Male vs Female Shih Tzu
One of the most common questions we get: does the sex of a Shih Tzu really make a difference? Here's an honest, detailed breakdown.
The Honest Answer: It's Mostly About Individual Personality
Before diving into the differences, it's important to set realistic expectations: the gap between male and female Shih Tzus is smaller than most people expect. The breed's core Shih Tzu temperament traits — warmth, affection, adaptability, and loyalty — apply to both sexes equally. What you experience will depend far more on the individual puppy's personality, the quality of their breeding, and how they are raised and trained than on whether they are male or female.
That said, there are real tendencies that differ between the sexes, and understanding them can help you make a more informed decision — especially if you have a specific lifestyle, household dynamic, or preference.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Male Shih Tzu
- Consistently outgoing and affectionate
- Loves attention from everyone
- Typically very cuddly and devoted
- May be slightly more playful and goofy
- Intact males may mark territory — neutering resolves this
- Can be more easily distracted during training
- Tends to bond equally with all family members
- Generally easygoing with other dogs
Female Shih Tzu
- Deeply affectionate but on her own terms
- May bond most strongly with one person
- Can be more independent or moody
- Often slightly more focused and trainable
- Heat cycles if unspayed (recommended to spay)
- Tends to be a bit more cautious with strangers
- Can be more territorial with other females
- Often described as having a 'personality' all their own
Size Differences
Per the AKC breed standard, both male and female Shih Tzus should weigh between 9 and 16 pounds, with the ideal weight being between 9 and 16 lbs for both sexes. In practice, males may trend very slightly heavier — perhaps half a pound to a pound on average — but there's substantial overlap. A large female may easily outweigh a smaller male.
If a specific size is important to you (smaller vs. larger within the standard range), discuss this with us directly. We can give you a better estimate of adult size based on the puppy's current weight and the size of the parents, which is a more reliable predictor than sex alone.
Personality & Affection Style
Male Shih Tzus are often described as openly affectionate and eager to please. They tend to love everyone equally and will happily seek out lap time with any available person in the house. Many owners describe their male Shih Tzu as a dog who acts like he loves you more than anything in the world — and means it every single time.
Female Shih Tzus, on the other hand, can be a bit more selective. Many owners describe their female Shih Tzu as having a distinct "personality" — she knows what she wants, she'll let you know when she's in the mood for attention, and she'll also let you know (politely) when she'd prefer a nap. Female Shih Tzus often form an incredibly intense, devoted bond with their primary person.
Neither style is better — it depends on your preference. If you want a dog that will enthusiastically seek affection from everyone in the family, a male may be a better fit. If you love the idea of a dog that has a rich inner personality and becomes your deeply devoted shadow, a female may suit you.
Trainability
Both sexes are trainable and intelligent. Female Shih Tzus are sometimes considered slightly easier to focus during training sessions because they can be less easily distracted. Males, especially intact males, may get sidetracked by scents and environmental stimuli. However, neutered males typically train just as well as females.
For housebreaking specifically, intact males can be more challenging due to the instinct to mark — see our complete housebreaking guide for the methods that work best for this breed. A male puppy that has not been neutered may try to leave small scent marks indoors. Neutering before 6 months almost entirely eliminates this behavior. If you choose a male, we recommend discussing neutering timing with your vet.
Both sexes benefit enormously from crate training. The crate provides a safe den-like space, makes housebreaking faster and more reliable, and reduces anxiety when you're away. We recommend crate training regardless of your puppy's sex.
Spay & Neuter Considerations
Unless you are a licensed breeder with the intention of responsibly producing puppies, we strongly recommend spaying your female and neutering your male. Here's why:
Benefits of Spaying (Females)
- Eliminates heat cycles and associated behavioral changes
- Dramatically reduces risk of mammary tumors
- Eliminates risk of uterine infection (pyometra)
- Prevents unwanted litters
Benefits of Neutering (Males)
- Greatly reduces or eliminates marking behavior
- Reduces roaming instinct and aggression toward other males
- Eliminates testicular cancer risk
- Often improves trainability and focus
Discuss the optimal timing for spay/neuter with your veterinarian. Many vets recommend waiting until the puppy is at least 6 months old to allow proper hormonal development.
Which Sex Is Right for Your Household?
Families with children
Either sex works beautifully. Males may be slightly more consistently patient with energetic kids, but well-socialized females are equally wonderful with children.
Single owners or seniors
Females often form especially intense one-on-one bonds, making them a popular choice for single owners. Males are equally devoted but spread their affection more broadly.
Homes with another male dog
Adding a female Shih Tzu to a home with an existing male often results in faster and easier integration. Same-sex pairings can work but may require more careful introductions.
First-time dog owners
Both sexes are appropriate for first-time owners. If you're concerned about training difficulty, neutered males and females are roughly equal. Consistency and positive reinforcement matter more than sex.
People who travel frequently
Either sex can adapt well, but if the dog will be cared for by different people in your absence, a male's broader affection for everyone may be an advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are male or female Shih Tzus more affectionate?
Both are highly affectionate. Males tend to be openly affectionate with everyone, while females often form a deeply intense bond with their primary person. Neither is 'more' loving — they just express it differently.
Are male Shih Tzus harder to potty train?
Intact males can be, due to marking instincts. Neutered males are essentially equal to females in housebreaking ease. Crate training and a consistent schedule are the real keys regardless of sex.
Are male or female Shih Tzus bigger?
The difference is minimal. Both typically weigh 9–16 lbs. Males may average slightly heavier, but individual variation is much greater than sex-based differences.
Which is easier to train — male or female?
Females are sometimes slightly more focused during training. However, individual personality and consistent positive reinforcement training matter far more than sex.
Do male Shih Tzus mark in the house?
Intact males may. Neutering before 6 months almost entirely prevents indoor marking. Early training and consistent supervision during housebreaking also help.
Should I get a male or female if I already have a dog?
Opposite-sex pairings generally integrate more smoothly. If you have a male dog, consider a female Shih Tzu, and vice versa. That said, Shih Tzus tend to be easygoing with all dogs when properly introduced.
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