Shih Tzu insurance
Is the Shih Tzu the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with a Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small and charming companion dog known for its playful yet gentle nature. With its adorable face and snuggly coat, it’s no wonder Shih Tzus are one of the most beloved toy breeds in the world.
Shih Tzu quick facts
- Size: 20-28cm (Males and females)
- Lifespan: 10-16 years
- Weight: 4-7.5kg
- Colours: Shih Tzus come in a variety of colours, including gold, white, black, liver, blue, brindle, and silver. They can be solid, two-tone, or even tri-coloured.
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, friendly
- Common health issues: Brachycephalic syndrome (breathing issues)
- Country of origin: Tibet/China
Where does the Shih Tzu come from?
The Shih Tzu can trace its origins back to ancient Tibet, where they were bred as companion dogs for Tibetan monks. The name Shih Tzu translates to ‘Lion Dog’ in Mandarin, inspired by their resemblance to traditional Chinese guardian lion statues. Having been a beloved companion of Chinese royalty for centuries, Shih Tzus were introduced to Europe in the 20th century, later gaining popularity worldwide as loving and charming pets.
Shih Tzu temperament
Loving
Shih Tzus are playful, loving and happy dogs that really love to be with their family. They often form strong bonds with their people and are very devoted.
Outgoing
They are lively, attentive, outgoing and love to be petted and cuddled. Here you really get a loyal friend for life, with whom you can go for walks and have fun.
Independent
Although gentle and soft, Shih Tzus can be quite independent, and may appear occasionally appear a little arrogant.
Sensitive
Like other companion dogs, they are a very social breed, so being alone at home is not always a hit. For them to thrive, keep alone time to a minimum.
Social
They generally get along well with other dogs. However, good experiences with other socially well-functioning dogs from the puppy stage is important.
Charming
Shih Tzus are affectionate, playful, and charming little dogs. They thrive on companionship and love being around people. Their friendly and gentle nature makes them excellent pets.
Confident
Shih Tzus have a surprisingly confident and bold personality. They enjoy being the centre of attention and often have a mischievous streak.
Playful
Their playful side makes them delightful companions, but they can also be quite stubborn, so patient and consistent training is essential.
Shih Tzu size & appearance
The Shih Tzu is a small yet sturdy dog with a compact, square-shaped body. They stand between 20 and 28cm tall and weigh between 4 and 7.5kg. Their most distinctive features are their round, dark eyes, short muzzle, and flowing double coat (a soft undercoat and a longer outer coat).
Shih Tzus also have a distinctive underbite, giving them a unique and adorable expression. They come in a wide range of colours which can either be solid (one colour all over), two-toned or tricolour.
Thinking of getting a Shih Tzu puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
Grooming a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus have high-maintenance coats that require regular care either at home or with professional groomers. Their long, flowing fur is prone to tangling and matting, so daily brushing is essential to keep it smooth and healthy.
Many Shih Tzu owners opt for a puppy cut (a short, practical trim) to make grooming more manageable. However, if you prefer the traditional long-haired look, you’ll need to commit to regular grooming sessions.
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** Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products*. Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2024. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims. Read the Which? article.
Shih Tzu training
- 1
Be loving and consistent
When training a Shih Tzu, you need to be loving but consistent. This is a dog on the more independent end of the companion dog spectrum, so you both need to agree that you know best.
- 2
Use positive reinforcement
Shih Tzus are intelligent, but can be stubborn, making training a mix of fun and challenging. They respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle, consistent training methods. Harsh training techniques can lead to resistance, so patience is key.
- 3
Keep to routines
House training may take time, as Shih Tzus can be slow to pick it up. Consistent schedules, regular potty breaks, and rewards for good behaviour will help.
- 4
Walk them daily
While they don’t require intensive exercise, daily walks and short play sessions will keep them fit and stimulated. Shih Tzus also enjoy basic obedience training and interactive games.
- 5
Take care of their coat
It thrives on long walks around the neighbourhood and in places where the grass is short, but if your Shih Tzu has a full adult coat, it is not the obvious dog to take into the forest, as its coat catches everything from the forest floor.
- 6
Do regular obedience training
They benefit from regular obedience training, nosework or perhaps agility – precisely because they're a lightning-fast whip.
Shih Tzu health issues
Like many breeds with flat faces, Shih Tzus can be prone to certain health issues, such as eye, respiratory, and dental problems.
Here’s a look at some common health issues:
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Due to their flat faces, Shih Tzus can suffer from breathing issues.
Eye problems
Their prominent eyes are prone to issues like corneal ulcers and dry eye.
Dental issues
Their small mouths can lead to overcrowded teeth, increasing the risk of dental disease.
Skin disorders
Shih Tzus can be prone to certain skin allergies.
Regular vet check-ups and preventative care can help maintain your Shih Tzu’s health. And for peace of mind and access to treatment for many common illnesses and injuries, Agria offers Shih Tzu pet insurance.
“Shih Tzus are friendly, cuddly little dogs but not without health issues. We often see eye and skin conditions that may require long-term treatment. Only a lifetime insurance policy will help with the costs for as long as necessary. ”
Robin Hargreaves
Agria Vet Panel Lead, Veterinary Surgeon for 30 years and former British Veterinary Association President.
What we love most about a Shih Tzu
Their loving nature
A Shih Tzu is social and knows nothing better than spending time with its family. They love to play outside and inside, and are just as happy to cuddle on the couch. Shih Tzus are incredibly affectionate and love being close to their humans. Whether curled up on your lap or following you around the house, they’re devoted companions.
Playful yet gentle
They’re playful and lively but gentle, making them wonderful pets for families with children or elderly owners. They are lively and like good walks, but not at a level where you have to clear half the day for exercise. With a Shih Tzu, most people can join in, and yet it never gets boring.
Adorably expressive
Their big, round eyes and underbite give them a sweet and expressive face. Here is a dog that not only appreciates you, but is also friendly towards strangers – both people, dogs and other pets. It is just wonderful when guests, playmates or craftsmen come to visit.
Things to consider before getting a Shih Tzu
To decide whether owning a Shih Tzu is right for you, here are a few key things to consider.
- 1
High-maintenance grooming
Their long, silky coats require regular brushing and professional grooming. Be prepared for frequent grooming sessions or consider a low-maintenance trim.
- 2
Prone to separation anxiety
Shih Tzus thrive on human companionship. They don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety.
- 3
Breathing issues
Due to their flat faces, Shih Tzus can struggle with breathing, especially in hot or humid weather. Always monitor them during exercise.
Shih Tzu insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Shih Tzu's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Shih Tzu FAQs
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