Why Shih Tzu Are the Worst Dog
Let’s be honest. Not every dog breed is for everyone. While some people might love high-energy dogs or working breeds, others want couch companions. If you’ve spent time around Shih Tzus, you probably fall into one of two camps—you’re either head over heels or you’re wondering what all the fuss is about. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into why some people say Shih Tzu are the worst dog and explore whether that’s fair—or if they’re just misunderstood.
Cuteness Can Be Deceiving
There’s no denying it—Shih Tzus are insanely cute. Those big eyes, squishy faces, and flowing coats make them look like living, breathing stuffed animals. But sometimes that cuteness works against them.
Many people adopt Shih Tzus thinking they’ll be low-maintenance lap dogs. After all, how much trouble can a 10-pound fluff ball cause? The answer: quite a lot. That “adorable” long coat requires constant grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Miss a few days of brushing, and your tiny pooch could end up looking more like a walking tumbleweed than an elegant show dog.
Hard to Train and Sometimes Too Clever
One of the biggest complaints from Shih Tzu owners (and even professional trainers) is how incredibly stubborn they can be. Ask anyone who’s attempted to potty train a Shih Tzu, and you’ll likely hear a sigh of frustration.
While they’re not dumb by any means, Shih Tzus are independent thinkers. They know what they want and aren’t always interested in what you want. Training sessions often turn into battles of will, especially when treats are no longer involved.
So, if you’re the type of person who’s used to Labrador-level obedience, you might quickly feel like Shih Tzu are the worst dog breed for training purposes.
They Require Constant Grooming
We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth repeating—Shih Tzus are one of the highest-maintenance breeds when it comes to grooming. That silky coat doesn’t stay that way on its own.
Here’s what regular grooming looks like:
- Daily brushing to keep knots and mats away
- Weekly baths to keep their coats clean and odor-free
- Regular trips to the groomer for trims, especially around the eyes and paws
- Eye cleaning, because tear staining is common
If you’re someone who wants a hassle-free dog, this may be reason enough to think that Shih Tzu are the worst dog for your lifestyle.
Breathing Issues Come with the Breed
Ever heard a Shih Tzu snore while they’re awake? It’s not a rare occurrence. Because of their short, flat faces (known as brachycephalic features), Shih Tzus often struggle with breathing problems.
Some common issues include:
- Difficulty breathing in hot or humid weather
- Excessive snoring or snorting
- Prone to overheating during exercise
Going for long walks or active outdoor play? That’s often not ideal. Their short muzzles make it hard to regulate temperature, meaning they tire quickly and can even suffer from heatstroke if not monitored carefully.
For more active individuals or families, these health limitations might make you feel like Shih Tzu are the worst dog to keep up with your lifestyle.
They’re Velcro Dogs in Disguise
At first glance, Shih Tzus don’t seem excessively clingy. But many owners find that their Shih Tzu follows them everywhere—from the bathroom to the kitchen and even into bed. If you’re someone who loves personal space, you might be in for a surprise.
Shih Tzus were bred specifically to be companion dogs. That means they crave attention and don’t like being left alone. This trait can lead to:
- Separation anxiety when you leave for work
- Destructive behavior like chewing or whining
- Excessive barking or yapping when bored or lonely
So while their constant companionship can be sweet, it also makes life stressful for owners who work long hours or travel often. That’s when people start saying Shih Tzu are the worst dog for anyone who can’t be home the majority of the time.
They Can Be Surprisingly Yappy
Let’s talk about that bark. Despite their small size, Shih Tzus have no problem using their voice—and they tend to do it a lot. Whether it’s the sound of a car door slamming, the doorbell ringing, or just someone walking by the window, they’ll let you know.
While that’s great for alerting you to visitors, it can quickly become a headache, especially in apartment settings or quiet neighborhoods. And training them not to bark? It loops right back to their notorious stubbornness.
All this can leave neighbors annoyed and owners frustrated, further fueling the argument that Shih Tzu are the worst dog when it comes to peaceful living.
Not Great with Kids or Other Pets
Because of their small size, people often assume that Shih Tzus make great pets for families with young kids. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Shih Tzus can be sensitive and prefer gentle handling. Rough play or unexpected loud noises may startle or even anger them. Many are known to react with snapping or growling if they feel threatened—something no parent wants to worry about with toddlers in the house.
The same goes for other animals. While some Shih Tzus do well with other dogs or cats, many are territorial or simply don’t like sharing their human’s attention.
So, if you’re looking for a dog that’s all-around family-friendly, this could be yet another reason someone would think Shih Tzu are the worst dog compared to other breeds like the Golden Retriever or Beagle.
Vet Bills Can Add Up Quickly
We talked about breathing problems earlier, but that’s not the only health concern with Shih Tzus. These little dogs are prone to a variety of medical conditions, including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy
- Dental problems due to overcrowded teeth
- Skin allergies and infections
All of this means frequent vet visits, specialized treatments, and higher-than-average care costs. Pet insurance helps, but not everyone thinks ahead to budget for their Shih Tzu’s long-term health. It’s no surprise that some owners regret their decision and say Shih Tzu are the worst dog when it comes to affordability.
They’re Not as “Low Energy” as You Think
People often assume that small breed dogs are lazy or mellow. That’s not entirely true with the Shih Tzu.
Yes, they enjoy lounging in your lap, but they also have unexpected bursts of energy. These “zoomies” can strike at any time, whether it’s 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., and they don’t always come with a warning.
Without adequate mental stimulation and physical activity, Shih Tzus can become bored—and bored Shih Tzus can become destructive. Chewed shoes, scratched furniture, and torn pillows are common complaints, adding to the argument that Shih Tzu are the worst dog for people who don’t have time to engage them.
Is the Shih Tzu Really the Worst Dog?
With all that said—it’s important to keep things in perspective. Every breed has its quirks, and what makes one person say Shih Tzu are the worst dog might be exactly what someone else loves the most. They’re loyal, affectionate, and deeply in tune with their humans.
But they are not for everyone.
If you’re thinking about bringing a Shih Tzu into your life, ask yourself:
- Am I okay with daily grooming?
- Do I have the patience for a stubborn dog?
- Will I be home often enough to keep them company?
- Can I afford the long-term healthcare costs?
If the answer to most of those questions is yes, a Shih Tzu might be a great fit. But if not, don’t feel bad for saying it—maybe, just maybe, Shih Tzu are the worst dog for your lifestyle.
After all, choosing the right dog is about compatibility and lifestyle match—not just looks or popularity.