About the Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred as palace dogs in China and Tibet, living alongside royalty for centuries. That history shows in their character: they're companion animals through and through, oriented entirely toward their people. Unlike sporting or herding breeds, they have no strong working instinct. They just want to be with you. They're adaptable to apartment living, good with strangers, and genuinely easy-going with other pets. Their flowing coat requires significant grooming maintenance, which is why many owners opt for a practical 'puppy cut' rather than show length.
Shih Tzu lifespan
10 to 18
years (typical range)
Lifespan figures represent the typical range for healthy, well-cared-for Shih Tzus. Individual variation exists based on genetics, diet, exercise, and access to veterinary care.
How Shih Tzus age
Shih Tzus are among the longer-lived small breeds, with many reaching 14 to 17 years. Aging progresses slowly. Most don't show significant senior characteristics until age 10 to 12. Their long coats can mask weight changes, so regular weight checks matter. Dental disease is a significant concern throughout their lives due to their small jaw and crowded teeth, and this typically worsens with age. Eye and kidney issues become more common from age 10 onward.
Senior Shih Tzu care
Dental health should be a priority at every life stage, but especially in seniors. Monthly dental checks and regular professional cleanings prevent pain and systemic health effects. Eye discharge ('tear staining') requires daily cleaning. Senior Shih Tzus may drink more water as kidney function changes, so monitor this and raise it with your vet if you notice a significant increase.
General senior guideline: Dogs are typically considered senior when they have passed 75% of their expected lifespan. For a Shih Tzu with a 18-year typical maximum lifespan, that's around age 14.
Common Shih Tzu health concerns
These are conditions that occur at higher rates in Shih Tzus compared to the general dog population. Not every dog will develop them, but awareness helps with early detection.
- Brachycephalic syndrome (breathing difficulties)
- Dental disease
- Eye conditions (cataracts, dry eye)
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Kidney disease (in older dogs)
Shih Tzu questions answered
Why do Shih Tzus have eye discharge and tear staining?
Their protruding eyes and flat face mean tear drainage is less efficient. Tears spill onto the fur and the pigments they contain oxidise, creating reddish-brown staining. The discharge itself is normal, but constant moisture can cause secondary skin irritation and yeast infections if not cleaned daily. The staining is more visible on light-coloured coats.
Do Shih Tzus have breathing problems?
Some do. Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed and can have narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and a narrow trachea. Mild cases involve snoring and snorting. Severe cases cause laboured breathing and reduced exercise tolerance and can be corrected surgically. Heat is a serious risk; Shih Tzus should never be left in warm cars or exercised in hot conditions.
How often does a Shih Tzu need grooming?
Daily brushing is required for a dog kept in a full coat. Most owners opt for a shorter puppy cut trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks, which dramatically reduces daily maintenance. The face and around the eyes should be cleaned regardless of coat length, and the hair kept clear of the cornea to prevent irritation.
Are Shih Tzus good in apartments?
They are among the most apartment-friendly breeds. They have low exercise requirements, adapt readily to smaller spaces, and don't have a strong territorial bark reflex. Their gentle, people-oriented temperament makes them tolerant of the proximity of strangers typical in apartment buildings.