Shih Tzu

Discover the distinct characteristics and behaviors of Male vs Female Shih Tzus.  Perfect for potential Shih Tzu owners and enthusiasts

This article will shed some light on Shih Tzu’s temperament, Shih Tzu personality, and the Shih Tzu male vs. female debate. So, you can choose which tiny sweetheart best fits your lifestyle. Dive in to learn all the Shih Tzu benefits!

Shih Tzu (commonly pronounced as sheed zoo) is an affectionate and outgoing house dog. The term Shih Tzu means little lion. But this doesn’t mean this dog breed is a fierce fellow. The majestic pooch is nothing but loving and adores sitting in his favorite person’s lap.

This dog breed’s obedience, agility, and elegance have established a separate fan base. People from all walks of life wish to have them as snuggle buddies. And to be honest, who can ignore the adorableness and charm of this little face?

However, with its increasing popularity, many questions and inquiries and Shih Tzu male vs. female myths also pop up. People interested in this toy breed want to know facts regarding their temperament and more.

The Chinese royals cherished the dog breed as a prized pet for well over 1000 years. His ancestors include the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso. As explained earlier, Shih Tzu means “lion,” and despite his size, this dog is courageous and will stand up for himself when necessary. He was a much-loved and adored house pet for most of the Ming Dynasty.

Shih Tzu Dog Appearance

He’s a solid, compact dog with a flowing double coat. He’s among the most popular dogs in the US. His coat can be any color. His tail curves over his back, and he has an arrogant carriage.

Today, his main purpose is to be a pet, and he’s lively, trusting, and loving. He doesn’t need much exercise. He does need lots of brushing and maintenance each day. He’s 9-10.5 inches high.

Shih Tzu Male vs. Female: What’s the Difference?

Pet lovers often ask if I should get a male or female Shih Tzu dog.

Well, whether you choose a male Shih Tzu or a female, it doesn’t really matter. However, experienced Shih Tzu owners and breeders explain a slight variance between Shih Tzu puppies of both genders.

Their personality traits may differ. Therefore, before selecting a pet, it’s better to talk to the breeder and tell him what you expect from your male or female Shih Tzu. Both genders have some slight differences and may display some unique personality traits. Whether male or female Shih Tzu is better is hard to win.

Shih Tzus, often referred to as “lion dogs” due to their luxurious mane and noble demeanor, are a popular breed cherished by pet owners worldwide. These little dogs require a lot of love, daily brushing, and proper care to maintain their health and well-being.

Both genders make excellent therapy dogs and are known for their ability to spend quality time on their owner’s lap, truly embodying the essence of a lap dog. However, potential new owners should be aware of the health issues affecting this breed. Females, in particular, may face risks during pregnancy, including the need for a cesarean section, which can contribute to the final price of purchasing one of these dogs, making the most expensive female Shih Tzus those with a history of requiring such medical interventions.

Early training and socialization are crucial for both genders to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adult Shih Tzus. While males can sometimes mark their territory more frequently, both sexes are equally capable of offering unconditional affection and becoming a person’s best friend. For those looking to add a Shih Tzu to their family, it’s a good idea to consider these factors and how they align with your lifestyle.

Regardless of gender, individual dogs will have their unique personalities. With the right care and attention, any Shih Tzu can thrive and bring endless joy and companionship to their human companions.

But some obvious Shih Tzu boy or girl qualities are listed below. Just don’t forget that not all dogs fit into every stereotype.

Important Shih Tzu Facts

Female Shih Tzu Temperament Facts

• Female dogs includes Shih Tzus, are usually very confident and independent. This elegant little lady has a pretty strong will.
• The bright-eyed lady needs constant attention. She thinks of herself as an in-charge who loves to run things. You can’t say no to this face!
• Like dogs of any other breed or gender, female Shih Tzu must be properly socialized. It helps her avoid being too protective over her dearest toy or human.
• No dog is impossible to train. Some breeds require additional training and special sessions to follow the instructions. Female puppies often find potty training a bit difficult. You may need some patience for that. Plus, she is likely to have more staying power.
• Females are great at learning tricks. They love to do as many things as possible and are very intelligent.
• You female Shih Tzu can get too attached to one person in the whole family. So proper socialization among the other members is way more important.
• A female Shih Tzu demands and craves attention. They love to be petted or, in other words, worshipped.
• Female Shih Tzus are attention seekers. They love to be around you all day long. You may have to face some resistance if she is not getting enough attention.
• Both genders are extremely affectionate, whether you have a male or female Shih Tzu. Their loyalty to their family is unquestionable. This elegant dog breed is not aggressive. You may feel a female is exercising her dominance, but that is just how they are. They love to do what they like. Females are also great at outsmarting you.
• This breed falls in the category of great companion dogs. One can never get bored of their company. We bet you will enjoy every minute of it.

