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Shih Tzu for Sale in the Philippines

14 listings nationwide

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

Toy · 9–16 lbs

✓ Apartment ok

Developed in China as a companion for the Chinese Imperial Court, the Shih Tzu — meaning "Lion Dog" in Mandarin — was so treasured that the Chinese refused to sell, trade, or give them to outsiders for centuries. All modern Shih Tzus can be traced back to just 14 dogs — seven male and seven female — from which the entire Western gene pool descends after the breed reached Europe in the 1930s.

The Shih Tzu is one of the most affectionate and friendly small breeds available — scoring 90/100 in friendliness with minimal shedding (15/100) and very low exercise needs (15 min/day). Purpose-built for companionship and apartment living, though the long flowing coat demands high grooming investment (80/100), and breathing sensitivity in heat is a real concern.

Traits

Energy
Moderate
Trainability
Easy
Stubbornness
Moderate
Friendliness
Very high

Care

Grooming
High
Shedding
Minimal
Exercise
30 min/day
Drooling
Minimal
🕐10–18 years
⚠️Brachycephalic syndrome
AffectionatePlayfulOutgoingHigh grooming costs

Shih Tzu Buyer's Guide

Common questions answered before you buy

Generally yes, with the right expectations. The Shih Tzu has a trainability score of 60/100, which means they're receptive to learning. They respond well to structure and positive reinforcement. Enroll in puppy classes early, stay consistent with rules, and you'll build a well-behaved companion.

The Shih Tzu is a lower-energy breed that does well with around 30 minutes of light-to-moderate exercise daily. They're content with short walks and indoor play. That said, don't skip exercise altogether — even low-energy dogs need daily movement to stay physically and mentally healthy.

Minimally. The Shih Tzu sheds very little and is often considered a good option for people sensitive to pet hair. Regular grooming still keeps the coat healthy. Grooming effort for this breed is high. The Shih Tzu has demanding grooming needs — expect professional grooming every 4–8 weeks plus daily brushing at home. Grooming costs add up quickly over a dog's lifetime.

Yes — the Shih Tzu is one of the more family-friendly breeds with a friendliness score of 90/100. They are specifically noted as good with children and families. As with any dog, teach children how to interact respectfully, and supervise early introductions.

The most frequently reported health concerns in the Shih Tzu include Brachycephalic syndrome, Eye conditions and Hip dysplasia. Before buying, ask breeders for health clearances on the parents — reputable breeders will have OFA (hips/elbows) or equivalent certifications on file. Budget for annual vet visits and consider pet health insurance from puppyhood.

Yes — the Shih Tzu adapts well to apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met. They don't need a large yard to be happy. Daily walks and exercise sessions (around 30 minutes of light-to-moderate exercise daily) keep them calm indoors.

That's the right question to ask before buying. The Shih Tzu has one of the highest grooming effort scores (80/100). In the Philippines, professional grooming typically runs ₱500–₱2,000+ per session depending on size and coat condition, and this breed may need it every 4–8 weeks on top of daily at-home brushing. Factor this recurring cost into your decision.