Some dogs are dramatic. Then there’s Frankie the shih tzu. In a viral TikTok from @tinalkruse, one very stubborn little dog makes it clear that bedtime is not up for negotiation.
The video starts with Frankie the shih tzu wedged between two couches, looking up at his mom as if he’s danced this dance many times before. She tells him it’s time for bed, but the look on his face says everything—he’s not giving in. His dad’s already asleep in the bedroom, completely unaware of the standoff happening in the living room.
As Mom starts walking toward the bedroom, he reluctantly follows, but keeps stopping to look back at her every couple of steps, as if to say, “I know your games, lady.” You can practically see him calculating how to stall this bedtime situation as long as possible. Then he finally sits down, plops dramatically, and stares. The avoidance is strong. The betrayal? Even stronger.
People in the comments can completely relate. @bryceley joked, “That’s not a Shih Tzu, that’s a toddler in disguise.” @jenmarie said, “He’s choosing emotional protest over bedtime.” And @thegoodboyclub added, “The way he plopped down like a soap opera actor sent me.”
Related: These are the Very Accurate Stages of a ‘Full-Blown’ Shih-Tzu Temper Tantrum
“That’s Not a Shih Tzu, That’s a Toddler in Disguise”
My friend and brilliant Parade and PetHelpful writer @mollyburfordl has a shih tzu–Yorkie mix named Bruce (or Brucey), who is exactly like this shih tzu. He’ll sit on the couch and stare at her until she gives in, completely unblinking, like he’s using telepathy. If that doesn’t work, there’s the tiny protest bark—and if dinner’s over, no worries, Brucey believes in “second dinner.” It’s textbook operant conditioning: he rewards you with cuteness until he gets his way. Honestly, I’m starting to think he’s running an underground network of pampered humans, and we’re all just happy to be recruited.
Watching this TikTok felt perfectly on brand for the breed and, honestly, for Brucey too. Shih tzus just get it. They’re clever, loyal, and way too self-aware for their own good. Whether it’s refusing bedtime like Frankie or silently training their humans like Brucey, they all have that same mix of charm and quiet control. It’s not disobedience—it’s strategy. And somehow, even when they win, we still think they’re the cutest thing on earth.
Related: Shih Tzu’s Hilarious Temper Tantrum After Being Given a Command Is a Whole Thing
This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Nov 4, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.