Shih Tzus, often known as “Lion Dogs” because of their rich coat, has been a fascinating, mischievous companion to many for thousands of years. Their coats vary in a variety of colors and require a lot of upkeep. Few dogs, however, have such a captivating appearance! Shih Tzus are recognized for being extremely kind to youngsters, and their diminutive stature makes them ideal apartment dogs.

If you're seeking a lapdog with a sense of humor, the Shih Tzu is the dog for you! If you already have this cheeky, extroverted dog as a companion, you may be asking how large a Shih Tzu grows and when they stop growing.

To know more about Shih Tzu Growth chart, keep reading this article!

When Do Shih Tzu Stop Growing?

Shih Tzu puppies reach maturity in around a year. Many attain adulthood at one year of age, although some are documented to have stopped developing at nine, ten, or eleven months.

It's worth noting that, while these puppies don't grow much above the age of a year, they can gain weight after that. If they are fed a good diet, they will not gain weight after 12 to 15 months.

They reach full adult height between the ages of 6 and 8 months. In unusual situations, the puppy might continue to grow and gain weight until the age of two years.

Shih Tzu Size Chart 

Here is the size chart of a Shih Tzu:

Age Of Puppy	Estimated Adult Weight
1 month	10 x present weight
2 months	5 x present weight
3 months	3 x present weight
4 months	2 x present weight
5 months	1.5 x present weight
6 months	1.2 x present weight
7 months	1.04 x present weight
10 months	1 x present weight

 Shih Tzu Growth Pictures

What is the Standard Shih Tzu Size

from 9 to 16 pounds (4 kg to 7.25 kg)

Any fully developed shih tzu that falls outside of these ranges does so due to either intentional or unintentional breeding anomalies, or underlying health concerns. Terms like “teacup shih tzu” The terms “toy shih tzu” and “imperial shih tzu” refer to small canines, not a distinct breed.

Shih Tzu Weight Chart

Here is the weight chart of a Shih Tzu:

8 Weeks Old Puppy	Estimated AdultWeight In Lbs	Estimated AdultWeight In Kg
1.25 lbs – 0.5 kg	5.5 lbs – 7.0 lbs	2.5 kg – 3.0 kg
1.5 lbs – 0.7 kb	6.0 lbs – 7.5 lbs	2.5 kg – 3.5 kg
1.75 lbs – 0.8 kg	7.0 lbs – 8.0 lbs	3.0 kg – 3.7 kg
2.0 lbs – 0.9 kg	8.0 lbs – 9.5 lbs	3.7 kg – 4.5 kg
2.25 lbs – 1.0 kg	9.0 lbs – 10.5 lbs	4.0 kg – 4.8 kg
2.5 lbs – 1.2 kg	9.0 lbs – 11.0 lbs	4.0 kg – 5.0 kg
2.75 lbs – 1.3 kg	11.0 lbs – 14.0 lbs	5.0 kg – 6.5 kg
3.0 lbs – 1.4 kg	12.0 lbs – 15.0 lbs	5.5 kg – 7.0 kg
3.25 lbs – 1.5 kg	13.0 lbs – 16.0 lbs	6.0 kg – 7.5 kg
3.5 lbs – 1.5 kg	14.0 lbs – 16.0 lbs	6.5 kg – 7.5 kg
3.75 lbs – 1.7 kg	15.0 lbs – 17.0 lbs	7.0 kg – 8.0 kg
4.0 lbs – 1.8 kg	16.0 lbs – 18.0 lbs	7.5 kg – 8.5 kg

Shih Tzu Growth Chart – What To Expect
Shih Tzu Weight Chart by Age

Shih Tzu Weight  1-2 weeks

Shih Tzu puppies are born weighing roughly 6 ounces and have an immature neurological system. A newborn puppy will be unable to see or hear anything because they are born with their eyes and ear canals closed.

They have a strong instinct to burrow, conceal, and suck – all of which are vital for survival. They can detect when they are being taken up by the scruff of the neck and, instinctively, let it.

Shih Tzu Weight 3-12 weeks

During these nine weeks, there is a lot of growth. Puppies cannot hear or see well until they are three weeks old, but by six weeks old, sight and hearing are completely developed. Puppies can move around at around 3 weeks old, having learned walking in only 3 days. Puppies become more active and observant of their surroundings as they get older.

Milk teeth appear at 4 weeks, and weaning begins. They begin to play with their siblings, creating noises and building attachments. Weaning is done after about 6 weeks.

Puppies can be moved to their new owners and house training can begin as early as 8 weeks. The key ranking phase begins around 12 weeks, when puppies understand where they fit in the hierarchy of the den/household.

Shih Tzu Weight 4-6months

A six-month-old Shih Tzu is nearly adult size. Most six-month-old Shih Tzus weigh between 7 and 12 pounds, and many Shih Tzus are now at full adult height, which is typically between 9 and 10.5 inches tall.

