Shih Tzus are often called “lion dogs” for good reason—their flowing coats, regal bearing, and royal Chinese history make them stand out . The name “Shih Tzu” itself translates to “lion dog” in Mandarin, referring to their resemblance to the lions depicted in traditional Chinese art . These little dogs were treasured by Chinese royalty and bred exclusively within the Forbidden City for centuries, making them one of the most pampered and beloved companion breeds in history .
Four-letter names are ideal for Shih Tzus. As a toy breed with a sometimes stubborn but affectionate temperament, short names are easier for them to recognize and respond to during training. Plus, a name that reflects their imperial Chinese heritage, silky appearance, or playful personality adds a special touch.
Below is a comprehensive A-Z list of unique 4-letter Shih Tzu names, each paired with a meaning, plus expert tips for choosing the perfect name.
A
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Aero | Greek for “air”—for a light, airy little dog who floats through life |
| Amos | Hebrew for “carried by God”—distinguished for your little companion |
| Anna | Hebrew for “grace”—sweet and timeless for a regal female |
| Arlo | Old English for “army hill”—charming and sturdy for a tiny lion dog |
| Atom | Tiny but mighty—perfect for a small dog with explosive personality |
| Aura | Greek for “breeze”—for a Shih Tzu with a calm, soothing presence |
| Ava | Latin for “life” or “bird”—elegant and lively |
| Asia | For the continent of their origin—honoring their Chinese and Tibetan roots |
| Aki | Japanese for “bright” or “autumn”—a unique, cheerful choice |
| Aiko | Japanese for “love child”—for a beloved little companion |
B
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bao | Chinese for “precious” or “treasure”—a perfect heritage-inspired name |
| Bebe | English for “baby”—adorable for a tiny, pampered pup |
| Bear | Cute and cuddly—for a Shih Tzu with a big heart |
| Bian | Italian variation of “white”—for a light or white-coated Shih Tzu |
| Bing | Chinese for “ice”—cool and unique |
| Bino | Italian for “good”—for a well-behaved little companion |
| Bird | For a light-as-air Shih Tzu who flits around the house |
| Bliss | Supreme happiness—for the joy your Shih Tzu brings |
| Boaz | Hebrew for “swiftness”—for a surprisingly fast little dog |
| Bons | Short for Bonsai—the art of growing dwarf trees, fitting for a small breed |
C
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Coco | A chic and timeless French pet name—inspired by Coco Chanel |
| Cash | Confident and strong—a name with swagger for a confident little dog |
| Chai | Spicy and warm—for a Shih Tzu with a spirited personality |
| Chic | French for “stylish”—for a fashion-forward little dog |
| Chin | Honoring their Chinese origins—simple and elegant |
| Chip | Old English for “free man”—a friendly, approachable name |
| Cleo | Greek for “pride” or “glory”—a regal choice for a female Shih Tzu |
| Coda | Italian for “tail”—musical and artistic |
| Cosmo | Greek for “order” or “universe”—for a Shih Tzu with universal charm |
| Cruz | Spanish for “cross”—modern, punchy, and cool |
D
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Duke | A classic name with royal connotations—fit for a tiny throne |
| Dash | For a Shih Tzu who loves moving quickly and playing |
| Demi | French for “half”—a stylish, modern choice |
| Dino | Italian for “little sword”—playful but strong |
| Dora | Greek for “gift”—for a treasured companion |
| Dove | Symbol of peace—for a gentle, calm Shih Tzu |
| Dust | For a light, airy presence—simple and unique |
| Denz | Short for Denzel—smooth and sophisticated |
| Dax | French for “leader”—short and modern |
| Dell | English for “small valley”—nature-inspired and peaceful |
E
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Earl | English for “nobleman”—distinguished for your little aristocrat |
| Echo | A name that resonates—for a Shih Tzu who makes their presence known |
| Eden | Hebrew for “delight” or “paradise”—for a dog who brings joy |
| Eli | Hebrew for “ascended” or “my God”—short and strong |
| Elio | Italian for “the sun”—bright and radiant |
| Elsa | German for “noble”—elegant and regal |
