Shih Tzu Profile: Lifespan, Shedding, Temperament, Training, Grooming & Cost

How long do Shih Tzus live?

Shih Tzus live 10-18 years on average. Lifespan depends on genetics, size, preventive care, weight, exercise, and early screening for breed-linked health risks.

Do Shih Tzus shed?

Shih Tzus shed lightly compared with many breeds. Matchapup rates their shedding 2/5 from the sourced seed profile, so plan cleanup and coat care around that level rather than assuming the breed is low-shed.

Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?

Yes, Shih Tzus are generally considered hypoallergenic, though no dog is truly allergen-free. Allergy reactions are individual, so spend time with the breed and talk with an allergist or veterinarian before choosing based on coat claims alone.

What is the Shih Tzu temperament like?

Shih Tzu temperament is affectionate, companionable, and usually lower-energy. Most Shih Tzus are built for close household life, but their comfort depends on gentle handling, heat caution, and a realistic grooming routine.

• Grooming tolerance matters as much as personality because face and coat care are frequent.
• Keep exercise gentle and avoid hot, humid conditions that stress short-faced breeds.
• Use patient training for handling, brushing, eye-area cleaning, and calm alone time.

Shih Tzu training

Shih Tzu training should focus on household manners, recall, leash practice, and patient repetition. Matchapup rates this breed 3/5 for trainability, so expectations should match the dog's learning style.

Training score: 3/5 · Energy score: 3/5

Shih Tzu grooming

Shih Tzu grooming should be treated as a core cost and time commitment. Matchapup rates grooming 5/5, so most homes need professional trims, face cleaning, eye-area care, brushing, nail care, and a coat style that matches the household routine.

• A shorter pet trim is usually easier than maintaining a long show-style coat.
• Clean the face and eye area gently and consistently.
• Brush high-friction areas before mats become painful or close to the skin.

How much does a Shih Tzu cost?

A Shih Tzu typically costs $1,200-$3,300 per year for food, routine vet care, insurance, grooming, and comfort care in the Matchapup cost model. Face care, coat care, and heat caution can make this small companion breed more expensive than the food bill suggests.

• Face care, coat care, and heat caution should be part of the normal budget.
• Professional grooming or a simple pet trim usually matters more than food cost.
• Plan for eye-area cleaning, dental care, and short-faced comfort monitoring.

Exercise

30 min/day

Life expectancy

10-18 years

Hypoallergenic

Yes

Origin

China