Are Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic? Find Out Now

The shih tzu, which literally translates to little lion from Chinese, is one of the most beloved companion animals. They are small, affectionate, playful, and sociable creatures that bond strongly with every member of their family, though some can be such one-person dogs like the Chihuahua.

While there’s no doubt that the shih tzu has many qualities that make them renowned companions, one trait that often makes people want to get one is their coat. Coupled with their tiny size, the shih tzu is the dream dog for allergy sufferers. Many people with pet allergies report not showing any symptoms when they’re around shih tzus. This makes them ask the question: Are shih tzus hypoallergenic?

In this article, we will examine the shih tzu’s coat to determine if these small companion animals are indeed hypoallergenic. Read to the end to get your answers.

Are Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic?

The shih tzu is considered hypoallergenic because these dogs don’t shed much and their long coats trap hair, leaving minimal pet hair wherever they sit or walk. This not only makes the shih tzu an ideal dog breed for those with allergies, but also makes it easier to keep up a clean home.

However, there isn’t a truly hypoallergenic dog breed, and the shih tzu isn’t an exception. They still produce proteins and dander that can trigger reactions in people who are allergic to pets. For instance, someone who’s allergic can instantly have rashes and red bumps if a shih tzu licks them or touches the hair around the shih tzu’s mouth.

This must be kept in mind when considering getting a dog, as shih tzus, like all “hypoallergenic” dogs, can trigger allergic symptoms upon contact. When searching for shih tzu puppies to buy, don’t trust breeders who claim that their dog is completely hypoallergenic and will never trigger allergies; Dog Academy’s shih tzus listings are only sourced from ethical and responsible breeders.

While purebred shih tzus are considered hypoallergenic, what about shih tzu mixes? Discover below if shih tzu mixes are hypoallergenic.

Are Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic if Mixed?

First and foremost, whether a shih tzu mix is considered hypoallergenic or not depends on the other breed. If the shih tzu is crossed with another breed that’s hypoallergenic, such as a poodle (shihpoo) or a bichon frise (zuchon), the shih tzu mix will be as hypoallergenic as their purebred parents.

However, when a shih tzu is crossed with a breed that isn’t hypoallergenic, the coat of the offspring in this regard often varies. If the puppy has a coat that’s more like the other parent, they most likely won’t be hypoallergenic. For example, a Chihuahua and shih tzu mix can have a shorter coat that sheds, not making them suitable for allergy sufferers.

If you’re interested in getting a shih tzu mix and want your dog to be hypoallergenic, look into crossbreeds that use hypoallergenic breeds. There are also F1b shih tzu mixes, which are shih tzu mixes that are backcrossed to a purebred shih tzu, which is a common practice for breeders to increase the chances of having a hypoallergenic coat.

Should You Get a Shih Tzu? Discover Below

While the hypoallergenic coat of the shih tzu is what attracts many to get one of these dogs, it shouldn’t be the only reason. Shih tzus are much more than just hypoallergenic. Here’s more information about the shih tzu to help you decide for yourself.

• Size: The shih tzu is a small dog breed. According to the American Kennel Club, the shih tzu weighs between 9 and 16 pounds and stands 9 to 10.5 inches tall.
• Personality: The shih tzu is an affectionate, playful, and lively dog that’s the definition of an ultimate companion dog. They live life to the fullest and want nothing more than participating in activities with their loved ones.
• Training: Shih tzus don’t have the best trainability. Training these dogs can take some time, but they can still learn a variety of tricks. By being patient and consistent with training, you can easily train a shih tzu for anything appropriate for their size.
• Adaptability: Shih tzus are much more adaptable than they are trainable. These dogs can adapt to any living arrangement in any family, as long as they receive proper care and all the love they can get from their family members.
• Coat Care: The coat that makes the shih tzu attractive for many is high-maintenance and requires daily attention. These dogs must be brushed daily to prevent tangles and mats and taken for professional grooming every six to eight weeks to maintain a tidy appearance.

If all these align with what would be the perfect dog for you, on top of their hypoallergenic characteristics, the shih tzu is more than likely to be a suitable dog for you.