Shih Tzu Sleeping Habits

Updated November 21, 2016

The Shih Tzu is an ancient dog breed that was once used as a lapdog for Chinese royalty. The Shih Tzu was also known to be used as a bedwarmer and would often sleep in the noble's beds. It is also one of the most popular breeds in America, according to the registration statistics of the American Kennel club. The Shih Tzu is well known for its long coat, turned-up tail and short muzzle. Like all dogs, the Shih Tzu likes to sleep for a large portion of the day, although it does sleep less than large breeds.


Like all puppies, Shih Tzus need a lot of sleep. There is not a specific amount of sleep that the Shih Tzu puppy will need, although it will usually sleep for at least 14 hours a day. Puppies should be allowed to sleep whenever they are tired.


The Shih Tzu was first bred as a companion dog, two centuries ago in China. As a loving companion, the Shih Tzu will often enjoy sleeping on its owner's lap.


Like many dogs, the Shih Tzu is an opportunistic hunter. Therefore, it will often sleep when nothing is happening. Likewise, the Shih Tzu will often react when there is activity going on around it. This can prove a helpful trait for a pet dog as the Shih Tzu can learn to sleep through the night when the family does. Sleeping dogs should not be disturbed because they can be snappy when awakened.


Adult Shih Tzus generally sleep about 12 hours a day, although this can differ between individual dogs. As a Shih Tzu ages, it will often sleep longer, and there is no reason for concern. Shih Tzus have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. Older dogs can sometimes sleep 20 hours a day.


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