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Shar Tzu Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Shar Tzu so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
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OriginChina flagChina
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Shar Tzu? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Shar-Pei and Shih Tzu mix

Shar Tzu Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Shar Tzu? Learn how big the Shar Tzu breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Shar Tzu weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Shar Tzu breed.
20-50 pounds (9-23 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Shar Tzu?
35 pounds (16 kg)
Height
How tall is the Shar Tzu? Shar Tzu height:
12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Shar Tzu?
15 inches (37.5 cm)

Shar Tzu Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Shar Tzu puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Shar Tzu costs.
$800-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Shar Tzu, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Shar Tzu for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Shar Tzu gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Shar Tzu? How many Shar Tzu are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Shar Tzu is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Shar Tzu Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Shar Tzu? Discover the Shar Tzu's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Shar Tzu obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Shar Tzu ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Shar Tzu? Learn about the Shar Tzu's trainability and response to training methods.
Shar Tzu dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Shar Tzu as a watchdog? Learn about the Shar Tzu's alertness and guarding instincts.
Shar Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Shar Tzu protective of its territory? Learn about the Shar Tzu's guarding instincts and behavior.
Shar Tzu dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Shar Tzu can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Shar Tzu will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Shar Tzu Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Shar Tzu have? Learn about characteristic Shar Tzu temperament and behavior traits.
ActivePlayfulLovingIndependentHappyCourageousIntelligentFriendlyOutgoingAffectionateDevotedLivelyGentleReservedSuspicious
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Shar Tzu sensitivity:
Shar Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Shar Tzu a good family dog?
Average to High: Shar Tzu dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Shar Tzu need? Shar Tzu social needs:
Shar Tzu dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Shar Tzu to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Shar Tzu roam?
Shar Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Shar Tzu have high prey drive?
Shar Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Shar Tzu dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Shar Tzu Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Shar Tzu bark a lot? Learn about typical Shar Tzu vocalization patterns and triggers.
Average: The Shar Tzu barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Shar Tzu? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Shar Tzu breed.
Average: Shar Tzus, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Shar Tzu live in an apartment? Learn about the Shar Tzu's suitability for apartment living.
Very house-friendly dog the Shar Tzu breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Shar Tzu Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Shar Tzu to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Shar Tzu's flexibility to new situations.
Shar Tzu dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Shar Tzu be left alone? Learn about the Shar Tzu's tolerance to solitude.
Shar Tzu dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Shar Tzu Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Shar Tzu biting potential? Learn about the Shar Tzu's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Shar Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Shar Tzu mouthy? Learn about the Shar Tzu's tendency to use mouth during play.
Shar Tzu dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Shar Tzu dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Shar Tzu bite? Learn about the Shar Tzu's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Shar Tzu bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Shar Tzu measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Shar Tzu is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Shar Tzu bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Shar Tzu bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Shar Tzu puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Shar Tzu, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Shar Tzu bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Shar Tzu can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Shar Tzu Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Shar Tzu live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Shar Tzu breed.
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shar Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Shar Tzu handle different weather? Learn about the Shar Tzu's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Shar Tzu? Discover typical conditions affecting the Shar Tzu breed.
Shar Tzus are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Shar Tzu need vet visits? Learn about the Shar Tzu's veterinary care requirements.
Rare
The Shar Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Shar Tzu breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Shar Tzu breed? Most common health risks of Shar Tzu:
Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationAllergiesCancerHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Umbilical HerniasBloatEntropionEar InfectionsElbow DysplasiaDemodectic MangeDistichiasisOsteochondrosis DissecansGlaucomaPortosystemic Liver ShuntBladder StonesEctopic CiliaReverse SneezingDry EyeSeborrheaProptosisCutaneous MucinosisFeverPyodermaJuvenile Renal DysplasiaKeratitisRetained Baby TeethSnuffles

Shar Tzu Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Shar Tzu? Understand daily activity needs of the Shar Tzu breed.
Shar Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs. If you live a chilled life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Shar Tzu need? How much exercise do Shar Tzu dogs require per day?

