The Shih Tzu Community

The Shih Tzu is an ancient companion breed, originally developed in China and Tibet as a palace dog, and registered with the Kennel Club in the Utility Group. They are affectionate, playful and adaptable dogs that suit a wide range of households and living situations. Their modest exercise requirements and sociable character make them popular with urban and flat-dwelling owners. They are also a brachycephalic breed. Their flat face produces the same respiratory challenges seen in French Bulldogs and Pugs, though typically in a less extreme form. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) can range from mild snoring to more serious respiratory restriction requiring surgical correction. The Kennel Club's Respiratory Function Grading Scheme is available for Shih Tzus and responsible breeders should be testing their breeding dogs under this scheme. Any reputable Shih Tzu breeder should be able to show you the respiratory grades of both parents. Eye conditions are a meaningful concern in the breed. Shih Tzus have prominent eyes that are less protected than in longer-muzzled breeds, making them prone to corneal ulcers and other conditions. Proptosis, the prolapse of the eye from the socket, while less common than in Pugs, is a real risk. Any eye injury or sudden change in eye appearance requires prompt veterinary assessment. The Shih Tzu's coat is one of its defining features: long, flowing and double-layered. It requires significant maintenance. Most owners choose professional grooming every six to eight weeks in addition to daily or near-daily brushing at home. Many owners keep their Shih Tzu in a practical puppy clip rather than the full show coat, which reduces the maintenance commitment considerably. Purchase prices from KC-registered, health-tested breeders typically range from £800 to £2,000. Monthly running costs are moderate, though insurance of £40 to £80 per month reflects the breed's brachycephalic health profile. Lifespan is typically 10 to 16 years. For the right owner, a Shih Tzu is a rewarding and warm-natured companion who fits comfortably into a wide range of living situations. The key to successful Shih Tzu ownership is preparation: understand the brachycephalic health needs before buying, buy from a breeder using the KC Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, insure comprehensively from day one, and decide from the outset whether you will maintain the full coat or opt for a practical shorter clip. A Shih Tzu bought from a health-tested breeder, insured from day one and introduced to grooming as a positive routine from puppyhood, will reward that preparation with years of warm, gentle companionship.