Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu personality and adorable underbite makes it easy to understand why they are one of the most popular breeds in the United States.
NicknameChrysanthemum Dog
SizeSmall
Life Span9-13 years
Our breed profiles offer a general baseline of traits and health, but they don't replace specific veterinary guidance. Each dog's traits and behavior vary based on training, socialization, and healthcare.

Sociability

Solitary
Super Social

Exercise

Moderate
Very High

Top Traits

  • Companion
  • Low-energy
  • Playful
  • Alert
  • Friendly
  • Intelligent

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Good to Knows

This information is based on vet-backed research about Shih Tzu's common health concerns. However, it doesn't replace specific guidance from your veterinarian.

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ZPC-03693

Important Safety Information

Apoquel Chews

Do not use Apoquel Chewable in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. Apoquel Chewable may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse. Consider the risks and benefits of treatment in dogs with a history of recurrence of these conditions. New neoplastic conditions (benign and malignant) were observed in clinical studies and post-approval. Apoquel Chewable has not been tested in dogs receiving some medications including some commonly used to treat skin conditions such as corticosteroids and cyclosporines. Do not use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Most common side effects are vomiting and diarrhea. Apoquel Chewable has been used safely with many common medications including parasiticides, antibiotics and vaccines. See full Prescribing Information.

Librela

For use in dogs only. Women who are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding should take extreme care to avoid self-injection. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, could potentially occur with self-injection. Librela should not be used in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs. Librela should not be administered to dogs with known hypersensitivity to bedinvetmab. The most common adverse events reported in a clinical study were urinary tract infections, bacterial skin infections and dermatitis. See full Prescribing Information.