| Emmy | German for “whole” or “universal”—sweet and endearing |
| Enzo | Italian for “ruler of the home”—stylish and commanding |
| Eros | Greek god of love—for an affectionate, cuddly Shih Tzu |
| Evan | Welsh for “young warrior”—courageous and loyal |
F
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Faye | French for “fairy” or “loyalty”—magical and devoted |
| Fifi | A fun, playful French name for an adorable little pup |
| Finn | Irish for “fair”—for lighter-coated Shih Tzus |
| Fitz | English for “son of”—a distinguished, aristocratic name |
| Flax | The plant used for linen—for a pale or cream-coated Shih Tzu |
| Fleur | French for “flower”—elegant and beautiful |
| Ford | English for “river crossing”—sturdy and dependable |
| Fox | Clever and sharp—for a Shih Tzu with a sly personality |
| Fred | German for “peaceful ruler”—a classic, friendly choice |
| Fynn | Irish variation of Finn—”fair”—modern and trendy |
G
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gaia | Greek goddess of the earth—for a grounding, loyal companion |
| Gale | English for “wind”—for a fast, energetic little dog |
| Gemi | Short for Gemini—for a Shih Tzu with a dual, playful personality |
| Gino | Italian for “well-born” or “noble”—smooth and stylish |
| Glen | Scottish for “valley”—nature-inspired and calm |
| Grim | Old English for “fierce”—for a protective little lion dog |
| Gus | English for “exalted” or “venerable”—a classic favorite |
| Guin | Short for Guinness—for a dark-coated Shih Tzu, like the stout beer |
| Gunn | Scandinavian for “warrior”—strong and bold for a tiny fighter |
| Gigi | A chic French name—perfect for a glamorous little companion |
H
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hana | Japanese for “flower”—beautiful and delicate |
| Hank | German for “ruler of the home”—strong and down-to-earth |
| Haze | Atmospheric—for a dreamy, mellow Shih Tzu |
| Heir | For your little royalty—the one who inherits your heart |
| Hero | For a brave little dog with a big heart |
| Holt | German for “wood” or “forest”—nature-inspired |
| Hope | For a Shih Tzu who brings optimism and joy |
| Hugo | German for “mind” or “intellect”—for an intelligent little dog |
| Hunt | For a Shih Tzu who loves exploring and following scents |
| Hyla | Greek for “woodland”—nature-inspired and lyrical |
I
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ida | German for “hard-working”—for a diligent, purposeful little dog |
| Iggy | Short for Ignatius—”fiery one”—for a spirited, feisty Shih Tzu |
| Indy | Short for Indiana—adventurous and independent |
| Inky | For a playful dark-coated Shih Tzu |
| Iris | Greek goddess of the rainbow—for a colorful personality |
| Isla | Scottish for “island”—beautiful and serene |
| Ivan | Russian for “God is gracious”—strong and regal |
| Ivar | Scandinavian for “bow warrior”—for a protective little dog |
| Izzy | Lively and playful—for an energetic Shih Tzu |
| Ives | Variant of Yves—German for “yew tree”—rare and sophisticated |
J
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Jack | Hebrew for “God is gracious”—a timeless favorite |
| Jade | A precious green stone—honoring their Chinese heritage |
| Jake | Hebrew for “supplanted”—a classic, friendly favorite |
| Jazz | Musical and lively—for a Shih Tzu with rhythm and flair |
| Jett | For a fast, dark-coated dog with sleek energy |
| Jinx | Edgy and unpredictable—for a mischievous little dog |
| Jory | Cornish for “lord”—distinguished and noble |
| Jude | Latin for “praise”—warm and melodic |
| Juno | Roman queen of the heavens—strong and regal |
| Jade | Perfect for honoring their Chinese heritage |
K
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kai | Hawaiian for “sea”—short, sleek, and modern |
| Kane | Hawaiian for “man”—a strong, simple choice |
| Kato | A dutiful, loyal companion name |
| Kavi | Sanskrit for “poet”—a creative, cultured choice |
| Kira | Gaelic for “dark”—elegant and strong |
| Koda | Native American for “friend”—warm and loyal |
| Kona | Hawaiian for “world rule”—a strong, confident choice |
| Kylo | Modern and edgy—with a touch of sci-fi flair |
| Kurt | German for “counsel” or “bold”—strong and distinguished |
| Kito | African for “precious” or “jewel”—perfect for your treasure |
