Shih Tzu are cuddly in nature and can live in a household comfortably as long as their needs are met. Shih Tzu, like many toy dog breeds, reaches maturity more quickly around 10 months. There is nothing fierce about them, since they are loving and enjoy nothing but attention, especially the Teacup Shih Tzu. If you own a Shih Tzu or are thinking about adding one to your household, knowing when a Shih Tzu is full grown is of importance. That’s because it enables you to identify if your Shih Tzu is unwell or isn’t growing as it should.
The Shih Tzu reaches full size by 10 months of age. With a body that is slightly longer than tall and a good-sized head, they have a sturdy frame that is characteristic of most toy breeds.
Key Takeaways
- A Shih Tzu is full grown at 10 months.
- An average Shih Tzu requires approximately 1-1.5 cups of food per day.
- A full grown Shih Tzu weighs 9 to16 pounds and is 8 to 11 inches tall.
Physical Growth Stages of a Shih Tz
Just like human development, Shih Tzu development follows a predictable sequence. The physical growth stages include:
Newborn Stage
Shih Tzu are deaf and blind at birth, making them completely reliant on their mother. At this stage only the three senses are working–-touch, taste and smell. They feel and respond to pain, discomfort, and minor disturbance by whining or crying. Their primary mission at this stage is to search out nourishment from their mother and sleep.
Puppy Stage
The puppy gains full sight and hearing at around 3 weeks after birth, making it easy to start playing with its littermates. It can also identify its mother, humans in the family and siblings. At this stage, a puppy should be eating three daily scheduled meals per day plus snacks. Exercise such as walks is also necessary as it allows for further building of socialization skills
Adolescent Stage
This stage is the beginning of adolescent stage and puberty is underway for both genders. Females start to have their first heat. At this age, they fully understand household hierarchy and how their behavior affects their pack mates-humans and animals in the house. Also at this age, teething may be winding down and once super hyper puppies are becoming calmer making this less chaotic.
Adult Stage
This stage involves a decline in growth rate. Cutting back food rations at this stage is recommended, since your Shih Tzu is growing more steadily this time. They become more alert, active and want to be kept engaged.
Related: The Price of Shih Tzu Puppies & Adult Dogs (with Calculator)
Factors Affecting the Growth of Shih Tzu
Even though these lovely puppies make wonderful life-long companions, there are a few common health concerns and issues that affect their growth. These include:
Genetics
One of the hereditary conditions in Shih Tzu is patella luxation or displacement of the kneecap. This condition can affect one or both back legs if left untreated, increasing their risk of arthritis and other orthopedic issues later in life. So be always on the lookout for any symptoms of strain on your dog’s movement and overall health. Other genetic problems they are prone to include:
- Retinal detachment
- Hip dysplasia.
Nutrition
Feeding your Shih Tzu seems pretty easy. However, it’s vital to consider a number of factors before venturing into this field. Some factors include:
- Types of food options
- Food quantity
- Feeding time
- Whether you should make your own pet food or buy commercial brands for optimal nutrition.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the appropriate amount of food is crucial since the breed is prone to obesity. Also, you need to check on calories. On average, older Shih Tzu need about 282 calories in a day, adults need about 341 calories and very active ones need about 540 calories.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Exercise is good for the breed. However, it should be done in moderation since too much exercise could cause joint and bone issues later. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid intense physical activities like going for long runs. Around 5 minutes of exercise a day for each month is enough.
Health and Wellness
You should always be on the lookout for any early symptoms presenting themselves and ensure that any medical issues are addressed on time. Some of the health problems they experience include:
- Eye disease
- Ear problems
- Back pain
- Breathing problems
A great way to be on top of your dog’s health is to schedule yearly health check-ups with your vet.
Signs of a Fully Grown Shih Tzu
Determining a full grown Shih Tzu might be a challenge to some pet owners. However, below are some signs to take into consideration before arriving at a conclusion.
Weight and Height
When you own a Shih Tzu it’s vital to be aware of the expected or standard size of a full grown Shih Tzu breed. The standard size of a full grown Tzu is 9 to 16 pounds for weight and 8 to 11 inches for height.
| Age | Height Range |
| 1 month | 2 inches or less |
| 2 months | 2–5 inches |
| 3 months | 3–6 inches |
| 4 months | 4–7 inches |
| 5 months | 5–1 inches |
| 6 months | 5–8 inches |
| 7 months | 6 inches |
| 8 months | 6–3 inches |
| 9 months | 6–9 inches |
| 10 months | 7–5 inches |
| 11 months | 8–11 inches |
| 12 months | 11 inches |
Physical Appearance
A full grown Shih Tzu should appear slightly longer than tall, with their tail curved over their back. Generally, purebred full grown Shih Tzu have long hair. And if left uncut, the hair might continue to grow to the ground.
