This is My perspective of potential drawbacks; many people still love the breed.
1. 🧹 High Grooming Needs
Shih Tzus have long, luxurious coats that require daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
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Frequent trips to the groomer can get expensive.
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Their eyes tear easily, staining fur and requiring extra care.
Not ideal for: Busy individuals or first-time owners who don’t want to invest time in grooming.
2. 🚫 Stubborn Temperament
Shih Tzus are notoriously stubborn and independent thinkers, making them harder to train.
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Potty training can take longer than with other breeds.
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They respond best to positive reinforcement, not harsh discipline.
Not ideal for: Those expecting instant obedience or military-like discipline.
3. 🐶 Not the Best with Young Children
While Shih Tzus can be friendly, their small size and delicate build make them vulnerable.
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Can become snappy if handled roughly.
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Might get hurt easily by energetic kids.
Not ideal for: Families with toddlers or roughhousing children.
4. 😷 Health Issues
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic (flat-faced), leading to several health concerns:
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Breathing difficulties
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Heat sensitivity
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Eye problems
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Dental crowding
Vet bills can stack up if not managed early.
5. 📢 Can Be Noisy
Shih Tzus tend to bark excessively at noises, strangers, or even nothing at all.
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May develop separation anxiety and bark when left alone.
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Can be tough to quiet once excited.
Not ideal for: Apartment dwellers or people needing a quiet pet.
6. 💩 Slow House Training
They often take longer to house-train than other small dogs.
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May resist going outside in bad weather.
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Owners need patience and consistency.
Not ideal for: People expecting fast, easy potty training.
7. 💤 Low Energy = Lazy?
Though cuddly, Shih Tzus are not high-energy or sporty dogs.
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Prefer lounging to active play.
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May seem “lazy” to active families.
Not ideal for: People looking for hiking/running companions.
8. 👃 Prone to Allergies and Smells
Shih Tzus are prone to skin conditions and ear infections, which can result in odor.
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Require regular ear cleaning and skin maintenance.
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Some may need special diets or allergy treatments.
9. 💸 Expensive to Maintain
Between grooming, vet visits, and food needs:
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Monthly care costs are often higher than average.
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Long-term commitment in both time and money.
10. 😿 Separation Anxiety
Shih Tzus are very people-oriented, meaning:
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They don’t do well when left alone for long hours.
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May bark, chew, or act destructively when lonely.
Not ideal for: Full-time workers who can’t offer companionship during the day.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Shih Tzus are not inherently “bad” dogs. But they require a specific kind of owner:
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Patient
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Routine-oriented
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Willing to invest in grooming and healthcare
If you want a low-maintenance, obedient, independent dog, a Shih Tzu might not be the right fit.
✅ Better for:
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Retirees or work-from-home individuals
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Those who love grooming and cuddling
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Families with older children