Complete Shih Tzu Care Guide Philippines (2026)

Published by the McDuffy Nutrition Team • The Bowl by McDuffy

The Shih Tzu is not just a dog breed in the Philippines—it is practically a national institution. Walk through any condo hallway in BGC, any subdivision in Quezon City, or any weekend pet event at SM, and you will see Shih Tzus everywhere. They sit on laps, peek out of carrier bags, and trot along on their leashes with the unmistakable swagger of a dog that knows it was once bred for Chinese emperors.

And it is easy to see why mga fur parents love them so much. Shih Tzus are compact, affectionate, relatively quiet, and perfectly suited to the apartment and condo lifestyle that defines urban living in Metro Manila. They do not need a backyard. They do not need five-kilometer runs. They need your lap, your attention, and the right care to thrive from puppyhood all the way through their golden years.

But here is the thing most Shih Tzu owners eventually discover: these little dogs are not as "easy" as they first appear. Their flat faces, long coats, small jaws, and specific health predispositions mean they need thoughtful, informed care at every life stage. What works for a Shih Tzu puppy does not work for a senior. What works in a temperate climate does not work in Philippine heat and humidity.

This is the complete Shih Tzu care guide for Filipino pet parents—from the day you bring your 8-week-old puppy home to the day your senior dog needs a little extra help getting on the couch. We will cover feeding, grooming, health issues, exercise, training, costs, and everything in between. If you are specifically looking for food recommendations, our dedicated Best Food for Shih Tzu in the Philippines guide goes deeper on that topic.

Breed Overview: Why the Shih Tzu Conquered the Philippines

The Shih Tzu (pronounced "sheed-zoo," though you will hear every variation from "shit-zoo" to "shee-tzoo" in Philippine pet shops) is a toy breed that originated in Tibet and was refined in China's imperial court. The name literally means "lion dog," and while they may look more like a fluffy pillow than a lion, they carry themselves with the regal confidence of their palace ancestors.

Temperament and Personality

Shih Tzus are often described as "maliit pero matapang"—small but brave. They have a confidence that belies their size, combined with an affectionate, people-oriented nature that makes them exceptional companion dogs. Here are the key personality traits that define the breed:

• Affectionate and loyal. Shih Tzus bond deeply with their owners. They want to be near you at all times—on your lap while you work from home, at your feet while you cook, and in your bed at night (good luck keeping them off it).
• Calm and adaptable. Unlike many small breeds that are hyperactive and yappy, Shih Tzus are generally calm dogs. They adapt well to different living situations, whether you live in a 20-square-meter studio or a house with a yard.
• Friendly with people and other pets. Shih Tzus are typically sociable. They get along well with children, strangers, and other dogs. They were bred to be companions, not guard dogs, so aggression is uncommon in well-socialized Shih Tzus.
• Independent streak. Despite their affectionate nature, Shih Tzus have a stubborn, independent side. They are not as eager to please as a Golden Retriever, which can make training interesting (more on that later).
• Low exercise needs. A couple of short walks per day and some indoor playtime is usually sufficient. This makes them ideal for busy professionals in Metro Manila who may not have time for hour-long walks.

Why They Are Perfect for Philippine Living

The Shih Tzu's popularity in the Philippines is not an accident. Several factors make them an almost perfect match for Filipino lifestyles:

• Apartment and condo friendly. At 4 to 8 kilograms, they fall under virtually every condo weight limit in Metro Manila. They do not need a backyard and are content in small spaces. For more breeds that thrive in condos, see our best dog breeds for condo living in the Philippines guide.
• Low noise. Shih Tzus are not excessive barkers, which matters when your neighbors are separated by a wall, not a fence. They will bark to alert you, but they are not the type to bark for hours while you are at work.
• Heat tolerance (with care). While their flat faces make them sensitive to extreme heat, Shih Tzus manage in the Philippine climate better than many people expect—as long as they have access to air conditioning or proper ventilation and avoid the midday sun.
• Family oriented. Filipino households are often multi-generational, and Shih Tzus fit right in. They are gentle enough for lolas to handle and playful enough for kids to enjoy.

