Adult Shih Tzu appear slightly longer than they are tall. Underneath the thick double coat, their ribs should be palpable. Otherwise, your dog may be overweight.
Is a Shih Tzu a Small, Medium, or Large Breed?
Considered to be in the toy group, the Shih Tzu is a small breed of dog. They boast of a heavy bone set and a good weight. Despite the size, they are a sturdy pack.
If you are looking for a toy-size dog with substance, the Shih Tzu is perfect. They are easy to carry around and are not too fragile for children to play with.
What Is the Size of a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzu is a small but sturdy dog. They are characterized by their compact size that can grow as tall as 11 in (28 cm) and as heavy as 16 lbs (7 kg) at maximum.
What Are the Different Sizes of Shih Tzu?
According to their size, Shih Tzu can be grouped into:
- Standard Shih Tzu: These dogs can be as tall as 8 and 11 in (20 to 28 cm). They can be as heavy as 9 and 16 lbs (4 to 7 kg).
- Imperial or Teacup Shih Tzu: They are slightly smaller and do not get much taller than 6 in (15 cm). These tiny pups can weigh under 7 lbs (3 kg).
Why Is My Shih Tzu So Small?
Some Shih Tzu can be smaller than their standard height and weight. They can be considered to be “teacups.”
Your breeder may have purposefully produced more miniature puppies. Perhaps, your Shih Tzu has small parents as well.
Why Is My Shih Tzu So Big?
In some cases, dogs can exceed the set maximum size for their breed. Rest assured that even if your Shih Tzu is larger than you expected, it is not necessarily bad.
Your pet may have a larger body frame and bone structure. It can happen because size is a genetic trait that can be passed down from five generations back.
Your Shih Tzu may have gotten its size from its grandparents and great-grandparents. In some cases, they may inherit their size from their other relatives further down the line.
If your pet’s coat is moderate to long, it can also be difficult to ascertain its size. Pay close attention as it may be overweight. A visit to your veterinarian best confirms it.
How Quickly Do Shih Tzu Grow?
The growth rate for dogs is rarely linear. It is not often the same every month. Shih Tzu puppies will fill out most rapidly from birth to two weeks old.
Then, their growth rate will be moderately fast from two to eight weeks. From two to four months, they will gain weight at a slower pace.
When Is a Shih Tzu Full Grown?
Shih Tzu is fully grown to its adult size between the 9th- and 12th-month mark. A few of them will continue to spurt up until their 15th month.
How Long Is a Shih Tzu?
The overall body length of Shih Tzu is roughly from 15 to 17.5 in (38 to 44 cm). They can tower between 13 and 15 in (33 and 38 cm).
How to Measure Shih Tzu Length?
Typically, your Shih Tzu’s body is longer than it is tall. Measure its length from the withers to the root of the tail. From the shoulders to the ground, you can get its height.
How Much Should My Shih Tzu Weigh?
If you have a standard Shih Tzu, it can fill out to as much as 9 to 16 lbs (4 to 7 kg). On the other hand, an imperial Shih Tzu can only weigh under 7 lbs (3 kg).
How Much Should a Male Shih Tzu Weight?
Adult male Shih Tzu should weigh between 12 and 18 lbs (5.4 and 8 kg).
What Size Are Shih Tzu Puppies?
Shih Tzu puppies are tiny. From birth to nine months, they won’t be heavier than 8 lbs (4 kg).
How Much Should a Shih Tzu Puppy Weigh?
Shih Tzu puppies should weigh around 6 oz (170 g) at birth. Before they become adults, these toy breed puppies should be at about 8 lb (3.6 kg) on the scale.
How Much Do Newborn Shih Tzu Puppies Weigh?
Newborn Shih Tzu puppies budge the scale at around 0.375 lbs (0.17 kg). They will rapidly fill out in the subsequent weeks.
How Much Does an 8-Week-Old Shih Tzu Weigh?
An eight-week-old Shih Tzu puppy fills out from 1.25 lbs (0.57 kg) to 4 lbs (1.8 kg).
How Much Should My Shih Tzu Weigh at 3 Months?
At three months, your Shih Tzu puppy will have gained weight to a range of 3.97 and 6.5 lbs (1.8 and 2.95 kg).
How Much Should a 4-Month-Old Shih Tzu Weigh?
On your Shih Tzu’s fourth month, it should stand on the scale at around 6 to 7 lbs (2.72 to 3.18 kg).
How Much Should My 5-Month-Old Shih Tzu Weigh?
When your puppy reaches its fifth month, it should be as heavy as 8 lbs (3.6 kg).
