How to Identify a Shih Tzu

Recognizing Body Structure

Notice the dog's size. There are two categories of Shih Tzu: normal and imperial (a slightly smaller version). Although you will not be able to identify these just by taking a quick glance, when placed next to one another, the size difference is noticeable. Both varieties of Shih Tzu are small, with the normal variety ranging from 8–11 inches (20–28 cm) tall. Shih Tzu weigh between 9–16 pounds (4.1–7.3 kg) on average, being small dogs.

See if the dog has a curled tail. Shih Tzu have tails that curl over their backs. Their tails are high and heavily plumed.

Look at the ears of the dog. The ears of a Shih Tzu are large and rest at the sides of the dog's head. Their ears are heavily coated.

Check the dog's eyes. Shih Tzu have large, wide eyes. Their eyes are very dark (though may be slightly lighter on liver and blue colored dogs), round, and "placed well apart", according to the AKC.

Look for a squashed-like nose. Shih Tzu have squashed-like noses with wide, open nostrils. A Shih Tzu's nose is likely black, but may be liver or blue if liver or blue appears on the dog, respectively.

Taking a Closer Look at the Coat

Identify the "puppy cut". Not all Shih Tzu owners decide to give their pet this style, but it is very common, especially during summer. A dog with a puppy cut has fur that is around 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) long. If you spot a dog with short, rounded fur and paws, it may be a Shih Tzu.

Know that a Shih Tzu can be any color. Shih Tzu can be found with any color of coat, though some are rarer than others. The AKC equally accepts all colors and patterns on a Shih Tzu. Many Shih Tzu are seen with two colors, mostly white and another color. Tri-colored and solid Shih Tzu are also seen.

Feel the coat. Shih Tzu have double coats, meaning their costs have two layers. Their fur is long and flows when trimmed in a show cut and is described as "luxurious" and "dense" by the AKC.

Identifying Temperament

Look for a playful personality. Shih Tzu are known for having a playful demeanor. They are lively and outgoing, and they can make great companions for children due to their playful nature.

Notice high energy levels. The active nature of a Shih Tzu means that it needs regular exercise and playtime. Short walks and playing indoors can help a Shih Tzu release its energy. Shih Tzu are likely to use their energy to seek attention. A Shih Tzu may chew a lot; if so, you may be able to distract it with a variety of treats and teething rings, giving it choices that reflect its independent mindedness.

See if the dog is affectionate. Shih Tzu love to spend time with their owners, demonstrating their affectionate nature. They are companion dogs and are sociable and friendly. They are gentle even around strangers.

Check for intelligence. Shih Tzu are intelligent dogs. They are quick to learn if taught correctly. They can be trained to recognize sounds and commands, such as knowing when it is time to be washed by hearing the sound of running water.

Take notice of stubbornness. Despite their intelligence, training a Shih Tzu may take time and effort due to their stubborn nature. It is best to train them early on and socialize them at a young age.

Comparing Shih Tzu to Similar Breeds

Know if the animal you spot is a Shih Tzu or a Lhasa Apso. Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu are related breeds and have much in common. They are both small dogs, though Lhasa Apsos are slightly larger than Shih Tzu, being roughly 10–11 inches (25–28 cm) tall. Both dogs have long coats, but Lhasa Apsos are typically gold, black, white/cream, red, or a mix of these colors, while Shih Tzu may be any color. Lhasa Apsos, like Shih Tzu, are affectionate, but are instead cautious around strangers.

Spot differences between a Shih Tzu and a Havanese. Shih Tzu and Havanese are very similar in appearance. Havanese are typically the same size as Shih Tzu, but may be an inch taller. They both have long coats, but unlike a Shih Tzu, which has a flowy coat, a Havanese has more of a matted coat. Havanese are also easier to train as they are not as stubborn.

Tell if a dog is a Shih Tzu or a Maltese. Shih Tzu and Maltese can also be easily confused with one another. One main difference between the breeds is that Maltese are noticeably smaller. Maltese are only seen in white, while Shih Tzu have a wider range of coat colors. A Maltese has a single coat, while a Shih Tzu has a double coat. Maltese can be excellent watchdogs as they have a tendency to bark.

Notice how Shih Tzu and Pekingese differ. Two oriental breeds, Shih Tzu and Pekingese have lots in common. They can both be seen in just about any color. However, the coat of a Shih Tzu is more dense than that of a Pekingese. Pekingese are slightly smaller than Shih Tzu. Pekingese can be good guard dogs and will alert you of any trouble.

Differentiate between Shih Tzu and Yorkies. The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is another breed that is similar to the Shih Tzu. Both are small dogs, but Shih Tzu are the larger breed. Yorkies have ears that stand upright, while Shih Tzu have ears that rest on the sides of the head. Both are affectionate, though Shih Tzu are more open to meeting new people.

See how Shih Tzu and Pomeranians differ. Shih Tzu and Pomeranians are both toy breeds; however, Pomeranians are one of the smallest dogs in the world and are smaller than Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu have long, flowing fur, while Pomeranians have a puffy coat. Both breeds are energetic and lively, though Shih Tzu are more open and Pomeranians take more time to warm up to people.