Is Your Shih Tzu Normal? 7 Weird Behaviors Explained

Your Shih Tzu’s “Weird” Behaviors Aren’t Random—They’re Communication

That creepy stare? Normal bonding. Those crazy zoom sessions? Healthy energy release. The butt-dragging? Medical issue needing attention. Understanding these 7 bizarre behaviors helps you distinguish adorable quirks from warning signs requiring veterinary care.

Watch the complete video above for visual demonstrations of these behaviors.

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Quick Navigation

1. Intense Staring
2. Scooting
3. Zoomies
4. Head Tilting
5. Reverse Sneezing
6. Following Everywhere
7. Circling Before Lying

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1. Intense Prolonged Staring

Behavioral Description

Shih Tzus frequently engage in sustained eye contact with their human companions, maintaining visual focus for extended periods without breaking gaze. This behavior occurs across various contexts including rest periods, before anticipated activities, and during owner activities.

Ethological Explanation

Communication Function: In canine social systems, eye contact serves complex communication purposes. Unlike direct staring in wolf packs (which signals threat or challenge), domesticated dogs—particularly companion breeds—developed modified eye contact behaviors serving affiliative (friendship-building) rather than aggressive functions.

Visual Monitoring: Dogs visually track human movement and facial expressions, gathering information about:

• Intended activities or movements
• Emotional states
• Attention direction
• Availability for interaction
• Potential reward opportunities

Anticipatory Behavior: Shih Tzus demonstrating sustained eye contact often engage in anticipatory behavior—attempting to predict owner actions based on contextual cues including time of day, owner movements, or pre-activity routines (picking up leash, approaching food storage, etc.).

Neurochemical Bonding

Research published in Science (2015) demonstrated that mutual gazing between dogs and owners increases oxytocin levels in both species. Oxytocin, often termed the “bonding hormone,” plays crucial roles in:

• Parent-infant attachment
• Social bonding
• Trust development
• Stress reduction
• Prosocial behaviors

This neurochemical feedback loop strengthens human-dog bonds through a mechanism similar to human parent-child attachment, suggesting dogs co-opted this ancient mammalian bonding system during domestication.

Attention-Seeking Behavior

Operant conditioning principles explain some staring behavior. If dogs receive attention, treats, or activities following sustained eye contact, this positive reinforcement increases future staring frequency. The behavior becomes a learned communication method for requesting desired outcomes.

Normal vs. Concerning Staring

Normal Characteristics:

• Soft, relaxed eye expression
• Gentle facial features
• Accompanied by tail wagging or calm body posture
• Context-appropriate (meal times, walk times, play opportunities)

Potential Concerns:

• Hard, intense stare with tense body
• Accompanied by growling or defensive posturing
• Obsessive fixation despite owner response
• Sudden behavior changes

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2. Scooting Behavior (Dragging Rear on Floor)

Behavioral Description

Scooting involves dogs sitting and dragging their rear quarters across floor surfaces using front leg propulsion. This distinctive behavior appears humorous but typically indicates underlying discomfort requiring attention.

Primary Cause: Anal Gland Dysfunction

Anatomical Background: Dogs possess two anal sacs (anal glands) located at approximately 4 and 8 o’clock positions relative to the anus. These sacs produce pungent secretions serving social communication functions (scent marking, individual identification).

Normal Function: During defecation, pressure compresses anal glands, releasing secretions naturally. This marking behavior allows dogs to leave scent information for conspecifics.

Dysfunction in Small Breeds: Shih Tzus and other small breeds demonstrate higher incidence of anal gland problems due to:

• Smaller gland openings prone to obstruction
• Softer stool consistency providing inadequate expression pressure
• Obesity increasing fat deposition around glands
• Genetic anatomical variations

Clinical Manifestations: Impacted or infected anal glands cause:

• Uncomfortable pressure sensation
• Pruritis (itching)
• Swelling and inflammation
• Potential abscess formation (severe cases)

Scooting as Relief-Seeking

Dogs engage in scooting attempting to:

• Relieve pressure through external compression
• Alleviate itching sensation
• Express gland contents mechanically

Other Scooting Causes

Intestinal Parasites: Tapeworm segments (proglottids) migrating from anus cause irritation and itching. These segments appear as small, rice-like particles in feces or around the anal area.