Puppy Care: 8 Weeks to 1 Year

Congratulations—you have a Shih Tzu puppy. Whether you got them from a reputable breeder, a rescue, or your tita who "did not know the dogs were not both female," the next year is critical for setting your puppy up for a long, healthy life. Here is everything you need to know.

Feeding Your Shih Tzu Puppy

Shih Tzu puppies have tiny stomachs but fast metabolisms. They need to eat more frequently than adults, with food that is calorie-dense and nutritionally complete for growth. Here is the recommended feeding schedule:

• 8 to 12 weeks: 4 meals per day. Puppies this young cannot go long between meals without risking hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which is a real danger in small breeds. Feed approximately 55 to 65 kcal per kilogram of body weight per day, split into four meals.
• 3 to 6 months: 3 meals per day. As your puppy grows, you can consolidate to three meals. Continue with puppy-formulated food or AAFCO all-life-stages food.
• 6 to 12 months: 2 to 3 meals per day. By six months, most Shih Tzu puppies can move to twice or three times daily feeding. Growth slows but does not stop—they typically reach adult size around 10 to 12 months.

The most important thing is to feed a diet that is formulated for puppies or all life stages. Adult-only dog food does not have the right calcium-to-phosphorus ratio or protein levels for growing puppies. For detailed guidance on puppy nutrition, read our puppy feeding guide.

Vaccination Schedule in the Philippines

Your Shih Tzu puppy needs a series of vaccinations in their first year. Here is the standard Philippine vaccination schedule recommended by most veterinarians:

• 6 to 8 weeks: First 5-in-1 (DHPP – distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) or 6-in-1 (adds leptospirosis)
• 10 to 12 weeks: Second 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 booster
• 14 to 16 weeks: Third 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 booster
• 16 weeks and older: Anti-rabies vaccine (required by Philippine law under RA 9482)
• Annual: Yearly boosters for 5-in-1/6-in-1 and anti-rabies

Expect to pay between ₱800 and ₱1,500 per vaccination visit at a private vet clinic. Your city or barangay may offer free or subsidized rabies vaccination during government-sponsored drives. Until your puppy has completed their full vaccination series, avoid letting them walk on public ground where unvaccinated dogs may have been, as parvovirus can survive in the environment for months.

Socialization

The critical socialization window for puppies is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. During this period, you want to expose your Shih Tzu puppy to as many positive experiences as possible: different people, sounds, surfaces, and gentle handling. This is especially important in a condo setting where your dog will encounter elevators, hallways, other dogs in the lobby, and the general noise of city living.

Carry your puppy (do not let them walk on public ground until fully vaccinated) to expose them to:

• Elevator rides
• Traffic sounds and city noise
• Different people (adults, children, people in uniforms)
• Other vaccinated, friendly dogs
• Being handled: paws touched, ears checked, teeth looked at (this makes vet visits and grooming much easier later)

Potty Training in Condos

Potty training a Shih Tzu puppy in a condo is one of the biggest challenges Filipino fur parents face. You cannot just let them out into a yard—you need to go down an elevator, through a lobby, and outside to a designated pet area. This is not practical every two hours with a young puppy. Here is what works:

• Use training pads initially. Set up a dedicated potty area in your condo with pee pads. This gives your puppy a consistent, accessible spot while they are still learning bladder control.
• Be consistent with timing. Take your puppy to the potty area immediately after waking up, after eating, after playing, and before bed. Puppies are predictable if you pay attention to the schedule.
• Transition gradually to outdoor potty. Once your puppy is fully vaccinated and has better bladder control (around 4 to 6 months), you can start transitioning to outdoor potty breaks. Many condo Shih Tzu owners maintain an indoor pee pad option as a backup, especially for late nights or during typhoon season.
• Never punish accidents. Shih Tzus are sensitive dogs. Yelling or rubbing their nose in an accident does not teach them anything except to be afraid of you. Clean it up with an enzymatic cleaner and move on.

