Everything you need to know about breeding Shih Tzus responsibly - from health testing to finding the perfect breeding partner for your beloved companion.
Understanding your Shih Tzu's Chinese imperial heritage and companion nature is essential for responsible breeding
Male: 9-16 lbs
Female: 9-16 lbs
Male: 9-10.5 inches
Female: 9-10.5 inches
10-18 years
Long-lived breed
Friendly, Outgoing
Happy lap dogs
Name means "lion dog" in Chinese. Bred exclusively for Chinese royalty. Forbidden to leave China until 1930s.
Luxurious double coat grows continuously. Requires daily brushing to prevent matting. Many colors acceptable including rare blue.
Unlike many toy breeds, Shih Tzus are typically friendly with strangers. Make poor watchdogs but excellent therapy dogs.
Flat face makes them prone to overheating. Cannot tolerate hot weather. Need air conditioning and should avoid exercise in heat.
Shih Tzus face challenges from their flat face structure and small size requiring careful health screening
Flat face causes breathing difficulties. Many need surgery. Evaluate breathing before breeding - noisy breathing is abnormal.
Prominent eyes prone to injuries, dry eye, cataracts. Daily eye cleaning essential. Annual CERF examinations required.
Despite small size, hip problems occur. OFA or PennHIP testing recommended. Both parents should have good ratings.
Renal dysplasia and other kidney problems occur. Annual blood work to monitor kidney function. Check family history.
Portosystemic shunt more common in toy breeds. Bile acid test recommended. Can be fatal without surgery.
Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds. OFA patella evaluation recommended. Can require expensive surgery.
Small mouths with crowded teeth. Need dental cleanings every 6-12 months. Many lose teeth by middle age.
Genetic muscle disorder causing temporary paralysis. Genetic test available. Specific to certain bloodlines.
Many Shih Tzus suffer from breathing difficulties due to their flat faces. Loud breathing, snoring while awake, and exercise intolerance are NOT normal. Signs include blue tongue during activity, difficulty eating, and heat intolerance. Surgery can help but doesn't cure the problem. Never breed dogs with obvious breathing difficulties. The goal should be to breed for healthier airways, not extreme flatness. Dogs should be able to exercise normally and breathe quietly at rest.
Shih Tzus have prominent eyes that are easily injured. Daily eye cleaning is mandatory to prevent infections and staining. Hair around eyes must be kept trimmed or tied up. Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is common and requires lifelong treatment. Corneal ulcers can develop rapidly and cause blindness. Any eye injury needs immediate veterinary care. Educate all buyers about daily eye care requirements - this is not optional.
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible Shih Tzu breeding
Male Shih Tzus
1.5 to 8 years
Female Shih Tzus
2 to 7 years
Small breeds mature earlier but wait for complete health testing. Shih Tzus can breed successfully into older age.
Shih Tzus face multiple health challenges. Breathing and eye problems are major concerns.
Females: Maximum once per year, 3-4 litters lifetime
Skip at least one heat cycle between litters
C-sections more common due to large puppy heads and small pelvis
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