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.
What are the most common causes of death in Shih Tzus?
Shih Tzus are susceptible to a number of 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. | Medications to manage symptoms and support kidney function, dietary changes, and supportive care such as intravenous fluids. |
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 liver 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 heart function, dietary changes, and supportive care such as oxygen therapy, and surgery. |
Pancreatitis | Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy. | Supportive care such as IV fluids and pain management, and surgery. |
Infectious Diseases | fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory or neurological signs. | 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 | Coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, exercise intolerance, and cyanosis (blue or purple discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to insufficient oxygen in the blood). | Medications to control inflammation, improve airway function, or clear infections, oxygen therapy, and surgery. |
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
One of the first signs that a Shih Tzu is dying is a lack of appetite. 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 they are not getting the nutrients they need 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 is no longer able to 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 properly.
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?
There are some simple steps that can be taken to help increase your Shih Tzu’s life expectancy:
1. Provide a nutritious diet
Shih Tzus require a diet that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals in order to stay healthy and live a long life. Good quality dog food that is specifically designed for small breeds is a great option. You should also avoid giving your Shih Tzu table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.
2. Get regular exercise
It is important to make sure your Shih Tzu gets plenty of exercise in order 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 they need.
3. Keep up with vaccinations and vet check-ups
Vaccinations help to protect your Shih Tzu from diseases that could potentially be deadly. It is important to keep up with the recommended vaccination schedule for your dog’s age and breed. 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 important to avoid overfeeding your Shih Tzu and to make sure they get plenty of exercise.
5. Keep their teeth clean
It is important to brush your Shih Tzu’s teeth regularly in order 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 be harmful to dogs, just as it is to humans. If you smoke, it is important to avoid doing so around your Shih Tzu or any other pets in the home.
7. Limit their exposure to household chemicals
Household cleaners and other chemicals can be toxic to dogs if they are ingested or come into contact with their skin. It is important to keep these products out of the reach of your Shih Tzu and to clean up any spills immediately.
8. Groom them regularly
Shih Tzus require regular grooming in order to stay healthy and prevent matting. brushing their coat daily, using a de-shedding tool, and trimming their nails regularly are all important parts of grooming. You should also have your coat professionally trimmed 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 plenty of love and attention can increase their chances of living well into their teens or even early twenties.
FAQs
Can Shih Tzu live 20 years?
The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is 10 to 18 years, but some individual dogs have been known to live 20 years or more. The oldest recorded Shih Tzu was a dog from Florida named Smokey who lived to be 23 years old. While this is an exceptional case, it does show that with proper care and nutrition, Shih Tzus can enjoy a long and healthy life. The key to a long lifespan for any dog is regular exercise and a balanced diet. With a little love and attention, your Shih Tzu can be a part of your family for many years to come.
What age is considered old for a Shih Tzu?
Like all dogs, Shih Tzus eventually reach an age where they are considered old. According to most experts, the average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is between 10 and 18 years. In general, 8 or 9 years is considered to be the beginning of old age for a Shih Tzu. At this point in their lives, many Shih Tzus will begin to slow down and may suffer from age-related health problems. However, with proper care and regular vet checkups, many Shih Tzus are able to enjoy a long and happy life well into their golden years.
What are the age stages of Shih Tzu?
The age stages of a Shih Tzu are:
Puppy (birth to 1 year)
Adolescent (1-3 years)
Adult (3-7 years)
Senior (7+ years)
What happens in the last hours of a Shih Tzu’s life?
In the last hours of a Shih Tzu’s life, they may experience symptoms such as decreased energy and appetite, difficulty breathing, and changes in their behavior. It is important to provide comfort and care for your Shih Tzu during this time and to consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns. It can be a difficult time for the owner as well, and it is important to remember that it is a natural part of the life cycle and to show love and compassion for your pet during this time.