A note of honesty: Shih Tzus are not the easiest breed to potty train. They can be stubborn about it. Patience and consistency are your best tools. Most Shih Tzus are reliably house-trained by 6 to 8 months, though some take longer.

Adult Care: 1 to 8 Years

Once your Shih Tzu reaches adulthood around 12 months, their care routine shifts from rapid growth and socialization to maintenance, prevention, and quality of life. These are the prime years—your Shih Tzu should be energetic, playful, and in peak physical condition.

Nutrition for Adult Shih Tzus

Adult Shih Tzus typically need between 200 and 450 calories per day, depending on their weight, activity level, and metabolism. The key nutritional priorities for adult Shih Tzus include:

• High-quality protein (25% to 30% of diet). Shih Tzus need lean protein for muscle maintenance. Named animal proteins like beef, pork, chicken, and fish are ideal. Avoid vague ingredients like "meat meal" or "animal by-products."
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Essential for coat health, skin barrier function, and reducing inflammation. Fish-based recipes are particularly beneficial. Shih Tzus with dull coats or itchy skin often improve dramatically when switched to a diet rich in omega-3s.
• Moderate fat, controlled calories. Shih Tzus love eating and are prone to obesity. An extra 50 grams of food per day may not seem like much, but for a 5-kilogram dog, it adds up fast. Portion control matters more with this breed than almost any other.
• Low or no artificial additives. Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives contribute to tear staining and can trigger skin allergies—two of the most common Shih Tzu complaints.

For specific food recommendations and feeding amounts by weight, see our complete Best Food for Shih Tzu guide, or use our feeding calculator to determine exactly how much to feed your Shih Tzu based on their weight.

Exercise in the Philippine Heat

Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, meaning their shortened airways make them less efficient at cooling themselves through panting. This is important in the Philippines where temperatures regularly exceed 32°C with high humidity. Here is how to keep your Shih Tzu active without overheating:

• Walk early or late. Schedule walks before 7 AM or after 5 PM when temperatures are lower. Avoid the midday sun entirely. If the pavement is too hot for your palm, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
• Keep walks short. Adult Shih Tzus need only 20 to 30 minutes of walking per day, split into two sessions. They are not endurance athletes.
• Watch for heat stress signs. Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, bright red gums, or stumbling are signs of heat exhaustion. If you see these, move your dog to a cool area immediately and offer water. Severe cases require emergency veterinary care.
• Indoor play counts. A game of fetch down the hallway, a puzzle toy, or a gentle tug-of-war session indoors provides mental and physical stimulation without heat exposure. Many condo Shih Tzus get most of their daily activity indoors.
• Always bring water. Carry a portable water bowl on every walk. Let your dog drink before, during, and after exercise.

Dental Care

This is one area where Shih Tzu owners cannot afford to cut corners. Shih Tzus have small jaws with crowded teeth, creating pockets where bacteria accumulate and plaque builds up. Without proper dental care, many Shih Tzus develop periodontal disease by age 3—which can lead to tooth loss, pain, and even organ damage as bacteria enter the bloodstream.

• Brush their teeth. Ideally daily, minimum three times per week. Use a dog-specific toothbrush (or a finger brush) and enzymatic dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste—it contains ingredients toxic to dogs.
• Schedule professional cleanings. Most veterinary dentists recommend annual dental cleanings under anesthesia starting at age 2 to 3. In the Philippines, expect to pay ₱5,000 to ₱15,000 per session depending on the clinic and whether extractions are needed.
• Consider dental chews. While not a substitute for brushing, dental chews can help reduce plaque buildup between brushings. Choose appropriately sized chews for small breeds.
• Watch for signs of dental problems. Bad breath (beyond normal "dog breath"), difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, red or bleeding gums, and loose teeth all warrant a vet visit.

Senior Care: 8 Years and Beyond

Shih Tzus are a long-lived breed, typically living 12 to 16 years with proper care. Some reach 18 or even 20. But around age 8, you will start to notice changes—they slow down, sleep more, and may develop age-related health issues. Adjusting their care is essential to keeping them comfortable and healthy in their senior years.