L
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lacy | English for “lacy”—delicate and sweet |
| Lady | A sophisticated name for a dog with an air of dignity |
| Lane | English for “path” or “roadway”—for a Shih Tzu who loves to explore |
| Lark | A songbird—for a Shih Tzu with a melodious bark |
| Leia | Star Wars inspired—for a strong, independent female |
| Lenn | German for “lion’s strength”—fitting for the “lion dog” |
| Levi | Hebrew for “joined” or “attached”—loyal and devoted |
| Lilo | Hawaiian for “generous” or “kind”—sweet and playful |
| Ling | Chinese for “delicate”—a soft, elegant heritage name |
| Luna | Roman goddess of the moon—for a radiant little dog |
M
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mace | A weapon—for a powerful, protective little dog |
| Mack | Scottish for “son of”—strong and dependable |
| Mars | Roman god of war—for a fierce tiny fighter |
| Maya | Greek for “mother” or “great one”—beautiful and strong |
| Mei | Chinese for “beautiful”—a perfect heritage-inspired name |
| Mika | Japanese for “beautiful”—a sweet, global choice |
| Milo | A playful, lovable name—always a favorite |
| Ming | Inspired by the Chinese Ming dynasty—royal and distinguished |
| Mink | Sleek and luxurious—for a smooth-coated Shih Tzu |
| Muse | For your daily inspiration—artsy and soulful |
N
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nala | From The Lion King—a strong and brave character |
| Nash | English for “by the ash tree”—natural and grounded |
| Neil | Gaelic for “cloud” or “passionate”—a classic Irish name |
| Nero | Latin for “strong” or “stern”—for dark-coated Shih Tzus |
| Niko | Slavic for “victory of the people”—strong and confident |
| Noah | Hebrew for “rest” or “peace”—calm and comforting |
| Nori | Japanese for “seaweed”—unique and earthy |
| Nova | Latin for “new star”—bright, rare, and stellar |
| Nyx | Greek goddess of the night—mysterious and powerful |
| Nina | Spanish for “little girl”—sweet and affectionate |
O
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Oak | Strong and steadfast like the mighty tree |
| Odin | Norse king of the gods—majestic and all-knowing |
| Ollie | German for “elf warrior”—playful yet strong |
| Onyx | A dark, protective gemstone—sleek and mysterious |
| Opal | A precious gem—for a rare and beautiful Shih Tzu |
| Orion | The mighty hunter in the stars—for an adventurous little dog |
| Oscar | Irish for “deer lover”—classic and distinguished |
| Otis | Greek for “keen hearing”—for a vigilant little watch dog |
| Otto | German for “wealth” and “prosperity”—a classic favorite |
| Owen | Welsh for “young warrior”—courageous and loyal |
P
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Paco | Spanish for “free”—a lively, friendly name |
| Pax | Latin for “peace”—for a calm, balanced Shih Tzu |
| Pearl | Timeless and precious—for a dog you treasure |
| Pepi | Spanish pet name—lively and energetic |
| Perry | English for “traveler”—adventurous and curious |
| Pipp | Short for Pippin—a cute, sprightly name |
| Pixel | Modern and tech-inspired—for a quirky little personality |
| Polo | Adventurous and playful—like Marco Polo |
| Puma | A powerful, agile feline—for an athletic little dog |
| Pixie | A magical name for a small, enchanting pup |
Q
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Qara | Means “dark” or “black” in several Turkic languages; great for a dark-coated pup. |
| Qazi | Means “judge” or “wise leader” in Arabic; suits a dignified Shih Tzu. |
| Qing | Chinese name meaning “clear,” “pure,” or “celebration.” |
| Qian | Chinese name meaning “modest,” “thousand,” or “prosperity,” depending on the character used. |
| Qira | Means “light” or “reading/recitation” in Arabic-derived usage; a graceful name. |
| Qori | Means “reciter” in Arabic-derived usage; a unique and melodic name. |
| Quin | Irish origin meaning “wise,” “intelligent,” or “chief.” |
| Qumi | Inspired by the Japanese word kumi, associated with “bringing together” or “group.” A cute, uncommon pet name. |
| Qeto | A rare, distinctive four-letter name used as a modern pet name; ideal if you want something unique. |
| Qin | Chinese dynasty name—regal and distinguished |
R
