Shih Tzu stud dogs with size, color and health details
The Shih Tzu was bred for one job: to be a charming companion. So a good sire should pass on a sweet nature, clear eyes and easy breathing. On VerifiedStuds each stud profile lists weight, color, health checks and fee, with an identity-verified owner.
$400 to $1,200+
typical fee, while champion sires cost more
No official list
so ask for eye, knee and kidney checks
Natural, chilled, frozen
breeding methods
Shih Tzu profiles are opening as owners verify. Meanwhile, any healthy, vet-checked male can claim a free Founding Stud spot.
Founding Stud spot open
List his adult weight, color and vet checks up front, since those are what Shih Tzu breeders compare first.
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Founding Studs pay 0% commission on their first booking, and listing is also free.
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Short on time? Then send us the documents, and we will build the listing for you.
Claim this spotShih Tzu stud fees usually run from $400 to $1,200. A vet-checked male without titles often charges $400 to $900. However, AKC champions and males in sought-after colors, such as liver or blue, can ask $1,200 to $2,000.
These are market estimates, as fees are private. Many owners also accept a puppy instead of cash. Either way, put the terms in writing. Our stud fee guide shows what a fair contract covers.
$400 to $1,200+
Overall range: $400 to $2,000
Vet-checked, untitled male: $400 to $900
Champion or in-demand color: $1,200 to $2,000
Unusually, the American Shih Tzu Club has no required test list, and the AKC Toy Group health testing page shows none for the breed. Even so, careful breeders screen for the known problems. We suggest that owners upload these checks:
Test
What we accept
Eyes
Exam by a board-certified ophthalmologist (ACVO)
Patellas
Veterinary patellar luxation exam
Kidneys
Blood and urine screen from your vet
Hips
Optional OFA hip evaluation
Brucellosis
Negative test taken before the breeding
Eyes come first, because the large, prominent eyes of the breed are prone to injury and disease. Kidney disease, known as renal dysplasia, also runs in some families. In addition, ask how the stud breathes during exercise and in warm weather. Registered exams can be checked on the OFA website.
Our health testing guides explain eye exams, patella grades and DNA panels in simple terms. Read the full Shih Tzu health testing guide.
First, check his size. The AKC standard calls for 9 to 16 pounds and 9 to 10.5 inches at the shoulder. Very small dogs sold as "imperial" or "teacup" Shih Tzu are not a recognized variety, and they often have more health problems.
Next, look at his face. Open nostrils, a muzzle that is short but not flat, and eyes that are not bulging all help puppies breathe and see comfortably. So ask for a short video of him walking and playing.
Finally, consider coat and color. All colors are allowed in the breed. However, the coat should be long, dense and double. Also ask about his bite and his temperament, which should be outgoing and trusting.
The AKC describes the Shih Tzu as affectionate, playful and outgoing. The breed comes from Tibet and the Chinese imperial court, where these "lion dogs" lived as palace pets for centuries.
Shih Tzu ranked 21st in AKC registrations for 2025. They suit apartments, families and older owners alike. Because there is no official test list, a stud owner who screens anyway is a very good sign.
Shih Tzu can breed naturally, although the heavy coat and short legs often call for a helping hand. Therefore, many toy breeders use artificial insemination. Chilled semen is also an option when the best match lives far away. Each profile lists the methods on offer.
Read the dog artificial insemination guide for the basics. Then see how VerifiedStuds works.
1
First, shortlist studs and message owners through the site to agree on dates and terms.
2
Then book the stud and pay the listed fee by card at checkout.
3
After that, accept the breeding terms before the booking confirms.
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Finally, the owner is paid through Stripe, and you can leave a verified review after the breeding.
Own a Shih Tzu stud? List Your Stud free. The first 100 studs pay no commission on their first booking.
Also compare Yorkshire Terrier studs, Pomeranian studs, Maltese studs and Bichon Frise studs, or see every breed on our stud dogs by breed page. Planning his workload? Then read our guide to age limits for studs. Owners of every breed can list here.
How much is a Shih Tzu stud fee?
Most owners charge $400 to $1,200. However, champions and in-demand colors can reach $2,000.
What health tests should a Shih Tzu stud have?
There is no official list. Nevertheless, careful breeders check eyes, kneecaps and kidneys. We also ask for a negative brucellosis test before breeding.
What is an imperial Shih Tzu?
It is a sales name for an undersized dog. The AKC recognizes one Shih Tzu, weighing 9 to 16 pounds.
Are liver and blue Shih Tzu purebred?
Yes. All colors are permitted in the breed standard. However, color alone says nothing about health or quality.
Can I list a toy breed that has no page?
Yes. Any breed can be listed on VerifiedStuds.
How do I list my Shih Tzu at stud?
Create a free account, add his weight, color, vet checks and photos, and set your fee. Or let our team build the listing for you.
List him free while the 100 Founding Stud spots are open, or compare typical fees first.