Shih Tzu Lifespan & Health Guide
The typical Shih Tzu lives 10–18 years, with a median of 13 years.
The Shih Tzu is a charming, affectionate toy breed originally bred as a companion for Chinese royalty, prized for its flowing double coat and sweet, outgoing temperament. Despite their regal heritage, Shih Tzus are sturdy, lively little dogs who are happy in any living situation, from apartments to large homes. Their primary purpose has always been companionship, and they excel at it — forming deep bonds with their owners and bringing joy with their playful, sometimes mischievous personality.
10–18
years lifespan
9–16
lbs (male)
9–10.5
inches tall (male)
moderate
energy level
How Long Do Shih Tzus Live?
Shih Tzus have a lifespan of 10–18 years, with a median of 13 years. The main health factors that affect how long a Shih Tzu lives:
- brachycephalic airway concerns
- eye injuries and conditions
- dental disease (overcrowded teeth)
- liver shunts (portosystemic shunts)
- intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Temperament
How Old Is Your Shih Tzu in Human Years?
Use our breed-specific calculator to find out, plus get personalised health and care guidance for your dog’s exact age.
Open Shih Tzu Age CalculatorShih Tzu Size & Weight
9–16 lbs
Male weight
9–16 lbs
Female weight
9–10.5″
Male height
9–10.5″
Female height
Size category: small · Group: Toy
Common Shih Tzu Health Problems
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Shih Tzus have a shortened skull that can cause varying degrees of upper airway obstruction, including stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), elongated soft palate, and narrowed trachea. While generally less severely affected than breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, many Shih Tzus have mild-to-moderate breathing compromise that worsens with heat, exercise, excitement, or obesity. Snoring and snorting are common but should not be dismissed as 'normal' without veterinary assessment.
Typical onset: 1–3 years
Eye Injuries and Conditions (Proptosis, Corneal Ulcers, Dry Eye)
Shih Tzus have large, prominent, forward-facing eyes that are highly vulnerable to injury due to their shallow eye sockets. Corneal ulcers from minor scratches (playing, bushes, even grooming accidents) are very common. Proptosis (the eye being displaced from the socket) can occur with surprisingly little trauma. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) is also prevalent, as the breed's eye conformation affects tear distribution.
Typical onset: 1–8 years
Dental Disease (Periodontal Disease and Tooth Crowding)
Shih Tzus are extremely prone to dental disease due to severe tooth crowding in their shortened jaws. Their teeth are frequently misaligned, overlapping, and prone to trapping food and bacteria. Periodontal disease develops earlier and progresses faster in this breed than in most others. Without proactive dental care, many Shih Tzus experience tooth loss, jaw bone deterioration, and secondary health effects on the heart and kidneys by middle age.
Typical onset: 2–5 years
Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt)
An abnormal blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the liver, preventing proper detoxification and metabolism. Shih Tzus are one of the breeds most commonly affected by congenital liver shunts. Affected dogs typically show symptoms in the first two years of life, including poor growth, neurological signs (especially after eating protein-rich food), and urinary tract issues. The condition ranges from manageable with medical therapy to life-threatening without treatment.
Typical onset: 0.25–2 years
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Degeneration and potential herniation of the spinal discs, causing pain, nerve compression, and in severe cases, paralysis. Shih Tzus are predisposed to IVDD due to their chondrodystrophic (short-legged) body type, which causes premature disc degeneration. The thoracolumbar spine (mid-to-lower back) is most commonly affected. Episodes can range from mild back pain that resolves with rest to acute paralysis requiring emergency surgery.
Typical onset: 3–7 years
Recommended Health Screenings
Breed-specific tests and evaluations recommended for Shih Tzus:
- Ophthalmologic examination (OFA CAER)
- Bile acid test (liver shunt screening)
- Patella luxation evaluation
- Dental radiographs
- Thyroid panel
- Cardiac evaluation (auscultation)
Typical Veterinary Costs
Shih Tzus are generally rated medium on the annual veterinary cost scale, based on breed-specific health risks, known chronic conditions, and typical screening requirements. Routine wellness care plus budget for breed-specific screening tests.
When Is a Shih Tzu Considered Senior?
Shih Tzus are generally considered senior at around 10 years of age. At this point, you should increase vet visits to twice yearly and watch for age-related health changes.
Check your Shih Tzu’s age in human years →Shih Tzu Exercise Needs
Adult Shih Tzus need 20–40 minutes of exercise per day. Adult Shih Tzus have modest exercise needs compared to many breeds. Two 15-20 minute walks daily combined with some indoor play is typically sufficient. They are adaptable to their owner's activity level but should not be sedentary. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training is as important as physical exercise. Climate control is essential — this breed cannot tolerate heat or high humidity.
Cautions: never exercise in heat or humidity; use a harness to protect the neck and eyes; stop if breathing becomes laboured; protect eyes from low branches and grass; carry water on walks
Shih Tzu Diet & Nutrition
Adult Shih Tzus typically eat 0.5–1 cups of high-quality small-breed adult formula per day, split into 2 meals. Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, which is easily hidden under their coat. Measure food precisely and limit treats to 10% of daily calories. Choose a small-breed formula with kibble designed for small, flat-faced dogs. Some Shih Tzus are picky eaters — resist the urge to supplement with table scraps, which promotes pickiness and weight gain. A diet rich in omega fatty acids supports the breed's luxurious coat.
Key nutrients: lean animal protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat, fiber for digestive health, antioxidants for eye health, dental-support ingredients
Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, and their long coat makes weight gain easy to miss. Regular weigh-ins are essential — part the coat and feel the ribs; you should be able to feel them with light pressure. A visible waist when viewed from above (with the coat parted) and an abdominal tuck from the side indicate healthy weight. Excess weight worsens BOAS breathing difficulty, accelerates IVDD risk, and increases strain on small joints. Measure all food precisely, use low-calorie treats for training, and avoid table scraps. If weight loss is needed, work with your vet on a gradual plan.
Shih Tzu Dental Care
Shih Tzus have some of the worst dental disease rates of any breed, directly related to their brachycephalic skull and severely shortened jaws. Their 42 teeth are crammed into a tiny space, causing extreme crowding, overlapping, and misalignment that traps food and bacteria. Periodontal disease often begins before age 3 and can lead to tooth loss, jaw bone deterioration, oral-nasal fistulas, and systemic health effects on the heart and kidneys. Daily tooth brushing is a medical necessity, not a cosmetic luxury. Professional dental cleanings with full-mouth radiographs should begin by age 2-3 and continue annually or biannually throughout life. Early extraction of severely crowded teeth can actually improve long-term oral health.
Shih Tzu Coat & Grooming
Coat type
Long, flowing double coat
Shedding
low
Energy
moderate
Shih Tzu Trainability
Shih Tzus are rated moderate to train. They typically calm down around 24 months of age.