How Much Should a Shih Tzu Weigh – Best Guide

Do you have a Shih Tzu? and you wonder how much should a Shih Tzu weigh?

They are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

And for a good reason – they’re adorable, lovable, and make great pets for dog owners.

But like all dog breeds, Shih Tzu needs to be kept at a healthy weight, or they can face some serious health problems.

How Much Should a Shih Tzu Weigh?

It is essential to monitor the weight of your Shih Tzu, as they are prone to obesity.

Obesity in Shih Tzus can lead to health problems such as diabetes, so keeping an eye on Shih Tzu’s weight is essential.

A healthy weight for a Shih Tzu is 8-16 pounds. 

Because they are small breed dogs, Shih Tzu fully grown will achieve faster than larger dog breeds.

If your Shih Tzu is overweight, you must adjust their diet and increase their exercise. You can tell if your Shih Tzu is a healthy weight by checking its ribs and spine.

They are likely overweight if you can’t feel their ribs or see their spine. An overweight Shih Tzu will have a pot belly and will be lethargic.

Check your Shih Tzu’s weight today and make sure they stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Shih Tzu Breed

Shih Tzus are small breeds, toy breed of dogs that originated in China. They are known for their long, flowing coats and sweet temperament.

Shih Tzus make excellent family pets and are typically good with children. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States.

How Big Is Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are a toy dog breed, typically weighing between 8 and 16 pounds.

Adult Shih Tzu dogs are more significant and petite than this average weight, but those outside the normal range are usually considered unhealthy.

The height of a Shih Tzu is usually 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder, although some can be as tall as 12 inches.

The Shih Tzu dog breed is the perfect size for apartment living and makes excellent companions. Shih Tzus are sturdy dogs and can handle a fair amount of activity. They are also known for their long coats, which require regular brushing and grooming.

Tell Me the Size of A Shih Tzu

The average Shih Tzu is around 8 to 16 pounds and 9 to 10 inches tall.

However, the breed has quite a bit of size variation. Some Shih Tzus are on the smaller side, weighing around 5 to 6 pounds.

Others are on the larger side, weighing in at 20 pounds or more.

Regarding height, some Shih Tzus only measure 5 or 6 inches tall at the shoulders, while others stand as tall as 12 or 13 inches. So, when it comes to size, Shih Tzus can range from small to large.

However, they are all Compact dogs with a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. And, of course, they all have those signature long fur coats that make them so hard to resist!

Shih Tzu’s Life Span

On average, a Shih Tzu can live between 10 and 16 years.

However, several factors such as a healthy diet, exercise, and genetics can affect Shih Tzu’s life expectancy.

For example, Shih Tzus fed a nutritious diet and plenty of exercises tend to live longer than those who do not.

Additionally, some Shih Tzus are predisposed to health conditions that can shorten their lifespan.

Therefore, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your Shih Tzu is on track for a long and healthy weight range and good life.

Shih Tzu Weight Chart

A Shih Tzu should weigh anywhere from 8 to 16 pounds, with the average weight being around 9 pounds. You can use a Shih Tzu weight chart to determine how much your Shih Tzu should weigh.

One way to determine if your Shih Tzu is at a healthy weight is to feel their ribs. You should be able to handle their ribs but not see them. If you can see their ribs, they are too skinny. If you can’t feel their ribs, they are too fat.

Another way to tell if your Shih Tzu is the right weight is by looking at them from above. You should be able to see a waist. If you don’t see a waist, they are too heavy.

A healthy weight is essential for your Shih Tzu’s overall health and well-being. Being overweight can lead to health problems such as joint problems, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

If you think your Shih Tzu is overweight, talk to your vet about a weight loss plan. They can help you determine how many calories your dog needs and give you tips on how to help them lose weight safely.

Shih Tzu Puppy’s Weight Chart

A Shih Tzu puppy should weigh anywhere from 4 to 8 pounds, with the average weight being around 6 pounds. You can use a Shih Tzu size chart to find out how much your Shih Tzu puppy should weigh.

Shih Tzu Puppy Weight Chart: Method One

Quick Method of Estimating Adult Shih Tzu Weights

Eight Weeks Old:  Weight X 3, plus 2-3 pounds = Adult Weights.

Example: If the puppy weighs 2 pounds at 8 weeks old, they are likely to be about 8 pounds as adult size.

Twelve Week Old:  Weight X 2 PLUS One Pound = Adult Weight.

Example:  If the puppy weighs 3 pounds at 12 weeks of age, he will weigh about 7 pounds as adult size.

Sixteen Weeks Old:  Weight x 2 = Adult Weight.

Example:  If the puppy weighs 4 pounds at 16 weeks, he will weigh about 8 pounds as an adult.

Shih Tzu Puppy Weight Chart: Method Two

You can use the below method to estimate adult Shih Tzus Weights.

Shih Tzu Puppies Weight Chart: Method Three

For the below Shih Tzu Puppies weight chart, I took the weight at a specific age of the puppy and extrapolated it to the adult weight.

Shih Tzu Growth Chart

The ideal weight for a Shih Tzu is between 8 and 16 pounds. However, they can weigh anywhere from 4 to 20 pounds in actual weight.