Shih Tzu Weight  7-9 months

By 7 months, growth has slowed and teething has come to a stop. Most puppies will be calmer at this point as well.

Keep in mind that your dog will be well aware of the pecking order by this point, and any weakness you detect will be addressed.

Most Shih Tzu puppies will have attained adult size by 9 months, however, they will continue to gain weight. This tendency varies from dog to dog; some dogs continue to acquire weight, if slowly, until they are 11 months old, and others even beyond 2 years.

Shih Tzu Weight  10-12 months

The puppy will most likely have attained his full adult height by 9 months, yet as he bulks up, his weight will continue to rise up to 11 months. Some dogs may gain a bit more weight up to the age of two.

The growth rate slows dramatically, and this is the moment to wean the puppy off of the specially prepared puppy food that promotes healthy growth and replaces it with adult-formulated food.

Most puppies of this age will have all of their adult teeth.

When a Shih Tzu reaches the age of one year, it is considered an adult dog. The dog is active and demanding at this stage. Interspersed with periods of intensive activity and periods of repose. The dog has reached adult weight and height, and the coat has begun to grow longer.

What is the Full Grown Shih Tzu Weight?

Adult Shih Tzus will weigh between 9 and 16 pounds and stand between 9 and 10.5 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club Official Shih Tzu Breed Standards. Shih Tzus should be somewhat longer than tall when fully grown, with their tail arched over their back.

Because of their rich double coat, it might be difficult to see if your Shih Tzu is gaining weight. The Veterinary Centers of America recommends periodically feeling your Shih Tzu's body beneath their coat in order to more closely check their weight.

How To Weigh Your Shih Tzu Puppy?

If you want to maintain track of your Shih Tzu's weight, you must first learn how to weigh him properly.

To begin, you should be able to weigh your Shih Tzu at home if he is a puppy or if you are just large enough to hold him. This can be accomplished with a standard bathroom scale.

To begin, weigh yourself and record the result. Then, while standing on the scale, pick up your dog and hold him. The difference in weight represents your dog's weight.

If your dog is too huge to carry, you can either invest in a dog scale, which can cost upwards of $100, or contact your veterinarian. The majority of veterinarian offices will enable you to use their scale.

Unless there is a health problem, you can weigh an adult Shih Tzu once every six months. Once a week is sufficient for a puppy to ensure he is growing normally.

What Is A Shih Tzu’s Neck Size?

To determine the neck size of your dog, use a soft and flexible tape measure to determine the neck size of your dog where her collar naturally falls. Then, put two fingers between your dog's neck and the tape measure to ensure that the dog collar fits snugly but comfortably. Shih Tzu's average neck circumference is between 14 and 16 inches.

How Big Do Shih Tzus Get?

If your Shih Tzu is less than 10 months old, they have a lot of growing to accomplish! Some Shih Tzus may continue to develop until they are a year old, but after that, your Shih Tzu is unlikely to become larger.

You can also examine your Shih Tzu's paws. If their paws appear enormous in comparison to their legs and body, they are likely still growing, as this is a common puppy trait!

If you got your Shih Tzu from a breeder, inquire about your pup's expected adult size. Based on your Shih Tzu's parents and prior litters, your breeder can provide you with a more specific estimate. Because a puppy is rarely larger than his or her larger father, this will also give you an indication of the maximum weight and height your Shih Tzu may attain.

Factors That Affect Shih Tzu Puppy Growth 

Genetics

The size of this breed is determined primarily by genetics. Because the Shih Tzu is a toy dog breed, it is intended to be a little dog. You are bound to have little offspring if both parents were Shih Tzus.

You will have a fair notion of the size and weight of your dog if you know the size and weight of your parents or grandparents.

Diet & Nutrition

It goes to reason that the food you provide your dog will influence its growth. A puppy who is provided nutritious, well-balanced food will thrive and gain weight.

Feed your Shih Tzu puppy the highest quality dog food you can afford. Cheap, unhealthy food and snacks will set him up for future weight and health issues. Feed your dog well if you want a happy, healthy, and energetic friend.

Physical Activity & Health

This is a naturally active breed that enjoys being on the go. When this breed is not active enough and does not get enough exercise, they gain excessive weight. They also require physical activity to build their bones and muscles.

Fortunately, this breed enjoys being active, so you won't have any trouble convincing your dog to go for daily walks.

Will a Shih Tzu Grow After Being Spayed/Neutered?

Spaying and neutering are the surgical removals of a female dog's and a male dog's reproductive organs, respectively. Spaying or neutering your Shih Tzu at the appropriate time has no effect on its growth, weight, or health.

