The Shih Tzu is hailed as one of the longest-living dog breeds. Depending on the love and care he receives, this small dog can live for a decade and sometimes more.
However, certain factors can shorten the Shih Tzu lifespan such as health issues. We will walk you through some of the common ailments affecting the breed and share ways to help a Shih Tzus live a long and healthy life.
What Is the Average Shih Tzu Life Span?
The lifespan of a Shih Tzu ranges between 10 to 16 years. The breed’s average life expectancy is approximately 13 years.
Whilst these numbers might not seem significant in human years, they are quite a remarkable age for dogs.
For context, some canines, especially large dog breeds, have shorter lifespans ranging from 5 to 10 years, which can be heartbreaking news for their pawrents.
Hence, the Shih Tzu life span being able to reach beyond 10 years is a comforting thought for fanciers of this toy dog breed.
How Old Was the Longest-Living Shih Tzu?
Smokey was confirmed to be older than the proclaimed oldest dog during that time, thanks to his birth date record in the VCA St. Petersburg Animal Hospital, which is 18 January 1986.
According to his owners, they attribute Smokey’s long life to a healthy and nutritious diet and an active lifestyle. It goes without saying that other factors like proper health care, genetics, and luck had some influence over the oldest Shih Tzu dog’s long life.
Does Size Affect the Shih Tzu Lifespan?
In a study, researchers observed that small breeds age slower than their larger counterparts. This indicates that their bodies’ defences against health problems are potentially higher, which allows them to live longer.
According to different research, a link was found between an increase in body weight and cancer rates. Experts state that the bodies of large dog breeds lack enough time to develop better cancer defence mechanisms to match their size.
That being said, toy breeds like Shih Tzus are not immune to developing diseases despite their small size. As you read on, you will learn some of the prevalent ailments that negatively affect the Shih Tzu life span.
You May Also Like:
What Are the Common Health Problems That Can Shorten the Shih Tzu Life Span?
1. Tracheal Collapse
The physical conformation of Shih Tzus predisposes them to certain types of health problems. Their brachycephaly increases the risk of a respiratory condition called tracheal collapse.
It occurs when the cartilage rings that support the trachea’s circular form weaken and eventually flatten. Mild cases of this disorder do not affect the quality of life of affected dogs.
However, severe tracheal collapse is potentially life-threatening as it causes respiratory distress such as breathing difficulties and incessant coughing.
2. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BAOS)
BAOS is a progressive and lifelong congenital problem unique to flat-faced dogs like the Shih Tzu breed. This condition refers to a group of upper airway abnormalities, such as extremely narrowed nostrils and an excessively long soft palate.
These respiratory deformities contribute to breathing issues, causing loud snoring and laboured breathing. This makes affected dogs highly susceptible to low-quality sleep and overheating.
BAOS usually manifest at an early age in the breed. Shih Tzu puppies start to suffer from this health issue before they even reach 6 months of age.
3. Kidney Malformations
Renal dysplasia is one of the most common kidney abnormalities in Shih Tzus. Dogs with this condition either have one or two underdeveloped kidneys. In some cases, the affected organ may have cysts.
Kidney malformations prevent Shih Tzus from properly getting rid of toxins from their bodies. If left untreated, it can cause serious health complications like chronic renal disease, bacterial kidney infections, and hypertension.
4. Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD)
This is a hereditary spinal disorder in the Shih Tzu breed caused by the dog’s body structure of having a wide back supported by short legs.
IVDD happens when the discs of the spinal cord slip out of place or rupture, resulting in nerve and spinal pain. Severe forms of the disease can lead to permanent paralysis.
Although IVDD is an inherited health issue, physical trauma caused by situations like accidents and excessive exercise can also lead to its development and exacerbation.
5. Dental Problems
Toy dog breeds like Shih Tzus tend to have small jaws, which have less space for accommodating all of their teeth. It is not uncommon for these canines to suffer from teeth overcrowding or misalignment.
This hastens plaque and tartar buildup and increases their danger of experiencing periodontal diseases. Without medical intervention, the bacteria causing this health issue may end up in the bloodstream and infect vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.
6 Ways to Prolong Your Shih Tzu Lifespan
Tip #1 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Do not walk your dog during scorching temperatures to avoid overheating. You can gauge if the weather is too hot by touching the ground. If it is too hot to hold for 5 seconds, then hold off taking him outside and exercise him indoors.
Take your furry pal out during the coolest times of the day, which are around early mornings and late evenings.
If you have to run errands with your dog in tow, never leave him inside the car. The vehicle can quickly accumulate heat, which can turn deadly.
If possible, shop in dog-friendly establishments so you can bring your dog along. Alternatively, ask the security guard to keep an eye out for your pet while you hastily do your shopping.
