How Long Do Shih Tzu Live? Lifespan, Health, and Care Tips
With their flowing coats, expressive eyes, and charming personalities, Shih Tzus have captured hearts around the world. Originally bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, these little lions of love continue to shine as affectionate lap dogs and loyal family pets today. Their small size, adaptable nature, and friendly temperament make them especially popular among apartment dwellers and families alike. But beyond their cuteness, many pet parents wonder — how long do Shih Tzu live, and what can you do to keep them healthy for years to come?
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How Long Do Shih Tzu Live
On average, Shih Tzus live between 10 and 16 years, with many reaching well into their teens when given proper care. Some have even been known to live 18 years or more. Their relatively long lifespan is typical of small dog breeds, but genetics, lifestyle, and healthcare play major roles in determining how many happy years they’ll share with you.
Factors That Affect the Shih Tzu Lifespan
Not every Shih Tzu lives the same number of years — several important factors can influence how long they stay by your side:
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Royal History Shih Tzu’s history as a cherished companion dog dates back over a thousand years to ancient China, where they were bred to live inside palaces and temples. Unlike working or hunting breeds, Shih Tzus were not exposed to the same physical demands or harsh outdoor conditions, which helped shape them into a breed well-suited for indoor living. This background as a pampered lap dog contributes to their relatively long lifespan compared to larger, more physically strained breeds.
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Exercise and Activity While Shih Tzus don’t need intense exercise, they still benefit from regular movement. Daily short walks, gentle play, and interactive games help maintain a healthy weight and support strong muscles and joints. Without consistent activity, they may become overweight, which increases the risk of heart problems, diabetes, and added strain on their breathing and mobility.
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Preventive Vet Care Routine veterinary care is one of the best ways to keep your Shih Tzu healthy for the long term. Annual checkups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and parasite prevention can catch small problems before they become serious. Early detection of issues like dental disease, ear infections, or joint concerns can add years to your dog’s life.
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Living Environment Shih Tzus are indoor companions by nature, and their environment greatly impacts their health. Because of their flat faces, they are especially sensitive to extreme temperatures. Living in a climate-controlled home, away from excessive heat or cold, helps them avoid respiratory distress and heatstroke. A safe, loving, and low-stress household also supports their emotional well-being, which contributes to a longer, happier life.
Health Problems of Shih Tzu
Despite their relatively long lifespan, Shih Tzus are prone to several health concerns, many of which are linked to their distinctive appearance and small size:
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Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Because of their flat, short muzzles, Shih Tzus often struggle with restricted airflow. This condition makes them more prone to snoring, noisy breathing, and difficulty regulating body temperature. Hot or humid weather can quickly lead to overheating, which can become dangerous if not carefully managed. Owners should avoid strenuous exercise in warm conditions and provide a cool, well-ventilated environment.
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Eye Problems: Shih Tzus’ large, prominent eyes give them their signature sweet expression, but they are especially vulnerable. Their eyes are prone to dryness, corneal ulcers, scratches, and even proptosis (when the eye bulges out due to trauma). Regular eye checks, gentle cleaning, and protection from rough play help reduce the risks of irritation and injury.
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Dental Disease: Like many toy breeds, Shih Tzus have small jaws that cause overcrowded teeth. This makes it easy for plaque and tartar to build up, leading to gum inflammation, infections, and tooth loss. Poor dental health can also affect major organs like the heart and kidneys. Consistent brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings are essential for prevention.
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Joint Issues: Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation (a condition where the kneecap slips out of place) are relatively common in Shih Tzus. These conditions can cause limping, stiffness, or difficulty moving, especially as dogs age. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding excessive jumping from high places helps reduce strain on their joints. Early veterinary intervention can also improve mobility and comfort.
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Ear Infections: Their floppy ears may look adorable, but they can trap warmth and moisture inside the ear canal. This creates an ideal environment for yeast or bacterial infections, which cause itching, odor, and discomfort. Regular ear cleaning with vet-approved solutions helps keep infections at bay and maintains ear health.
By being aware of these common health problems, Shih Tzu owners can stay proactive with preventive care, regular vet visits, and early treatment — all of which contribute to a longer, healthier life.
How to Take Care of Shih Tzu
Caring for a Shih Tzu requires consistency, patience, and attention to their unique needs. Here are the key areas to focus on:
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Feed a Balanced Diet Shih Tzus thrive on high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds. Because of their size, they don’t need large portions, but they do require nutrient-dense meals to support their energy and maintain a healthy weight. Overfeeding can quickly lead to obesity, which puts extra strain on their joints and breathing. Fresh water should always be available, and treats should be given sparingly to avoid unnecessary weight gain.
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Groom Regularly Shih Tzus are famous for their long, flowing coats, but that beauty comes with high maintenance. Daily brushing prevents mats and tangles that can irritate the skin and cause discomfort. Many owners choose to keep their dogs in a shorter “puppy cut” for easier upkeep. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks not only keeps the coat neat but also includes trimming nails, cleaning ears, and checking for skin issues.
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Provide Gentle Exercise While Shih Tzus are not high-energy dogs, they still need regular movement to stay healthy. Short daily walks and indoor play sessions are usually enough to meet their activity needs. Because of their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure, they can tire easily and may struggle in hot weather, so exercise should be gentle and carefully monitored. Avoid overexertion to protect both their respiratory health and their joints.
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Support Dental Health Dental care is especially important for Shih Tzus, as their small mouths often lead to crowded teeth and faster tartar buildup. Brushing their teeth several times a week with dog-safe toothpaste helps prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dental chews and regular professional cleanings are also recommended to maintain long-term oral health.
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Keep Them Comfortable Shih Tzus are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Their short muzzles make it difficult to regulate body heat in hot weather, while their small bodies and long coats make them prone to chills in colder months. Lightweight dog shirts can keep them clean and cool indoors, while cozy sweaters or jackets add warmth during outdoor walks in winter. Providing a climate-controlled environment indoors is one of the best ways to keep them safe and comfortable year-round.
How Long Do Shih Tzu Live?
So, how long do Shih Tzu live? Most enjoy 10 to 16 wonderful years, with many thriving even longer in loving homes. While they may face certain health challenges, attentive care, proper nutrition, and regular vet visits can help extend their time with you. These little dogs may be small in size, but their companionship and love leave an enormous impact. By cherishing each stage of their life and giving them the best care possible, you’ll enjoy many happy, cuddly years together.
