CanlıDostum⚡ At a glance
- Adult weight: 4–7.5 kg (9–16 lb)
- Life expectancy: 10–16 years
- Activity: Low · about 30 min a day
- Best suited to: Apartments, families, older owners
Key facts
| Origin | China (Tibet) |
|---|---|
| Height | 20–28 cm (8–11 in) |
| Adult weight | 4–7.5 kg (9–16 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 10–16 years |
| Activity needs | Low · about 30 min a day |
| Coat | Long double coat; low shedding but daily care |
| Best suited to | Apartments, families, older owners |
Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.
Temperament
Shih Tzus are affectionate, calm and people-oriented. They usually get on with children and other animals and are not big barkers.
Daily exercise
About 30 minutes of calm walks and play a day. They can struggle to breathe in hot weather.
Feeding
Kibble shaped for flat-faced dogs can help; weight control is important.
Example: a neutered adult Shih Tzu at an ideal weight of 6 kg (13 lb) needs roughly 430 kcal a day (RER × 1.6). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.
Common health problems
- Brachycephalic breathing problems
- Eye problems: dry eye, corneal ulcers, prominent eyes
- Dental problems
- Patellar luxation
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Care tips
- Brush daily or keep a short cut
- Keep hair around the eyes short and check eyes daily
- Brush teeth several times a week
- Walk in cool hours in summer
Frequently asked questions
Do Shih Tzus shed?
Little, but the coat keeps growing, so daily brushing or a trim every 4–6 weeks is needed.
Why do Shih Tzu eyes water?
The flat face and hair poking the eyes can cause watering. Redness or squinting means see a vet.
Are Shih Tzus good with children?
Usually yes; they are calm and gentle. Supervise play with small children because of their size.