Shih Tzu Names Starting With P

Shih Tzus are affectionate, spirited lap dogs with big personalities—and they deserve names that match their charm. Names starting with P work particularly well for this breed: they're punchy, easy to call across a room, and many feel luxe or playful, which suits Shih Tzus' regal-yet-goofy temperament. Whether you're drawn to classic human names, food-inspired picks, or something whimsical, P-names offer variety without feeling overwrought. This list includes real names Shih Tzu owners actually use, from popular standbys like Penny and Pippa to underrated gems like Phoebe and Piper.

1. Pennyvery popularDerived from penny, symbolizing something small and precious—fitting for tiny Shih Tzus.
2. Pippavery popularShort form of Philippa, meaning 'lover of horses,' but works perfectly for spirited small breeds.
3. Pipervery popularOccupational name for someone who plays the pipes; conveys playfulness and energy.
4. PhoebepopularGreek name meaning 'bright' or 'pure,' associated with the moon goddess.
5. PaisleytrendingNamed after the Scottish town; pattern-inspired name with bohemian charm.
6. Peppervery popularSpice-based name suggesting a feisty, bold personality.
7. PistachiorareThe green nut; whimsical food name perfect for quirky pet owners.
8. PandoraclassicGreek mythology figure whose curiosity opened a box of evils; means 'gifted to all.'
9. PattycakerarePlayful reference to the nursery rhyme game; whimsical and endearing.
10. PeachespopularStone fruit-inspired name suggesting sweetness and warmth.
11. PearlpopularPrecious gem formed in oysters; symbolizes elegance and rarity.
12. PancakerareBreakfast food name; cute and comfort-food inspired.
13. PriscillaclassicLatin origin meaning 'from ancient times'; vintage and elegant.
14. PurlrareKnitting term for a stitch; literary and craft-inspired name.
15. PippopularShort, snappy name meaning 'seed' or 'stone'; simple and catchy.
16. Pixievery popularMythical small fairy creature; suggests mischief and magic.
17. PaxclassicLatin for 'peace'; minimalist name with deeper meaning.
18. PumpernickelrareDark rye bread; quirky food name for dark-colored dogs.
19. PaigepopularMiddle English occupational name for a young servant or attendant.
20. PestorareItalian basil sauce; food-inspired name with Mediterranean flair.
21. Peanutvery popularLegume; small and sweet; perfect for tiny breeds.
22. Poppyvery popularFlowering plant; bright and cheerful name suggesting vitality.
23. PetiterareFrench for 'small'; describes the delicate Shih Tzu frame.
24. PicassorareFamous artist's name; suggests creativity and unique vision.
25. PatchespopularMultiple small pieces or sections; descriptive for multi-colored coats.
26. PixarrareAnimation studio; modern and pop-culture inspired.
27. PandapopularLarge black-and-white bear; cute and instantly recognizable.
28. PoseypopularSmall bouquet of flowers; delicate and romantic.
29. PretzelrareBaked snack; quirky and fun food-inspired name.
30. PrimroseclassicEarly spring flower; suggests freshness and renewal.
31. PuddingpopularDessert; sweet and endearing term.
32. PrurareShort for Prudence; vintage nickname with retro charm.
33. PococlassicItalian/Spanish for 'little'; musical term suggesting smallness.
34. PinsrareSewing tool; minimalist and practical.
35. PetrarareGreek for 'stone' or 'rock'; strong and grounded.
36. PuffinrareSmall black-and-white seabird; adorable and distinctive.
37. PeonyclassicLush flowering plant; romantic and springtime-inspired.
38. PookiepopularTerm of endearment; sweet and cuddly sounding.
39. PiarareLatin for 'devoted' or 'pious'; short and melodic.
40. PitarareFlatbread; quirky food name with Mediterranean appeal.
41. PhokeyrarePlayful variation of 'pokey'; whimsical and fun.
42. PomrareShort for Pomeranian or pomegranate; quirky nickname.
43. PintorareSpanish for 'spotted' or 'painted'; descriptive and artistic.
44. PeppermintrareMint plant; fresh, cool, and holiday-inspired.
45. PuffpopularCloud-like or fluffy; describes the Shih Tzu's signature coat.
46. PaisanorareSpanish for 'countryman' or 'friend'; warm and inclusive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular P names for Shih Tzus?

Penny, Pippa, Piper, Pepper, Pixie, Poppy, and Peanut are among the most used P-names for Shih Tzus. These names are short, easy to call, and suit the breed's small size and spirited personality. Poppy and Pippa have grown especially trendy in recent years.

Do P names work better for male or female Shih Tzus?

Many P names work beautifully for either gender. Names like Piper, Pip, Paige, and Pax are unisex. For female-leaning options, Penny, Pippa, Poppy, and Phoebe are classics. Male-leaning names include Paco, Picasso, and Poco. Consider your dog's personality rather than strictly adhering to gender conventions.

Are there luxury or elegant P names for Shih Tzus?

Yes. Names like Pearl, Priscilla, Pandora, and Primrose have a more refined, elegant feel—perfect for Shih Tzus, which have a regal history. Paisley and Petite also offer sophistication while maintaining charm.

What if my Shih Tzu has a color-specific coat pattern?

For black-and-white Shih Tzus, consider Panda or Patches. For cream or white dogs, Pearl works beautifully. Picasso suits multicolored or uniquely marked dogs. Pumpernickel or Pinto are great for dark or spotted coats. Color-descriptive names add a personal, meaningful touch.

Are there uncommon P names that still sound good?

Absolutely. Purl, Pax, Pia, Peony, and Petra are less common but beautiful choices. Quirky food names like Pistachio, Pesto, and Pancake appeal to owners seeking uniqueness. These names tend to be memorable and spark conversations.