Shih Tzus are one of the most beloved toy breeds in the world. Their affectionate personality, luxurious double coat, and charming looks make them a favorite choice for families and individuals alike. But behind the cuteness lies a reality every responsible owner must face: Shih Tzus are prone to specific health problems linked to their anatomy, genetics, and lifestyle.
This complete guide goes beyond the surface. Unlike most basic lists you’ll find online, here you’ll get a deep breakdown of common and rare Shih Tzu health issues, preventive care strategies, updated 2025 veterinary data, and owner-friendly tips. Whether you’re a new puppy parent or caring for a senior Shih Tzu, this article will give you the tools to keep your dog healthier and happier for longer.
📌 Quick Overview of Shih Tzu Health
- Average lifespan: 12–16 years (with good care, some live 18+ years).
- Most vulnerable systems: Eyes, respiratory tract, skin/coat, joints, and teeth.
- Biggest risks: Brachycephalic airway syndrome, dental disease, obesity, and hereditary eye conditions.
- Prevention focus: Nutrition, grooming, regular vet checks, early detection, and environmental control.
1. Why Shih Tzus Face Unique Health Challenges
Understanding why Shih Tzus develop certain health problems starts with their anatomy and genetics.
- Brachycephalic skull (flat face): Narrows airways → breathing problems, overheating.
- Large, protruding eyes: More exposure → injury, dryness, infections.
- Dense double coat: Prone to matting → skin infections, hot spots.
- Compact body: Increased risk of joint strain and spinal issues.
- Small jaw with crowded teeth: Leads to severe dental disease if not cared for.
These traits make Shih Tzus adorable, but also predispose them to health conditions that owners must actively manage.
2. Common Shih Tzu Health Problems (Explained in Depth)
🟢 Eye Problems
Shih Tzus’ large, round eyes are one of their most distinctive features—but also one of their greatest vulnerabilities.
Common eye conditions:
- Cherry Eye: Prolapse of the third eyelid gland → red bulge in corner of eye.
- Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): Insufficient tear production → irritation, infections.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Genetic condition → gradual blindness.
- Corneal Ulcers & Scratches: From dust, hair, or trauma.
Signs to watch: Excessive tearing, cloudiness, pawing at the eyes, frequent blinking.
Prevention:
- Daily cleaning around the eyes.
- Keep hair trimmed to avoid irritation.
- Regular vet eye exams.
When to see a vet immediately: Sudden cloudiness, redness, or vision loss.
🟢 Breathing & Respiratory Problems
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed, meaning their short nose and narrow airways make breathing harder.
Conditions:
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Labored breathing, snoring, overheating.
- Tracheal Collapse: Weakening of windpipe cartilage → honking cough.
- Reverse Sneezing: Harmless but alarming sudden snorting episodes.
Prevention:
- Keep them cool—Shih Tzus overheat easily.
- Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.
- Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce throat pressure.
Vet intervention: If breathing is noisy even at rest or if the dog collapses after exercise.
🟢 Dental Disease
Because Shih Tzus have small jaws and crowded teeth, they are high-risk for dental decay and gum disease.
Consequences:
- Tooth loss.
- Bad breath.
- Infections that spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Prevention:
- Daily tooth brushing.
- Yearly professional dental cleanings.
- Chew toys and dental treats (low-calorie options).
🟢 Skin & Coat Issues
Their thick, double coat and sensitive skin make Shih Tzus prone to:
- Allergies (environmental & food-related).
- Hot spots from trapped moisture.
- Seborrhea (greasy, flaky skin).
- Yeast & fungal infections.
Prevention:
- Regular grooming and coat trimming.
- Hypoallergenic shampoos.
- Proper diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
🟢 Joint & Bone Disorders
Even though they are small, Shih Tzus can suffer from orthopedic problems.
- Patellar Luxation: Kneecap slips out of place → limping.
- Hip Dysplasia: Malformed hip joint → arthritis.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Herniated discs → back pain, paralysis risk.
Prevention:
- Maintain healthy weight.
- Avoid excessive jumping.
