Skip to main content

How long do Shih Tzus usually live?

Shih Tzus are considered toy breeds. As adults, they generally measure eight to 11 inches and weigh nine to 18 pounds. These pint-sized pups are full of personality! They’re also generally cheerful and energetic.

Shih Tzus have a reputation for adoring their human caretakers. If you’re planning to adopt one, know that your new friend will probably run to greet you—perhaps with a few happy barks—when you arrive home, making you feel good no matter what happened that day. They’ll also curl up with you on the couch and in bed, providing you with endless love year-round and a nice foot warmer during the winter.

Sadly, Shih Tzus aren’t around forever. How long do you have with your little furball? The answer varies, but there is a general Shih Tzu life span. Let’s find out how you can keep your pup healthy and happy for as long as you can.

shih tzu underneath a tree
Image used with permission by copyright holder

What is the average Shih Tzu life span?

The average life span of a Shih Tzu is about 10 to 18 years, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). VCA Hospitals puts the average life span at 11 to 14 years. Remember, these numbers are averages. Some Shih Tzus will live longer lives, and others will, unfortunately, live shorter ones.

Ultimately, your dog’s life will depend on their overall health. Shih Tzus are typically healthy dogs but are more at-risk for certain conditions and issues, including:

  • Drowning: Shih Tzus have heavy coats and short faces, making swimming tough for them.
  • Heat exhaustion: Because of their coats and their face size, Shih Tzus tend to overheat more quickly than other breeds.
  • Eye problems: Cataracts, retinal detachment, and corneal dryness and inflammation are all common in Shih Tzus.
  • Joint problems: Shih Tzus are susceptible to such ailments as patellar luxation (slipped kneecaps) and hip dyslexia.

shih tzu lying on a blue carpet

How to keep your Shih Tzu healthy

You can’t protect your pup from everything—life and genetics can get in the way, just as they do with human health. The good news is that there are ways to keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy for as long as possible.

Keep their water dish full

Because Shih Tzus are prone to overheating, it’s essential to have plenty of water for them, particularly in warmer weather. Drinking water will help your Shih Tzu regulate their body temperature and protect against dehydration. It can also aid digestion and cognitive function and help prevent diabetes and kidney failure.

Beware of the heat

Shih Tzus don’t do well in hot weather. When temperatures are scorching, try to keep your Shih Tzu inside or else find a shady spot to sit if you’re sharing an outdoor adventure. Never leave your Shih Tzu unattended in a car, regardless of the temperature outside. Studies have shown that a 70-degree day can feel like 115 degrees in a car for your pup. It’s better to leave your Shih Tzu home alone with the air conditioning on than have them accompany you on errands.

Avoid swimming

Shih Tzus aren’t typically the type of dog to dive into a pool or scamper into the ocean with you. It’s best to leave it that way, as these pups simply aren’t born-and-bred swimmers. Find other ways to keep cool, such as cuddling under a tree or on the couch with the air conditioning blasting. If you do bring your Shih Tzu to a pool party, be careful that they don’t follow you into the water. (They love you so much that they just might try.)

Schedule regular vet visits

Vets can catch issues before they become big problems. Be sure to visit your vet at least once or twice a year at their direction. During these visits, your vet will check out your pet’s joints, including their knees, and can notice red flags for conditions like patellar luxation. They’ll also examine your Shih Tzu’s eyes for conditions like keratoconjunctivitis (dry eye). From there, you can discuss ways to mitigate or treat an issue. Be sure to discuss vaccinations with your pet—diseases like rabies are preventable.

Monitor food intake and encourage exercise

A healthy diet and regular physical activity can prevent issues like obesity, which can exacerbate joint troubles. Feed your pup an AAFCO-approved food and ask your vet about optimal serving sizes. While Shih Tzus aren’t necessarily running buddies, they do enjoy walks. Get them out for a couple walks per day, and engage in plenty of play sessions to better their health and your bond.

Shih Tzus are lovable little dogs. They have a happy demeanor and absolutely adore their humans. Regular vet visits will ensure that you and your Shih Tzu enjoy each other’s company for as long as possible. Your vet can provide tips on feeding, exercise, and other ways to help your Shih Tzu live a happy, healthy life.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
BethAnn Mayer
Beth Ann's work has appeared on healthline.com and parents.com. In her spare time, you can find her running (either marathons…
Everything to know about the adorable Yorkie dog and its characteristics
Do Yorkie dogs make good pets? Here's everything you need to know
A cute Yorkie on the floor

Whether you're a canine pro or new to the dog world, Yorkshire terriers are one of the most recognizable dog breeds. Maybe it’s their teeny-tiny size, their brown and black markings, or the numerous celebs like Kristin Cavallari and Giselle Bundchen who have allowed their Yorkie dogs to ride in their designer handbags. But whatever it is -- no one's questioning these cuties' recognizability.

As you may have guessed, parenting a Yorkie dog can be a rewarding experience. Small in stature, this breed boasts a massive personality. However, Yorkies also have a big (and sometimes bad) reputation. Despite their tiny size, they’re known as rather vocal dogs and considered high-maintenance pets. While some of these claims are unfair, others have some truth.

Read more
8 autumn Instagram pet photographs that will get you excited for the gorgeous season ahead
Fall Instagram pet photos sweeter than a pumpkin spice latte
a dog and woman cuddling on fall woodland walk

Fall is such a fun and inspirational time of year. Nature offers up some awesome colors as leaves turn from lush green to stunning shades of red, yellow, and orange. Farm fields are dotted with orange pumpkins, and people and pets get to dress up for Halloween. It’s the perfect season for taking photos of your pet. We scoured social media. Here are our favorite autumn Instagram pet photos.

Dogs falling for autumn on Instagram
These pups have an extra pep in their steps as the seasons change. They're dressing up, winding down, and taking scenic routes.

Read more
The 6 biggest myths about Chihuahuas, debunked once and for all
Chihuahua fact or fiction? Here's the truth behind 6 common myths about these small dogs
A black Chihuahua against a yellow backdrop

Chihuahuas are a small breed with a big personality. Some have a Napoleon complex — they totally think they can take on the mail carrier, and they will threaten to do so. Purebred Chihuahuas don’t exceed 6 pounds, so their valiant efforts can be more comedic than anything. Their reputation as an opinionated, snuggly, and incredibly loyal breed precedes them, and more than a few dog owners dream of being a Chihuahua's favorite person.
However, not every part of their reputation is true, and there are more than a few myths about these lovable dogs. We’re debunking them and giving you straight Chihuahua facts.

Myth 1: Chihuahuas don’t need much exercise
This statement is one of the biggest Chihuahua myths. Though the breed is small, Chihuahuas are full of energy and need stimulation. Any dog can become overweight, and Chihuahuas are particularly prone to obesity. Physical activity is one way to keep your Chihuahua healthy. While they don’t need as much physical activity as a larger breed, such as a Labrador Retriever, they need frequent exercise. About 30 minutes of walking and playing per day should do, and it’s a great way to bond. Some dogs may need more or less, depending on their age and overall health. Talk to your vet.

Read more