Male Shih Tzu Temperament Facts

• Males are sweet and affectionate and will likely stay in your lap all day. You cannot help giving this fellow all your attention due to its attractive personality. This lovely pooch will stare at you, sit on your lap, eat treats, have a potty break, and snuggle with you again. Who wouldn’t shower affection on such a naturally charming pet?
• Male Shih Tzu dogs are a ray of love and joy. They love unconditionally but are very sensitive to your mood and tone. This canine’s life revolves around its favorite person. You better not raise your voice at him, or the fella may get hurt.
• A male Shih Tzu tends to exhibit secondary sexual behaviors. Neutering at an early age can help reduce testosterone levels.
• They can spend the whole day cuddling with you without wanting to do another thing. Male Shih Tzu dogs are the sweetest little thing who loves to worship their owner. This behavior is not very common in their female equivalents.
• Regardless of gender, Shih Tzu puppies need adequate training and socializing. Pet lovers need to be patient and consistent with the breed.
• Shih Tzu’s male vs female size is also distinct. Male Shih Tzus are a little taller and massive (on average, 2-3 pounds more) than females.
• These companions are very eager to please. A soothing voice, a little pat on the pack, a smile, and praise can easily motivate them to do anything.

Shih Tzu Male vs. Female Personality

Shih Tzu are famous for their happy temperaments and joyful nature. Their friendly nature and tendency to get along well with different species and people of all ages make them ideal for any household. It’s very rare to find a short-tempered Shih Tzu. Usually, they are the cutest little creatures you will ever meet, and the sugariness has nothing to do with their gender!

Due to their short snout, they are not heavy chewers. However, both males and females indulge in nuisance barking and digging. They desire to be with you, whether you are sitting on your garden chair or taking a hike through a rough trail.

The differences, as mentioned earlier, are not more than generalities. It’s up to you to decide whether you want a male or female Shih Tzu.

Both genders have their own personality with some novel characteristics. No single statement can describe every dog of a particular breed or gender. You must choose one by considering the chemistry between your family and the pet you are willing to take home.

Are Male Shih Tzu’s Aggressive Than Females?

Shih Tzu is undoubtedly a loyal and loving companion; who can say this energetic personality may have an aggressive side? Well, in most cases, you are right. Shih Tzu is not an aggressive dog breed. Both males and females are super affectionate and caring. There are, however, rare chances that males may develop an aggressive streak.

The severity of this aggression can vary depending on several factors. It is important to correct the destructive tendencies before the aggression could cause some difficult situations for the dog himself, the people around him, and other pets.

Why My Shih Tzu is So Aggressive?

Shih Tzu can display aggression due to many reasons. Occasionally, aggression is due to some immediate causes. However, in most cases, pet lovers are the ones who should carry the burden of blame.

You are probably thinking about how this comes true. Well, frankly speaking, by adorning your fur baby a bit too much.

Pet lovers often make this mistake: They start cuddling and petting whenever their four-legged friend makes a mistake instead of teaching him some morals. This activity lets the puppy think that this is the right thing to do. The situation can worsen if you let his good behavior pass by unappreciated.

Some other causes are listed below:

The Pack Leader

We all adore our small and fun-loving Shih Tzu. However, too much affection can lead to a problem called small dog syndrome aggression. Small dog syndrome occurs when an owner gives in his pet’s demands all the time. This freedom lets the dog think he is the pack’s leader, AKA the Alpha of the house.

Small dog syndrome requires adequate attention before it gets out of control. You must demonstrate to your Shih Tzu that you are the leader here and not him; small dogs must accept this reality.

Dealing with your Shih Tzu’s aggression by shouting at him won’t benefit you or the dog. It will make him more aggressive.

Any unpleasant behavior, including jumping at or on people and other animals, aggressive barking, chewing, and climbing up on furniture, needs a well-thought-out approach. Instead of using force, owners should isolate their puppy in a separate room or gated area where he can see that he is being ignored.

Keep your Shih Tzu isolated for a few minutes and let him back when he calms down. Repeat this process whenever your Shih Tzu shows some aggressiveness.

Eventually, the Shih Tzu puppy will know that misbehaving and aggression do not help him get what he wants, and only good behavior is rewarded. Perhaps this is not the only reason behind Shih Tzu’s aggression.

Shih Tzu Energy Level

Aggression can be your dog’s way of expressing his frustration and boredom. If your dog is not exercising enough, he needs to release his energy. If this is the reason behind your Shih Tzu aggression, then the obvious solution is to take your pup out more on walks.

