Care & Healthy Living
Are Shih Tzus Bad Dogs? The Honest Pros and Cons
Shih Tzus are affectionate companion dogs, but grooming, training, heat sensitivity, and health costs can make them a poor fit for some homes. Here is the honest tradeoff.
By Dr. Isabella Miao
Shih Tzus are not “bad” dogs, but they are not the right dog for every household. They tend to be affectionate, social companions. The tradeoff is frequent grooming, patient training, close attention in hot weather, and the possibility of breed-related health expenses.
Why do some owners struggle with Shih Tzus?
Grooming takes real time
The long coat can mat quickly, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around a harness. A short “puppy cut” is easier to maintain but still needs regular brushing and professional trimming. The face and eye area may need gentle daily cleaning.
House training may be slow
Some Shih Tzus need more repetition and supervision than owners expect. Their small bladder means young puppies need frequent toilet breaks. A consistent schedule, rewards immediately after success, and close indoor supervision work better than punishment.
They can bark at people and sounds
Shih Tzus were bred as companion and alert dogs. Without calm exposure and training, they may bark at doors, hallway noise, visitors, or other dogs. Barking is manageable, but it rarely disappears simply because the owner says “no.”
They do not handle heat well
The breed has a short muzzle. Like other brachycephalic dogs, some Shih Tzus have restricted airways and overheat more easily. Walks should be shorter in hot or humid weather. No dog should be left in a parked car.
What are Shih Tzus usually like?
Many are friendly, playful, and happiest near their people. They often do well in apartments because they are small and do not need hours of hard exercise. A few short walks, sniffing time, play, and simple training games are usually a better fit than long-distance running.
They can live with respectful children and other pets, but early socialization matters. Their small body also means rough handling can cause injury, so interactions with young children should be supervised.
Common health concerns to budget for
Not every Shih Tzu develops these problems, but owners should know about breathing difficulties, eye injuries and irritation, dental crowding, ear disease, kneecap problems, and skin issues. Regular dental care and prompt attention to eye or breathing changes are important.
Ask a breeder about health testing and meet the puppy's mother when possible. An extremely flat face, very narrow nostrils, or noisy breathing at rest should not be treated as cute breed features.
Is a Shih Tzu a good fit for you?
A Shih Tzu may suit you if you want a small companion, are comfortable with regular grooming, and can provide patient training and indoor companionship. The breed may be a poor fit if the dog will be alone for long periods, you want a low-maintenance coat, or your routine involves strenuous outdoor activity in hot weather.
Questions to ask before bringing one home
- Can I brush the coat several times a week and pay for grooming?
- Can I manage frequent toilet breaks during puppyhood?
- Is my home cool enough during summer?
- Can I budget for dental, eye, skin, and airway care?
- Do I want a dog that prefers being close to people?
Bottom line
Calling Shih Tzus “the worst” hides the real issue: breed and household fit. For an owner who understands the grooming and health needs, a Shih Tzu can be a warm, funny companion. For someone seeking a rugged, independent, low-maintenance dog, another breed may be a better choice.
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