If you are thinking of getting a Shih Tzu or even if you have one, you might be wondering what is the normal Shih Tzu energy level? Are they super active or a couch potatoes or somewhere in between? Does low energy mean there is something wrong or should you be concerned about a hyperactive Shih Tzu? Here’s what you need to know.
The Shih Tzu Energy Level
Shih Tzus were meant to be companions for Chinese Emperors. That’s what they were bred for.
That means your Shih Tzu is going to want to be with you most if not all of the time.
So, your activity level is going to play a part in how active your dog is.
Shih Tzus, in general, are active and alert.
They like puzzles and playtime.
Even so, there are a few things you should be aware of.
Their Short Legs and Breathing Issues
Because Shih Tzus have such short legs, they can get tried quickly.
Daily exercise is important, but don’t expect one of these dogs to go on a five-mile hike in the woods with you.
A fifteen-minute to a half-hour walk once or twice a day will do the job when it comes to meeting their exercise requirements.
If it is really cold out, be sure to bundle them up in a sweater.
This is the one I buy for my Shih Tzus.
And if it is really hot and humid you might want to reduce their time outside.
Find fun games to play with them inside instead so they still get some exercise.
Shih Tzus love to spend time with their human family, so it doesn’t take too much to make them happy.
Keep in mind that Shih Tzus are one of the brachycephalic breeds.
This means they have a short nose and a flat face.
This makes breathing harder for them.
Add in exercise and breathing can become difficult if you’re not careful.
I used to take my two Shih Tzus walking around the lake at Furman University when I lived in South Carolina.
It was a pretty walk and I would say it was about a mile and a quarter around.
Both my Shih Tzus, Truman, and Sammy, loved walking there, but Sammy had a hard time making it all the way around.
We would stop for a drink of water at the halfway mark, but by the time we got about 3/4 of the way around the lake, Sammy would give out.
Her tail would start to drag and she wanted to sit down.
Luckily there were benches by the lake and a nice view, so I would sit and give her about five minutes to catch her breath, and then we would finish the walk.
Just pay close attention to the clues your Shih Tzu is giving you.
Are they in distress?
Are they getting worn out?
If so, give them a rest, and head back home.
Shih Tzus are a Good Choice for People with Mobility Issues
Shih Tzus can be the perfect breed for folks with mobility issues.
While these toy breeds do need some exercise, simply running around the house playing can be enough.
So, if you can’t get out easily, you can still keep your Shih Tzu active and healthy by throwing toys for them to run after.
Shih Tzus do need some mental stimulation, so toys that you can place food inside help keep them occupied and happy.
If you really can’t get outside at all but want your Shih Tzu to have a walk each day, consider a dog walker.
They will come to your house and take your pup on a walk.
Your Shih Tzu will get some exercise, and then you get the pleasure of seeing how happy they are when they get back home to you.
As pet parents, you want the best for your dog, but know that with a Shih Tzu there are ways to keep them active and happy even if you have mobility issues.
Shih Tzus are Good for Those Living in Apartments
Apartment living is just about perfect for these dogs.
As companion dogs, they want to be with you all the time, so they don’t need a lot of space.
An apartment can be the perfect living arrangement for you and your Shih Tzu.
As mentioned above, a quick walk or some play in your apartment will provide them with all the exercise they need.
Just as long as they have enough toys and activities to keep them from being bored they should be fine.
A bored dog can have behavioral issues, and you don’t want to have to deal with that.
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What if Your Shih Tzu’s Energy Level Has Changed?
As your dog ages and becomes a senior dog, it is normal for them to slow down just as we humans do.
My Shih Tzu, Truman, is 17 years old.
He mostly spends his days sleeping at this point.
But when he was younger, he loved going for walks and chasing after his toys.
His slow down is normal, but what if your Shih Tzu’s activity level decreases for no reason?
All of a sudden they don’t want to play or even take a walk.
Then there could be an issue.
There could be health issues causing this slowdown and you will want to take your pooch to the vet right away.
Shih Tzus can have some health concerns such as hip dysplasia and arthritis that might affect how active they are.
Truman suffers from both now that he is older.
So, check with your vet if you’re concerned that your Shih Tzu is dealing with these or any other health conditions.
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To Sum it All Up:
Shih Tzus are wonderful companion animals. They are great for families and single folks as well. They don’t need a lot of space to be happy and as long as they get a little exercise and mental stimulation these little lion dogs typically won’t display any destructive behaviors.
Please Note:
This article is informational only and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always check with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your Shih Tzu. This article should not be considered in any way as a veterinarian or advice.