Puppy Mouthing

Puppies naturally tend to have a biting and nipping contest with their little siblings. It is nature’s way of preparing the dog for future conflicts. However, if this habit continues into adulthood, it can become severe full-scale biting.

You will be glad to know its cure is quite simple. There is no need to shout commands at your four-legged sensitive fellow. Neither do you have to hold his snout closed. (Suggested by some trainers).

For this, your Shih Tzu needs to be on a harness with a short leash. While walking, don’t let the puppy walk in front of you. Make sure he is by your side all the time. If the dog tries to pull the leash, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. If he attempts to mouth you, bend your back and step on his leash so he cannot nibble you. Wait until the dog calms down. Repeat the process whenever the puppy tries to mouth. Plus, do not forget to make any good behavior rewarding through petting, cuddling, and treats.

Aggression Due to Traumatic Experiences

If your Shih Tzu is a rescued puppy, then the causes behind his aggression may be fear, past abuse, and traumatic experiences. Dogs with such heartbreaking histories feel trapped and concerned, which makes them panic. The past experiences are etched into their minds. Being a responsible pet owner, you should avoid any situation triggering his aggressive tendencies. To make headway, you can also consult a dog behavior specialist.

Regardless of gender, if your Shih Tzu shows aggressive traits, you must immediately prevent unwanted situations. Start working while your dog is still a puppy. If your canine gets older, you have to work even harder, or else there can be some pressing consequences.

Anger issues are not related to a specific gender. Males are as affectionate as their female counterparts. Their smart but stubborn streak makes them difficult to understand. It has absolutely nothing to do with the gender of this particular breed. The best approach is to decide what’s causing the aggression and take appropriate remedial actions. With persistence, you can beat the problem.

Conclusion to Male or Female Shih Tzu: Which is Better?

Male Shih Tzu and female Shih Tzu both genders possess some unique attributes. Adopting a Shih Tzu should never be based on unconfirmed information. Instead, you should speak to breeders about the parental history of male and female Shih Tzu dog breeds. Don’t quit on a sweet and adorable Shih Tzu by thinking he will be challenging to manage.

Try to understand how males and females behave in different situations and why they behave. It will help you in understanding how you can handle them.

Always remember, the best Shih Tzu is the one that fits your lifestyle and blends into your family regardless of gender.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, Shih Tzu Information.

The Shih Tzu is a popular breed among many dog-lovers worldwide, but before you bring one home, do your research and consider how this might fit into your lifestyle. Here are some Shih Tzu pros and cons we feel would be good for anyone considering bringing  them home.

Shih Tzu Pros And Cons Explained

The Shih Tzu is the perfect companion for your daily life. These small, social furry companions don’t mind going out with you and enjoying a good time! However, they do require frequent grooming to keep their luxurious coat in top condition.

Shih Tzu loves getting attention from people around him, whether it be at home or on an outing with new friends; these cuddly companions just want some playtime too. Surprisingly, the average size is about 10 pounds. However, Shih Tzu can grow up to 11 inches or as short as eight inches when fully grown and mature.

Pros of Shih Tzu

Here are some Shih Tzu benefits:

Excellent Companions

The Shih Tzu is perfect for families, providing a friend to love and befriend everyone in the household. While you may find a Shih Tzu in every single family situation, the breed is especially good for those who are looking for a companion. These dogs can provide companionship and love to anyone of any age or background that needs it most, making them ideal pets.

The Shih Tzu is a breed that loves to provide comfort and peace when its human companion needs it the most. The Shih Tzu can be seen as the perfect pet for those in stressful situations since they love nothing more than making their owners feel at ease with them.

That’s why It is no surprise that these pups are one of the most popular breeds for senior citizens. The calm, affectionate nature and playful temperament make them a perfect companion. They’re also ideal among families with older children who want to have some company on their walks around the block.

Adaptable to Small Homes

The Shih Tzu is the best choice for people who live in condominiums or apartments. They enjoy staying close to you and will be content with just a little attention every day, so they won’t break your peace of mind when it’s time to rest.

The world is a much quieter place when you have an intelligent, well-trained dog. You won’t hear that endless barking from them even if there are times where you might be away for work or doing shopping around town.

For some dogs, being left alone for too long can cause high levels of social anxiety. This is why it’s important to spend plenty of time with your pup before planning on a breed that likes company more than others.

If you are looking for something more than just a cute face dog, then the Shih Tzu is an excellent choice. This small dog breed typically has better manners and will rarely yap at your guests as some other toy breeds might do.