As puppies, they will grow quickly but slow down as they reach adulthood. You can use the following Shih Tzu growth chart to help you track your Shih Tzu growth.

Shih Tzus reach their final adult weight around 1 year old. However, some may take longer to get their full weight, and some may never quite reach the 16-pound mark.

Shih Tzus will reach their full adult height at around 6 to 8 months. However, Shih Tzus full adult height is usually between 9 and 10.5 inches tall.

Remember that is just an estimate; other factors can influence your puppy’s growth.

What Is a Teacup Shih Tzu?

According to American Kennel Club, the weight of a Shih Tzu should not exceed more than 10 pounds. But some breeders have bred smaller Shih Tzus, calling them teacup or miniature Shih Tzus.

However, these terms are not universally recognized and are not considered separate breeds by major kennel clubs. Teacup Shih Tzus, or any teacup dog, are more prone to health problems due to their small dog size.

What Is “Lion Dog”?

Lion Dog is another name for the Shih Tzu. The name comes from the fact that this breed was once considered royalty and was even kept as pets by Chinese emperors. According to American Kennel Club (AKC), Shih Tzu is a Chinese-bred dog.

The Chinese name for Shih Tzu is “Xiao Quan,” which means “little lion.” gave this name to the breed because it resembles a lion.

Is There a Difference Between Female Shih Tzu and Male Dogs

When it comes to dogs, is there a difference between male and female Shih Tzus?

According to many experts, the answer is yes.

For starters, male dogs tend to be larger and more muscular than their female counterparts. They also tend to be more aggressive, making them better protected against predators.

However, female dogs are typically more affectionate and easier to train.

They also tend to live longer than male dogs, making them a better choice for those looking for a long-term companion.

Of course, all of these generalizations are just that – generalizations.

Male and female dogs of any breed can differ in personality, size, and lifespan.

When is Shih Tzus Stop Growing?

According to most experts, Shih Tzus stop growing around the age of one year.

However, this is just an average – some dogs may continue to grow until they are 18 months old, while others may reach their full size by the time they are six months old.

The best way to determine when your Shih Tzu will stop growing is to consult a veterinarian or breed-specific health expert.

They can give you a more accurate estimate based on your dog’s specific growth rate. In the meantime, enjoy watching your little pup grow!

They’ll be full-grown before you know it.

How Did Shih Tzu’s Health Affect Their Growth?

These small dogs breed one of the healthiest, but like all dogs, they’re susceptible to specific health problems.

The most common health problems seen in Shih Tzus are:

• Allergies 
• Dental problems
• Ear infections
• Eye problems
• Hip dysplasia
• Hypoglycemia
• Luxating patella
• Respiratory problems

Some health concerns can affect their growth, so it’s essential to be aware of them and monitor your dog closely.

If your Shih Tzu puppy is either losing or gaining weight too quickly, this could be a sign of a health problem.

Please consult your vet to rule out any medical issues and get advice on the best way to help your pup reach its ideal weight.

How Can I Tell if My Shih Tzu Is Underweight?

According to the American Kennel Club, a fully grown Shih Tzu should weigh between 9 and 16 pounds.

This naturally active breed requires a diet that gives them the energy they need to stay healthy and fit.

If your Shih Tzu falls outside this weight range, it may indicate that they are underweight or overweight.

Underweight Shih Tzus may have a thinner coat of fur, and their ribs and hip bones may be visible.

If you think your Shih Tzu is underweight, talk to your veterinarian about whether you need to adjust their diet or increase their exercise.

It is also important to note that being overweight can cause health problems for Shih Tzus, such as joint pain and respiratory difficulties.

Therefore, if your Shih Tzu is carrying too much weight, it is essential to work with your vet to develop a plan to help them slim down.

Caring for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are one of the most popular pet choices for pet parents worldwide.

These charming little dogs are known for their affectionate personalities and long, luxurious coats.

But while they may be small, Shih Tzus still require plenty of care and attention.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when caring for a Shih Tzu:

• Brush their coat regularly. Shih Tzus have long, silky coats that can quickly become matted and tangled if they’re not brushed regularly. Aim to brush your Shih Tzu’s coat at least once weekly, using a gentle detangling brush.
• Bathe them monthly. Monthly baths will help to keep your Shih Tzu coat clean and free of dirt and debris. Be sure to use a mild, pet-safe shampoo to avoid drying their skin.
• Keep their nails trimmed. Like all dogs, Shih Tzus need to have their nails trimmed regularly. Most grooming salons offer nail trimming services if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself.

Many Shih Tzus also benefit from regular professional grooming, which can help keep their coats healthy and free of tangles.

Puppy Food vs. Adult Food

One of the most common questions for new pet parents is whether they should feed their Shih Tzu puppy or adult food.

Puppy food is formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of growing dogs.

It is typically higher in calories and protein than adult dog food, which helps puppies gain the weight they need to grow into healthy adults.

Puppies’ food is softer and easier to chew than adult food, making it more comfortable for teething puppies.

Most veterinarians recommend switching to adult dog food once your Shih Tzu reaches 9-12 months of age. At this point, full-grown Shih Tzu should eat 2-3 small meals daily.

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