Shih Tzu Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?
Everything you need to know about the Shih Tzu's life expectancy, factors that affect longevity, and tips to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.
Average Lifespan
10–18 years
Size Category
Small
Compared to Average
Average
Shih Tzu Life Expectancy
The Shih Tzu has an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years, which is average for dogs of their size category. Shih Tzus typically live 10 to 18 years, with many reaching their mid-teens. Their longevity is a testament to generations of selective breeding for robust health..
Several factors influence an individual Shih Tzu's lifespan, including genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall lifestyle. Dogs from health-tested parents who receive consistent preventive care tend to live the longest.
Lifespan Range Visualization
Lifespan by Gender
| Male | 10–18 years |
| Female | 10.5–18.5 years |
Factors That Affect Shih Tzu Lifespan
The lifespan of your Shih Tzu (10–18 year average) is shaped by:
- Genetics: Start with a dog from parents tested for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Feeding: Portion-controlled nutrition maintaining 9–16 lbs
- Exercise: Low exercise needs suit them perfectly for apartment life. A few short walks daily and indoor play sessions keep them happy and healthy.
- Veterinary partnership: Regular checkups with screening for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome and other breed conditions
- Weight control: Lean body condition (ribs palpable, visible waist) can extend life by up to 2 years
- Grooming: Regular care of their long double coat coat supports skin health and allows early detection of lumps or skin changes
Tips to Help Your Shih Tzu Live Longer
To help your Shih Tzu live their longest, healthiest life (10–18 year potential):
- Feed a high-quality diet and measure portions to maintain 9–16 lbs
- Provide 50+ minutes of daily exercise—Low exercise needs suit them perfectly for apartment life. A few short walks daily and indoor play sessions keep them happy and healthy.
- Keep up with all vaccinations and parasite prevention
- Schedule annual veterinary checkups (twice yearly after age 8)
- Screen proactively for Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, the breed's primary health concern
- Maintain their long double coat coat with regular grooming to prevent skin issues
- Address health concerns promptly rather than waiting
Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds
| Breed | Lifespan | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Pug | 13–15 yrs | Small |
| Portuguese Podengo | 12–15 yrs | Small |
| Alaskan Klee Kai | 12–16 yrs | Small |
| Italian Greyhound | 14–15 yrs | Small |
| Lhasa Apso | 12–15 yrs | Small |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Shih Tzu typically lives 10–18 years, average for small-sized breeds. Shih Tzus typically live 10 to 18 years, with many reaching their mid-teens. Their longevity is a testament to generations of selective breeding for robust health..
Feed a balanced diet, maintain healthy weight, provide 50+ minutes of daily exercise, keep up with preventive vet care, and address health issues early. Their flat face creates breathing challenges, and their prominent eyes are prone to injuries and dryness. Regular veterinary eye exams are recommended..
Exceptional Shih Tzus have been reported to live several years beyond the 18-year upper average. Given that Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome is the breed's primary health concern, avoiding or managing this condition is key to reaching advanced age. These outliers typically share key traits: lean body condition, active owners who provide 50+ minutes of daily exercise, and proactive health management.
Male and female Shih Tzus have similar life expectancies of 10–18 years. The more significant factors are genetics, diet, and how well conditions like Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome are managed. Their flat face creates breathing challenges, and their prominent eyes are prone to injuries and dryness. Regular veterinary eye exams are recommended..
The impact of spaying/neutering on Shih Tzu lifespan is modestly positive overall. Altered dogs avoid reproductive cancers and certain behavioral risks. However, Their flat face creates breathing challenges, and their prominent eyes are prone to injuries and dryness. Regular veterinary eye exams are recommended. that may influence the ideal timing. Smaller breeds like the Shih Tzu can typically be altered at 6–12 months without significant orthopedic concerns.