issues. House training can also take longer than average — patience and consistency are your friends here.
Shih Tzu Health Issues
If you’re worried about Shih Tzu health concerns, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions prospective owners ask. The good news is that Shih Tzus are generally robust little dogs with impressive longevity. However, their flat face (brachycephalic structure) and prominent eyes do create some specific health considerations.
This brachycephalic breeds like the Shih Tzu are prone to respiratory challenges due to their shortened airways.⁴
Severity: Varies — mild cases just mean snoring and snorting; severe cases may require surgery ($2,000-$5,000 AUD).
Prevention: Choose breeders selecting for longer muzzles.
Those gorgeous large eyes are vulnerable. Corneal ulcers, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), and proptosis (eye displacement from trauma) are concerns.⁵
Prevention: Keep facial hair trimmed and avoid rough play.
Kneecap dislocation affects many toy breeds. Watch for skipping or “bunny hopping.”
Treatment Cost (AUD): Ranges from weight management to surgery ($1,500-$4,000 per knee).
Small mouths mean crowded teeth. Daily brushing and regular dental cleanings ($400-$800) prevent painful extractions later.
First-time Shih Tzu owners are often surprised by how heat-sensitive this breed is — that flat face means inefficient cooling. Experienced handlers often say that summer in Australia requires careful management: early morning walks, air conditioning access, and never leaving your Shih Tzu in cars even briefly.
Shih Tzu Lifespan & Longevity Tips
How long do Shih Tzu dogs live? The average Shih Tzu lifespan is 10-16 years, with many reaching 13-15 years with good care. This impressive longevity is one of the breed’s greatest strengths. This small breeds generally outlive larger dogs, and Shih Tzus are no exception.⁶
Factors that maximise Shih Tzu life expectancy include: maintaining healthy weight (obesity is common and shortens lifespan), regular dental care, keeping them cool in summer, and choosing a breeder who prioritises health over extreme features. Some Shih Tzus have lived past 18 years.
Shih Tzu Grooming Guide
Here’s the honest truth about Shih Tzu grooming: it’s substantial. That beautiful coat doesn’t maintain itself. If you’re wondering “do Shih Tzu shed?” — technically yes, but minimally. Their hair (similar to human hair) sheds into the coat rather than onto your furniture, which is why daily brushing is essential to prevent mats.
Grooming Schedule Table
| Task | Frequency | Time | Products |
| Brushing | Daily (or every other day minimum) | 15-20 mins | Pin brush, steel comb |
| Bathing | Every 1-2 weeks | 30-45 mins | Dermcare or Fido’s Shampoo |
| Face Cleaning | Daily | 5 mins | Damp cloth, tear stain remover |
| Pro Grooming | Every 4-6 weeks | 1-2 hours | $60-$100 per session |
Many owners opt for a “puppy cut” — shorter all over — which dramatically reduces daily grooming while keeping your Shih Tzu comfortable in Australian heat. Popular Shih Tzu haircuts include the teddy bear cut, the practical summer cut, and for show dogs, the traditional long flowing coat.
Shih Tzu colours include black, white, gold, brindle, and various combinations. Black and white Shih Tzu and brown Shih Tzu are particularly popular. Coat colour doesn’t affect grooming needs.
Shih Tzu Exercise Needs
Good news for apartment dwellers: Shih Tzus have modest exercise requirements. While all dogs need daily activity, brachycephalic breeds require careful management to avoid overexertion.⁷ For Shih Tzus, 20-30 minutes of gentle activity daily is typically sufficient.
In Australian communities, Shih Tzu owners commonly mention that their dogs prefer shorter walks — especially in warm weather. Two 15-minute walks (morning and evening when it’s cooler) work better than one longer outing.
If your Shih Tzu seems restless or develops unwanted behaviours, the issue is usually mental stimulation rather than physical exercise. Puzzle feeders, training games, and interactive toys often help more than extra walks — particularly important given their heat sensitivity.
Shih Tzu Training Guide
Don’t be discouraged if house training takes longer than expected — this is normal for Shih Tzus and most owners see breakthrough by 6-8 months with consistent effort. The Shih Tzu dog temperament includes a streak of stubbornness, but they respond beautifully to positive, patient training.
This toy breeds can benefit from short, fun training sessions that end on a positive note.⁸ Five-minute sessions three times daily work better than one long session for Shih Tzus.
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
| 8-12 weeks | Name recognition, potty training basics, handling | Foundation building, comfort with grooming |
| 3-4 months | Sit, stay, come, crate training | Basic commands, house training progress |
| 4-6 months | Leash walking, socialisation, impulse control | Reliable indoors, improving outside |
| 6-12 months | Consistency, distraction training | House trained, well-mannered companion |
When your Shih Tzu puppy has an accident inside (and they will), stay calm and clean thoroughly with enzymatic cleaner. Punishment doesn’t work with this breed — they shut down. Consistency, praise for outdoor success, and managing their environment (limiting access until reliable) works far better.
