Why Are Shih Tzus So Annoying? (And Why You Might Just Love Them Anyway)

Shih Tzus are one of the cutest, most affectionate small dog breeds, with their flat faces, big eyes, and fluffy coats, they melt hearts all around the world, but let’s face it, they can all be annoying sometimes too.

If you’re a Shih Tzu owner you probably have asked yourself at least once:
Why is my Shih Tzu so stubborn, clingy or noisy?

Throughout this article, we will breakdown the common behaviors that make Shih Tzus seem “annoying” and explain the reasons behind it. Most importantly, we will provide tips to manage their behavior, and (hopefully) help you appreciate this breed a little more.

Are Shih Tzus Actually Annoying?

Let us clarify: Shih Tzus are not bad dogs – they are just unique. What some people see as annoying, others see as charming. But, there are some behaviors that tend to test owners’ patience.

Here are the most common complaints:

• Stubborn or difficult to train
• Excessive barking
• Demanding attention all the time
• Peeing indoors
• Getting overly attached
• Acting like royalty

Sound familiar? Let’s break down where these behaviors come from — and how to handle them.

1. Stubborn and Hard to Train

Shih Tzus can be extremely stubborn. A lot of owners will say their dog “just ignores them,” or won’t even perform basic commands.

Why it happens:
Shih Tzus were bred to simply be lap dogs for Chinese royalty, not work or herd. That means they are independent thinkers. They don’t have the drive to please with some breeds (Labs or Border Collies).

Fix it:

• Use positive reinforcement — treats, toys, and praise work wonders.
• Keep training sessions short and fun.
• Be consistent. Shih Tzus test boundaries and will take advantage of inconsistency.

Patience is key. They’re smart — just not always cooperative.

2. Constant Barking

Shih Tzus love to bark. They’ll bark at the doorbell, the neighbors, the wind, the fridge… pretty much anything.

Why it happens:
This breed can be alert and territorial. Despite their size, they often think they’re big guard dogs. They also bark for:

• Attention
• Boredom
• Anxiety
• Habit

Fix it:

• Avoid yelling — it sounds like you’re joining in!
• Use commands like “quiet” or “enough”, and reward silence.
• Provide daily mental stimulation to prevent boredom barking.

If the barking is triggered by separation anxiety, your Shih Tzu may need gradual desensitization or calming support.

3. Clingy and Attention-Seeking

Shih Tzus love their humans — maybe a little too much. They’ll follow you from room to room, cry when you leave, and demand cuddles all day long.

Why it happens:
They were bred for companionship and don’t like being alone. They often form strong attachments to one person and want to be with them constantly.

Fix it:

• Teach independent behaviors — reward calm, quiet alone time.
• Avoid always picking them up when they whine or paw at you.
• Practice leaving them alone in short bursts to build confidence.

Some owners find this clinginess sweet — others find it overwhelming. Either way, it’s part of the Shih Tzu personality.

4. Indoor Potty Accidents

Shih Tzus can be frustrating to house-train. Some owners say their dog seems to forget everything they’ve been taught the moment it rains or gets cold outside.

Why it happens:
They’re small dogs with small bladders, and they often dislike uncomfortable weather. If training isn’t consistent, accidents become a habit.

Fix it:

• Stick to a strict schedule for feeding and potty breaks.
• Reward every successful bathroom trip outdoors.
• Use indoor pee pads as a backup, especially in bad weather.
• Rule out health issues like UTIs if accidents are frequent.

Potty training a Shih Tzu takes longer than with many other breeds — but it can be done.

5. Picky Eaters

Some Shih Tzus refuse food for no reason — then suddenly demand chicken from your plate.

Why it happens:
They can be finicky due to their small appetites, sensitive stomachs, or because they’ve learned that being picky gets them better food.

Fix it:

• Stick to a high-quality dog food and avoid switching brands often.
• Don’t give too many table scraps.
• Set a time limit (e.g. 15 minutes) for meals, then remove the food.

Avoid turning meals into a power struggle — consistency usually wins.

6. Grooming Drama

Baths, brushing, eye wiping, ear cleaning — a Shih Tzu needs it all. And many of them hate every second of it.

Why it happens:
They’re sensitive and opinionated about being handled, especially around the face. Some have had bad grooming experiences that make them fearful.

Fix it:

• Start grooming early and keep sessions short and positive.
• Use treats to make brushing a rewarding experience.
• Consider a puppy cut (short hairstyle) to reduce daily brushing.

Regular grooming is a must — so making it as stress-free as possible is essential for both of you.

7. Acting Like a Diva

Does your Shih Tzu ignore commands, only sit on the softest pillow, or throw a tantrum when things don’t go their way?

Congratulations — you may have a little dog with a big ego.

Why it happens:
This breed is often spoiled unintentionally because they’re cute. Owners forgive bad behavior and reward it without realizing it.

Fix it:

• Set clear rules and stick to them.
• Don’t let your dog always get their way.
• Encourage calm, respectful behavior — not sass and drama.

You’re the leader — even if your dog thinks they’re the emperor of the house.

The Other Side: Why People Still Love Shih Tzus

Yes, they can be a handful — but Shih Tzus also have some of the most lovable traits in the dog world.

• They’re loving lap dogs and good friends.
• They’re great with children and other animals.
• They require minimal exercise – perfect for apartment life.
• They’re fun, silly, and tend to act like little clowns.

Once you understand their quirks, they’re easier to manage — and you may just fall in love with their royal attitudes.

Tips to Make Life Easier with a Shih Tzu

• Routine is everything: Feeding, walking, and sleeping on a schedule helps reduce bad behavior.
• Daily exercise: Even a small dog needs stimulation and movement.
• Training with kindness: Use praise, treats, and repetition.
• Enrichment toys: Keep their minds busy when you’re not around.
• Early socialization: Expose them to sounds, people, and grooming early on.

Final Thoughts

Shih Tzus may seem “obnoxious,” but their annoying behaviors are simply personality traits that can be understood and mitigated.

Your Shih Tzu is not trying to drive you crazy — it has a strong opinion, tender feelings, and a royal sense of entitlement.

With plenty of love, patience, and consistency, your Shih Tzu will be not just less obnoxious, but a truly loyal and delightful companion.

People also ask

Do Shih Tzus ever calm down?
Yes, they usually calm down after 12–18 months with proper routine and training.

What kind of person owns a Shih Tzu?
Someone patient, affectionate, and home-loving — great for families or apartment living.

Do Shih Tzus have behavioral issues?
Yes, like barking, stubbornness, and separation anxiety — but they’re manageable with training.

What is rage syndrome in Shih Tzus?
It’s extremely rare. Sudden aggression is more likely due to fear, pain, or poor socialization — not true “rage syndrome.”