What Do Shih Tzus Usually Die From and How to Keep Them Healthy

Shih Tzus are prone to certain health issues that can be a concern for their lifespan. One of the main causes of death in Shih Tzus is obesity, which can lead to a range of secondary health problems.

Regular exercise is essential to prevent obesity in Shih Tzus. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day.

Shih Tzus are also susceptible to eye problems, specifically cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Dental issues are another common problem in Shih Tzus, with dental caries and periodontal disease being major concerns. Regular dental check-ups can help prevent these issues.

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is around 13 years, although some may live longer or shorter lives depending on various factors.

Breed is a significant factor, with purebred Shih Tzus generally living longer than crossbreeds like the Pomeranian/Shih Tzu mix, which has an average lifespan of 12 years.

Health conditions, such as canine hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and eye diseases, can also impact a Shih Tzu's lifespan, with some diseases being more prevalent than others.

Diet plays a crucial role in determining a Shih Tzu's lifespan, with poor diets leading to obesity and other health issues. A well-balanced diet that includes organs, fish, and other nutrient-rich foods can help ensure a long and healthy life.

Here are some key factors that can affect a Shih Tzu's lifespan:

Genetics also play a role, with Shih Tzus inheriting health issues from their parents, which can impact their lifespan. Regular exercise, good veterinary care, and a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to a longer lifespan.

Your Shih Tzu's breed is a primary factor determining its lifespan, with a natural life expectancy of 13 years, but some cross-breeds like the Pomeranian/Shih Tzu mix may live up to 12 years.

A Shih Tzu's parents' health conditions can also impact its lifespan, so it's essential to confirm their health history before bringing a new puppy home.

Regular exercise and a well-balanced diet can extend your Shih Tzu's lifespan, with dogs from lines of long-lived ancestors being more likely to live longer.

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is between 12 and 16 years, but some may live longer, such as Smokey, a Shih Tzu from Florida, who lived 23 years.

Common health issues affecting a Shih Tzu's life expectancy include canine hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, eye diseases like dry eye and cataracts, and kidney and liver disease.

Your Shih Tzu's overall health is influenced by factors you have control over, such as nutrition, exercise, veterinary care, and grooming, which can help ensure a long and healthy life.

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A well-balanced diet is crucial for a Shih Tzu's lifespan. Quality, well-proportioned meals are the key to a long and healthy life.

Poor diets can significantly reduce a Shih Tzu's lifespan by many years. Obesity, caused by overfeeding, is a major factor that can lead to a shorter life.

Feeding too much food can lead to obesity, which is a major health concern for Shih Tzus. This is because commercial dog foods, even those approved by the AAFCO, can vary greatly in quality.

Some of the recommended foodstuffs for a healthy diet of a Shih Tzu include organs like liver and heart, fish, chicken meat, and sweet potatoes. These foods provide essential nutrients for a long and healthy life.

Here are some healthy food options for your Shih Tzu:

Shih Tzus can be prone to various health issues that can impact their life expectancy. Canine hip dysplasia is a common problem, where the hip socket doesn't develop correctly, leading to arthritis and increased pain.

Hip dysplasia can cause significant discomfort for your Shih Tzu, making it essential to monitor their health closely. Hypothyroidism is another issue that can affect your Shih Tzu's organ functions and metabolism.

Shih Tzus are also susceptible to eye diseases, including dry eye and cataracts, which can cause blindness or ulcers.

Back Problems can be a real concern for Shih Tzu owners, as their short legs and large back make them prone to Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVD).

This is where a disk slips out of place and presses against the spinal cord, causing weakness and muscle spasms.

In worst cases, IVD can even lead to paralysis, which is a scary thought for any pet owner.

Symptoms can be treated with surgery and/or medicine, but prevention is often the best course of action.

Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of IVD in Shih Tzus.

However, if you do notice any signs of back problems in your Shih Tzu, it's essential to seek veterinary care right away.

Early treatment can make a big difference in your furry friend's quality of life.