- Provide orthopedic beds.
🟢 Heart Disease
Small breeds like Shih Tzus often develop:
- Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): Valve degeneration → heart failure.
- Congenital defects (rare).
Prevention:
- Regular vet checkups with heart auscultation.
- Early detection through echocardiograms in seniors.
- Healthy weight + heart-friendly diet.
🟢 Digestive Issues
- Sensitive stomachs: Prone to vomiting or diarrhea with dietary changes.
- Pancreatitis: Triggered by fatty foods → life-threatening.
Prevention:
- Feed a consistent, high-quality diet.
- Avoid table scraps.
- Use low-fat treats.
🟢 Obesity
One of the most common and preventable Shih Tzu health issues.
Why it happens:
- Small size → easy to overfeed.
- Low exercise tolerance.
- Owners often confuse begging with hunger.
Dangers of obesity:
- Worsens breathing, arthritis, heart problems, and diabetes risk.
Prevention:
- Measure food portions.
- Provide gentle daily exercise.
- Choose low-calorie treats.
3. Shih Tzu Health by Life Stage
🐶 Puppy (0–12 months)
- Vulnerable to parvovirus, distemper → ensure vaccines.
- Watch for umbilical/inguinal hernias.
- Eye issues can appear early.
🐕 Adult (1–8 years)
- Higher risk of allergies, dental disease, and obesity.
- Breathing issues may worsen with weight gain.
🐾 Senior (8+ years)
- Arthritis, heart disease, kidney decline, and cognitive dysfunction become common.
- Annual (or semi-annual) vet checkups essential.
4. Diet & Nutrition for Health
Nutrition directly impacts Shih Tzu health.
Best practices:
- High-quality protein for muscle support.
- Moderate fat to prevent obesity.
- Added glucosamine/chondroitin for joint health.
- Omega-3s for skin/coat.
- Probiotics for digestion.
Avoid:
- Table scraps.
- High-fat treats.
- Small bones (risk of obstruction).
5. Grooming & Hygiene for Health
Proper grooming isn’t just about looks—it prevents disease.
- Daily brushing: Prevents mats → avoids skin infections.
- Regular baths: Keeps coat & skin clean.
- Eye wiping: Prevents infections.
- Ear cleaning: Reduces ear infections.
- Nail trimming: Prevents joint strain.
6. Vet Care & Preventive Schedule
- Puppies: Vet visits every 3–4 weeks until vaccinations complete.
- Adults: Annual checkups with bloodwork.
- Seniors: Every 6 months with heart, kidney, and eye exams.
Advanced preventive care (2025):
- DNA testing for hereditary issues.
- Early screening for PRA (eye disease).
- Specialized dental X-rays for small breeds.
7. Environmental & Lifestyle Tips
- Keep Shih Tzus indoors in air-conditioned environments.
- Avoid outdoor walks during peak heat.
- Provide puzzle toys to stimulate mentally (reduces stress-related health issues).
8. Warning Signs That Require Immediate Vet Care
- Sudden breathing difficulty.
- Collapse or fainting.
- Red, swollen, or cloudy eyes.
- Seizures.
- Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours.
- Unexplained weight loss.
9. FAQs (SEO-Optimized)
Q1: What is the most common health problem in Shih Tzus?
Dental disease and eye problems are the most common.
Q2: Can Shih Tzus live a long life despite health problems?
Yes, with preventive care, many live 14–16 years, sometimes 18+.
Q3: How do I know if my Shih Tzu is overweight?
You should feel ribs without pressing hard. If not, they’re overweight.
Q4: Do Shih Tzus need special diets?
Yes, they benefit from small-breed, joint-supportive, low-fat diets.
Q5: How often should Shih Tzus go to the vet?
Annually for adults, twice a year for seniors.
✅ Final Thoughts
Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs if cared for properly, but their unique anatomy and genetics put them at risk for specific problems. The good news is that with preventive care, proper grooming, balanced diet, weight control, and regular vet visits, you can drastically reduce health risks and help your Shih Tzu live a long, comfortable, and joyful life.
