Shih Tzus are little companion dogs with modest exercise needs and a fondness for food. The long coat hides their shape, so extra weight is easy to miss on this small frame.
Ideal weight
| Type | Ideal range |
|---|---|
| Shih Tzu | 4–7.25 kg (9–16 lb) |
Small frame, hidden shape. On a small, low-activity dog with a flowing coat, weight gain is easy to overlook — and a few hundred grams is a big percentage of a Shih Tzu. Their shortened face also means extra weight can worsen breathing. Feel through the coat and keep treats small.
How to tell if your pet is overweight
- Feel, don't look. The thick coat hides weight, so press gently through it — ribs should be findable under a thin layer without digging.
- Look from above. There should be a clear waist tucking in behind the ribs; a straight or bulging outline means no waist.
- Check the side profile. The belly should tuck up behind the ribcage rather than hang level.
- Watch the breathing. More snoring, quicker tiring or struggling in warm weather can all be worsened by extra weight.
What to do about it
- Weigh the food, don't scoop it. Eyeballing portions is the most common cause of overfeeding.
- Count treats as calories — keep them under 10% of daily intake; swap biscuits for carrot or green bean.
- Exercise gently and only when cool. Short calm walks; never push a flat-faced dog in heat.
- Reweigh monthly. Safe loss is about 1–2% of body weight per week; involve your vet for an overweight pet.
See exactly how overweight — and what that'd be on you
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Open the weight calculatorFrequently asked
How much should a Shih Tzu weigh?
Around 4–7.25 kg (9–16 lb).
Why is weight easy to miss on a Shih Tzu?
The long coat hides body shape, so you must feel for ribs rather than judge by looks.
Does my Shih Tzu need much exercise?
Modest but regular activity plus measured food keeps them lean; they overfeed easily.