Shih Tzus can be born with small passageways in their nostrils, making it difficult for them to breathe.

This can lead to problems if they don't get the proper amount of oxygen.

A collapsing trachea is another issue that can affect small dogs, where the windpipe flattens from weak cartilage and makes breathing difficult.

You should be able to notice breathing issues quickly, and it's essential to get them addressed early.

If your dog is making snorting sounds a lot, it's not just snoring - it's worth investigating further.

Shih Tzus are prone to several eye problems, some of which can lead to blindness.

Cataracts are a common eye issue in Shih Tzus. As this issue progresses, your dog might lose their vision.

Dry eye is another problem that can occur in Shih Tzus, causing ulcers that can make it difficult for them to see properly.

Proptosis, or the eyeball coming out of the socket, is a serious condition that requires an emergency visit to the vet.

Some of these issues can be fixed with surgery, but it's expensive.

Shih Tzus often have teeth that don't line up or are missing altogether due to their small mouths. This can lead to dental problems.

Brushing their teeth is crucial to prevent dental issues. Regular dental care can help prevent problems.

Their small mouths also make them susceptible to periodontal disease (gum disease).

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Regular veterinary check-ups are a must for Shih Tzus, as they can help identify potential health issues early on.

Yearly check-ups can help detect problems such as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and eye diseases, which are common in Shih Tzus.

During these visits, your vet may recommend vaccinations and tests such as Heartworm/Lyme/Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis, as well as a fecal exam.

This is also a good time to ask questions and voice concerns about various health problems, such as new behaviors that can't be explained.

For example, one owner noticed that their Shih Tzu was refusing to go up and down stairs and wasn't holding up its tail, which turned out to be a sign of a back problem.

Daily pain medicine has made a big difference in the quality of life for this dog, but it takes two separate medications several times per day.

By staying on top of veterinary care, you can help ensure that your Shih Tzu stays healthy and happy for years to come.

Shih Tzus typically live between 12 and 16 years, although some have been known to live up to 23 years.

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu is just over 13 years, but this can be higher if you exclude death by traumatic incident.

Some Shih Tzus may live longer than others, with one owner reporting that their dog lived to be 17 years old, while others have been known to live up to 19 or 20 years.

A Shih Tzu's lifespan can be influenced by factors such as nutrition and fresh water, exercise, good veterinary care, and possible supplements, grooming, dental care, and safety measures.

Breed is a primary factor determining a Shih Tzu's lifespan, with purebred Shih Tzus having a life expectancy of 13 years.

However, not all Shih Tzus are purebred, and crossbreeds like the Pomeranian/Shih Tzu mix may have a shorter lifespan, typically living up to 12 years.

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Health conditions of a Shih Tzu's parents can also impact its lifespan, with inherited conditions such as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and eye diseases potentially shortening a Shih Tzu's life.

Common health issues affecting Shih Tzus include canine hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, eye diseases, and kidney and liver disease.

A healthy lifestyle, good veterinary care, and a nutritious diet can all contribute to a longer and healthier life for your Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzus that are well-fed and receive regular exercise tend to live longer than those that do not. This is a crucial aspect of extending their life span.

Dogs from lines of long-lived ancestors are more likely to have a longer lifespan than those with shorter-lived relatives. This is something to consider when choosing a breeder.

Providing your Shih Tzu with a balanced diet and plenty of fresh water is essential for maintaining their overall health. This will help prevent health issues that can shorten their life span.

Regular exercise is also vital for Shih Tzus, as it helps to prevent conditions such as canine hip dysplasia. This occurs when a dog's hip socket isn't developing correctly.

Good veterinary care is also crucial for extending the life span of your Shih Tzu. Regular check-ups can help detect any potential health issues early on.

Some Shih Tzus may also benefit from supplements, which can help to support their overall health and prevent certain health issues. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your dog.

With a little effort and attention to your Shih Tzu's needs, you can help ensure they live a long and happy life.