Shih Tzu Colors: Common, Rare, and Unique

The Shih Tzu is a beloved breed known for its small size and adorable face. They come in a variety of colors, ranging from solid to multi-colored.

One of the most common colors is white. According to the article, white is the most common color for Shih Tzus, found in over 50% of the breed.

Another common color is black. The article notes that black Shih Tzus are often seen with white markings or patches.

Shih Tzus can also come in a range of other colors, including gray, brown, and red. These colors can be solid or have white markings.

The most common Shih Tzu color is a matter of debate, but it's clear that double-colored Shih Tzus are quite common, often featuring one primary hue and white.

Red is a popular color in Shih Tzus, especially in puppies, but many grow out of it as they mature.

Black Shih Tzus are relatively rare, despite the dominant black gene in many breeds. They often have white markings and may appear black with shades of blue or chocolate in their coats.

Blue Shih Tzus have a unique skin tone, not just a coat color, and can have a lavender cast to their eye rims, nose, and lips.

Solid black Shih Tzus are rare, but they're a beautiful sight to behold. Any solid color on a Shih Tzu is rare, but black is the most commonly seen monochromatic option.

Most black Shih Tzus have small splotches of color elsewhere, but pure black pups do exist. A black Shih Tzu will always have black paws, a black nose, and dark-colored eyes.

Black Shih Tzus don't cope well with hot temperatures, so they need special care in warm weather. They also aren't visible to motorists at night, which is why they should be walked in an LED collar or harness.

Intriguing read: Rare Bull Terrier

The solid white Shih Tzu is a rare and beautiful sight to behold. It's even rarer to find a completely white Shih Tzu than a black one.

White Shih Tzus are the result of an extreme dilution of the red or yellow pigment, pheomelanin, which is caused by the piebald gene. This gene is recessive, so both parents must carry it for a white puppy to be born.

To keep a white Shih Tzu looking its best, owners must commit to a regular and thorough grooming regime. Shampoos specifically designed for Shih Tzus are a must.

A true white Shih Tzu should have dark eyes, black eye rims, and a black nose.

Broaden your view: Shih Tzu Good with Kids

The solid blue Shih Tzu is a rare and stunning color variation. Its coat can appear gray or charcoal most of the time, but in the right light, it gives off a brilliant blue shimmer.

The blue color is actually just a diluted black, and it occurs when the pup has something known as “the dilution gene.” This genetic trait affects the production of melanin, resulting in a lighter, more diluted color.

A blue Shih Tzu's skin color is often mistaken for the color of its coat, but in reality, the skin is actually a different shade. The color of its nose and lips will confirm its true coloration, which is a result of an interaction between the dilution gene, D-Locus allele, and the black allele.

Some blue Shih Tzus may also have blue or pale-colored eyes, adding to their unique and striking appearance.

For your interest: German Shorthaired Pointer Coat

The Shih Tzu's coat colors have a rich history, with black, white, and gold being especially significant during the Ming Dynasty, approximately 1368-1644.

These colors represented balance and harmony, akin to the Yin and Yang in traditional Chinese philosophy.

The blacks and whites symbolized the balance between opposing forces, while the rich golds echoed the wealth and prosperity of the empire.

The Shih Tzu's status as a royal companion during this time period influenced their coat colors, making them a true reflection of their imperial heritage.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Shih Tzu's coat colors evolved as they interbred with other breeds and adapted to new environments.

This period marked a significant change in their coat colors, with a broader spectrum of colors and patterns emerging.

By the early 20th century, the Shih Tzu's coat boasted a range of colors that mirrored their new homes' cultural and genetic melting pot.

Today, each color and pattern on a Shih Tzu's coat is a testament to their royal lineage and their ability to adapt and thrive through the ages.

You might like: Royal Canin Miniature Schnauzer Puppy

The most common Shih Tzu colors are a topic of debate, but it's clear that the double-colored coat is a regular sight, suggesting it's more common than a single solid color.

Double-colored coats are a popular choice among Shih Tzu owners, and it's easy to see why - they're striking and add a lot of visual interest to the breed.

The double-colored coat is a defining feature of the Shih Tzu, and it's what sets them apart from other small dog breeds.

Some Shih Tzus have a coat of one single solid color, but it's not as common as the double-colored coat.

Overall, the double-colored coat is a classic look for the Shih Tzu breed.

A different take: Bernese Mountain Dog Coat

While many people are familiar with the classic white and brown colors of the Shih Tzu, there are several other colors that are recognized by kennel clubs.

The Shih Tzu's coat can also be a combination of white and another color, such as black, gray, or tan. This is known as a "parti" color.

The Shih Tzu's coat can be a solid color or a combination of colors, including brindle, which is a striped pattern of black and brown stripes over a base coat of fawn or red.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Yorkshire Terrier Coat Type

Liver Shih Tzus are sometimes called "chocolate", and while they're largely brown, they're usually not exclusively so. You'll often find white patches on the chest and possibly elsewhere.