Signs Your Shih Tzu Is Entering Their Senior Years

• Reduced energy and increased sleeping
• Graying around the muzzle and face
• Stiffness when getting up, especially after resting
• Weight gain (or loss) without changes in diet
• Cloudiness in the eyes (nuclear sclerosis, which is normal aging, versus cataracts, which require veterinary evaluation)
• Changes in appetite or eating habits
• Increased water intake or more frequent urination

Joint Health

Shih Tzus are prone to patellar luxation (kneecap displacement), and aging can exacerbate joint problems. To support your senior Shih Tzu's joints:

• Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight puts additional strain on already vulnerable joints. This is the single most important thing you can do for your senior Shih Tzu's mobility.
• Consider joint supplements. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health. Consult your vet for appropriate dosages for your dog's size.
• Provide soft bedding. A supportive orthopedic dog bed helps cushion aging joints. Avoid letting your senior Shih Tzu jump on and off high furniture—use pet stairs or ramps.
• Adjust exercise. Shorter, more frequent walks are better than fewer long walks. Swimming, if your dog tolerates it, is excellent low-impact exercise. Keep the routine gentle and let your dog set the pace.

Weight Management

Senior Shih Tzus are especially prone to weight gain because their metabolism slows while their appetite often stays the same (or even increases). An overweight senior Shih Tzu is at higher risk for joint problems, breathing difficulties, diabetes, and heart disease. Reduce daily calorie intake by 10% to 20% compared to their adult maintenance level, and weigh your dog regularly. You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs when you run your hands along their sides.

Adjusted Feeding for Seniors

Senior Shih Tzus benefit from:

• Higher protein quality. Contrary to the old myth that seniors need less protein, most veterinary nutritionists now recommend maintaining or even increasing protein levels for senior dogs—but the protein should be highly digestible and from quality sources. Fresh food with real, named meat ingredients is easier for aging digestive systems to process than heavily rendered kibble.
• Increased fiber. Older dogs often benefit from more dietary fiber to support digestive regularity.
• More frequent, smaller meals. Going back to three meals per day can be easier on a senior dog's digestive system than two larger meals.
• Adequate hydration. Senior dogs are more prone to dehydration. Fresh food's naturally high moisture content (around 70%) is a significant advantage over dry kibble (around 10% moisture) for keeping seniors hydrated. This also supports kidney function, which is important as Shih Tzus age.

Life Stage Feeding Guide

Here is a quick reference table for feeding your Shih Tzu at every life stage. Calorie needs are approximate and will vary based on your individual dog's weight, metabolism, and activity level. Always consult your vet for personalized recommendations, and use our feeding calculator for precise portions.

Life Stage	Age	Daily Calories (kcal)	Meals Per Day	Key Nutrients
Young Puppy	8–12 weeks	150–250	4	High protein, calcium, DHA for brain development
Puppy	3–6 months	250–350	3	Protein for growth, balanced Ca:P ratio, omega-3s
Adolescent	6–12 months	300–400	2–3	Protein, moderate fat, vitamins for coat development
Adult	1–8 years	200–450	2	Lean protein, omega-3/6, controlled calories
Senior	8+ years	180–380	2–3	High-quality protein, fiber, joint-supporting nutrients, hydration

Grooming Your Shih Tzu in the Philippine Climate

If there is one area where Shih Tzu ownership demands real commitment, it is grooming. That beautiful coat is high maintenance, and the Philippine heat and humidity make it even more challenging. Matting, skin infections, and odor can become problems quickly without proper grooming habits.

Coat Types and Styles

Shih Tzus have a double coat: a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, silky outer coat. You have two basic options for managing it:

• Full coat (show coat). The long, flowing coat you see in dog shows. Beautiful but impractical for most Philippine pet owners. Requires daily brushing, regular bathing, and constant attention to prevent matting. Not recommended in the tropical climate unless you are very committed.
• Puppy cut (teddy bear cut). The most popular style in the Philippines, where the coat is trimmed to 2 to 4 centimeters all over the body. Much easier to maintain, cooler for your dog, and still adorable. This is what 90% of Filipino Shih Tzu owners go with, and for good reason.

