Longevity
Life expectancy
When it is well cared for, properly fed and monitored by a veterinarian, the Shih Tzu can live a long time. Its longevity depends greatly on the quality of the breeding, weight control, oral hygiene and the management of respiratory constraints during periods of high heat.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
The Shih Tzu is not a fragile dog on a daily basis, but its conformation requires a few precautions. It tolerates intense exertion poorly in a hot climate, may have ocular sensitivities and requires regular maintenance to keep skin, coat and overall comfort in good condition.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Vigilance must focus on the eyes, ears, brachycephalic dog breathing, and weight control. Regular grooming and quick observation of any urinary or ocular discomfort are particularly important in this breed.
Brachycephalic syndrome: The short muzzle can limit breathing comfort and worsen intolerance to heat or exertion.
Progressive retinal atrophy: This progressive eye condition can lead to a gradual decline in vision.
Cataract: Clouding of the lens can reduce vision quality and require veterinary care.
Dry eye: Insufficient tear production promotes irritation, redness, and corneal damage.
Otitis: Drooping ears and insufficient local care can promote inflammation of the ear canal.
Urinary tract infection: This condition is cited among the breed's frequent problems and should be suspected in case of discomfort or unusual urination.
Patellar luxation: As in other small dogs, this knee instability can cause intermittent lameness.
Atopic dermatitis: Itching and skin inflammation may appear in some sensitive individuals.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
The Shih Tzu tolerates moderate cold fairly well thanks to its coat, but it is more sensitive to heat, especially in summer or during prolonged exertion. Walks must be arranged during cool hours, with permanent access to water and without overheating.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
The Shih Tzu having moderate physical needs, weight gain can quickly occur if portions are poorly adjusted or if treats are too frequent. Monitoring weight, a measured ration and regular but gentle activity help preserve its joints and its breathing.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Clean around the eyes and monitor for any redness or discomfort.
- Brush the teeth or use appropriate oral hygiene several times a week.
- Keep the coat detangled, clean, and clear around the eyes.
- Avoid intense exertion during the hottest hours and monitor breathing.
Vaccination
Shih Tzu vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Shih Tzu need? Like all dogs, Shih Tzus should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Shih Tzu vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Shih Tzu booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Shih Tzu need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Shih Tzu
An eye examination is recommended as a priority. In practice, careful veterinary monitoring of vision, the ocular surface and breathing is particularly useful in the Shih Tzu.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