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Raven | Dark, intelligent, and mysterious—for a black-coated Shih Tzu |
| Remy | French for “oarsman”—smooth and stylish |
| Rex | Latin for “king”—a classic, strong favorite |
| Rico | Spanish for “rich” or “powerful”—for a confident little dog |
| Rino | Short for “rhinoceros”—for a surprisingly tough little dog |
| Roko | A strong, modern name—unique and memorable |
| Romy | Italian for “from Rome”—stylish and modern |
| Ruby | Latin for “red”—for a reddish or mahogany-coated Shih Tzu |
| Rune | Ancient symbols of magic—mysterious and spiritual |
| Roxy | A vibrant and modern name, associated with playful energy |
S
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sage | Latin for “wise and knowing”—smart and grounded |
| Sable | Dark and sleek—for dark-coated Shih Tzus |
| Sasha | Greek for “defending men”—a strong, popular choice |
| Scout | For a watchful, exploring companion |
| Shae | Irish for “admirable”—sweet and graceful |
| Siku | Inuit for “ice”—for a white or light-coated Shih Tzu |
| Simba | Swahili for “lion”—honoring the “lion dog” name |
| Star | Bright and luminous—for a Shih Tzu who shines |
| Storm | Powerful and dynamic—for a little dog with big presence |
| Suki | Japanese for “beloved”—for a cherished little companion |
T
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Tank | As strong as a military vehicle—ironic for a tiny dog |
| Tara | Gaelic for “crag” or “hill”—a beautiful, classic name |
| Ted | English for “wealthy guardian”—friendly and approachable |
| Thor | Norse god of thunder—mighty and heroic for a little warrior |
| Tico | A lively, musical name |
| Tiny | A fitting name for a small breed like the Shih Tzu |
| Toby | Hebrew for “God is good”—friendly and approachable |
| Togo | A famous sled dog—for a Shih Tzu with a pioneering spirit |
| Tova | Scandinavian for “beautiful” or “good”—a rare gem |
| Troy | The legendary ancient city—a name steeped in history |
U
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Uli | German for “ruler of the home”—a warm, traditional choice |
| Ulf | German for “wolf”—for a fierce and loyal little dog |
| Uma | Sanskrit for “tranquility”—for a calm, balanced Shih Tzu |
| Unity | For a Shih Tzu who brings the family together |
| Uno | Italian for “one”—for your one-of-a-kind companion |
| Upton | English for “upper town”—a distinguished place name |
| Ursa | Latin for “bear”—for a big, cuddly little protector |
| Uzi | For a fast, powerful little dog |
| Ulric | German for “wolf ruler”—a strong, rare choice |
| Ubbe | Scandinavian—strong and uncommon |
V
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Vale | Poetic valley—quiet and deep |
| Vega | One of the brightest stars—for a luminous little dog |
| Vera | Slavic for “faith”—classic and quietly powerful |
| Vibe | For a Shih Tzu with undeniable presence and coolness |
| Vinn | Short for Vincent—”to conquer”—bold and strong |
| Vino | Italian for “wine”—a warm, elegant name |
| Vita | Latin for “life”—full of energy and vitality |
| Viva | Italian for “alive”—for a dog who lives life to the fullest |
| Volt | Electric and energetic—for a live-wire personality |
| Voss | A German brand—sleek and distinctive |
W
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Wade | English for “to go through”—for a Shih Tzu who overcomes any obstacle |
| Walt | German for “ruler”—short for Walter, a classic favorite |
| Will | German for “resolute protector”—steadfast and loyal |
| Winn | Welsh for “fair” or “blessed”—warm and approachable |
| Wisp | Light as air—for a delicate, ethereal little dog |
| Wolf | Powerful and iconic—for a little dog with a big spirit |
| Woody | For a nature-loving, outdoorsy Shih Tzu |
| Wren | A small, lively bird—for an energetic little dog |
| Wynn | Welsh for “blessed” or “joy”—for a happy companion |
| Wish | For a Shih Tzu who fulfills every hope and dream |
X
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Xavi | Catalan for “bright” or “splendid”—modern and sleek |
| Xena | The warrior princess—for a fearless female Shih Tzu |
| Xeno | Greek for “stranger” or “foreigner”—for an exotic vibe |
| Xia | Chinese for “summer” or “rosy clouds”—warm and beautiful |
| Xola | African for “stay in peace”—a calm, spiritual name |
