How Does a Shih Tzu Show Love to Humans?

above one of my Past Shih Tzu Love Bugs "Lydia"

Lydia was a Silver Blue

Shih Tzus are little bundles of devotion wrapped in fur and fluff. Their love language is rich with physical closeness, joyful gestures, and constant companionship. Here's how they show their affection:

🐾 Signature Signs of Shih Tzu Love

• Tail Wagging & Wiggle Dance When your Shih Tzu sees you, expect a full-body wag—tail, hips, and sometimes a happy bounce. It’s their way of saying, “You’re my favorite person!”

• Leaning & Lap Time These dogs adore physical contact. They’ll lean against you, rest their head on your lap, or curl up beside you to feel safe and close.

• Shadowing You Around the House Shih Tzus are known for following their humans from room to room. It’s not clinginess—it’s loyalty in motion.

• Licking & Nuzzling Gentle licks and nose nudges are their version of kisses. It’s rooted in puppyhood comfort and signals deep affection.

• Bringing Toys or “Gifts” If your Shih Tzu drops a toy at your feet or trots over with a sock, it’s not mischief—it’s a sweet gesture of sharing and playfulness.

• Soft Eye Contact They’ll gaze at you with relaxed eyes and a slightly open mouth—almost like a smile. This kind of eye contact boosts oxytocin, the bonding hormone.

• Joyful Greetings When You Return Whether you’ve been gone five minutes or five hours, they’ll greet you like a hero returning from battle—with tail wags, happy barks, and maybe a toy in tow.

Shih Tzus are especially expressive because they were bred to be companions to royalty. Their instincts are tuned to human emotions, making them ideal for seniors, therapy work, or anyone who appreciates a dog that loves deeply and loyally.

references: www.allshihtzu.com, www.everythingshihtzu.com