Rectal Inflammation: Colitis or proctitis creates discomfort in the rectal region.

Skin Allergies: Perianal allergic dermatitis causes localized itching and inflammation.

Veterinary Intervention

Persistent scooting warrants veterinary examination including:

• External anal region assessment
• Digital rectal palpation
• Anal gland expression
• Fecal examination for parasites
• Allergy evaluation if indicated

Treatment:

• Manual gland expression (as needed)
• Dietary fiber supplementation (promoting firmer stool)
• Anti-inflammatory medications (if inflamed)
• Antibiotics (if infected)
• Surgical removal (chronic severe cases)

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3. Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs/Zoomies)

Behavioral Description

FRAPs manifest as sudden, explosive bursts of high-speed running, often following circular or figure-eight patterns. Dogs display play bows, rapid directional changes, and exuberant energy during these episodes lasting typically 1-5 minutes.

Ethological Basis

Energy Release Mechanism: FRAPs represent a normal energy discharge behavior, particularly common in:

• Young dogs with abundant energy
• After prolonged confinement or rest
• Following stress-inducing activities (baths, grooming)
• During favorable environmental conditions (cool weather, open spaces)

Play Behavior: Zoomies incorporate elements of play behavior including:

• Self-directed play (playing alone)
• Exaggerated movements
• Playful body language (play bows, bouncing)
• Vocalization (playful barking)

Neurological Basis

Dopamine Release: Pleasurable activities trigger dopamine release in brain reward pathways. Physical activity, play, and positive experiences elevate dopamine, potentially contributing to zoomie episodes.

Arousal Regulation: The autonomic nervous system regulates arousal states. FRAPs may represent a mechanism for rapidly discharging high arousal levels, returning dogs to baseline states.

Common Triggers

Post-Bath Zoomies: Many dogs exhibit zoomies immediately following baths. Theories include:

• Relief from bath-related stress
• Attempting to dry through movement and air friction
• Sensory stimulation from water and temperature changes
• Excitement from bath completion

Post-Defecation Zoomies: Some dogs zoom after eliminating, possibly reflecting:

• Relief from physical pressure
• Instinctive behavior (moving away from waste)
• Arousal from physical sensation

Environmental Stimulation: Cool weather, wind, or wide-open spaces trigger zoomies through:

• Comfortable temperature enabling vigorous activity
• Stimulating sensory input
• Space permitting high-speed movement

Breed Considerations

While all dogs can experience FRAPs, certain factors affect frequency:

• Age (more common in puppies and young adults)
• Energy level (high-energy breeds show increased frequency)
• Exercise adequacy (under-exercised dogs zoom more)
• Temperament (playful individuals more prone)

Shih Tzus, despite their small size and moderate energy levels, regularly display zoomies indicating normal playful temperament and adequate energy reserves.

Safety Considerations

During FRAPs, ensure:

• Clear pathways without obstacles
• Secure fencing (outdoor zoomies)
• Supervision preventing injury
• Appropriate flooring (avoiding slippery surfaces causing falls)

When to Worry

Zoomies represent normal behavior unless accompanied by:

• Inability to stop or calm down
• Obsessive, repetitive patterns
• Aggressive behavior during episodes
• Injury from uncontrolled movement
• Frequency interfering with daily function

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4. Head Tilting Behavior

Behavioral Description

Dogs frequently tilt their heads laterally (sideways) during human speech, specific sounds, or novel auditory stimuli. This endearing behavior captures human attention and appears across dog breeds, though individual frequency varies.

