Why shih tzu are the worst dog Shih Tzu Among small dog breeds, Shih Tzus are one of the most sought after. Adorable faces, flowing coats and royal history make them perfect lap dogs, right? But behind the fluff, the breed may not be right for every home. Though it might be a stretch to call them the “worst dog,” Shih Tzus do present a handful of specific challenges, and they’re not suitable for all owners.
Here we explain the reasons some people may not consider Shih Tzus as the best option—and why they frequently make it onto lists of the most high-maintenance small breeds.
Admissions Grooming Demands Are Tiring
The most common grievance about Shih Tzus is their grooming requirements. Their long, flowing coat is prone to tangles and must be brushed daily to prevent mats, which can be sensitive. Skip one, and you’ll waste hours picking fur from branches or make a costly trip to the groomer.
Indeed, many eventually resort to the “puppy cal” while grooming out of shear frustration, and that kind of defeat the purpose of owning a long haired show breed. Regular grooming prices can accumulate to hundreds of dollars a year, and they’re not a good value for pet parents on a budget.
Stiffness and Reluctance to Train
Why shih tzu are the worst dogreputation for being determined, but aren’t they the most adorable thing? They aren’t easy to train. “They’re not dumb, but they’re not Labradors or Border Collies, as far as being eager to please. Instead, they generally tend to do what they’re told if and when they feel into it.
This is particularly bad when it comes to house training. Hundreds of owners of Shih Tzu also report months — and years — of accidents in the house. If a clean carpet and quick obedience are important to you, than this breed may not be the best choice.
Not Very Athletic or Active
For some families, a dog that will keep up with a family of marathon runners or can hike for miles is ideal. Shih Tzus were bred to sit in palaces and be adored — not to chase balls or scale mountains.
They are small in size and might lead people to believe they require little exercise but, if not taken for walks and exercised they are indeed prone to obesity. It’s too bad that they’re low-energy because they won’t burn any calories, so you have to have strict portion control on the feed. If you want a playful, lively friend, you may find Shih Tzus disappointingly sluggish.
Health Problems Are Common
As with any purebred pup, Shih Tzus are prone to a number of inherited health problems—many of which are connected to their unique, smashed-up little faces. Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure can make Then suffer in the heat. Snuffling, snorting, wheezing, and loud breathing are countless melodious noises in the home of a Shih Tzu.
Other issues include:
Persistent eye issues from bulging of the eyes
Dental problems caused by crowded teeth
Back trouble (you only need to lay down next to one for 10 minutes in gym class) from their fricking long bodies.
For Shih Tzu owners, vet visits can quickly become another routine aspect of life — along with the accompanying expenses.
Not the best for small children families
Why shih tzu are the worst dog little dogs who wouldn’t be able to survive rough handling. Some get along just well in homes with children, while many Shih Tzus turn snappish or withdraw when handled roughly or when they are overstimulated. Their inflexibility isn’t always conducive to the crazy world of a home filled with little kids.
They thrive in peaceful, predictable routines, so they are better for mature adults or empty nesters than for big families or families with high energy levels.
They Bark. A Lot.
Quirky and giggly, Shih Tzus are known to be little lap dogs, but can be very vocal when guarding your house. They pounce out at every sound, every knock, and every odd looking stranger. Their bark is not only not very loud and deep, but it can also be annoying—especially when living in an apartment or in close quarters.
Excessive barking is a regularly heard complaint and they have a strong stubborn streak, so breaking them of the habit can be hard going.
Conclusion: The Worst Dog? Only for the Wrong Owner
Why shih tzu are the worst dog to say Shih Tzus are the “worst dog”—but for the wrong owner, they certainly qualify as such. Their high grooming needs, along with their stubbornness, health issues, and low energy make them a poor fit for active families, novice dog owners or those on a budget.
That said, for the right person — patient and quiet, willing to groom and not hoping for a jogging buddy — Shih Tzus can be charming pets. But if what you want is a chill, easygoing, low-maintenance dog, you’re probably looking at the wrong breed, my friend.