How Much Should a Shih Tzu Weigh?

If you own a Shih Tzu, you may wonder how much should a Shih Tzu weigh to stay healthy and active. Knowing their ideal weight helps keep them happy and thriving. Here’s a full look at a Shih Tzu’s weight needs—from puppy to adult.

Average Weight of a Shih Tzu

How Much Should a Shih Tzu Weigh at 1 Year?

By the time a Shih Tzu reaches one year, they’re fully grown. At this age, a healthy Shih Tzu typically weighs between 9 and 16 pounds. Unlike some breeds, male and female Shih Tzus weigh about the same. If your Shih Tzu falls in this range, they’re likely at a healthy adult weight.

• Small Shih Tzus: around 9 pounds
• Average Shih Tzus: around 12 pounds
• Large Shih Tzus: up to 16 pounds

This weight range helps keep your Shih Tzu’s body strong, while their short, sturdy frame supports their playful energy.

Shih Tzu Weight by Age

Shih Tzu Weight Chart

To know how much should a Shih Tzu weigh at each stage, here’s a handy weight chart. It shows what to expect as your Shih Tzu grows from puppy to adult.

This chart helps track your Shih Tzu’s growth. At 6 months, most Shih Tzus reach nearly their adult size. And by one year, they should weigh about 9 to 16 pounds.

Using Body Condition Score (BCS) for Weight Management

Shih Tzu Weight and Body Condition Score (BCS)

Knowing how much should a Shih Tzu weigh is helpful, but weight alone doesn’t always tell the full story. The Body Condition Score (BCS) measures your Shih Tzu’s overall body fat. This score ranges from 1 to 9. A score of 4 to 5 is ideal.

Here’s how to check your Shih Tzu’s BCS at home:

• Feel Their Ribs: You should feel the ribs easily, but they shouldn’t stick out.
• Look for a Waist: There should be a slight waistline behind the ribs.
• Check Their Tummy Tuck: The belly should slightly rise towards the back legs.

If your Shih Tzu’s ribs are hard to feel, they may be overweight. If the ribs are too prominent, they may need to gain a little weight.

BCS for Puppies and Adults

For puppies, BCS can be a bit different. Puppies may look leaner since they’re still growing. However, they should still show a slight waist and tuck at the belly. As they mature, their BCS will settle into the ideal range of 4 to 5.

How to Ensure Healthy Weight for Shih Tzus?

Keeping your Shih Tzu at a healthy weight involves a few key steps: balanced diet, proper portion sizes, and exercise.

Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management

A high-quality diet is essential. Look for dog food with:

• High Protein: Helps maintain strong muscles.
• Low Carbs: Avoids unnecessary fillers like rice, oats, or potatoes.
• Limited Ingredients: Reduces risk of allergies and digestive issues.

Stick to simple, nutrient-rich ingredients like chicken, fish, or lamb. This ensures your Shih Tzu gets what they need without extra carbs.

Portion Control and Meal Sizes

Following portion sizes keeps your Shih Tzu’s weight on track. Check the dog food package for serving guidelines, then adjust based on their age and activity level. Adult Shih Tzus usually do well with two measured meals per day.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Shih Tzus may be small, but they still need regular exercise to stay fit. Aim for:

• Daily walks
• Indoor play sessions
• Short games like fetch

Regular activity prevents weight gain and supports their muscles and joints.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

If you’re feeding a balanced diet and keeping an exercise routine, but still notice weight issues, talk to your vet. They can check for any health concerns and suggest a diet that meets your Shih Tzu’s specific needs.

Conclusion

A healthy weight is vital for your Shih Tzu’s long life and happiness. Tracking their weight, using the BCS, and maintaining a balanced diet will help keep them feeling great. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your Shih Tzu healthy and happy!

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