Auditory Processing Theories

Sound Localization Enhancement: Canine ear anatomy and head shape affect sound localization (determining sound origin direction). Head tilting may:

• Adjust pinna (external ear) position for improved sound capture
• Alter distance between ears, enhancing binaural (two-ear) processing
• Compensate for structural impediments to sound detection

Frequency Discrimination: Dogs hear higher frequency ranges than humans (up to ~65,000 Hz vs. ~20,000 Hz). Head tilting might facilitate processing of specific frequency components within complex sounds like human speech.

Visual Field Optimization

Muzzle Interference Theory: Research suggests dog muzzles create visual field blind spots directly in front of the face. When humans speak, dogs may tilt heads to:

• Move muzzle from visual field center
• Obtain clearer view of human facial expressions
• Better observe mouth movements and gestures

Brachycephalic Considerations: Shih Tzus possess shortened muzzles (brachycephalic anatomy) potentially reducing visual field obstruction. However, prominent facial folds and hair may create similar visual impediments.

Cognitive Processing

Attention and Comprehension: Head tilting often accompanies:

• Novel or unexpected sounds
• Human speech with familiar word components
• High-pitched or modulated vocal tones
• Questions or commands

This suggests head tilting relates to cognitive processing—attempting to decode, understand, or anticipate meaning from auditory input.

Learned Behavior: Human positive response to head tilting (smiling, praise, treats) reinforces this behavior through operant conditioning. Dogs learn that head tilting elicits favorable human reactions, increasing behavior frequency.

Individual Variation

Head tilting frequency varies among individual dogs based on:

• Personality traits (curious, responsive individuals tilt more)
• Training history (reinforcement experiences)
• Hearing ability (dogs with hearing deficits may tilt differently)
• Age (younger dogs often tilt more frequently)

Associated Behaviors

Head tilting accompanied by:

• Erect, forward-facing ears
• Alert, focused expression
• Stillness or forward body lean

indicates attentive cognitive engagement.

Medical Considerations

While usually benign, excessive or persistent head tilting warrants veterinary evaluation for:

• Ear infections causing discomfort or hearing changes
• Vestibular disease affecting balance and spatial orientation
• Neurological conditions

Sudden onset of persistent head tilt, especially with balance issues, requires immediate veterinary assessment.

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5. Reverse Sneezing Episodes

Clinical Description

Reverse sneezing (inspiratory paroxysmal respiration) manifests as sudden, rapid inhalation through the nose producing distinctive snorting or honking sounds. Dogs typically extend their neck, widen their stance, and pull back their lips during episodes lasting several seconds to minutes.

Pathophysiology

Mechanism: Reverse sneezing involves:

• Soft palate irritation or spasm
• Laryngospasm (vocal cord spasm)
• Rapid inspiration attempts
• Narrow glottic opening creating characteristic sound

Anatomical Predisposition: Brachycephalic breeds like Shih Tzus demonstrate increased reverse sneezing incidence due to:

• Elongated soft palate extending into airway
• Narrow nasal passages
• Compressed upper airway anatomy
• Increased soft tissue in throat region

Common Triggers

Environmental Irritants:

• Pollen, dust, or airborne allergens
• Household cleaners or perfumes
• Smoke or aerosol particles
• Sudden temperature changes

Physical Factors:

• Excitement or rapid breathing
• Pulling on collar (tracheal/throat pressure)
• Drinking or eating too quickly
• Exercise-induced respiratory changes

Anatomical Issues:

• Nasal mites (Pneumonyssoides caninum)
• Nasal foreign bodies (grass awns, seeds)
• Polyps or masses in nasal passages
• Dental disease with nasal cavity involvement

Management During Episodes

Calming Techniques:

• Gently massage throat to encourage swallowing
• Briefly cover nostrils, prompting breathing pattern change
• Offer water after episode resolution
• Keep calm to prevent anxiety escalation

Most episodes resolve spontaneously without intervention.

