The Shih Tzu temperament can change over time drastically. However, this is a breed that is clever and just too trusting. It does not matter what the age or their experience level; this breed is a trustful and loving dog.
Therefore, do not act surprised when you see your Shih Tzu leap into the lap of a stranger, or immerse himself into a friendly romp with a strange dog whether or not that dog wants that type of attention.
This behavior is a testament to their friendly personality. Also, the Shih Tzu is a confident dog and is not afraid of expressing themselves. Actually, you can say that this dog does not have any shame.
Shih Tzu temperament facts
| Energy level |  | Watchdog ability | |
| Exercise requirements |  | Protection ability | |
| Playfulness |  | Grooming requirements | |
| Affection level | | Cold tolerance |  |
| Friendliness toward dogs | | Heat tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward other pets | | Friendliness toward strangers | |
| Ease of training | |
Another example of the Shih Tzu Temperament is their affectionate nature. These dogs are not just loveable, fluffy, and cute companions, they can also serve as therapy dogs because they are clever as well as intelligent. Their loyal disposition is always evident, and it follows them where ever they go. Their innate desire to be loved is contagious, and you will have no choice but to reciprocate whether you want to or not.
Another aspect of the Shih Tzu temperament is that they are very playful. This playfulness can make it seem like their highly excitable; however, it is more a show of enthusiasm than excitement. This breed should never show snobbish or aggressive behavior towards other dogs, pets, and their owners. However, they can express a little bit of a napoleon complex, just like most small dogs.
A propensity for anger is not a character trait of this breed. However, Shih Tzus tend to exhibit confusion when their owners do not reciprocate the same love and commitment.
Over time, the Shih Tzu temperament can change. However, it’s the dog’s enthusiasm that tends to vary; though, it can be an effect of aging. This enthusiasm is on high gear during their puppy years. Shih Tzu puppies tend to jump headfirst into just about everything. If you’re considering getting a Shih Tzu, just know that they will be a handful.
Shih Tzus are small dogs; in fact, they are a member of the Toy Breed Group. Therefore, they tend to suffer injuries due to their fragile bodies. To prevent them from harm, do not let them jump on and off of furniture. They love to jump up and down with eagerness. Your Shih Tzu will not hesitate to jump into the arms of strangers. You will also have to watch them with other dogs because of their friendly nature. Some dogs might not share your Shih Tzus temperament and return the enthusiasm and social advances with aggression.
As your Shih Tzu ages, they will also become calmer. They will still exude a loving, calming, and well-mannered temperament. For this reason, ancient Chinese royalty desired them and kept them as lap dogs. An older Shih Tzu is the perfect dog for someone that is not outgoing or an older person. When the overzealousness wanes, this dog will like nothing better than to just relax on the couch or your lap giving and receiving nothing but love and affection.
One fact that is negative about the Shih Tzu temperament is their clinginess demeanor thanks to their people-oriented nature. Another point that is important to note is that the Shih Tzu is the perfect apartment dog as are many of the other members of the toy breed group of dogs.
Another fact about the Shih Tzu temperament is that they tend to suffer a lot from separation anxiety because of their need to be loved and their innate need for companionship.
If you are someone that is currently looking for Shih Tzu puppies for sale, make sure that you have the time to care for these dogs properly. The allure of having one of these loveable, cuddly, and loyal companions is hard to resist. However, this breed requires someone that is almost always around. Therefore, you cannot leave these dogs home alone for hours, which can cause them to be unhappy, self-destructive, and anxious.
The only Shih Tzu behavior problems are related to being left alone. Separation anxiety is a massive problem with this breed. However, this negative trait is a result of the Shih Tzu not wanting to be alone, and just wanting someone to love her. The Shih Tzu temperament is different than a lot of other toy dogs in the sense that they exhibit unconditional love and trust. Therefore, proper Shih Tzu care mainly involves giving your canine companion as much of your time as you can provide.
