Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is the perfect companion dog — affectionate and adaptable. Its long coat needs daily brushing. Ideal for people looking for a calm and loving companion.

📊 Characteristics

Size
Mini (< 5 kg)
Energy
🛋️ Calm — short walks
Coat
Long — frequent brushing
Life expectancy
10–16 years
Care level
🔴 High — experienced owners
FCI group
Group 9

📈 Breed profile

Energy
30
Size
12
Coat care
88
Sociability
76
Trainability
52

Orientative rating (0-100) based on the breed’s general characteristics. Every dog is unique: its real energy, temperament and care needs may vary.

⚕️ Health — most common risks

⚠️
Brachycephalic syndrome (breathing difficulty)
⚠️
Tartar buildup / dental problems
⚠️
Eye conditions

This information is orientative. Always consult your vet for preventive monitoring.

💉 Recommended vaccination

💉 DHPPi (Distemper, Parvo, Hepatitis)Every 3 years
💉 RabiesYearly or every 3 years by country
💉 LeptospirosisYearly (high exposure)
💉 Bordetella (kennel cough)Yearly if boarding

Orientative schedule. Your vet will adapt the calendar to the geographic area and lifestyle of your Shih Tzu.

💰 Estimated monthly cost

🥩 Food
~25
🩺 Vet
~15
🧸 Accessories
~10
📊 Total / month
~50

General estimate for Spain. It varies depending on food brand, city, pet insurance and lifestyle. It does not include extraordinary expenses.

📅 Life stages of the Shih Tzu

🍼
Puppy0 – 12 months
  • ·Initial vaccination schedule (8, 12 and 16 weeks)
  • ·Socialisation with people, dogs and new environments
  • ·No going outside until vaccinations are complete
  • ·Puppy food suited to its size
🦴
Young adult1 – 3 years
  • ·Energy peak — needs consistent daily exercise
  • ·Basic training well established (sit, stay, recall)
  • ·Decide on neutering with your vet
  • ·Switch to adult food
🐕
Adult3 – 7 years
  • ·Stable routine of walks and feeding
  • ·Weight control (obesity affects the joints)
  • ·Annual vet check-up + vaccination reminders
  • ·Watch for early signs of common breed conditions
👴
Senior7+ years
  • ·Adapt exercise: more walks, less intense
  • ·Senior diet (fewer calories, more antioxidants)
  • ·Check-ups every 6 months + annual blood work
  • ·Orthopaedic beds if there is arthrosis

🔍 Similar breeds

Maltese
Maltese
Mini · 12–15 years
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier
Mini · 13–16 years
Chihuahua
Chihuahua
Mini · 14–18 years
🐕
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