Shih Tzu Names
Shih Tzus were bred for Chinese emperors. Their names can honor that imperial history, their lion-like appearance, or simply how ridiculously adorable they are.
Male50 names
Female50 names
Find YOUR perfect name — not just a list
Our name finder quiz scores all 3,700+ names based on your dog's breed, coat color, energy, and personality. You get a personalized top 3 with explanations — plus audio so you can hear how it sounds.
✨ Get Personalized Names — FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What does Shih Tzu mean and does it affect naming?
'Shih Tzu' means 'Lion Dog' in Mandarin Chinese. Many owners choose names that reference this — Lion, Leo, Aslan, Simba — or go with imperial Chinese names like Mei, Jade, Bao, or Pearl.
Naming Tips for Shih Tzu
✓ Match the name to the breed personality
Shih Tzu dogs have a distinct look and temperament — pick a name that reflects that energy.
✓ 1–2 syllable names train best
Short names are easier for dogs to learn. 'Max' responds faster than 'Maximilian'.
✓ Avoid command conflicts
Don't pick names that sound like 'No', 'Sit', 'Stay', or 'Down'.
✓ Test it at the dog park
Say 'Come here, [name]!' out loud 5 times. Does it feel natural to call out?