How Much Should a 6-Month-Old Shih Tzu Weigh?
On average, your six-month-old Shih Tzu should fill out between 7 lbs (3.2 kg) and 12.6 lbs (5.7 kg).
How Much Should a 1-Year-Old Shih Tzu Weigh?
At one year, your Shih Tzu should be as heavy as 8.8 and 16 lbs (4 and 7.2 kg).
Do Shih Tzu Get Fat Easily?
Despite being small breeds, many toy dogs can become overweight. The Shih Tzu’s sturdy and compact frame makes this particularly true.
How Can I Tell if My Shih Tzu Is Overweight?
Other than weighing over 16 lbs (7.2 kg), many signs indicate your Shih Tzu is overweight. They are:
- Ill-Defined Body Shape: Because of their thick hair coat, it can be challenging to tell your Shih Tzu’s body shape. Upon palpation, you should feel your pet’s ribs underneath its coat. If you cannot feel its ribs, this is a sign that your canine may be overweight.
- Awkward Scratching: All dogs experience that annoying itch. They rely on their limberness to ease themselves of it. Your Shih Tzu might be overweight if it has difficulty scratching or moving.
- Low Energy: Shih Tzu is a playful breed. They are less likely to lead a sedentary lifestyle. If you notice your dog becoming more inactive, it could indicate that it has gained excess weight.
- Less Tolerance to Exercise: As your buddy gains weight, the burden of extra pounds puts pressure on their vital organs. Being on the heavy side makes it more challenging to perform their usual activities. They would have less tolerance for their daily exercise routine.
- Excessive Panting: Your Shih Tzu is out of shape if it gets exhausted early in its usual walks. Panting during mild exercise is a definite sign that your pet is overweight.
Is My Shih Tzu Puppy Overweight?
If your puppy is nine months old or less and weighs more than 9 lbs (4 kg), it is probably overweight. Watch out for signs that can be indicative of this condition. These include:
- Panting when exercising
- Low tolerance to activities
- Impalpable ribs
- Less litheness in its movement
Why Is My Shih Tzu Putting On Weight?
Your Shih Tzu’s weight gain is affected by these factors:
- Genetics: This is one of the significant indicators of your dog’s weight and size. If your pup’s parents and grandparents are large, this size range will be carried forward to your Shih Tzu.
- Nutrition: Diet is another deciding aspect of your canine buddy’s size and weight. It will put on weight within what is expected if you provide it with a healthy and well-balanced diet.
- Activity: A naturally active breed, your Shih Tzu love to be on the move. If they don’t, they will most likely gain too much weight. Their growth and development will also be influenced.
- General Health: A healthy Shih Tzu will reach its ideal weight. Any underlying health issue could cause your dog to gain or lose weight.
How Can I Help My Fat Shih Tzu Lose Weight?
Veterinarians share these top tips to help your dog to lose weight:
- Reduce calories from your pup’s diet. A low-carb, high-protein meal is ideal.
- Aim for proper hydration by making ample fresh water accessible to it. Adding fiber to your dog’s diet is also helpful.
- Be consistent with its exercise routine. Always be on the lookout for movement opportunities.
- Seek to reward your canine with nonfood items such as playtime, praises, etc.
What Is a Good Diet for an Overweight Shih Tzu?
An overweight Shih Tzu will benefit from a diet that consists of quality food and a low-calorie formula. The healthy meal’s top ingredient is turkey, which has low calories and a good amount of protein.
Your ideal dog’s meal should include the following:
- Protein-Rich Meat: Turkey, chicken, and salmon
- Fiber: Oatmeal and flaxseed
- Fruits and Vegetables: Carrots, spinach, blueberries, apple, and sweet potatoes
Avoid chemical additives, wheat, corn, soy, and by-products. Apply these to your Shih Tzu’s proper meals, snacks, and treats.
How Much Should an Overweight Shih Tzu Eat?
Dog nutritionists and vets endorse that dogs should eat two meals a day. To help your Shih Tzu lose weight, they advocate for smaller portions or a complete diet change.
Is My Shih Tzu Underweight?
Your pet may be underweight. If your Shih Tzu, in its adult age, weighs less than 9 lbs (4 kg), check its body shape. Your suspicion might be correct if you can quickly feel its ribs protruding.
Pay a visit to your vet. If the weight loss is sudden, it can indicate a medical condition. It would be good to have it checked.
Is My Shih Tzu Skinny?
Put your dog in a standing position. Run your hands over their sides. If you can feel its ribs, you have a skinny dog. Check its weight and visit the vet to address potentially serious problems.
