What is lifespan of Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu Lifespan: How Long Do Shih Tzu Live?
Shih Tzu Lifespan: How Long Do Shih Tzu Live?
By Everything Shih Tzu, Updated November 5, 2022This post may contain affiliate links. Readprivacy&disclosurepolicy for info
When talking about Shih Tzu, the topic of how long these dogs typically live almost always come up at some point during the conversation.
While it's heartbreaking to think about the inevitable passing of our beloved pets, it is not at all unreasonable to wonder about it.
How long a Shih Tzu will live can range anywhere from 10 to 18 years, with an average lifespan of 13. However, genetics, environment, care, and diet can all have a significant impact on your dog's longevity.
Most Shih Tzu will live into their early teen years and are considered a senior dog between 9 and 10 years old.
Whether youre thinking about getting a Shih Tzu or already sharing your life with one of these lovable companions, its only natural that you would want your best friend to be around for as long as possible.
The lifespan of your Shih Tzu can be affected by a number of factors, including genetics and the possibility of a sudden accident.
The good news is there are things you can do now that will help keep them healthy and happy for years to come.
Keep reading to learn more.
What Are Some of the Health Issues That Can Affect the Shih Tzu Life Span?
Overall, Shih Tzu are pretty healthy. This small breed enjoys one of the longest lifespans in the dog world.
Like many dogs, though, Shih Tzu do have certain health problems that are common to their breed.
Its important to know about what these issues are so you can keep an eye out for any symptoms. The earlier you can detect a problem, the more likely that it can be fixed or treated quickly.
If left unchecked or gone unnoticed, these are conditions that can definitely shorten dogs lifespans, or at the very least reduce their quality of life.
Some common issues that Shih Tzu can have include heart issues, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, collapsed trachea, breathing problems, and eye, ear, and teeth issues.
This might sound like a lot, but its important to remember that these are health problems that are common to many tiny dogs and doesnt mean that all Shih Tzu will get these conditions.
Shih Tzu Joint Issues
Conditions like hip dysplasia, when the hip joint moves away from the thigh bone, and patellar luxation, when the kneecap pops in an out, are found in many dogs.
Shih Tzu puppies often think they can jump higher and harder than they actually can (sort of like a toddler), so these conditions can develop in their later years.
Depending on the severity, surgery may be needed.
Often the dog can still live a completely healthy life with just a limp and some joint pain, which can be helped with medicine, but sometimes these problems can lead to immobility.
Back Problems
Due to their build of short legs and a large back, Shih Tzu are prone to something called Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVD). This is where a disk slips out of place and presses against the spinal cord.
It can cause weakness, muscle spasms and in worst cases, paralysis. The symptoms can be treated with surgery and/or medicine.
Breathing problems
Sometimes Shih Tzu can be born with small passageways in their nostrils which makes it difficult for them to breathe.
If they are not able to get the proper amount of oxygen, their body can start to experience problems.
Another issue that faces small dogs is a collapsing trachea, where the windpipe can flatten from weak cartilage and make breathing difficult.
Owners should usually be able to notice breathing issues pretty quickly and get them addressed early.
So, if your dog is making snorting sounds a lot, dont just assume hes a snorer.
Eye Problems
Shih Tzu are prone to several eye problems, some of which can lead to blindness.
They also can get something called proptosis, a fancy way of saying the eyeball can come out of the socket (and will require an emergency visit to the Vet!)
Some of these issues can be fixed with surgery, but its expensive, so if you notice any changes in your dogs vision, get them to a vet right away.
Earlier diagnosis often means a more successful solution.
Ear Issues
Although all dogs do not need their ears cleaned often, Shih Tzu ears need regular attention.
Ear infections are a common reason a Shih Tzu will have to visit the Vet.
Allergies, accumulation of ear wax, wet ears, or hair growing in the ear canals can be a breeding ground for bacteria in these long fluffy flaps when left unchecked for too long.
Cleaning their earsonce a week will go a long way in keeping your dogs ears healthy.
Dental Problems
Because of their small mouths, Shih Tzu often have teeth that dont line up or are missing altogether.
Theyre also susceptible to periodontal disease (gum disease) which can have an effect on the animals overall health, causing infections that can spread throughout the bloodstream to the kidneys, liver, heart or brain.
This is why brushing their teeth is so important.
Common Issues Shih Tzu Face That Can Affect Their Longevity
When it comes to things that can affect your dogs lifespan, health conditions arent the only thing to think about.
