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Shih Tzu

Toy Group 🐕

A centuries-old Tibetan companion dog with a long, flowing double coat and an incredibly cheerful, loving demeanor. They are highly adaptable apartment pets but require careful, daily facial hair hygiene and regular professional grooming.

Size
Small
9-16 lbs
Lifespan
10-16 yrs
Exercise
Low-Moderate
Grooming
High
Insurance Priority
🟡 Moderate
Temperament
AffectionatePlayfulOutgoingCharming

Common Health Issues

Understanding breed-specific health risks helps you catch problems early and choose the right preventive care.

⚕️ Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
⚕️ Intervertebral Disc Disease
⚕️ Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
⚕️ Patellar Luxation

Diet & Nutrition

Portion control is highly recommended to prevent excess body fat, which can compromise their respiration.

Find the Best Food for Your Shih Tzu

Fresh, human-grade dog food is formulated specifically for your dog's breed, age, and activity level — delivering the exact nutrition they need.

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🛡️ Protect Your Shih Tzu with Pet Insurance

Shih Tzus have a moderate insurance priority. Even healthy breeds benefit from coverage for unexpected emergencies and age-related conditions. Compare plans that cover breed-specific hereditary conditions.

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Shih Tzu Questions

Do Shih Tzus need pet insurance?
While Shih Tzus are generally a healthy breed with a moderate insurance priority, unexpected emergencies can still occur. Even healthy breeds benefit from accident-and-illness coverage, especially in their senior years when conditions like Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome may develop.
What's the best food for a Shih Tzu?
Portion control is highly recommended to prevent excess body fat, which can compromise their respiration. Fresh, human-grade dog food delivery services are an excellent option — they formulate meals based on your dog's breed, age, weight, and activity level. See our fresh dog food comparison →
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
Shih Tzus have low-moderate exercise requirements. Short daily walks and gentle play are sufficient. This breed is well-suited to apartment living and less active households.
What health problems are Shih Tzus prone to?
The most common health concerns for Shih Tzus include Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate screening tests, and maintaining a healthy weight are the best preventive measures. Responsible breeders will test for breed-specific genetic conditions.
How long do Shih Tzus live?
The typical lifespan for a Shih Tzu is 10-16 years. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, preventive veterinary care, and a loving home environment can help your Shih Tzu live a long, healthy life.

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