The "liver" name doesn't actually refer to the coat color, but the color of the dog's skin at their points, such as the nose, lips, and paw pads.

Worth a look: Liver and White Shih Tzu

Brindle Shih Tzus have a solid base coat streaked with another color, resulting in a multi-colored tone. This pattern can vary widely from dog to dog.

The brindle effect is often described as "tiger-striped", with streaks of color running through the base color. Some Shih Tzus may have thick, dark stripes, while others have faint, narrow splashes of color.

Brindle Shih Tzus can have a range of colors, including gold, tan, brown, and black. The base coat and streaked color can be any combination, making each brindle Shih Tzu unique.

Some brindle Shih Tzus may have a distinct pattern that fades as they mature, making it difficult for owners to determine if their dog is truly brindle.

A completely black Shih Tzu, without any white markings, is arguably the least common.

Pure white Shih Tzus are only seen rarely, and a white puppy with black markings is virtually unheard of.

These unique colors are a result of the complex genetics of the breed, making each one truly special.

Silver Shih Tzus are relatively rare, even though color combinations like silver and white are common.

Their pale appearance is due to a silvery sheen to their coats that white Shih Tzus lack.

Silver Shih Tzus have black pads, eye rims, and lips, as well as a black nose, just like their white counterparts.

As silver Shih Tzus age, their coats can become increasingly grey.

Some Shih Tzus that are born black will transition to a more silver color coat as they mature.

Consider reading: Silver Thai Ridgeback

Lavender or Isabella is a unique and striking color found in various dog breeds, most notably the Weimaraner. This color is created by the dilution of color due to the MLPH gene.

Consider reading: Doberman Pinscher Color Chart

The MLPH gene is responsible for diluting the brown pigment, resulting in a lilac hue. This is similar to how the gene produces the blue Shih Tzu, but with a different effect.

Some Isabella Shih Tzus carry the dilute for liver, which gives them amber or hazel eyes. This is a distinct characteristic of these dogs.

The AKC recognizes the blue Shih Tzu, but not the Isabella color, which means it's not included in their registration codes. This doesn't stop some breeders from charging more for these uniquely colored pups.

You can expect to spend between $2,200 to $2,700 to secure an Isabella Shih Tzu puppy.

Albino Shih Tzus have pink skin due to a lack of pigmentation.

Their eyes are often blue, which can cause increased sensitivity to light.

Some breeders claim that true albino Shih Tzus rarely survive because their genetic makeup weakens their immune system.

Albinism is a genetic condition that affects the skin, hair, eyes, and blood vessels.

It's worth noting that there are plenty of images of albino Shih Tzus that suggest they can thrive despite these challenges.

The brindle effect is often described as "tiger-striped" and creates multi-colored tones ranging from gold or tan to brown or black.

Some Shih Tzu puppies born with a distinct brindle pattern may fade as they mature.

Brindle Shih Tzus have streaks of color running through their base color, creating a unique look.

The brindle effect varies widely from dog to dog, making it difficult for owners to determine whether or not their Shih Tzu's truly brindle.

Some brindle pups will have thick, dark stripes running down their backs, while others may have faint, narrow splashes of color.

In the world of Shih Tzus, a completely black dog without any white markings is arguably the least common color.

Black is one of the most dominant genes in Shih Tzus, which is why you don't see many black dogs with white markings.

A pure white Shih Tzu is only seen rarely, and it's even harder to find a white puppy with black markings.

The rarity of these colors makes them all the more special and sought after by dog enthusiasts.

Shih Tzus come in a wide array of colors, and their markings can be arranged in one of five patterns.

Black and white, as well as red and white, are relatively common color combinations in Shih Tzus.

Double-colored Shih Tzus have two primary hues, with one of them usually being white, and black is the most common counterpart to white fur.

You could find a red and white Shih Tzu, or any other mix, including brindle, as a double-colored Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzus can have spots and splashes of color almost anywhere on their coat.

Some Shih Tzus even combine three different colors, making each one unique.

Double-colored Shih Tzus have two primary hues, but one of those will usually be white, with red and white being a common combination.

Black is a common counterpart to white fur, but you can also find other colors like brindle mixed in.

Many Shih Tzu coats can change when the dog is around 10 to 12 months old, so be prepared for some trial and error when it comes to perfecting a grooming routine.

Check this out: When Do Maltese Dogs Stop Growing

Shih Tzus come in a variety of solid colors, including gold, dark or light brown, white, gray, black, and red, as well as some less common colors like lavender and Isabella.

The AKC only lists registration codes for seven solid colors of Shih Tzu, but it's possible to get albino puppies as well.

Shih Tzus have a double coat that can be seen in various colors, making each one unique.

Their long silky hair requires some extra attention, especially on the top of their head, which can fall into their face and irritate their eyes.