Shih Tzu: temperament, grooming and suitability for families
The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest companion breeds — a small, silky-coated dog with a cheerful, affectionate nature. Despite its aristocratic looks, it is a low-maintenance and wonderfully adaptable apartment dog.
Temperament
Shih Tzus are gentle, sociable and genuinely content with a quiet life. They thrive on human company and are perfectly happy spending an afternoon on your lap. They're friendly towards strangers and generally get along well with other pets. Don't mistake their calm for laziness — they love a good play session too.
Good with children
★★★★
Shih Tzus are patient and tolerant of gentle handling, making them a good match for school-age children. Because of their small size, they're best kept away from very young toddlers who might accidentally hurt them. With older children who know how to handle a dog respectfully, they're excellent companions.
Grooming & care
The long, silky coat needs daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Many owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" to reduce the maintenance burden. Eyes need to be wiped regularly — Shih Tzus are prone to tear staining and eye irritation. Ears and teeth need routine attention too. The total time commitment is real, but no specialist skills are needed.
Exercise & daily routine
Two short walks a day (around 15–20 minutes each) is all a Shih Tzu needs to stay healthy and happy. They're calm indoors and don't demand much activity. One important note: like all brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, Shih Tzus struggle in heat — keep them cool in summer and avoid strenuous exercise in warm weather.
Can you handle the daily routine?
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Download on theApp StoreWho is the Shih Tzu right for?
The Shih Tzu is a great fit for apartment dwellers, seniors, and anyone looking for a calm, loving companion without high exercise demands. It does require consistent grooming. Less suitable for families with very small children, or for people who want an active, sporty dog.
Compare with other small breeds in our breed guide. For apartment-friendly options, see our article on best apartment dogs.