Its important to know what traits your dogs breed possesses because certain activities, likejogging, might not be a good idea for them.
Shih Tzu, in general, are not very good swimmers, for example, so although they might enjoy a quick dip in the family pool with you, anything more than a few minutes is probably not a good idea.
Its best to let them enjoy other activities that dont involve having to constantly do the doggie paddle.
This breed also doesnt tolerate heat very well, so they dont make good outdoor pets, nor do they want to spend the day having fun in the sun.
If for some reason you need to have your Shih Tzu outside for an extended period of time, make sure they have plenty of shade and water.
Did you know...
Shih Tzu and other short faced dogs can overheat more easily than dogs with a longer snout. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly and become life threatening conditions for them.
Some dogs in this breed can also easily become overweight.
Carrying around excess weight can cause other problems, especially joint and back issues, or make conditions that are already present worse.
What You Can Do to Help Your Shih Tzu Live a Long and Happy Life
The oldest Shih Tzu on record was named Smokey, in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Smokey lived to be 23 years old! Wow!
Dogs rarely live to the age of 23, but there are a few things you can do to increase the likelihood that your Shih Tzu will live to the age of 16 or beyond.
Understanding the breed's common health issues and potential behavioral problems is a good first step but here's a few more tips.
- When walking your Shih Tzu, you may want to considerusing a harness rather than a collar. This could help to prevent the collapsed trachea problem, or at the very least, it may keep it from becoming worse in the future.
- It goes without saying that bringing your dog in for a veterinarian checkup at least once a year could help them stay in tip-top health. Additionally, if you notice anything that is out of the ordinary with your four-legged friend, you should contact the vet as soon as possible.
- Keep up to date on any necessary vaccinations and regularly cleaning your dog's eyes and ears to stay ahead of any possible problems.
- A balanced diet and an active lifestyle are fundamental components of a healthy lifestyle for people as well as for dogs.
- Avoid overfeeding your dog, cut back on the treats, and let him or her get some exercise every day. Fortunately, this little pup doesn't require much of it. Taking daily strolls of a moderate length and some one-on-one playtimes are usually sufficient. (We should all be so lucky!)
- Brush your dog's teeth regularly. The same holds true for dogs as it does for people when it comes to the significance of routine dental care to overall health. Be sure to schedule an annual appointment for your four-legged friend to have a dental checkup and cleaning so that he can maintain good dental health.
- According to the American Kennel Club, "there may be long term health benefits to spaying or neutering dogs after they have passed through puberty." If you have a Shih Tzu puppy that is not already spayed or neutered, make it a priority to discuss with your veterinarian the best time to get it done.
- Regular grooming can also affect your dogs health, believe it or not, not to mention it just makes them feel better.
Think about it, how would you feel if you never got a haircut or a bath?
Its especially important to keep hair out of Shih Tzus eyes by trimming them or using a top knot, since their eyes protrude and can easily get scratched and infected.
When you get a new Shih Tzu, make sure to check its history.
Proper breeding can help reduce the chances of a lot of health issues since breeder's screen for these conditions.
If youre a dog lover, then your canine companion is more than a pet, shes part of the family.
And if your Shih Tzu has made her way into your heart, then, of course, you want to do everything you can to make sure shell live a long and healthy life.
Knowing what to look for and how to take care of your dog will help her enjoy her days with you, whether it be the average of 13 years or more.
Maybe your Shih Tzu will set a new record and pass up Smokeys 23-year lifespan!
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Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a Tibetan toy breed born to be a furry companion. This breed dates back to the 15th century, though the dogs werent formally recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1969. These little lion dogs, as their name means, were associated with Buddhism and, because Tibet did not have indigenous lions, the spiritual leaders bred their dogs to look like lions, according to the Shih Tzu Club. Imperial rulers bred this type of dog to alert people of visitors with their sharp bark.
Eventually, this breed became a companion animal instead of a working dog, as people in China began breeding them with Western breeds such as Pugs and Pekingese. The first breeding pair of Shih Tzu was exported to England around 1930, and the breed made its way to the U.S. in the following decades. Shih Tzu quickly became popular with the upper class and remain one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States.
The Shih Tzu is an active and friendly breed. They are sturdy dogs, weighing anywhere between 916 pounds with an average height of 10 inches. They have long, smooth haircoats, a squished muzzle, a pronounced underbite, and short, floppy ears. Their heads are round with bulbous, expressive eyes.