Grooming Schedule for Tropical Weather

In the Philippine climate, here is the recommended grooming schedule:

• Brushing: 3 to 4 times per week minimum for puppy cuts, daily for longer coats. Use a pin brush and a metal comb to work through tangles before they become mats. Pay special attention to behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area where matting starts.
• Bathing: Every 1 to 2 weeks. The humidity in the Philippines can cause your Shih Tzu to develop a musty smell faster than in cooler climates. Use a mild, dog-specific shampoo and make sure to dry their coat completely—a damp coat in humid weather is an invitation for fungal and bacterial skin infections.
• Professional grooming: Every 4 to 6 weeks for a full groom (bath, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning, anal gland expression). Budget ₱500 to ₱1,200 per session depending on location and the groomer. Mobile groomers who come to your condo are increasingly popular in Metro Manila and typically charge ₱800 to ₱1,500.
• Nail trimming: Every 2 to 3 weeks. If you can hear their nails clicking on tile floors, they are too long. You can do this at home with a nail clipper or Dremel, or have it done at grooming appointments.
• Ear cleaning: Weekly. Shih Tzus have hairy ear canals that trap moisture, making them prone to ear infections. Use a vet-recommended ear cleaning solution and cotton balls (never cotton swabs). The humidity in the Philippines makes regular ear maintenance even more important.
• Eye cleaning: Daily. Gently wipe the area around your Shih Tzu's eyes with a damp cotton pad to prevent tear staining buildup and remove debris. Their prominent eyes and facial folds collect moisture and discharge.

Preventing Matting in Tropical Weather

Humidity is the enemy of a tangle-free Shih Tzu coat. The moisture in the air causes the coat to clump and tangle more quickly than in drier climates. Tips for prevention:

• Keep the coat short (puppy cut) during the hottest months of March through June
• Brush thoroughly before and after baths—water tightens existing tangles into true mats
• Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray after brushing
• Dry your dog completely after baths, rain exposure, or any water contact
• Avoid letting your dog air-dry in humid conditions

6 Common Shih Tzu Health Issues

Understanding the health issues your Shih Tzu is predisposed to allows you to catch problems early and make preventive care decisions. Here are the six most common health concerns:

1. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

The Shih Tzu's flat face is cute but comes with a structural cost. Their shortened skull compresses the airway structures, leading to narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, and a narrower trachea. Symptoms include noisy breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, and overheating. Severe cases may require surgical correction.

What you can do: Keep your Shih Tzu at a healthy weight (obesity worsens breathing), avoid exercise in heat, use a harness instead of a collar (collars put pressure on the trachea), and consult your vet if breathing seems labored or your dog faints during exercise.

2. Dental Disease

As mentioned earlier, Shih Tzus are extremely prone to dental problems due to their small, crowded jaws. Periodontal disease affects the vast majority of Shih Tzus by age 3 if dental care is neglected. Tooth decay, gum infections, and tooth loss are common. The bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.

What you can do: Brush teeth regularly, schedule annual professional cleanings, feed soft food that does not require excessive chewing (a benefit of fresh food diets), and watch for signs of oral pain.

3. Eye Problems

Shih Tzus' large, prominent eyes are vulnerable to several conditions:

• Proptosis: The eyeball can actually pop out of the socket due to trauma or even rough play. This is a veterinary emergency requiring immediate treatment.
• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye): Insufficient tear production leading to dry, irritated, and potentially ulcerated corneas. Requires lifelong medication (eye drops).
• Corneal ulcers: Scratches or injuries to the cornea, which Shih Tzus are prone to because their eyes protrude. Signs include squinting, tearing, redness, and cloudiness.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A genetic condition causing gradual vision loss. Reputable breeders test for this.

What you can do: Keep facial hair trimmed away from the eyes, clean the eye area daily, avoid rough play that could injure the eyes, and see a vet promptly if you notice squinting, excessive tearing, redness, or cloudiness.