Behavioral Changes
As Shih Tzu grow, their behavior and activity change. Some behavioral changes include:
- Eating less
- Decreased mobility
- Getting a little grumpy
- Spending more time sleeping
How to Care For and Maintain a Full Grown Shih Tzu?
Grooming and Hygiene
Shih Tzu requires routine bathing and grooming due to its profuse coat that needs regular bathing as frequently as every week. However, grooming goes beyond just taking care of their coats. It involves:
- Brushing teeth 2–3 times a week
- Clipping of nails monthly
- A full body inspection done every couple of weeks
It’s also important to swab their ears and clean them out on a weekly basis. Grooming your Shih Tzu consistently, keeps them clean and less prone to infections.
Related: Shih Tzu Teddy Bear Cut Vs. Puppy Cut
Exercise and Physical Activity
Always ensure your Shih Tzu is experiencing a balanced and stable exercise routine. Exercise plays a huge role in their overall health. Some benefits include:
- Strengthening the heart
- Improve blood circulation
- Helps the body manage glucose level
- Help them stay in shape
- Stimulate the appetite
Feeding and Nutrition
In order to maintain a healthy skin, coat as well as overall health, it’s important to provide good nutrition to your dog through a well-balanced diet, healthy treats, and vitamins. Make sure you’re not only feeding your Shih Tzu healthy and quality food, but also monitoring weight gain. Learn to practice moderation! And in the event you notice weight gain, immediately create a balance between food proportion and the amount of exercise they receive.
Health and Wellness
Shih Tzu have some common health issues. These include:
- Ear infection due to long hair hanging down in their ears over the ear canal
- Heatstroke due to their long coats and short faces, which makes it difficult for them to breathe
- Eye problems such as corneal ulcers due to large eyes and shallow eye sockets.
These health concerns can be remedied by:
- Avoiding over exercising your dog during summer months in order to prevent heat exhaustion.
- Constant grooming to prevent growth of hair around the ear canal.
Related: How Long Does a Shih Tzu Live?
When Is Shih Tzu Full Grown? FAQs
Q: At What Age Do Shih Tzu Puppies Calm Down?
A: Like most dog breeds, Shih will begin to calm down once they reach two years. This is because after two years, your Shih Tzu will have plenty of energy to burn off, and it will begin to calm down gradually. Their hyper attitude fades away gradually with age.
Q: How Much Should a Shih Tzu Eat?
A: When trying to figure out how much food your Shih Tzu should eat, the first step should be to learn your Shih Tzu. An average Shih Tzu needs approximately 1-1.5 cups of food per day. However, this amount is affected by the following:
- The pet’s activity level
- Type of food
- Weight
- Age
Q: What Is the Shih Tzu Weight at 4 Months?
A: At four months, your Shih Tzu should weigh around 6 lb. And if your puppy seems unwell or isn’t growing as intended, it’s best to get them checked by a veterinarian.
Q: What Is the Shih Tzu Life Span?
A: The average longevity of a Shih Tzu is 13 years, with the majority lasting between 10 and 16 years.
Q: Shih Tzu Weight by Age in KG
| Age of Puppy | Estimated Weight in (kg) |
| Birth | Less than a pound |
| 1 month | 0.5 kg |
| 2 months | 1.1 kg |
| 3 months | 1.8 kg |
| 4 months | 2.7 kg |
| 5 months | 3.6 kg |
| 6 months | 4.5 kg |
| 7 months | 5.4 kg |
| 8 months | 5.7 kg |
| 9 months | 5.7 kg |
| 10 months | 5.7 kg |
| 11 months | 5.7 kg |
| 12 month/1 year | 5.7 kg |
Conclusion
Shih Tzu has a small stature and friendly demeanor. But just like human development, Shih Tzu growth also follows a predictable sequence. Sooner or later, your puppy will begin showing changes in weight and height, physical appearance, and behavior, leaving you with no choice but to keenly monitor them since growth comes with challenges and demands.
Some things we should be on the lookout for as these changes occur include: health and wellness, exercise and physical activities, feeding and nutrition, and grooming. Once these factors are kept in check, your Shih Tzu will be able to grow in good condition and less prone to infections.