Caring for a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu are pleasant, energetic companions. They are generally happy and sociable with people (and other animals!) of all ages and prefer to not spend their time alone. Shih Tzu should be socialized at a young age to avoid any anxiety, otherwise they might bark or dig.
This breed requires little exercise (less than 30 minutes daily) but they do enjoy getting out for short walks. Shih Tzu love to be spoiled with attention and treats; they love to please their pet parents and are usually quick to learn new tricks to get the treats and praise they crave.
Most of a Shih Tzus upkeep deals with his long, luxurious double haircoat that continuously grows. The dogs dont shed much, but their coat is prone to tangling and matting. This coat is often shaved short into a "puppy cut to avoid continuous grooming, because if left uncut, the fur can grow so long that it drags on the ground. If a Shih Tzus coat is kept longer, brushing and bathing will be a weekly chore, with professional grooming appointments sprinkled in every few weeks.
Another thing to know about Shih Tzu: They are brachycephalic, meaning they have a short, squished muzzle. This can put them at a higher risk for overheating or heat stroke, so they need to stay out of the hot summer weather.
Shih Tzu Health Issues
The average Shih Tzu lifespan is 1018 years, and they are considered a healthy breed overall, though they can be prone to certain medical conditions. Some medical problems that this breed is predisposed to include:
Obesity
Shih Tzu arent exactly athletes, and because of this, they can often become overweight. Its important to limit treats and make certain that 20-30 minutes of controlled exercisesuch as walks and playtimeare done daily. Obesity in dogs can lead to other issues such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and difficulty breathing.
Luxating Patellas
Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap slips out of its normal position, causing discomfort, limping, and eventually arthritis. Dogs with luxating patellas will be seen occasionally skipping and holding up a back leg during walking.
Often, the patella will return back to position on its own, but sometimes surgery is recommended in severe cases.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, or dental disease, is commonly seen in Shih Tzu dogs because their teeth can easily overcrowd their small mouths. This overcrowding leads to tartar and plaque development. Routine teeth brushing, professional dental cleanings, and surgical removal of any lingering baby teeth will help keep your Shih Tzus mouth healthy.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia results when the hip joints dont properly fit together, eventually leading to arthritis, trouble walking, and pain. Hip dysplasia is often diagnosed via radiographs and treated with oral medications to decrease inflammation and pain, joint supplements, and in severe cases, surgery.
Eye Problems
Shih Tzu have many inherited eye conditions, including glaucoma, chronic dry eye, and cataracts. Eye conditions can be quite painful, and signs include:
Contact a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dogs eyes.
Liver Shunts
Portosystemic shunt (PSS) is a liver disease that causes toxins the blood stream to bypass the liver, the organ that normally filters these toxins out of the body. The toxins build up, eventually causing chronic gastrointestinal issues, stunted growth, and even neurologic signs such as ataxia (a drunken sailor gait) or seizures.
Blood testing is performed to diagnose this condition, along with abdominal imaging and often surgery to repair the shunt, if possible. Diet changes and oral medications can also be used to manage dogs with milder signs.
Ear Infections
Shih Tzu ears are floppy, which presents two issues:
This combination can trap moisture in the ears, leading to red, painful, or itchy ears. Your veterinarian will assess for ear infections with a thorough examination and by obtaining a sample to assess for bacteria or fungus. These infections are often treated with topical and/or oral medications.
Glomerulonephropathy
This is a type of kidney disease thats inherited in this breed. It causes excess protein to be lost from the body and may cause the kidneys to malfunction at an early age. Clinical signs can include:
Chronic therapy with diet changes, oral medications, and sometimes fluid therapy is required for treatment.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Dogs with flat faces, such as the Shih Tzu, have brachycephalic syndrome. This is characterized by upper airway abnormalities such as:
All of these aspects can cause trouble breathing and make Shih Tzu more prone to overheating. If severe, your veterinarian may discuss surgery to help correct some of these issues when your Shih Tzu is a puppy.
What To Feed a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu are prone to obesity, so its important to feed them a well-balanced diet and to avoid too many treats throughout the day. A twice-daily, balanced adult small bite diet is recommended. Pet parents should also feed their Shih Tzu dry kibble instead of canned food to lessen the risk of periodontal disease, as dry kibble is abrasive and can remove some plaque buildup.