Tip #2 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Avoid overexercising your canine companion as it can lead to heat exhaustion as well.
Incorporate short breaks between every exercise activity so his body has enough time to cool down.
Sometimes temperatures can turn from cool to hot within a few minutes. When this happens, find a shady area where your furry pal can rest. Always pack fresh water with you during outdoor excursions to let him sufficiently hydrate while exercising.
Be sure to know the signs of over-exhaustion in dogs during exercise. Some of the most common indicators are body tremors, heavy panting, restlessness, and increased vocalisation.
If your pet is exhibiting these symptoms, halt his exercise activity and let him wind down.
Tip #3 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Dog collar is not advised as walking gear for Shih Tzus. It puts undue pressure on their neck and causes tracheal collapse. Many brachycephalic canines also find it hard to breathe properly when wearing it.
For this reason, choose a back-clip harness since it does not pose this danger. Do not use harnesses with front clips because they can cause the same harm as dog collars.
Tip #4 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Daily tooth brushing is the best way to keep periodontal disease at bay in dogs. If your pet does not tolerate it, aim to brush his teeth at least three times a week.
Consider supplementing his dental care routine with dental chews and specially formulated dental diets to hinder plaque and tartar formation. Keep in mind that these should not override the routine of tooth brushing.
Many pawrents brush off the importance of an annual professional dental cleaning. It is crucial to let your pooch undergo this process due to his high propensity for dental issues.
Dental cleanings done by the vet do not only involve plaque and tartar removal on the surface of the teeth but also below the gumline, which the toothbrush cannot reach.
Tip #5 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Keep your dog safe from accidents that could contribute to IVDD with the help of some tools. Baby gates are useful for keeping him off dangerous places such as the stairs.
Ramps are great for easy access to elevated spaces like the sofa, car, and bed without putting strain on his back and joints. Consider placing anti-slip mats on sleek surfaces in your home.
It is also a good idea to put them on your furry pal’s sleeping and feeding station. For additional protection, you might want to let him wear non-slip socks as well.
Tip #6 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Invest in your dog’s health care. Set up a fund intended to cover future costs of vet check-ups and treatments. This way, you are prepared during unprecedented rainy days.
Signing up for pet insurance and wellness plans can help cut down on the cost of veterinary services too.
If you have extra cash to spend, why not donate it to dog welfare research focusing on illnesses affecting Shih Tzus? It can help in the development of effective treatments for these ailments.
Tip #7 to Increase Shih Tzu Life Span:
Do not skip wellness checks. The examinations and lab tests performed in this procedure are critical for the early detection of diseases.
Avoiding regular vet check-ups will only result in expensive medical bills once your dog manifests a severe underlying disease.
Ideally, puppies must have wellness checks every 1 to 3 months, adults should have them once a year, and senior dogs should be seen at least twice a year.
You May Also Like:
FAQs About the Shih Tzu Lifespan
1. What Is the Leading Cause of Death in Shih Tzus?
Urogenital diseases are some of the leading causes of death in Shih Tzus. Illnesses belonging to this category are bladder infections and kidney stone formations.
The predisposition of the breed to kidney malformations may have played a part in the prevalence of these health issues. Unfortunately, renal dysplasia has no cure but it could be prevented through careful and ethical selective breeding.
Breeders should perform health screenings on potential breeding stocks. Any dogs that carry the genes responsible for renal dysplasia should not be used for breeding.
2. Do Shih Tzus Overheat Easily?
Yes. Shih Tzus overheat easily because of their brachycephalic faces. Hence, pawrents should be careful not to expose these dogs to excessive heat and exercise. Heat exhaustion can turn fatal if not prevented on time.
3. Is 13 Old for a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzu dogs aged 13 are considered old. Shih Tzus are deemed senior dogs once they reach the age of 10.
Elderly Shih Tzus will require more care in their diet, nutrition, exercise, and overall care. Work with the veterinarian to find out what appropriate adjustments need to be made in your pet’s daily routine.
4. Can Shih Tzu Live 20 Years?
It is rare for the lifespan of a Shih Tzu to reach 20 years but not impossible. The oldest living Shih Tzu named Smokey is a good example of this.
However, dog owners should remember that there is no way to guarantee how long a Shih Tzu will live.
The best you can do is provide your canine companion with consistent love and care throughout his life to significantly prolong his life.
Conclusion
However, despite their impressive life expectancy, they are no stranger to developing breed-related health issues that can compromise their chances of living longer.
By following the tips we have shared above, your Shih Tzu may spend more years in your care.
Go through our Healthcare and Grooming section to learn more ways to better take care of your canine consumption.
