The Little Quirks That Make a Shih Tzu Unforgettable

Every Shih Tzu has their quirks, but Smiley's bunny bottle habit will always be one of my favorites. It's that little things that makes our dog unforgettable.

Life With a Shih Tzu

Life with a Shih Tzu is full of surprises. These little dogs are not just pets, they are family members with personalities too big for their tiny frames. They bring laughter, love, and comfort into a home in ways that cannot be explained. In our home, Smokey has shown us that even when life feels heavy, joy and hope can still walk in on four paws.

A Personality Larger Than Life

Smokey is twenty four pounds of charm and sass. He is gentle and loving one moment, stubborn and demanding the next. It is these quirks, these little habits, that make him unforgettable. They are also what carried us through difficult seasons, giving us reasons to laugh when tears felt closer.

His Royal Dining Habits

One of Smokey’s quirks is the way he treats his meals. Most dogs rush to their bowls, but not Smokey. He looks at his food like it is not quite worthy of him and then sits proudly as if expecting me to serve him by hand. And yes, I often do. Watching him eat with the dignity of royalty makes me laugh every single time. What looks like fussiness is actually one of the joys that lightens our days.

A Loyal Shadow

Smokey follows me everywhere. From the moment I wake up until I go to sleep, he is never far behind. His paws are always just a few steps behind mine. His eyes watch me closely, making sure I never slip away unnoticed. To others this might seem clingy, but to me it feels like devotion. It is his way of saying, you are my person and I will not let you walk alone.

The Guardian of the Night

At bedtime Smokey takes his job as protector very seriously. He makes his rounds through the house, checking every room before settling down. Only when his inspection is complete does he curl up beside us with his toy Molly tucked close. His loyalty brings us peace. Even on nights when the silence of PTSD feels heavy, his presence whispers safety.

Quirks That Heal

Smokey’s quirks are more than funny habits. They have been our healing. A little paw on the arm. A stubborn refusal to leave our side. A quiet stare that seems to ask, are you okay. These small moments have broken through silence, softened fear, and reminded us that love can hold us together even when life feels fragile.

Lessons From a Shih Tzu

Smokey’s quirks teach me every day. They remind me that life is not about perfection but about presence. That love is not about keeping score but about showing up. His funny little ways encourage me to slow down, to laugh, and to treasure the small things that make life beautiful.

More Than Just Shih Tzu Quirks

If you have ever loved a Shih Tzu, you already know these quirks are not flaws. They are the threads that tie them to your heart. For me, Smokey’s quirks are part of the love story that keeps me going. They are the memories that carry us through hard nights and the joy that fills our home with laughter.

Smokey may never understand the weight he has lifted from our lives, but I do. And I will always be thankful for the little quirks that make him unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

If Smokey’s quirks made you smile today, I know his full story will warm your heart even more. You can read about his journey in my memoir Smokey The Little Dog That Saved Us.

Visit LifeWithSmokey.com to discover a story filled with love, hope, and healing.