Less Exercise Needs

The Shih Tzu is the perfect option for those who need a smaller and less active dog. They are not very demanding when it comes to outdoor exercise, which makes them great companions for people with busy schedules or otherwise unable to be as active each day.

Shih Tzus are great pets with minimal needs, but they still need a whole lot of attention. They’re not called “little lions” for nothing. A balcony might be enough to keep them happy and healthy, as it gives the dog some room to roam around outside while also providing you an easy-to-clean.

Shih Tzus have an innate need for physical activity, which means if you can’t take them out there, they will want lots more opportunities and require different types than simple walks to stay mentally stimulated and physically engaged indoors.

They need a variety of toys available inside your house and outside in the yard so they can get their energy out!

Gentle with Other Pets

Shih Tzus are known to be a headstrong breed. They have been bred for centuries as companions and guard dogs, so it is not surprising that when they think they are in charge and there can’t be any compromising or changing of plans

Shih Tzus have a particular kindness that is uncommon in other breeds of dogs. They are not prone to fighting or being aggressive, and they will usually stay out of any tension between pets who might otherwise be four times their size. Even if you have cats around your house, your pup prefers playing with the cat over picking a fight with them.

They Are Not Trouble Makers

Shih Tzus are the perfect choice for those who don’t want to deal with a lot of trouble. They eagerly keep their home clean and love nothing more than being around people. They love to curl up on the couch with you after a long day and be near your side at all times (unless they’re napping).

Even if there is the occasional temptation to be slow in obeying a command, you’ll find that most Shih Tzus are easy to forgive because of their so much love for just about everyone.

Shih Tzus are small and have a regal look about them. They may be picky sometimes, but they always know their own mind when it comes to what pleases or displeases them most.

When you look at their size, they may not seem very strong. But don’t let that fool you because Shih Tzu is actually surprisingly sturdy and can be stronger than many people expect when looking into the dog’s overall build.

Less Shedding in The House

If you are not a fan of having to clean up dog hair at home, then the Shih Tzu is one breed that can help. These small dogs have long coats, which, if trimmed, will reduce shedding and keep your house cleaner for longer periods of time.

Shih Tzu’s are much smaller dogs that people who suffer from pet allergies might want to consider. They’re also known for their low shedding rate, so they can be perfect companions even though it won’t do anything against the fact that these cute little guys will still cause your eyesight to water up when he sheds more hair in one day than most other bigger breeds would during an entire year.

They shed less because they are smaller. You can control how much of their fur is lost with regular grooming work and brushing, but you will still want to use a sticky roller on your clothes since it’s usual for them to get some hair all over the place!

Polite with Strangers

While Shih Tzu dogs have been popular, they are not the best guard dog in the world. They have a natural kindness that prevents them from being aggressive towards strangers or other animals.

While it is true that many people assume Shih Tzus make good guard dogs due to their aggressiveness and tenacious nature, these breeds do not possess both qualities at once; therefore making them less than perfect for this role.

Shih Tzus bark joyfully at any strangers who dare approach your home–but this might be because these dogs enjoy showing off how good guard dogs they are. They bark and wag their tail when they sense someone unfamiliar but with a happy disposition instead of malice or fear.

They will often greet you with an excited bark or two before they trot up to say hello; their tails always seem to be waving about from side to side no matter what mood they’re feeling – which is usually quite jovial.

Good for New Owners

The Shih Tzu is an excellent family pet for those who have little or no experience with dogs. Its small size and playful nature make it perfect in a new environment where there are kids, other pets, and people around all the time. It has been said that “Kids love them.”

Easily Adjust in New Places

Shih Tzus are easy to please and love being taken care of. They will quickly adapt your routines without much effort at all, making them perfect for families with busy lives.

No matter how many pets or children you have in your home, these pups will adjust easily to the new environment. They are not too big and can be a little tricky for those inexperienced, but they’re perfect for those who need an animal that is too heavy to carry around.

Housebreaking these dogs can be tricky, but patience also aids with housebreaking as these dogs learn best when you’re consistent about what behaviors are appropriate inside or outside the home. If there’s an occasional accident, simply clean up accidents promptly and provide plenty of love while praising good behavior once again just afterward, so they remember why their actions were rewarded.

Lower Blood Pressure

Here’s a secret you probably didn’t know about your Shih Tzu they can lower blood pressure. According to a study conducted by the University of Minnesota, people who live stressful lives are much more likely to develop high blood pressure than those living less stressful lifestyles. Having pets in your home can help alleviate some stress and reduce blood pressure levels by up 10%.

