A Shih Tzu is a great breed to consider if you want a small dog that shows lots of love. Sure, they might steal your shoes, but they'll love you forever and just want you to love them back. Before you bring a Shih Tzu in your home, however, it's important to know more about this breed. How much do you actually know about these lovable little dogs? If you want to learn about how big Shih Tzus get and other interesting facts, keep reading!

Shih Tzu Height

This toy breed doesn't grow to be very large, so you don't have to worry about a Shih Tzu stealing your dinner from the table, unless they find a way to jump into the chair when you're away. They typically grow to about 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder. Of course, it will depend on the dog and the gender, as the females tend to be a bit smaller than males. As you can see, the typical Shih Tzu height isn't very tall though, which means they make perfect lap dogs. They're super small and super cute!

Shih Tzu Weight

You already know Shih Tzus don't get very tall, but how about their weight? A healthy Shih Tzu should weigh anywhere from 9 to 16 pounds, depending on how tall they are. Females typically weigh a bit less than males, just because of the difference in stature. It is important to keep these weights in mind, as a Shih Tzu that weighs considerably more is likely considered overweight and could have potential health issues in the future.

Shih Tzu Lifespan

The Shih Tzu's lifespan can range quite a bit, but because they are small dogs, you can expect to have them for longer than much larger dogs. The typical, healthy Shih Tzu will live anywhere from 10 to 18 years. In this time, they'll definitely become a big part of your family just because of how loving they are!

Can Your Shih Tzu Live Outside?

The short answer is no. These dogs are very people orientated and don't do well in the heat. While they don't have to eat out of a silver platter, they do actually need to be inside most of the time. Also, their small size won't give them much protection if they're outside. Keep your Shih Tzu safe and sound in the comfort of your home, and you'll be able to love them for much longer.

How Big Will Your Shih Tzu Grow

Shih Tzu Lifespan