Shih Tzu
Small breed · China/Tibet
The Shih Tzu is an ancient Chinese lap dog bred exclusively as a companion. Their long, silky coat and sweet temperament made them favorites in the imperial Chinese court.
Breed Statistics
- 10–16 yrs
- Lifespan
- 4–8 kg
- Weight
- 20 min/day
- Exercise
- Daily grooming
- Grooming
Temperament
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Outgoing
- Friendly
- Alert
Daily Calorie Range
300–500 kcal/day
For an average adult Shih Tzu. Adjust for weight, age, and activity level.
5 Facts About the Shih Tzu
- 1
Shih Tzu means 'lion dog' in Mandarin.
- 2
They were kept exclusively by Chinese royalty for centuries.
- 3
Unlike many small dogs, they are quite sturdy and not fragile.
- 4
Their hair grows continuously — they need haircuts every 6–8 weeks.
- 5
They are one of the oldest known dog breeds, with a history over 2,000 years.
Shih Tzu Age Calculator
Affects aging rate — giants age fastest.