Average Lifespan of Shih Tzu: How To Increase It?

According to the American Kennel Club, the average lifespan of Shih Tzu is 10 to 18 years. However, there have been reported cases of Shih Tzu living 20 years or longer. While the natural lifespan of a Shih Tzu is already decent, there are ways to increase their lifespan even more.

In this article, we’ll delve into the most common causes of death for Shih Tzus and what age is considered “old” for the breed. We’ll also discuss the signs that a Shih Tzu is nearing the end of their life and offer tips for extending your Shih Tzu’s lifespan.

So, can Shih Tzus live up to 20 years? Read on to find out.

How Long Do Shih Tzus Live?

A Shih Tzu can be your companion for 10 to 18 years. That’s like going all the way from first grade up to graduating high school! Some Shih Tzus, with reasonable care, healthy living, and a bit of luck, can even celebrate their 20th birthday.

What are the most common causes of death in Shih Tzus?

Shih Tzus are susceptible to several health problems that can shorten their lives. Some of the most common causes of death in Shih Tzus include:

Cause of Death	Symptoms	Treatments
Cancer	Lumps or masses on the body, abnormal swelling, sores that do not heal, weight loss, loss of appetite, lethargy, difficulty breathing, and difficulty urinating or defecating.	Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or immunotherapy
Kidney Diseases	Increased thirst, increased urination, loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting.	Include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory or neurological signs.
Liver Diseases	Loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, increased or decreased thirst, increased urination, abdominal swelling, jaundice, and lethargy.	Medications to manage symptoms and support kidney function, dietary changes, and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids.
Heart Diseases	Coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, decreased exercise tolerance, fainting, and abnormal heart rhythms.	Medications to manage symptoms and support liver function, dietary changes, and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids.
Pancreatitis	Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy.	include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory or neurological signs.
Infectious Diseases	Supportive care such as IV fluids, pain management, and surgery.	Vaccination, medications to control the infection, and supportive care such as fluids and nutrition.
Gastrointestinal Diseases	Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain.	Medications to control inflammation, regulate bowel function, correct nutrient deficiencies, and surgery.
Respiratory Diseases	Medications to control inflammation, improve airway function, clear infections, oxygen therapy, and surgery.	Coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, and cyanosis (blue or purple skin and mucous membrane discoloration due to insufficient oxygen in the blood).
Neurological Diseases	Loss of coordination, weakness or paralysis, seizures, and changes in behavior or mental function.	Medications to control seizures or inflammation, physical therapy, or surgery.

What are the signs of a Shih Tzu dying?

Here are some common signs that a Shih Tzu may be near death:

1. Lack of Appetite

A lack of appetite is one of the first signs that a Shih Tzu is dying. If your dog is no longer interested in food or water, it may be a sign that its health is deteriorating.

2. Weight Loss

Weight loss is another common sign of a dying Shih Tzu. If your dog is losing weight without changing its diet or exercise routine, it may be a sign that it is not getting the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

3. Lethargy

Lethargy and fatigue are also common signs of a dying dog. If your Shih Tzu is no longer interested in playing or going for walks, it may be a sign that its health is failing.

4. Difficulty Breathing

If your Shih Tzu is having difficulty breathing, it may be a sign that its organs are starting to fail. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease or cancer.

5. Coupling

Coupling is another common sign of a dying Shih Tzu. If your dog can no longer urinate or defecate on its own, it may be a sign that its kidneys are failing.

6. Seizures

Seizures are often one of the final signs of a dying dog. If your Shih Tzu begins to experience seizures, it may be a sign that its brain is no longer functioning correctly.

7. Coma

Coma is another common sign of a dying Shih Tzu. If your dog slips into a coma, it may be a sign that its body is shutting down and that it is no longer able to sustain life.

What can be done to increase the lifespan of a Shih Tzu?

Some simple steps can be taken to help increase your Shih Tzu’s life expectancy:

1. Provide a nutritious diet

Shih Tzus requires a diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy and live long lives. Good quality dog food specifically designed for small breeds is a great option. You should also avoid giving your Shih Tzu table scraps, which can lead to obesity and other health problems.

2. Get regular exercise

It is important to ensure that your Shih Tzu gets plenty of exercise to maintain a healthy weight and good overall health. A daily walk or play session is a great way to provide your dog with the exercise it needs.

3. Keep up with vaccinations and vet check-ups

Vaccinations help to protect your Shih Tzu from diseases that could potentially be deadly. Keeping up with the recommended vaccination schedule for your dog’s age and breed is essential. You should also take your Shih Tzu to the vet for regular check-ups, as this can help to catch any health problems early on.

4. Avoid letting your dog get overweight

Obesity can lead to a variety of health problems in dogs, including joint pain, respiratory problems, and diabetes. It is essential to avoid overfeeding your Shih Tzu and ensure they get plenty of exercise.

5. Keep their teeth clean

Brushing your Shih Tzu’s teeth regularly is essential to avoid dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. You should also have their teeth professionally cleaned by a veterinarian every year or two.

6. Avoid smoking around your dog

Secondhand smoke can harm dogs just as it harms humans. If you smoke, avoiding doing so around your Shih Tzu or any other pets in the home is essential.

7. Limit their exposure to household chemicals

Household cleaners and other chemicals can be toxic to dogs if ingested or come into contact with their skin. It is essential to keep these products out of your Shih Tzu’s reach and clean up any spills immediately.

8. Groom them regularly

Shih Tzus requires regular grooming to stay healthy and prevent matting. Brushing their coat daily, using a de-shedding tool, and trimming their nails regularly are all essential for grooming. You should also trim your coat professionally every few months to keep it looking its best.

Comparison of the average lifespan of Shih Tzu with other small dog breeds

Shih Tzu: 10-18 years.
Chihuahua: 12-20 years.
Toy Poodle: 12-15 years.
Yorkshire Terrier: 11-15 years.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: 9-14 years.
Maltese: 12-15 years.
Pomeranian: 12-16 years.
Boston Terrier: 11-13 years.
American Eskimo Dog: 12-15 years.
Miniature Schnauzer: 12-16 years

Conclusion

Although the average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is around 10-18 years, there are many things you can do to help your furry friend live a longer life. The most common causes of death in Shih Tzus are cancer, heart disease, and old age. However, providing your dog with good nutrition, regular exercise, and love and attention can increase their chances of living well into their teens or early twenties.

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