Shih Tzu Price & Costs
Let’s talk about the real Shih Tzu dog price in Australia. According to pet ownership data from PetSure, grooming-intensive breeds like Shih Tzus have higher than average maintenance costs.⁹
Initial Costs:
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
| Puppy Price (Registered Breeder) | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| Adoption Fee (Rescue) | $350 – $600 |
| Initial Vet + Vaccinations | $200 – $400 |
| Desexing | $200 – $500 |
| Essential Supplies | $300 – $500 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST | $3,050 – $6,500 |
Annual Ongoing Costs:
- Food (premium quality — Advance, Black Hawk Small Breed): $500 – $800
- Vet & Preventatives: $400 – $700
- Pet Insurance: $400 – $700
- Professional Grooming (8-10 visits): $500 – $1,000
- TOTAL ANNUAL: $1,800 – $3,200
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $27,000 – $48,000 (based on 13-year average lifespan)
Find registered Shih Tzu breeders through the Dogs Australia Breeder Directory or state breed clubs like the Shih Tzu Club of NSW or Victoria.
Consider adoption through PetRescue — adult Shih Tzus sometimes need rehoming, often already house trained and past the intensive puppy grooming learning curve.
Is a Shih Tzu Right for You?
Someone who enjoys grooming rituals (or can budget for professional grooming), wants an affectionate companion, and has time for daily interaction. Suits apartments, houses, retirees, families with older children, and those working from home.
- Home Size: Highly adaptable — excellent for apartments and units
- Yard: Not essential — indoor play and short walks sufficient
- Climate: Requires air conditioning in Australian summers; struggles in heat
This can feel overwhelming, but being honest about challenges upfront saves heartbreak later:
- Those unwilling to commit to daily grooming or regular professional grooming costs
- Families with rough-playing young children
- Anyone wanting a jogging or hiking companion
- Those without climate control in hot areas
Perfect for: Apartment dwellers, retirees, families with gentle older children, anyone seeking an affectionate, adaptable companion who doesn’t require extensive exercise.
Think twice if: You want a low-maintenance coat or an athletic outdoor companion.
First-time owner rating: Good choice, with caveats. The Shih Tzu’s friendly temperament and manageable size suit beginners, but the grooming commitment catches some owners off guard. Go in with realistic expectations and you’ll have a devoted companion for the next 12-15 years.
Shih Tzu FAQs
Do Shih Tzu dogs shed?
Shih Tzus shed minimally. Their hair is similar to human hair — it sheds into the coat rather than onto furniture, which is why daily brushing prevents mats. They’re often considered a better choice for allergy sufferers, though no dog is truly hypoallergenic.
How long do Shih Tzu dogs live?
The average Shih Tzu lifespan is 10-16 years, with most living 12-14 years. With excellent care, some reach 18+. Key factors include maintaining healthy weight, regular dental care, and keeping them cool in summer.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost in Australia?
Shih Tzu puppy prices in Australia range from $2,000 to $4,500 from registered breeders. Annual costs run $1,800-$3,200 (higher than average due to grooming). Rescue adoption fees are typically $350-$600.
What is a Shih Tzu’s temperament really like?
The Shih Tzu temperament is affectionate, confident, and sometimes stubborn. They’re bred to be companions and bond deeply with their families. Generally friendly with strangers and other pets, though they can develop “small dog syndrome” without proper training.
Are Shih Tzus good with children?
Yes, with the right children. Shih Tzus do best with gentle, older children (6+) who understand respectful handling. They can become snappy if pestered or handled roughly. Always supervise interactions and teach children to respect the dog’s space.
What’s the difference between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese Shih Tzu?
A Shih Tzu is a purebred, while a Maltese Shih Tzu (also called Malshi) is a cross between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. The cross often has a slightly smaller size and may have a less flat face, potentially reducing some breathing issues.
Primary Sources:
- Historical records — Chinese imperial palace dog history
- Dogs Australia (ANKC) — Official breed registration and standards
- American Kennel Club (AKC) — Breed history and origins (akc.org)
Veterinary & Health Sources:
- VCA Hospitals — Brachycephalic syndrome information (vcahospitals.com)
- Veterinary ophthalmology resources — Shih Tzu eye conditions
- Australian Veterinary Association — Small breed longevity guidelines (ava.com.au)
Australian-Specific Sources:
- RSPCA Australia — Brachycephalic breed exercise guidelines (rspca.org.au)
- American Kennel Club — Toy breed training guidelines (akc.org)
- PetSure (Bow Wow Meow) — Australian pet ownership cost data 2024