National Shih Tzu Day 2024: Date, Origin, and Ways to Celebrate

Want to share your love for your shih tzu? National Shih Tzu Day is the perfect day to honor the loyal and royal breed publicly. Keep reading to learn more about National Shih Tzu Day and the best ways to celebrate with your little lion.

When Is National Shih Tzu Day?

Every day is National Shih Tzu Day when you own a shih tzu. Although there isn’t an official holiday yet, some creators on Instagram and TikTok designate July 24 as National Shih Tzu Day by using the hashtag #nationalshihtzuday. Shih tzu lovers also celebrate their favorite breed on National Dog Day, which takes place every year on August 26, and National Puppy Day on March 23.

If you’re passionate about shih tzus and their rich history, you can be the one to make National Shih Tzu Day official. You don’t have to create an event that breaks a Guinness World Record, like National Beagle Day. Still, you can dedicate a day to educating others on the unique features that make shih tzus incredible companions and meet fellow owners.

A Brief History of Shih Tzus 

An officially recognized National Shih Tzu Day is not yet established, but shih tzus have been admired for hundreds of years. In fact, the breed dates back at least a century, with their original ancestors traced back to as early as 1,000 B.C. Although the regal “Little Lion” – the Mandarin translation of their name – is associated with China, they originate from Tibet. It’s theorized that Chinese royals received these loyal dogs as gifts from Tibet, then bred them with breeds including pugs and the Pekingese to get the modern-day shih tzu.

Shih tzus were almost wiped out in the early 20th century, but seven males and seven females saved the breed. By the 1950s, they were brought to Europe and the United States. They quickly became popular, making them one of the most favored breeds in the United States. Many celebrities own them, including Beyonce, Mariah Carey, and Bill Gates.

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Shih Tzu Day

There are unlimited ways to celebrate National Shih Tzu Day, but here are a few ideas to start the party. 

Have a Spa Day

Shih tzus love to be spoiled, and their coats are high-maintenance. Fur grows from their face in every direction, earning them the nickname “chrysanthemum-faced dogs.” Not much time passes between trips to the groomers. 

Pamper your shih tzu with a timely trip to their favorite pet groomer or a reputable dog spa. Give your canine companion the five-star treatment they deserve with a fresh cut, nail treatment, and even a calming massage. Find something relaxing to do for yourself while you wait for your dog’s appointment to end.  

On the other hand, you can have a mini spa day at home. Bathing and grooming your dog can increase your bond and help them feel more comfortable being handled. However, you may want to stick to a simple bath and maybe a nail trim, leaving the haircut to the professionals. But no matter what you do to relax, a peaceful day together is the perfect way to bond.   

Try a New Enrichment Activity 

There is no better way to keep your dog busy than with a new activity. Shih tzus love spending playtime with their owners. Enrichment activities and toys keep your fur babies engaged in a fun way. Some popular examples include a stuffed Kong, scent work, snuffle mats, puzzle toys, and other treat dispensers. Your dog will enjoy their favorite treats while stimulating their mind. If you want to avoid games that require food, you can also play fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek. 

Make Homemade Treats

Do you love to bake? Another fun way to celebrate National Shih Tzu Day is by making pet-friendly treats. Consider any allergies and your dog’s size to determine the best recipes. Plenty of simple recipes online are available according to ingredients and occasion. For example, you can bake pumpkin cookies or peanut butter bones.

If you’re not much of a chef but want to make something special, you can also make cheesy pupsicles or frozen yogurt treats. Homemade dog treats are a fun way to test your creativity in the kitchen and give your shih tzu something delicious to eat.      

Go on an Adventure

Shih tzus require 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise to stay physically healthy and mentally stimulated. Since they’re small dogs, splitting their exercise requirements into shorter increments throughout the day is best. You don’t want them to become too tired or overly stimulated. Moreover, too much time outside can be dangerous depending on the climate where you live. However, going for a short adventure somewhere new in your area can be fun for both of you. 

Get your steps in on National Shih Tzu Day while your dog does their scent work. You can walk in a new neighborhood, check out a local pet-friendly restaurant, or walk along the beach. The options are endless. Bring water and a snack, and see where the day takes you. You might even find your new favorite place to hang out.    

Adopt a Shih Tzu

There’s no better way to celebrate shih tzus than by adopting one. Although shih tzus are harder to find in shelters than pit bulls and Labrador retrievers, two commonly rehomed breeds, shih tzus are available through shelters and rescue groups all over the country. And many of them are older.

Due to common misconceptions, many senior dogs struggled to get adopted. Bonding with an older rescue dog can take time as they learn to trust you. But it’s possible to build a strong bond with a senior just as you would with a puppy. Older dogs tend to be calmer and don’t require as much supervision. It’s important to keep in mind the potential health problems an older shih tzu has and whether you can meet their needs.  

Rescuing a shih tzu from the shelter or a local rescue is one of the best ways to celebrate National Shih Tzu Day. Keep in mind that dogs who are rehomed or given up for adoption don’t always have health or behavioral issues. Sometimes, their previous owners were unable to care for them.

If you think a shih tzu is right for you, becoming their forever home will change your life and theirs for the better.