| Xora | Invented—sounds like a space commander |
| Xylo | Greek for “wood”—short, punchy, and full of rhythm |
| Xanthe | Greek for “golden”—for a cream or golden-coated Shih Tzu |
| Xyla | Greek for “wood”—a soft, melodic choice |
| Xena | For a fearless, warrior-like female |
Y
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yale | Welsh for “fertile upland”—a distinguished place name |
| Yana | Slavic for “God is gracious”—warm and melodic |
| Yara | Arabic for “small butterfly”—beautiful and delicate |
| Yogi | Sanskrit for “one who practices yoga”—for a calm, wise little dog |
| Yona | Hebrew for “dove”—for a peaceful, gentle Shih Tzu |
| York | English for “from the yew tree estate”—a place name |
| Yuki | Japanese for “snow” or “happiness”—bright and serene |
| Yule | For a Shih Tzu born during the festive season |
| Yuna | Japanese for “moon” or “gentle”—soft and beautiful |
| Yves | German for “yew tree”—rare and sophisticated |
Z
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zane | Hebrew for “God is gracious”—unique and melodic |
| Zara | Arabic for “blooming flower” or “princess”—unique and elegant |
| Zeke | Hebrew for “God strengthens”—short and bold |
| Zelda | German for “gray warrior”—for a bold, adventurous Shih Tzu |
| Zephyr | A soft, gentle breeze—for a fast, graceful little dog |
| Zeus | Greek king of the gods—majestic and powerful |
| Ziggy | A fun, energetic name that matches a bouncy nature |
| Zion | Hebrew for “highest point”—for a Shih Tzu who rises above |
| Zola | Italian for “earth” or “lump”—a sweet, uncommon name |
| Zuri | Swahili for “beautiful”—for a gorgeous little dog |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular Shih Tzu names?
Popular Shih Tzu names include Bella, Coco, Gizmo, Teddy, Daisy, Max, and Princess . Chinese-inspired names like Mei (beautiful), Bao (treasure), and Ming (bright) honor their Imperial Chinese heritage .
What Chinese names work well for Shih Tzus?
Chinese names beautifully honor the Shih Tzu’s royal Chinese origins. Consider Mei (beautiful), Lian (lotus), Bao (treasure), Ming (bright), Jade, Ling (delicate), or Xia (summer) . The name Shih Tzu itself means “lion,” so names like Simba or Leo also playfully reference this meaning .
Should Shih Tzu names be cute or elegant?
Both suit the breed perfectly! Cute names like Cookie, Muffin, or Button match their adorable appearance, while elegant names like Empress, Pearl, or Duchess honor their royal heritage . It depends on your Shih Tzu’s individual personality—some are dignified, others are total goofballs!
What names suit a pampered Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are natural lapdogs who love luxury, so glamorous names fit perfectly. Try Princess, Duchess, Jewel, Dior, Chanel, Gucci, Pearl, Ruby, or Duchess for a pampered feel . Sweet names like Honey, Sugar, Cupcake, or Peaches reflect their gentle, loving temperament and adorable appearance .
Why are 4-letter names good for Shih Tzus?
Short, one or two-syllable names are easiest for dogs to learn and recognize . Shih Tzus have a sometimes stubborn temperament, so a crisp, clear name like Max, Coco, or Jade cuts through their distracted moments and helps with training. Plus, short names are just fun to say!
Love the elegant, Japanese-inspired names on this list like Hana, Mika, and Yuki? Explore our full Japanese Girl Dog Names collection. Want your Shih Tzu looking their royal best? Check out these Shih Tzu Haircut and Hairstyle Ideas.
Final Tips for Naming Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are charming, affectionate, and full of personality . When choosing a name, consider your dog’s coat color, personality, and heritage. Does your fluffy companion act like royalty? Prince, Duchess, or Empress might be perfect. Are they mischievous and playful? Gizmo, Jinx, or Pixel could be the one.
Test the name by saying it aloud multiple times—you’ll be calling it across parks, at the vet, and during cuddle sessions. Choose a name that feels right for both you and your new best friend. After all, your Shih Tzu will be your loyal companion for 12 to 18 years or more, so pick a name that will age well and always bring a smile to your face. Happy naming!