4. Patellar Luxation

This condition, where the kneecap slides out of its normal position, is common in small breeds including Shih Tzus. You may notice your dog suddenly lifting a hind leg while walking (skipping a step), then putting it back down as if nothing happened. Mild cases can be managed with weight control and joint supplements; severe cases may need surgery (₱20,000 to ₱50,000 or more depending on the surgeon and severity).

What you can do: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress, provide joint supplements as recommended by your vet, avoid excessive jumping on and off furniture, and use pet stairs or ramps for high surfaces.

5. Allergies and Skin Issues

Shih Tzus are among the most allergy-prone breeds. Both food allergies and environmental allergies (atopy) are common. The Philippine environment adds extra challenges with its high humidity, dust mites, and mold exposure—all common environmental allergens. Symptoms include:

• Itchy, red, or inflamed skin
• Excessive licking of paws
• Recurring ear infections
• Hot spots (localized areas of moist, infected skin)
• Chronic tear staining

What you can do: Feed a high-quality diet free from common allergens (many Shih Tzus are allergic to chicken, beef, wheat, or corn). A fish-based fresh food diet can help reduce inflammatory reactions. Keep their living environment clean, bathe regularly to remove environmental allergens from the coat, and work with your vet to identify specific triggers through elimination diets or allergy testing. For dogs with food-related allergies, switching to a fresh diet often makes a significant difference—read our guide on fresh food versus kibble to understand why.

6. Ear Infections

Those adorable floppy ears create a warm, dark, moist environment that is perfect for bacteria and yeast. Add the Philippine humidity, and ear infections are practically a rite of passage for Shih Tzu owners. Signs include head shaking, ear scratching, redness, odor, and dark discharge.

What you can do: Clean ears weekly with a vet-recommended solution, keep ear hair trimmed (your groomer can do this), dry ears thoroughly after bathing or swimming, and see your vet at the first signs of infection rather than waiting for it to worsen.

Exercise Requirements by Age

Shih Tzus are not athletic dogs, but they still need regular exercise for physical health and mental stimulation. Here is a guide by age:

Age	Daily Exercise	Type of Activity	Notes
8–16 weeks	10–15 min	Indoor play, short exploration (carry outdoors)	Keep sessions short; puppies tire quickly
4–6 months	15–20 min	Short walks, indoor play, socialization	Avoid stairs and jumping (joints still developing)
6–12 months	20–30 min	Two short walks, indoor play, basic training	Gradually increase duration
1–8 years (adult)	20–30 min	Two walks per day, indoor play, puzzle toys	Avoid midday heat; walk early AM or late PM
8+ years (senior)	15–20 min	Gentle walks, light indoor play	Let the dog set the pace; watch for joint pain

Remember: mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, training sessions, and even simply rotating their toys to keep things interesting all help keep your Shih Tzu mentally engaged.

Training Your Shih Tzu: Working With the Stubbornness

Let us be honest: Shih Tzus are not the easiest breed to train. They are intelligent—they understand what you want. They just do not always care. The Shih Tzu's independent, sometimes stubborn nature is baked into the breed. They were lap dogs for royalty, not working dogs bred to follow commands.

But Shih Tzus are absolutely trainable. The key is understanding how they are motivated and adjusting your approach accordingly.

Tips for Training a Stubborn Shih Tzu

• Use positive reinforcement only. Shih Tzus are sensitive dogs. Harsh corrections, yelling, or physical punishment will shut them down entirely. They will become fearful rather than obedient. Use treats, praise, and play as rewards for desired behavior.
• Keep sessions short. Five to ten minutes per session, two to three times per day, is much more effective than one long 30-minute session. Shih Tzus have short attention spans and lose interest quickly.
• Find their currency. Some Shih Tzus are food-motivated, others are play-motivated, and some just want your attention and praise. Figure out what makes your individual dog light up and use that as the reward. For picky Shih Tzus who are not motivated by their regular kibble, small pieces of high-value fresh food work wonders—see our guide on food for picky eaters for more on finding what motivates your dog.
• Be patient and consistent. A Shih Tzu may take twice as many repetitions to learn a command compared to a Border Collie or Poodle. That does not mean they are not smart—they are just deliberating whether it is worth their effort. Consistency in your commands, expectations, and rewards is what eventually gets through.
• Prioritize practical commands. Focus on commands that matter for condo living: "come," "sit," "stay," "leave it," and "quiet." Leash manners are also critical for navigating condo hallways and elevators.
• Socialize continuously. Training is not just about commands. A well-socialized Shih Tzu that is comfortable with new people, dogs, and environments is a joy to live with. Make socialization an ongoing part of their life, not just a puppy phase.

