What Is a Shih Tzu Like? Temperament, Coat Characteristics, and Grooming Tips

1. What Is a Shih Tzu Like? A History of Life at Court

Shih Tzus were cherished companion dogs in the Chinese imperial court. They have ties to dogs originating in Tibet and are also known as “lion dogs.”
They have long lived close to people. That history may still be reflected in how much many Shih Tzus enjoy being near their families.

※Image for illustration purposes.

2. What Is a Shih Tzu’s Temperament Like?

Shih Tzus are generally known for being:

• Fond of spending time with people
• Affectionate
• Playful
• Happy to move at their own pace

Of course, every dog has their own personality. Some love to cuddle, while others prefer to sit quietly and watch what’s going on. The important thing is to get to know what makes your dog comfortable.

3. Size and Physical Characteristics

Although small, Shih Tzus have a sturdy build. According to the breed standard, adult Shih Tzus typically weigh around 4–7 kg and stand about 20–28 cm tall. Their large eyes, short muzzle, and abundant coat give them their distinctive appearance.

As the hair around the face grows, it can fall into the eyes. Along with keeping the face tidy, check that the area around the eyes is clean and that the hair is not causing irritation.

4. Coat Characteristics: A Long, Flowing Double Coat

The Shih Tzu has a double coat made up of long, smooth outer hair and a soft inner layer. Coat color and texture vary from dog to dog, and the length of the coat also affects how much care it needs.

Outer Coat

The longer, smoother hair on the outside creates the Shih Tzu’s elegant silhouette.

Undercoat

The softer hair beneath the outer coat can hide small tangles close to the roots, even when the surface looks neat.
If you keep your Shih Tzu’s coat long, gently part the hair as you groom so you can check the layers underneath.

5. Common Grooming Challenges for Shih Tzus

With a Shih Tzu, it is especially important to watch for tangles rather than focusing only on shedding. Pay particular attention to:

• Behind the ears
• The underarms and chest
• The belly and inner legs
• The rear and base of the tail
• Longer hair around the mouth and head

Movement, friction, meals, and walks can all leave the hair in these areas tangled or untidy. If you feel a firm mat, do not try to pull a brush straight through it. Ask a professional groomer for help when needed.

Take extra care around the eyes. This is not an area to brush forcefully or closely with a pin brush. If hair is touching the eyes, ask a groomer about trimming or securing it. Gently keep the area clean with a soft, damp cloth. If redness or signs of discomfort continue, consult your veterinarian.

6. How to Use SHARR with a Shih Tzu

SHARR has a pin-brush side and a natural boar-bristle side. When using it on a Shih Tzu, adjust your approach to the length and condition of your dog’s coat, and keep your touch gentle.

STEP 1: Check the Coat with Your Hands

Gently feel behind the ears, under the arms, and along the inner legs. If you find a badly tangled area, do not force the brush through it.

STEP 2: Add SHARMI When Needed

If the coat feels dry or static is a concern, you can use SHARMI Magic Brushing Mist according to your dog’s coat condition. Take care not to spray it directly onto the face or into the eyes.

STEP 3: Work Through Small Sections with the Pin Side

Start somewhere your dog is comfortable being touched, such as the back. Brush small sections in the direction of hair growth. For longer coats, part the hair as you work and avoid pressing firmly against the skin.

Afterward, a comb can help you check whether any tangles remain beneath the surface.

STEP 4: Finish the Surface with the Natural Boar-Bristle Side

On areas without tangles, gently brush along the direction of hair growth with the natural boar-bristle side. There is no need to press hard or use this side to pull apart mats.

If your dog does not want to be groomed that day, it is fine to stop after a short session. Use tools suited to the coat’s length and condition, and combine home care with professional grooming when needed.

7. Areas to Check Carefully

Behind the Ears

Fine hair can overlap and tangle here. Check near the roots with your fingers without pulling on the ears.

Underarms and Chest

Hair in these areas rubs together as your dog walks. Part it gently and check a little at a time.

Belly and Inner Legs

Look for dirt or small tangles after walks. If your dog dislikes being handled here, keep each session short.

Rear and Base of the Tail

Check for dirt as well as tangles. Brush gently in the direction of hair growth without pulling on the tail.

Around the Eyes and Mouth

Check whether hair is touching the eyes and whether the mouth area needs cleaning after meals. Do not use a pin brush right next to the eyes.

8. How Often Should You Brush a Shih Tzu?

If your Shih Tzu has a longer coat, brushing a little every day helps prevent tangles from building up. Check the areas around the eyes and mouth daily, too.

A short haircut makes grooming more manageable, but it does not remove the need for care. Feel behind the ears and under the arms regularly, and continue brushing and scheduling professional trims as the coat grows.

It is fine to divide the work: the back today, the legs tomorrow. A routine you can maintain comfortably is better than trying to do everything at once.

9. Making Everyday Life with Your Shih Tzu More Comfortable

A Shih Tzu’s abundant coat is part of the breed’s charm. Caring for it is also an opportunity to notice small changes in your dog.
“Is the hair behind the ears a little tangled today?”
“Does my dog seem to enjoy being touched here?”
Pay attention to those little discoveries and adjust grooming to your dog’s coat length and mood. We hope your time brushing with SHARR becomes one more peaceful part of everyday life together.

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