Around six months is the best time to spay or neuter your Shih Tzu. The female Shih Tzu begins to feel in heat or has her first estrous cycle, and the male Shih Tzu reaches puberty.

Spaying and neutering your puppy reduces the likelihood of reproductive organ health issues as well as undesired behavior and side effects associated with the adolescent years.

Common Questions about Shih Tzu

At What Age Is A Shih Tzu Fully Grown?

Shih Tzus are considered adults when they reach the age of one year, and their adult height is reached between the ages of 6 and 8 months.

They will continue to gain weight until they are about two years old, at which point they will stop growing if you feed them a nutritious diet.

Your Shih Tzu's development rate may be reduced depending on genetics, but they can still grow in their second year, especially if the parents are larger. Nutrition, health, and activity level are all elements that can influence your puppy's growth.

How Long Are Shih Tzus Pregnant?

The typical Shih Tzu gestation duration is 63 days. This holds true for dogs of all sizes, from puppies to enormous breeds. It is conceivable for a dam to have a premature delivery, just like humans, or for labor to be induced if it does not occur spontaneously; however, this is uncommon.

How Many Puppies Do Shih Tzus Have?

On average, a Shih Tzu will have 3-4 puppies at a time. Shih Tzus that are older tends to have more puppies per litter. C-sections are performed on 20% of Shih Tzu puppies. Young female Shih Tzus will go into heat around six months of age and will repeat the process twice a year unless neutered.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of Shih Tzus?

The estimation of an animal's life expectancy is not accurate science. However, averages for certain well-known breeds have been calculated. Canines under 20 pounds live an average of 11 years, whereas bigger dogs live an average of 8 years.

How Much Does It Cost To Own A Shih Tzu?

The cost of a new Shih Tzu can be tough to determine. If you are considering getting one, you will need to consider a number of factors, including the cost of the dog or puppy itself, veterinarian bills, training, food, supplies, and so on. Our team has created a calculator to assist you to estimate the costs of purchasing, raising, and caring for a Shih Tzu.

A Shih Tzu puppy will most likely cost between $500 and $1,600, with an average price of $850. The first year's expenses are around $2,570, while subsequent years' expenses will be approximately $1,180 (or $98/month). The average cost of owning a Shih Tzu throughout the course of the dog's life is $17,910.

These expenditures are based on a thorough list of necessities, which includes supplies, training charges, medical bills, food, treats, grooming costs, license registration, and a microchip. Optional fees, such as medical procedures and insurance, as well as services such as dog walking and dog boarding, are not included.

How To Help Your Shih Tzu Lose Weight If He Is Overweight 

As with humans, exercise is critical for your overweight dog's health. Increased movement helps your dog burn off excess energy (and calories consumed). Avoid panic! Exercising your pet does not have to include marathons or lengthy hikes. Regular walks and the opportunity to run and play safely off-leash. 

Even creating a stimulating indoor environment that encourages your dog to exercise on a regular basis can help. Bear in mind that different breeds require varying amounts of exercise, so visit your veterinarian, breeder, or your dog's breed standard for recommendations on recommended activity levels.

Distinguish Begging from Hunger

Begging is not necessarily motivated by a desire for more food; it is also used to gain attention. (And, by rewarding the behavior, you reinforce and encourage it to continue.) If your dog begs, do not automatically assume he is hungry. Trust your instincts and keep track of the date and time of your last meal. 

If your dog is prone to begging and you are prone to succumb to those puppy dog eyes, choose a high-protein meal with a fiber blend to help control your dog's hunger and voluntary food consumption. In this manner, you may feed your dog with the assurance that he will feel fuller and content for a longer period of time.

Restriction on treats and table scraps

Even when our dogs are not begging, many of us provide an excessive amount of treats and table scraps. Dogs are not required to share our food! Consider treats and scraps for your pet in the same way that you would candy for children to help you keep them in check. If you're going to utilize snacks for training, choose low-calorie, low-fat ones and keep the portions small. 

As an alternative, keep in mind that clickers are excellent for reinforcement… and they have no calories! After all, a few extra pounds can make a significant impact in the lives of dogs, which are significantly smaller than humans. (Even the colossal breeds!) Therefore, focus on a balanced diet and resist the temptation to “reward” them with extra.

Customize Your Dog's Diet

Not all weight-loss foods are created equal, which is why it's critical to match your dog's nutrition plan to their unique needs. Choose a brand that caters to your dog's unique needs, whether they be weight control, dietary sensitivities, or illnesses.

Conclusion on Shih Tzu Growth Chart

If you study the Shih Tzu size chart, you will immediately learn what the standard size and weight range for this wonderful breed is. At each milestone of your dog's first year, you'll know precisely what to expect.

A Shih Tzu puppy weight chart provides you with all of the information you need to have peace of mind and appreciate your tiny dog.

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