Shih Tzu Health Testing Requirements for Stud Dogs

Shih Tzus are ancient companion dogs from China and Tibet — sturdy, lively, and affectionate. They carry a distinct set of inherited health concerns requiring thorough testing before breeding.

The American Shih Tzu Club (ASTC) participates in the OFA CHIC program.

CHIC Requirements for Shih Tzus

• OFA Hip Evaluation
• OFA Patella Evaluation
• OFA Eye Examination (CAER)
• DNA test for Hereditary Cataracts (HC-HSF4)

Renal Dysplasia

Juvenile renal dysplasia (JRD) is one of the most serious inherited conditions in Shih Tzus. It causes abnormal kidney development and progressive kidney failure, typically in dogs under 2 years. No reliable DNA test currently exists. Select from pedigrees with no early kidney disease history.

Hereditary Cataracts (HC-HSF4)

Posterior polar subcapsular cataracts caused by the HSF4 mutation occur in Shih Tzus. DNA testing identifies Clear, Carrier, and Affected status. As this variant has dominant properties, Carriers can develop cataracts — prefer Clear studs.

Patellar Luxation

Common in Shih Tzus. OFA Grade 0 is the target for stud dogs.

Hip Evaluation

OFA Good or Excellent; hip dysplasia occurs in Shih Tzus.

Brachycephalic Airway

Shih Tzus are moderately brachycephalic. BOAS is less severe than in Frenchies or Bulldogs but still present. Select studs with open nostrils and no labored breathing.

Eye Conditions

Prominent eyes make Shih Tzus vulnerable to corneal ulcers and exposure keratopathy. CAER examination evaluates for inherited eye conditions including distichiasis and retinal problems.

Summary

A responsible Shih Tzu stud dog should have: OFA hip evaluation, OFA patella evaluation (Grade 0), OFA CAER eye exam, and HC-HSF4 DNA testing. Renal dysplasia history in the pedigree is a critical consideration — ask breeders specifically about early kidney disease deaths in their lines. Both patella and eye evaluations are CHIC required and non-negotiable for serious breeders.