When do Shih Tzus calm down?

The energy curve: what to expect at each stage

Shih Tzus are a naturally calm breed. They don't have the intense adolescent phase that characterises working or sporting breeds. Even as puppies, they're generally manageable compared to high-energy alternatives.

This calm temperament is part of what makes the Shih Tzu popular with families, older owners, and people with smaller homes. Their low energy isn't laziness — they're content with moderate exercise and happy to relax between walks.

• 0–12 months: Puppies are playful but not demanding. Short walks and light play sessions suit them well at this stage.
• 12–24 months: Some adolescent curiosity, but rarely the destructive behaviour seen in high-energy breeds. Easy to manage with consistent boundaries.
• 2+ years: A settled, relaxed companion. Most Shih Tzus reach their full adult temperament early compared to working breeds.

The trade-off with a calm breed is that they still need regular exercise for physical health — even if they won't demand it loudly. Without adequate activity, low-energy breeds can become overweight, which creates its own set of health problems. Aim for 30–45 minutes of walking per day even when they seem content without it.

Why is my Shih Tzu still so hyper?

If your Shih Tzu is going through a hyper phase, three things are usually responsible:

• Not enough exercise: A Shih Tzu that isn't getting 30–45 minutes of activity per day will burn that energy off differently — usually destructively or noisily.
• Age: The adolescent phase (6–18 months) is normal for all breeds. Consistency wins here.
• Lack of mental stimulation: Physical exercise isn't enough for a mentally active breed. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, and nose work all help drain energy more efficiently.

A Shih Tzu that's destructive or restless at home is almost always an under-exercised Shih Tzu. The behaviour is a symptom, not a character flaw.

Training through the hyper phase

The most effective approach with a boisterous Shih Tzu isn't to wait for them to calm down — it's to train through it. Short, high-reward sessions work better than long drills. Find what your specific dog values most — usually a particular food treat or toy — and make that the reward for the behaviours you want.

Teaching a reliable settle command (where the dog goes to their bed and stays calm on cue) is one of the most valuable things you can train with an active breed. It gives you a tool for managing their energy rather than just waiting for it to dissipate.