How Much Exercise Does a Shih Tzu Need to Stay Happy and Healthy

Shih Tzus are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.

Their short legs and compact bodies mean they can tire easily, so it's essential to keep exercise sessions short and fun. A daily walk of around 15-20 minutes is a great place to start.

To prevent boredom and stress, Shih Tzus need mental stimulation as well as physical activity. Engage them in playtime with toys and interactive games for at least 15 minutes a day.

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As your Shih Tzu grows, their exercise needs change. Puppies, for instance, need just 5 minutes a day for each month of their age to avoid joint and bone issues later in life.

Shih Tzus don't need a lot of exercise, even as adults, due to their small size. But as they enter adolescence, the amount of exercise they need increases.

Senior Shih Tzus, on the other hand, need to slow down. They may not need as much exercise as they did before, and you may notice them getting tired more easily.

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For adult Shih Tzus, 70 minutes of exercise is more than enough to keep them physically sound and healthy.

This may seem like a short time, but it's essential to remember that overexercising your dog will do more harm than good.

Shih Tzus are small breeds with moderate to low stamina levels, making them prone to muscle soreness and joint injuries.

Their small bodies can't absorb the force and impact of intense exercise, so it's crucial to be careful with the type and intensity of exercise.

A 30-minute walk is a great starting point, but you can also mix it up with playtime and other low-key activities.

Remember, every dog is different, so pay attention to your Shih Tzu's energy levels and adjust their exercise routine accordingly.

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Walking is one of the easiest exercises and the most common activity pet owners do with their Shih Tzus.

Shih Tzus need daily walks, but the amount of time and intensity depends on their age. Puppies need 20 minutes of exercise daily, while adults need 70 minutes, and seniors need 30 minutes.

As a pet owner, you can use walking as a great way to train and socialize your Shih Tzu. It's essential to keep an eye on your puppy's zoomies and provide several short walks or play sessions throughout the day to avoid overexercising their developing body.

Shih Tzus are prone to muscle soreness and joint injuries due to their small bodies, so it's crucial to be careful with how vigorous the exercise is, especially for adult and senior dogs.

Shih Tzus need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, but the right amount and type of exercise can vary depending on the season. Keep your dog hydrated during summer by bringing water during exercise, as they're susceptible to dehydration.

In the winter, it's essential to keep your Shih Tzu warm with a weatherproof coat before venturing outside. Make sure their paws are free of salt, grit, dirt, and snow, and consider adding a light to their harness to increase visibility in foggy weather.

During extreme weather conditions, such as snowstorms or sudden temperature drops, it's best to skip going outside entirely and seek warmth and shelter instead.

Summer is a wonderful time to be outdoors with your furry friend, but it's essential to take precautions to ensure their comfort and safety. The heat can be extreme, and it's not just uncomfortable for your Shih Tzu, but also a potential health hazard.

It's best to schedule outside exercises before 9 AM or after 5 PM when the weather is cool but still has sunlight. This way, you can enjoy the outdoors with your dog without putting them in harm's way.

Dogs are susceptible to dehydration during summer, so always bring water during exercise. It's crucial to keep your dog hydrated to prevent heat-related issues.

Hot pavements and concrete can reach scorching temperatures, burning your Shih Tzu's delicate paws. Avoid these areas to prevent discomfort and potential injuries.

Keep an eye out for signs of overheating in your dog, such as general discomfort, excessive panting, stressed eyes, and redness. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's time to head back indoors and cool off.

Wintertime can be challenging for our furry friends. A cold environment during winter lessens your dog's opportunities to go outside.

Make sure your dog wears its weatherproof coat before venturing outside to keep them warm. This simple step can make a big difference in their comfort level.

Check your Shih Tzu's paws regularly to ensure the in-between spots are free of salt, grit, dirt, and snow. This will help prevent discomfort and potential health issues.

If the weather starts turning bad, don't hesitate to seek warmth and shelter with your dog. Their safety and comfort should always be your top priority.

In extreme cases, it's best to skip going outside entirely, especially during precipitation, sudden temperature drops, and snowstorms.

A Shih Tzu needs regular exercise, but the good news is that it doesn't need a lot of space to get it.

You can easily exercise your Shih Tzu indoors by playing with them in a small room or hallway.

A 10-15 minute play session, 2-3 times a day, is a great way to keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy.

You can also try hiding treats or toys around the house to encourage your Shih Tzu to search and run around.

In fact, Shih Tzus are naturally inclined to be active and playful, so they'll love any opportunity to get moving.

Just remember, even short bursts of exercise can be beneficial for your Shih Tzu, especially if they're not used to being active.

Shih Tzus are a small breed, and their exercise needs reflect that. They don't require a lot of exercise, especially when they're young.

Puppies need around 5 minutes of exercise per day for each month of their age to avoid joint and bone issues later in life. This can be broken down into short bursts throughout the day.

As Shih Tzus age, their exercise needs change. Senior Shih Tzus need 30 minutes of exercise daily to counter lost muscle mass and keep them in shape.

Shih Tzus are prone to joint and bone issues, so it's essential to be gentle with them, especially as they age. Their bones become brittle, and their joints become less flexible.

Puppies have more energy than adult dogs and require more exercise in short bursts, like the zoomies. This can be several short walks or play sessions throughout the day.

It's crucial to establish a routine and stick to it when exercising your Shih Tzu. This helps build familiarity and anticipation for your dog.

Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed, so it's essential to pay attention to their breathing during exercise. They can be prone to breathing difficulties.

Exercise is a great way to train and socialize your new dog. It's essential to talk to your vet or breeder about how much daily activity is appropriate for your puppy.

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