Shih Tzu dogs tend to get a bit of a bad rap sometimes. Because they’re small, they’re often grouped into that “yappy ankle-biter” category which honestly couldn’t be more off-base when it comes to the well-bred, well-raised Shih Tzu.
The truth is, these little dogs are affectionate, intuitive, and full of personality—and with the right training and socialization, they can make incredible family companions. Especially in homes with children.
So let’s clear the air and talk about what really matters when asking: Are Shih Tzus good with kids?
Understanding the Shih Tzu Temperament
The Shih Tzu was bred to be a royal companion, and that loyal, loving nature still shines through today. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Shih Tzu are affectionate, outgoing, and happy to be close to their people. These dogs were literally bred to be doted on, which makes them naturally in tune with human emotions and great at companionship.
They’re also surprisingly sturdy for a toy breed. With a confident and friendly nature, they can hold their own in active households, especially when they’ve had proper exposure from an early age.
Yes, But With Supervision
As with any breed, supervision is key when young children and dogs interact. Shih Tzus are small, which means rough handling or unintentional squeezing from toddlers can lead to accidents. But that doesn’t mean they’re fragile or unsuitable, it just means that, like any relationship, mutual respect is essential.
Teaching your kids how to approach, touch, and play with a pup the right way sets the stage for a healthy and safe bond. And a well-socialized Shih Tzu who’s grown up around respectful kids is total bestie material.
Why Socialization Matters
This is a big one. At Divine Pups, we take early socialization seriously. Every puppy is raised using a structured curriculum that includes age-appropriate exposure to people, sounds, textures, handling, and confidence-building exercises. We’re not just raising “cute dogs”, we’re raising emotionally resilient ones.
And as a certified dog trainer and a certified Tier 2 pupy temperament evaluator, I don’t leave puppy-family matches up to chance. Every Divine Pup is temperament tested and matched with a home based on real personality data, energy level, and social needs.
Training Plays a Huge Role
Even the sweetest dog needs training. Baxter & Bella, a trusted online training platform, teaches families how to build strong foundations from day one using positive reinforcement techniques.
Every Divine Pup has access to trainer resources at a discounted price like a lifetime membership to Baxter & Bella,or The Puppy System by My Loyal Hound so you’ll always have support in training and strengthening your pup’s bond with your family.
When Shih Tzus Truly Shine in Family Homes
Shih Tzus really shine in homes where they’re included in the daily routine—whether it’s being part of school drop-offs, snuggling during bedtime stories, or supervising snack time from the kitchen floor.
So many of our Divine Pups have gone on to become therapy dogs, facility dogs, and emotional support animals, which says a lot about their emotional intelligence and ability to connect with people of all ages.
In Conclusion
So, are Shih Tzus good with kids? Absolutely. But more than that, they’re amazing family dogs when given the right start.
They’re not just tiny lap dogs or spoiled princesses/princes. They’re confident, loyal, and full of heart. And when paired with the right family (especially through temperament testing), they have what it takes to become a child’s best friend for life.
Curious to meet the pups who might just be your perfect match?
Click here to check out our Ready Pups nursery.