Differentiation from Serious Conditions

Reverse Sneezing Characteristics:

• Brief duration (seconds to ~1 minute)
• Spontaneous resolution
• Dog remains conscious and responsive
• Normal breathing between episodes
• No cyanosis (blue gums)

Warning Signs Requiring Veterinary Assessment:

• Prolonged episodes (>1-2 minutes)
• Frequent occurrences (multiple times daily)
• Respiratory distress continuing after episode
• Nasal discharge (especially if bloody or purulent)
• Behavioral changes or lethargy
• Coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing at other times

Diagnostic Evaluation

For persistent or worsening cases, veterinarians may perform:

• Oropharyngeal examination
• Rhinoscopy (nasal passage visualization)
• Radiographs or CT imaging
• Allergy testing
• Dental evaluation

Treatment Options

Mild Cases:

• Identify and avoid triggers when possible
• Maintain appropriate humidity levels
• Use harnesses instead of collars
• Weight management (obesity worsens brachycephalic airway issues)

Moderate to Severe Cases:

• Antihistamines for allergic components
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Treatment of underlying conditions (dental disease, infections)
• Surgical correction of brachycephalic airway syndrome (severe anatomical issues)

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6. Constant Following Behavior (Shadow Syndrome)

Behavioral Description

Many Shih Tzus display persistent following behavior, remaining in close proximity to owners throughout the day and following them between rooms, including bathrooms and other private spaces.

Genetic and Historical Context

Selective Breeding Purpose: Shih Tzus descend from dogs bred explicitly as companion animals for Chinese royalty during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Historical records indicate these dogs lived exclusively as:

• Lap warmers and companion animals
• Indoor palace residents
• Constant human attendants
• Status symbols requiring close human contact

Centuries of selection for companionable temperament and human-bonding behaviors created genetic predispositions toward proximity-seeking.

Attachment Theory Application

Secure Base Behavior: Attachment theory, originally developed for human infant-caregiver relationships, applies to dog-owner bonds. Securely attached dogs:

• Use owners as “secure base” for exploration
• Return to owners for comfort and reassurance
• Show distress during separation
• Demonstrate joy during reunion

Following behavior reflects secure attachment where dogs maintain contact with their primary attachment figure (owner).

Pack Dynamics

Evolutionary Heritage: Wolves and wild canids live in cohesive social groups (packs) with members maintaining proximity for:

• Safety from predators
• Cooperative hunting
• Resource sharing
• Social bonding
• Reproductive opportunities

Domestic dogs retain aspects of this social structure, viewing human family members as pack constituents worthy of proximity maintenance.

Reinforcement History

Learned Behavior Components: Following behavior receives intermittent reinforcement when dogs:

• Receive attention during following
• Encounter food opportunities in kitchens
• Gain outdoor access when following to doors
• Experience positive social interaction

This reinforcement strengthens and maintains the behavior pattern.

Breed Characteristics vs. Separation Anxiety

Normal Following Behavior:

• Dog appears calm and relaxed while following
• No distress signs (panting, pacing, whining)
• Ability to settle when owner sits
• Comfort when owner briefly leaves view
• Normal behavior when home alone (no destruction, elimination, excessive vocalization)

Separation Anxiety Indicators:

• Excessive distress when owner prepares to leave
• Destructive behavior during absences
• Inappropriate elimination only when alone
• Excessive vocalization when separated
• Escape attempts
• Self-injurious behaviors

Separation anxiety requires professional behavioral intervention, while normal following represents breed temperament.

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7. Unusual Sleeping Positions

Behavioral Description

Shih Tzus adopt various sleeping positions including belly-up (supine), curled tightly, sprawled laterally, twisted postures, or pressed against owners or objects.

Thermoregulatory Functions

Heat Dissipation:

• Belly-up position: Exposes ventral abdomen with less fur density and blood vessels closer to skin surface, facilitating heat loss
• Sprawled laterally: Maximizes body surface area contact with cool flooring
• Legs extended: Increases surface area for heat dissipation

Heat Conservation:

• Curled tightly: Minimizes exposed surface area, conserving body heat
• Tucked legs and nose: Reduces heat loss from extremities
• Seeking warm surfaces or sunlight: Behavioral thermoregulation

Security and Trust Indicators

Vulnerability and Safety: The supine (belly-up) position represents ultimate vulnerability, exposing vital organs including:

• Abdomen with intestines, liver, kidneys
• Throat and neck
• Reproductive organs

Dogs adopting this position demonstrate trust in their environment’s safety and confidence that threats are absent.

