What Is the Life Span of a Shi Tzu Dog?

Shih tzu dogs have sturdy little bodies, short legs and muzzles and an elegant and proud gait with the tail held high over the back. They are intelligent, loving and loyal, making ideal companion dogs. Smaller dog breeds tend to have a longer life span than larger breeds and the shih tzu is no exception.

A Long Life

Shih tzu dogs have a life span that averages 10 to 14 years and, given the right care, should live most of these years happily and healthily. Exercise, mental stimulation through play and training along with the correct diet and regular grooming will all help to give the shih tzu the maximum life span.

Common Shih Tzu Health Concerns

As with all specially bred dogs, they can have some inherited problems. These can include eye or thyroid problems, allergies, breathing difficulties and occasionally Von Willebrand's disease or patellar luxation. A luxating patella is when the kneecap moves or becomes dislocated and this may be apparent at birth or develop later in life. With Von Willebrand's disease, a type of hemophilia, the blood doesnt clot properly, which means the shih tzu may bleed excessively or be prone to easy bruising. Eye problems include "cherry eye," which can be surgically corrected under local anesthetic.

A Healthy Shih Tzu Diet

Shih tzu dogs love fresh food and, while it may not be possible or advisable to feed fresh meat and vegetables for every meal, if you try to include fresh produce several times a week, his diet will be more healthy and balanced than if fed solely on commercial dog food. A dog's digestive system is designed to process meats, so fresh meat such as chicken or beef should form the bulk of the shih tzu diet along with a little rice and fresh vegetables. Avoid feeding the dog sweets or other human treats.

Shih Tzu Grooming

The naturally long coat of the shih tzu means this is a dog that needs plenty of regular grooming to avoid matting and tangling of the hair. A popular grooming technique is to tie the hair on the forehead into the shih tzu topknot and finish with a bow or barrette. Eyes and ears should also be cleaned regularly along with weekly bathing.

Fresh Air and Exercise

Regular exercise in the open air will help the shih tzu to live life to the maximum. Although they are happy with indoor play activities, a walk outside presents extra stimulation for both body and mind. It also gives you the opportunity to practice obedience training by encouraging the shih tzu to walk to heel.