Cost of Owning a Shih Tzu in the Philippines

Before getting a Shih Tzu, it is worth understanding the financial commitment. Here is a brief overview of the typical costs:

• Purchase price: ₱5,000 to ₱25,000+ depending on lineage, breeder reputation, and papers. Adoption from rescues is typically ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 (adoption fee covering spay/neuter and vaccinations).
• Monthly food: ₱1,500 to ₱4,000+ depending on the quality of food. Premium fresh food like McDuffy for a typical 5 to 6 kg Shih Tzu runs approximately ₱3,000 to ₱3,500 per month.
• Grooming: ₱500 to ₱1,500 per session, every 4 to 6 weeks (₱600 to ₱1,200/month).
• Veterinary care: ₱5,000 to ₱15,000 per year for routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care. Emergency or specialist care can cost significantly more.
• Supplies and miscellaneous: ₱500 to ₱1,500 per month for treats, toys, pee pads, supplements, and replacement items.

For a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved in raising a dog in the Philippines, including hidden expenses that catch many first-time fur parents off guard, read our comprehensive cost of owning a dog in the Philippines guide.

Nutrition by Life Stage: Why Fresh Food Matters for Small Breeds

Small breed dogs like Shih Tzus have unique nutritional needs that are often poorly served by standard commercial kibble. Understanding why can help you make better feeding decisions at every life stage.

The Small Breed Challenge

Shih Tzus burn calories faster per kilogram than larger breeds. Their stomachs are small, meaning they need nutrient-dense food that delivers maximum nutrition in small portions. They also tend to be pickier eaters than larger breeds—a Labrador will eat anything, but many Shih Tzu owners have experienced the frustration of a dog that turns its nose up at perfectly good food.

Why Fresh Food Benefits Shih Tzus Specifically

• Higher palatability. Fresh food smells and tastes like real food because it is real food. Picky Shih Tzus that refuse kibble will often eat fresh food enthusiastically. The texture, aroma, and moisture content of gently cooked fresh food is closer to what dogs naturally prefer.
• Better nutrient absorption. Gently cooked fresh food retains more bioavailable nutrients than heavily processed kibble that has been extruded at high temperatures. This means your Shih Tzu absorbs more nutrition from each meal.
• Natural moisture content. Fresh food contains approximately 70% moisture compared to kibble's 10%. This natural hydration supports kidney function, urinary tract health, and helps Shih Tzus in the Philippine heat stay hydrated—especially important for a brachycephalic breed that loses moisture through heavy panting.
• Easier on teeth and jaws. The soft texture of fresh food is easier for Shih Tzus' small, crowded mouths to handle. Despite what some kibble marketing claims, hard kibble does not clean teeth—it shatters on contact rather than scraping plaque.
• No artificial additives. Fresh food is free from the artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers that contribute to tear staining, skin allergies, and digestive issues in sensitive Shih Tzus.
• Visible, identifiable ingredients. You can see the real beef, pork, fish, and vegetables in fresh food. No mystery "meat meals" or "animal by-products" of unknown origin.

The difference fresh food makes is often visible within weeks: improved coat shine, reduced tear staining, better digestion, more energy, and enthusiastic mealtimes instead of food refusal. Many Shih Tzu owners who switch to fresh food say they wish they had done it sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Shih Tzus live?

Shih Tzus are a long-lived breed with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Some Shih Tzus live to 18 or even 20 years with excellent care, proper nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, and a bit of genetic luck. The most impactful things you can do for longevity are maintaining a healthy weight, providing quality nutrition, keeping up with dental care, and scheduling regular vet visits to catch health issues early.