How To Feed a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu puppies should be fed frequent meals (about three or four every day) to avoid risks of hypoglycemia, depending on veterinary recommendations. High-fat, protein, and complex carbohydrate meals will lessen the risk of low blood sugar issues, and well-formulated puppy small breed diets usually contain all of these components.
How Much Should You Feed a Shih Tzu?
Your veterinarian can help to calculate the appropriate daily calories your pet should eat to avoid weight gain. When choosing a diet for your Shih Tzu, choose a small-breed food to allow for easy chewing. These formulated diets will have recommendations for how much food to offer with each feeding.
Nutritional Tips for Shih Tzu
Dog supplements that may support the health of this breed include omega fatty acids, which are heart-, brain-, skin-, and joint-healthy. Also, dental chews and supplements may be recommended by your vet to lessen the risk of periodontal disease.
Behavior and Training Tips for Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament
Shih Tzu are small in size but have big personalities. They make loyal, loving companions for families with children and other animals. Shih Tzu are playful, intelligent, and want to please their pet parents. They are quite adaptable and can range from a sedentary lifestyle cuddling indoors to a more adventurous walk in the park. No matter what you do, they just want to be with their people.
Shih Tzu Behavior
Shih Tzu were originally bred to be alert dogs, and they will still bark to alert that someone or something new is coming into their environment all these centuries later. Despite their built-in alarms, they have a sweet disposition and need love and attention.
Shih Tzu Training
Shih Tzu are people pleasers and are usually easy to train. They prefer high-reward treats and positive reinforcement when training.
Shih Tzu make wonderful emotional support dogs due to their small stature, loyalty, and calm spirit. They can be curious and dig if left unattended, so its important to monitor them closely in new or outdoor environments.
Fun Activities for Shih Tzu Dogs
Shih Tzu Grooming Guide
Shih Tzu are minimal shedders, but dont confuse that with having minimal grooming needs.
Skin and Coat Care
Because their coats grow long, making them prone to matting and skin irritation, Shih Tzu dogs need to be bathed once a week and brushed once or twice a week. Routine professional grooming should be part of your budget, to either maintain the long hair coat or to shave it into a cute Shih Tzu haircut periodically.
Eye Care
A Shih Tzu needs the hair around his eye trimmed or pulled up with a hair tie to avoid any eye irritation. Their eyes are prominent and can easily become inflamed if hair is allowed to rub against them.
Shih Tzu are a breed that can be prone to tear staining because of their flat face. Excessive tear production or blocked tear ducts lead to a buildup of a reddish-brown pigment at the inner corners of the eyes, often extending toward the muzzle. Keeping this area clean and dry is the best way to avoid staining. If staining is excessive or if your dogs eyes are red, swollen, or painful, contact your veterinarian.
Ear Care
Shih Tzu dogs are prone to ear infections due to hair growing inside of their ear canals. This hair holds onto moisture, which can cause inflammation and infection by bacteria, fungus, or both. Routine cleaning with an ear cleaner that contains a drying agent is helpful to avoid moisture buildup. If excessive hair is noted inside the ear canals, your veterinarian or groomer may recommend removing it to avoid irritation.
Considerations for Pet Parents
Shih Tzu do not require a great deal of exercise and are happy to just be with you. But it is necessary for this breed to find a home where their pet parents are willing to perform routine grooming. Like all dogs, they need attention and playtime to be happy. If you love them, they will love you unconditionally and try to please you in any way that they can. As long as they are socialized at a young age, this breed is great with children and other animals as well.
Shih Tzu FAQs
Is a Shih Tzu hypoallergenic?
Shih Tzu dont shed much and are sometimes referred to as a hypoallergenic dog. But no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, as skin and salvia still contain allergens. That said, Shih Tzu can be a good fit for some people with dog allergies.
Potential pet parents should spend time with the breed to see how their allergies react before bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost?
A typical Shih Tzu price ranges from $1,000$3,000, depending on breeding lines.
How big do Shih Tzu get?
Shih Tzu are small dogs, weighing between 916 pounds and standing about 10 inches tall.
What were Shih Tzu bred for?
Shih Tzu were initially bred to alert monarchs and spiritual leaders of unwanted visitors, though it was soon discovered that their affectionate personalities made them great companion animals.
Featured Image: iStock/Drazen Zigic
WRITTEN BY
Katie Grzyb, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Katie Grzybreceived her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University in 2009. She continued her clinical training at...
