Shih Tzu Names

Choosing a name for a new Shih Tzu puppy is so much fun and just one of the many wonderful things you'll be doing when you add a Shih Tzu to your family. This article covers the most popular names specifically for Shih Tzu puppies, tips for naming your dog and a great list of name suggestions.

The Most Popular Names for Shih Tzu Dogs

When pet parents sign up to become a free AllShihTzu member, they can enter their Shih Tzu's name into our signup form. In looking at 5,964 submissions, the top 40 Shih Tzu names are (in alphabetical order):

Abby, Bailey, Bandit, Bear, Bella (#1 name), Bentley, Buddy, Buster, Charlie or Charley, Chewie or Chewy, Chloe, Coco, Cooper, Daisy, Gizmo, Gracie, Izzy or Izzie, Lexi, Lily or Lilly, Maggie, Marley, Max, Millie, Milo, Molly, Muffin, Oliver (2nd most popular name), Oreo, Poppy, Princess (3rd most popular), Riley, Roxi or Roxy, Sadie, Sammy or Sammie, Sassy, Sophy or Sophie, Teddy or Teddie, Toby or Tobie, Winslow (4th most popular), and Zoe or Zoey.

Tips for Choosing a Name for Your Shih Tzu

Selecting a name for your Shih Tzu involves more than just picking one that sounds appealing. The ideal name can simplify training and prevent confusion if you have multiple pets at home.

Here are some key considerations for naming your new, adorable puppy:

• The name's syllable count and initial consonant sound are crucial. While dogs recognize their full names, they typically respond to the first syllable. This is similar to how dogs heed short commands like 'Sit' rather than longer phrases such as 'Sit down now'. In a command like 'Sit down now', a dog focuses on the first syllable, 'Sit'. So, if you name your Shih Tzu 'Mister Jackman', expect a response to 'Mist'.
• The name, ideally, should start with a distinct, easily learnable syllable for your Shih Tzu's ease in recognition. Though, you don't have to limit the name to one just syllable.
• Avoid naming your Shih Tzu similarly to other pets, particularly with the same starting syllable. Names like 'Rocky' and 'Roxanne' or 'Madison' and 'Mason' can confuse your pets. Also, names with similar-sounding second syllables, like 'Boo' and 'Lou', may lead to mix-ups.
• It's beneficial to select a name that also differs in sound from human family members. If your spouse is named Bobby and your Shih Tzu is named Bobble, things are going to get confusing.
• While it's tempting to choose a popular dog name, these can lead to confusion in places like dog parks where many pets are present. However, many common names are indeed charming.

Tips for Teaching a Shih Tzu Puppy Their Name

It's best for your Shih Tzu to learn their name as quickly as possible, as it can be crucial in preventing mishaps, such as you being able to intervene before a housebreaking incident or keeping them from straying too far.

After deciding on a name, make sure to use it frequently. Begin each interaction with your Shih Tzu by calling their name, followed by your instruction or comment. Do this in an upbeat yet firm tone. For instance, say 'Bella, dinner!', 'Bella, let's go for a walk', or 'Bella, check out this toy!'.

If you know which puppy you'll be getting ahead of time, you can ask the breeder or the current caretaker to start using the chosen name. This early introduction to their name can provide a significant advantage.

Name Suggestions for Shih Tzu Puppies

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