Are Shih Tzus good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, Shih Tzus are generally considered a good breed for first-time owners. They are friendly, adaptable, low-energy, and do not require the intensive training or exercise that many other breeds demand. The main challenges for first-time owners are grooming commitment (it is ongoing and non-negotiable), potty training patience (they can be stubborn), and dental care (often overlooked by new owners). As long as you are prepared for these responsibilities, a Shih Tzu is a wonderful first dog.

Can Shih Tzus handle the Philippine climate?

Yes, with precautions. Shih Tzus can live comfortably in the Philippines if you manage their heat exposure carefully. Keep them in air-conditioned or well-ventilated spaces during the hottest parts of the day, walk them early morning or late afternoon only, keep their coat trimmed in a short puppy cut, and always have fresh water available. Watch for signs of heat stress: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and bright red gums. The vast majority of Shih Tzus in the Philippines live happy, healthy lives with these basic precautions.

How often should I take my Shih Tzu to the vet?

Puppies (under 1 year) should visit the vet every 3 to 4 weeks for vaccinations and growth monitoring. Healthy adults (1 to 8 years) should have annual wellness exams. Senior Shih Tzus (8+ years) benefit from twice-yearly check-ups, as age-related conditions can develop quickly. Beyond routine visits, see your vet anytime you notice changes in appetite, energy, bathroom habits, breathing, or behavior.

What is the best food for a Shih Tzu with allergies?

For Shih Tzus with food allergies, a limited-ingredient diet with a novel protein is often the best approach. Fish-based fresh food is an excellent option because fish is less commonly allergenic than chicken or beef, and the omega-3 fatty acids in fish actively help reduce inflammatory skin reactions. Avoid foods with wheat, corn, soy, and artificial additives, which are common triggers. An elimination diet supervised by your vet can help identify the specific allergen. For detailed food recommendations, see our Shih Tzu food guide.

How much does it cost to own a Shih Tzu per month in the Philippines?

A realistic monthly budget for a Shih Tzu in the Philippines is ₱3,500 to ₱7,000, covering food (₱1,500 to ₱4,000), grooming (₱600 to ₱1,200), and miscellaneous supplies (₱500 to ₱1,500). This does not include veterinary costs, which are variable but should be budgeted for. For a full cost breakdown, see our complete cost guide.

Should I get my Shih Tzu spayed or neutered?

Most veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering your Shih Tzu unless you are a responsible breeder. For females, spaying before the first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer and eliminates the risk of pyometra (a potentially fatal uterine infection). For males, neutering reduces the risk of prostate problems and certain cancers. The typical cost in the Philippines is ₱3,000 to ₱8,000 depending on the clinic, the dog's size, and whether it is a spay (more complex surgery) or neuter.

Is it okay to feed my Shih Tzu homemade food?

Homemade food can be fine, but only if the recipes are formulated by a veterinary nutritionist to be complete and balanced. The biggest risk with homemade diets is nutritional deficiency—dogs need specific ratios of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids that are difficult to achieve without professional formulation. If you want the benefits of fresh, real food without the risk of nutritional imbalance, a commercially prepared fresh food like McDuffy that is AAFCO-balanced gives you the best of both worlds: real ingredients, complete nutrition, and the convenience of pre-portioned meals.

Final Thoughts: Giving Your Shih Tzu the Best Life in the Philippines

Shih Tzus are not just popular in the Philippines by accident. They are genuinely one of the best breeds for Filipino lifestyles—compact, loving, calm, and adaptable to condo living and tropical weather. Maliit pero matapang, mabait, at malambing. They ask for relatively little: your companionship, regular grooming, proper nutrition, and basic health care.

In return, they give you 12 to 16 years of unconditional devotion, entertaining personality, and the kind of loyal companionship that makes coming home to your condo—no matter how small—feel like coming home to family.

The investment you make in understanding their needs at every life stage, from that tiny 8-week-old puppy to a graying senior, pays off in a healthier, happier dog and fewer emergency vet bills. Feed them well. Groom them regularly. Keep up with vet visits and dental care. And most importantly, enjoy every year you have with them.