Dog Lifespan Guide
Shih Tzu Lifespan: How Long Do Shih Tzus Live?
If you share your home with a Shih Tzu, it is natural to wonder how long you will have together. On average, Shih Tzus live about 10 to 16 years, often around 13. That figure is a comforting starting point — but it is only an average, and many Shih Tzus live happily beyond it with attentive, loving care.
In this guide we will look at the typical Shih Tzu lifespan, what shapes it, the health conditions worth knowing about, and — most importantly — the gentle, proven steps you can take to help your Shih Tzu enjoy as many healthy years as possible.
Important note
This guide is for general educational use only and does not replace individualized advice from a licensed veterinarian. Every dog is an individual, and your vet knows yours best.
How long do Shih Tzus live on average?
The average Shih Tzu lifespan is about 10 to 16 years, often around 13. Shih Tzus are a small breed, which favors a long life — but their flat faces mean breathing and eye care deserve extra attention.
Remember that an average is a midpoint, not a deadline. Genetics, weight, dental health, exercise, and the quality of veterinary care all move an individual dog up or down the range. A Shih Tzu kept lean, active, and well cared for has every chance of reaching — or passing — the upper end.
What affects a Shih Tzu's lifespan
Size plays a role: smaller dogs generally live longer than large ones, which is why breed averages vary so much. Beyond size, the biggest levers are within your control — keeping your Shih Tzu at a lean, ideal weight, feeding a balanced diet, providing daily exercise, staying on top of dental care, and keeping up routine veterinary check-ups so problems are caught early.
Spaying or neutering is also linked with longer average lifespans in dogs. Together, these everyday habits often matter as much as breed when it comes to how many healthy years you share.
Common health concerns in Shih Tzus
Knowing your breed's tendencies helps you spot issues early, when they are most treatable. Common concerns in Shih Tzus include:
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breathing: Shortened airways can make breathing harder, especially in heat or when overweight. Keeping cool and lean protects them.
Eye problems: Large, prominent eyes are prone to dryness, ulcers, and injury. Daily face cleaning and prompt vet care for any squinting help.
Dental disease: Crowded small mouths need regular dental care to protect overall health.
Hip and patella issues: Joint conditions can appear; lean weight keeps them comfortable.
None of these are a certainty for your dog — but awareness means you and your vet can watch for early signs and act quickly.
How to help your Shih Tzu live longer
Here is the hopeful part: so much of your Shih Tzu's longevity is in your loving hands. The habits with the biggest impact are keeping a lean body weight, daily exercise, consistent dental care, routine vet visits with early screening, parasite and vaccine prevention, and — where appropriate — spaying or neutering.
For this breed in particular: Keep your Shih Tzu cool and lean to ease breathing. Clean the face and eyes daily, and see a vet quickly for any eye discomfort. Stay on top of dental care to protect the heart and kidneys.
If the years ahead ever feel uncertain, please don't lose heart. Small, consistent acts of care genuinely add healthy time — and our dog lifespan calculator can show you exactly which habits could help your Shih Tzu most.
Shih Tzu life stages and aging signs
Shih Tzus move from puppyhood through young adulthood, into their prime adult years, and finally into a gentle senior stage. As a small breed, a Shih Tzu is often considered a senior in the latter third of its expected lifespan.
Watch for gentle signs of aging — a little more sleep, a slower pace, cloudier eyes, or stiffness after rest. These are not causes for alarm but cues to adjust: softer bedding, joint support, twice-yearly vet visits, and plenty of patient affection. Use our dog age calculator to see roughly where your Shih Tzu sits in human years.
Related dog breed lifespan guides
Try the calculator
How long will your Shih Tzu live?
Get a caring, personalized life-expectancy estimate — plus the specific habits that can add healthy years for your Shih Tzu.
Open the dog lifespan calculatorFrequently asked questions
How long do Shih Tzus live?
Shih Tzus live about 10 to 16 years, often around 13 on average. Weight, dental care, exercise, and routine veterinary care all influence whether an individual dog reaches the higher end.
What is the oldest a Shih Tzu can live?
While the average is 10 to 16 years, some well-cared-for Shih Tzus live several years beyond the typical range. Lean weight and preventive care give the best chance of a long life.
How can I help my Shih Tzu live longer?
Keep your dog lean, feed a balanced diet, exercise daily, brush the teeth, keep up routine vet visits, and stay current on prevention. Keep your Shih Tzu cool and lean to ease breathing.
What health problems do Shih Tzus have?
Common concerns include brachycephalic (flat-faced) breathing, eye problems, dental disease. Routine veterinary care helps catch these early.