Environmental Security Assessment: Sleeping positions reflect perceived environmental security:

• Relaxed, exposed positions indicate high security
• Curled, protected positions suggest increased vigilance
• Position against walls or corners provides back protection

Social Bonding

Contact-Seeking Sleep: Dogs pressing against owners during sleep demonstrate:

• Attachment and bonding
• Comfort from physical contact
• Temperature regulation through shared body heat
• Ancestral pack-sleeping behaviors

Oxytocin and Social Bonding: Physical contact promotes oxytocin release, strengthening social bonds and providing mutual stress reduction benefits.

Breed-Specific Considerations

Shih Tzus’ moderate coat length and small size affect sleeping position preferences:

• Moderate insulation allows comfort across temperature ranges
• Small body mass means faster heat loss, sometimes preferring warm locations
• Brachycephalic anatomy may influence position selection for optimal breathing

Position-Health Relationships

Normal Position Variation: Healthy dogs cycle through multiple sleeping positions throughout rest periods.

Potential Health Indicators:

• Consistent avoidance of certain positions may indicate pain (arthritis limiting curling, abdominal pain preventing belly-up rest)
• Respiratory distress causing preference for sternal recumbency (chest-down position opening airways)
• Always sleeping with head elevated (potential cardiac or respiratory issues)

Sudden sleeping position changes, especially with other symptoms, warrant veterinary evaluation.

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Distinguishing Normal from Abnormal

Normal Behavioral Characteristics

Behaviors described above typically represent normal canine conduct when they:

• Occur within appropriate contexts
• Don’t interfere with daily functioning
• Appear associated with positive emotional states
• Show typical frequency and intensity
• Don’t cause distress to the dog

Warning Signs

Consult veterinarians or certified animal behaviorists when behaviors:

• Change suddenly or dramatically
• Increase in frequency or intensity
• Cause distress, anxiety, or fear
• Interfere with eating, sleeping, or normal activities
• Accompany physical symptoms (pain, illness)
• Become compulsive or obsessive

Individual Variation

Dogs demonstrate substantial individual personality variation. Some Shih Tzus display all behaviors described frequently, while others show only certain behaviors occasionally. Both patterns represent normal individual differences rather than abnormalities requiring intervention.

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The Value of Understanding

Recognizing normal canine behaviors prevents unnecessary worry and helps owners distinguish breed characteristics from health concerns. Shih Tzus, with their rich companion dog heritage, demonstrate particularly expressive behavioral repertoires evolved specifically for human-canine interaction.

Understanding the evolutionary, neurological, and functional bases for seemingly odd behaviors strengthens owner-dog relationships through:

• Improved communication interpretation
• Appropriate response to behavioral signals
• Recognition of individual dog personality
• Timely identification of genuine health concerns
• Enhanced appreciation for canine cognitive and emotional complexity

Watch the full video above for more information.

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📚 Related Guides You’ll Find Helpful

Understanding Behavior

• Signs Your Shih Tzu Is Sick, In Pain, or Uncomfortable - Distinguish quirks from distress signals
• Shih Tzu Stress and Anxiety: Signs and Causes - Normal vs. anxious behaviors

Common Issues

• 8 Common Behavior Problems and Solutions - Fix problematic behaviors

Complete Understanding

• 10 Things Shih Tzus Don’t Like - Respect their preferences
• Complete Shih Tzu Care Guide - Comprehensive behavioral insights

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This information covers normal, healthy behaviors in Shih Tzus. However, if any behavior becomes excessive, obsessive, or is accompanied by signs of distress or illness, consult your veterinarian. Sudden behavioral changes can sometimes indicate health problems requiring professional evaluation.