Do Shar Tzu dogs need a lot of exercises?

Shar Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Shar Tzu breed need?
Shar Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot. They're not the most active dog breed. If you live an active life, this breed can be a bad choice for you.

Shar Tzu Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Shar Tzu prone to weight gain? Learn about the Shar Tzu's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shar Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Shar Tzu weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Shar Tzu need daily? Learn about the Shar Tzu's feeding requirements.
2 to 2.5 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.

Shar Tzu Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Shar Tzu hypoallergenic? Learn about the Shar Tzu's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Shar Tzu dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Shar Tzu come in? Discover all possible Shar Tzu color variations.
Black Red Blue Cream SilverBrownFawn Brindle LiverGold Apricot
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Shar Tzu need? Learn about Shar Tzu coat maintenance requirements.
Advanced: The Shar Tzu requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes.

Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your Shar Tzu a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Shar Tzu, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Shar Tzu drool a lot? Learn about the Shar Tzu's drooling habits.
The Shar Tzu is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Shar Tzu smell bad? Learn about the Shar Tzu's natural odor levels.

High 🔼

The Shar Tzu has a high chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Shar Tzu have? Learn about the Shar Tzu's fur characteristics.
Dense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Shar Tzu need baths? Learn about the Shar Tzu's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Shar Tzu dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Shar Tzu? Do Shar Tzu dogs shed a lot?
Shar Tzu dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Shar Tzu dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.

Shar Tzu Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Shar Tzu good with children? Learn about the Shar Tzu's behavior around kids of different ages.
Shar Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you may have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from this breed.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Shar Tzu get along with other pets? Discover the Shar Tzu's compatibility with other animals.
Shar Tzu dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Shar Tzu temperament with other people:
Shar Tzu dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Shar Tzu dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Shar Tzu breed live with a cat?
Shar Tzu dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Shar Tzu good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Shar Tzu dogs get along with other dogs?
Shar Tzu dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Shar Tzu can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Shar Tzu breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Shar Tzu breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Shar Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Shar Tzu dogs good office canines? Do Shar Tzu dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Shar Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Shar Tzu dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Shar Tzu temperament with senior people? Are Shar Tzu dogs good for elderly owners?
Shar Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.

Shar Tzu As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Shar Tzu be a service dog? Learn about the Shar Tzu's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Shar Tzu is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Shar Tzu good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Shar Tzu's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Shar Tzu is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Shar Tzu good at detection work? Learn about the Shar Tzu's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Shar Tzu is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Shar Tzu do search and rescue? Learn about the Shar Tzu's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Shar Tzu is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Shar Tzu good on boats? Learn about the Shar Tzu's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Shar Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Shar Tzu pull carts? Learn about the Shar Tzu's drafting abilities.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Shar Tzu breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Shar Tzu used in military service? Learn about the Shar Tzu's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shar Tzu Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Shar Tzu usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-6 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Shar Tzu pregnant? Learn about the Shar Tzu's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Shar Tzu: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Shar Tzu have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Shar Tzu Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Shar Tzu in? Learn about the Shar Tzu's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Shar Tzu in? Learn about the Shar Tzu's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Shar Tzu Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Concerns: Shar Tzus are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Very house-friendly dog the Shar Tzu breed.
  • Shedding Level: Shar Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Shar Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Shar Tzu dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Cat Friendly: Shar Tzu dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Shar Tzu dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Shar Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Draft Work Capability: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Shar Tzu dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming Requirements: Advanced: The Shar Tzu requires a lot of grooming.
  • Stinkiness Rating: The Shar Tzu has a high chance of bad smell.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shar Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Shar Tzu dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Shar Tzu dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Child Compatibility: Shar Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Shar Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Shar Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.

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