How Long Can a Shih Tzu Live?

Last Updated on February 10, 2023 by Evan

Your dog’s health can be impacted by several factors. A proper diet and exercise program are key. Your dog’s genetics can also play a role. If you neglect these aspects, your dog may suffer from various health problems. Learn about common health problems and how you can prevent them.

Regular exercise

Regular exercise for Shih Tzu dogs can extend their lives. They are low-maintenance dogs, but they need exercise to stay fit and healthy. Regular exercise helps them keep their weight under control, strengthen their bones and muscles, and promote healthy behavior. It also helps strengthen their immune system, which can extend their lifespan.

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is 13 years, with some living up to twenty-three years. Regular exercise is the best way to make sure your pet remains healthy. A daily 20 to thirty-minute walk is ideal. You can also incorporate short cardio sessions, which last up to 30 minutes, into your daily routine.

Another health condition for Shih Tzus is canine hip dysplasia, which can cause joint pain and dislocation. A veterinarian will diagnose and treat your dog if you suspect it has this condition. Your vet will recommend treatment options, including medications or special diets.

A Shih Tzu’s lifespan depends on the care you give them. They need clean water and a healthy diet, and they also need daily exercise. Regular exercise is especially important for Shih Tzus, as they do not tolerate extreme temperatures.

Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, and are only prone to a small number of health conditions. It is important to recognize and treat problems early to avoid serious problems. A healthy diet and regular visits to the veterinarian will help you care for your Shih Tzu for a long time.

Eye problems in Shih Tzus are common and require proper treatment to prevent permanent damage. A Shih Tzu’s eyes are particularly susceptible to infection, and can lead to blindness if left untreated. The vet can treat these issues with prescription eye drops and antibiotics.

Preventative health care

Properly functioning eyes are essential for your Shih Tzu’s quality of life. These small dogs can inherit several eye disorders, some of which can be serious and even lead to blindness if left untreated. Regular visits to the vet are essential to detect and treat any eye problem.

Many Shih Tzu health problems can be prevented or treated with preventative care. One of the most common is obesity, which can lead to several problems. Overweight Shih Tzus are susceptible to a condition called Portosystemic Shunt (PSS), which causes blockages in the liver. In severe cases, this can lead to seizures and can require surgery.

Shih Tzus are also genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia, which results in a degenerated hip joint. Treatment options for mild cases include prescription medications and physical therapy. However, for more severe cases, corrective surgery is required. This condition can also affect mobility, which can cause serious problems.

Other health problems that require preventative health care for shih tzes include glaucoma, a painful condition that can lead to blindness in dogs. Symptoms include squinting and watery eyes. In severe cases, the eyes will turn red. If left untreated, this condition can cause severe pain and even result in paralysis. Treatment may involve surgery, medication, or a combination of both.

As with any breed, Shih Tzus need routine preventative health care to stay healthy and disease-free. Shih Tzus are particularly susceptible to allergies, eye problems, and back problems. Fortunately, most Shih Tzus are healthy and robust, but it is important to take them to the veterinarian regularly to check for early symptoms of any of these problems.

Common health problems

A Shih Tzu can suffer from a number of health problems. Many of these health problems are preventable and treatable, but some may require surgery. If your Shih Tzu develops glaucoma, the condition can result in blindness. Symptoms of glaucoma include squinting, watery eyes, and redness or discoloration of the eye whites. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your veterinarian immediately. Advanced cases of glaucoma can cause the eye to bulge or become enlarged.

Another common health problem that can occur in your dog is kidney disease. While most breeds of dogs can have kidney disease, the Shih Tzu is particularly prone to this condition. The kidneys are responsible for filtering blood and removing wastes. When the nephrons do not mature properly, they can no longer filter blood effectively and are compromised. In mild cases, your Shih Tzu may live a normal life, but in more serious cases, your pet may have to take oral medications for the rest of its life.

Dental disease is another common problem. By the time your dog reaches adulthood, 80% of them will have some form of dental disease. Periodontitis, the most severe form of this condition, destroys the gums and bone that supports the teeth. Meanwhile, gingivitis, a more mild version of gum disease, causes inflammation and bumps on the gums.

Another common problem in the Shih Tzu is intervertebral disc disease, which causes the jelly-like cushion between the vertebrae to slip out of place. This condition will cause a dog to experience pain and limping. In some cases, a dog may be unable to use his back legs. A veterinarian can diagnose the condition and prescribe medication. A severe case may require surgery.

Genetics of shih tzu breed

The Shih Tzu breed has a long history in China. There are numerous references to the breed from the Tang Dynasty. Marco Polo recorded that Emperor Kublai Kahn kept a few small dogs in his palace. The Shih Tzu is believed to have derived from the Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, and Tibetan Spaniel. The breed received a royal endorsement in 1908 when the Empress of China received a Shih Tzu from the 13th Dala Lama.

The Shih Tzu has a sturdy build, small muzzle, and large dark brown eyes. Their double coat is long and soft. This thick coat can tangle if not brushed regularly. Their tails are also long and heavily furred. Shih Tzu coats can be any colour, though they are often seen with blazes of grey.

The Shih Tzu coat color is influenced by two different genes. One is called the “G” gene and is responsible for the coat’s pigmentation. Without this gene, the coat will start to fade. This process can start as early as one month old and will last until the puppy’s first birthday. The other gene, known as the “Chinchilla” gene, causes the coat to turn a rich silver color.

The Shih Tzu is a very affectionate companion dog. They are friendly and good with children. They also tend to be independent. Shih Tzus are also good watchdogs. They bark at strangers, but they are generally polite with guests. Although the Shih Tzu is an independent breed, it can be trained to perform advanced tricks.

The Shih Tzu can have up to three puppies at a time. Depending on the age of the female, she may have more or fewer. As a rule, older females will have more puppies in one litter than younger ones. Female Shih Tzus will usually go into heat at around six months of age and repeat this cycle twice a year unless spayed. Traditional Shih Tzu breeding is complex and requires close attention.