Cons of Shih Tzu

Require Extra Grooming

The Shih Tzu is a breed of small dogs known for their long fluffy hair. They need to be brushed daily; otherwise, they get matted and tangled. Obviously, no one wants that. But in the end, it’s worth it because when you take time out every day to brush them, your life becomes much more pleasant with all those sweet little kisses from such an adorable pup.

Some grooming work can be reduced by keeping the bangs of hair away from their face and cutting it a little shorter. This will not eliminate your need to groom them entirely but may make things easier for you.

If you are not a fan of traditional brushing, the best way to keep your pup’s fur soft and manageable is by using a de-shedding glove. You can pet their coat while removing the excess hair all day long.

Difficult to Housetrain

If you want to own a Shih Tzu, then it’s important that you know how hard they can be when dealing with housetraining. Their small size and natural instincts make them difficult for some owners to potty train.

Shih Tzus are like other small breeds-they typically have smaller bladders than larger dog breeds do and hence take more frequent trips outdoors in order not to soil indoors.

Getting Shih Tzus to the point where they recognize when their bladder is full can be challenging for some owners. But there are ways around this. For one, you could always train your dog with pee pads or an indoor potty and then gradually adjust them outside over time.

Shihtzus come out with their own set of stubborn habits that may make it hard for some people to get through at all. But don’t worry trainers will teach them how to be more disciplined by being persistent enough with different methods such as use positive reinforcement or treat rewards if they’re really struggling. The process of training Shih Tzu is much more difficult than training other small dogs.

Shedding can Cause Allergies

Some people say that Shih Tzus are not hypoallergenic, but they never mention the shedding. The truth is that every breed of dog will shed at some point. This can cause issues for people who have allergies due to their fur being constantly in close contact with allergy triggers, including pollen and dust mites. These particles build upon one’s skin and make us sneeze.

Shih Tzu pups have a double coat, and each follicle has a life cycle of its own.  Eventually, this can lead the tiny hairs to stick all over your floor or end up in your carpet fibers, where they’re less noticeable than on hardwood floors.

Shih Tzu has a long hair coat that can get tangled and matted. Dogs with short coats are easier to brush, but if you decide to keep the Shih Tzu’s fur at its natural length, it is best to clip them. So the outer layer of their fur doesn’t get caught in their undercoat hairs.

Shih Tzu Behavior Problems

Shih Tzu has a generally very sweet nature, but sometimes they can be stubborn. They also have the potential to become manipulative with time, like some other dogs.

They are the pack leader! It’s up to you as a parent or guardian to be absolutely consistent about what you say. If they don’t know where their boundaries are, it can lead them into bad habits that will have lasting negative consequences for years.

Shih Tzu loves the food, and they can do anything in order to get the food they love. You can use the food to lure them for training. But sometimes, Shih Tzu only obeys commands when there are treats around, which can be problematic.

Shih Tzu Health Issues

The shape of the Shih Tzu’s face creates some unfortunate considerations that prospective owners will need to take into consideration before adding them as part of their family. With these little dogs having such distinct physical characteristics, it makes sense that there are certain things we should look at closely in order to keep them healthy and happy.

One of the habits that you need to change should be to stop smoking around your pet. They are more susceptible than humans with a much weaker immune system and compromised respiratory tract, which means that even small irritants can cause major damage over time.

To cut down on the number of visits to your vet, you’ll need to keep an eye out for freshly-cut grass and pollen. If Fido does not mind his manners in these areas, then it can be difficult to protect them from these problems.

They need us to help them stay cool during the hot and humid months of the year by providing plenty of indoor activities for their active little bodies. The dog can be at risk of overheating due to intense heat, so we must give them ways to feel better.

Potential Shih Tzu Health Problems Include:

• PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Entropion
• Patellar Luxation
• Fold Dermatitis
• Distichiasis and Ectopic Cilia
• Intervertebral Disk Disease
• Stenotic Nares
• Hernias
• Proptosis

Pros and Cons of Shih Tzu Conclusion

Shih Tzu dogs are small, funny-looking little things that might make you laugh when they’re running around. But there is more to these canine creatures than their silly appearance and high energy level. In fact, the pros outweigh the cons so much that it may be difficult for some people not to fall head over heels with them.

If you are considering adopting one of these adorable furballs but aren’t sure if this would be a good fit for your lifestyle or home, then this blog can help you. Our explanation of pros and cons of owning a Shih Tzu gives you all the facts. We have explored both sides of owning a Shih Tzu dog because we want you to have all the information before making any decisions.

There’s no need to rush into anything; you deserve time to think about what type of dog you want.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

References and Further Reading:

[1] American Kennel Club, Shih Tzu Information.
[2] National Institutes of Health