Find your perfect puppy
Search by breed, location, size, and more. Use our Puppy Match Quiz or call our puppy concierge for personalized assistance.
Reserve your puppy
Found the one? Fill out the reservation form and complete your payment to secure your puppy.
Welcome your puppy
We will reach out to arrange the delivery or pickup of your puppy. Get ready to welcome your new furry friend into your home!
We’re here Mon-Sat, 9AM - 9PM ET!
We pride ourselves on bringing healthy puppies from trusted breeders to loving forever homes.
This popular breed gets its name from the Mandarin phrase “Shih Tzu” meaning “Little Lion”. And what a fitting name, given their long hair and spunky personality! This lively puppy loves affection and a good cuddle, but also doesn’t mind being independent. They walk with an air of royalty, perhaps because they were the chosen breed to accompany Chinese emperors. They are fiercely loyal and happiest when by your side. These puppies are perfect for older couples and don’t mind other pets, as long as they don’t take away from their cuddle time with their owners. This breed remains small at 9 to 16 lbs and lives up to 16 years old.
Temperament
Playful, clever, courageous
Breed Fast Facts
9 - 16 lbs
Toy or Teacup
Low
Moderate
Medium
10 to 16 years
A Shih Tzu can cost between $1,500 to $3,000, but the price varies significantly based on their lineage, age, and the reputability of the breeder.
Shih Tzus are often considered good house dogs because they are friendly, affectionate, and adaptable. They adjust well to apartment living and do not require a lot of physical activity.
In terms of grooming, Shih Tzus can be considered high maintenance because their long, human-like hair needs regular brushings and monthly grooming appointments to prevent matting.
The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is 10 to 16 years, though some can live longer with proper care.
The downsides of owning a Shih Tzu can include potential health problems, their high grooming needs, and their stubbornness can sometimes make training a little challenging.
Shih Tzus are not known as 'barkers', but they will bark to alert their owners to unusual sounds or strangers.
Male Shih Tzus are typically more sociable and agreeable, whereas females can be more territorial and independent. Both genders are affectionate, yet females usually demonstrate their love in a more overt manner!