Shih Tzu Size & Weight Chart: How Big Do They Get?
Written for general planning, not medical advice — no one at Argos Paws is a veterinarian. If something is wrong with your dog right now, call your vet or the nearest emergency clinic.
Quick answer: A full-grown Shih Tzu typically weighs 9-16 lb (4.1-7.3 kg) and stands 9-10.5 in (23-27 cm) tall at the shoulder. Most reach their adult size by around 9-10 months.
Photo: Canino21 · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons
Shih Tzus are a toy breed developed as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, known for their long flowing coat and friendly, outgoing temperament. They are well-suited to apartment living and make affectionate companions.
| Size category | Small |
|---|---|
| Typical adult weight | 9-16 lb (4.1-7.3 kg) |
| Height at the shoulder | 9-10.5 in (23-27 cm) |
| Full grown by | 9-10 months |
| Life expectancy | 10-18 years |
Shih Tzu weight chart by age (lb & kg)
Estimated weights for an average Shih Tzu puppy, based on the typical growth curve for a small breed. Males usually track toward the top of each figure, females toward the bottom.
| Age | Weight (lb) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 months | ~4 lb | ~1.8 kg |
| 3 months | ~7 lb | ~3.2 kg |
| 4 months | ~9 lb | ~4.1 kg |
| 5 months | ~10 lb | ~4.5 kg |
| 6 months | ~12 lb | ~5.4 kg |
| 9-10 months (full grown) | 9-16 lb | 4.1-7.3 kg |
When does a Shih Tzu stop growing?
As a small breed, Shih Tzus typically reach adult weight by around 9-10 months. Smaller breeds like the Shih Tzu reach full height and fill out fairly close together, so growth tends to look "done" all at once.
Use the Puppy Weight Predictor below — it's pre-loaded with the Shih Tzu's growth curve, so just enter your puppy's current weight and age.
Predict your Shih Tzu's adult weight
Enter your puppy's current weight and age to get an estimate based on this breed's typical growth curve.
Open the Puppy Weight PredictorHow much does it cost to feed a Shih Tzu?
A typical adult Shih Tzu (13 lb, average activity) needs roughly 412 kcal/day — about 0.2 lb (1.0 cups) of dry kibble per day, which works out to around $15/month at typical kibble prices. Fresh or subscription-style food usually costs more, around $165/month for the same dog. These are population-level estimates — use the calculator below for a number based on your dog's actual weight and food type, or see the Shih Tzu feeding chart for puppy amounts by month.
Estimate Shih Tzu food costs
Pre-filled with this breed's typical adult weight — adjust activity level and food type to get your monthly estimate.
Open the Dog Food Cost CalculatorBrowse dog food sized for a Shih Tzu
Compare dry, wet, and breed-specific formulas — filter by your dog's size and life stage to narrow it down.
Browse dog food on Amazon(affiliate link)How old is my Shih Tzu in human years?
The old "×7" rule doesn't hold up — small breeds like the Shih Tzu age at their own rate, not a generic one. Use the calculator below, pre-set to this breed's size.
Convert your Shih Tzu's age
Pre-filled with this breed's size category for a more accurate human-year estimate than a flat multiplier.
Open the Shih Tzu Age CalculatorCommon health considerations
- Brachycephalic airway issues can make heat tolerance and breathing during exercise a concern.
- Dental crowding and related dental disease are common in this small-jawed breed.
- Hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease occur in the breed despite their small size.
This is general breed-level information, not a diagnosis or a prediction for any individual dog. Talk to your vet about health screening and preventive care specific to your dog.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Shih Tzu?
See a typical monthly premium for this breed and whether it would likely pay off against a major vet bill.
Shih Tzu insurance costSimilar breeds
Based on energy level, living-space fit, and care needs, these breeds are closest to the Shih Tzu:
Take our breed match quiz
Answer a few quick questions about your lifestyle and living space to see which breeds — not just the Shih Tzu — actually fit best.
Take the Breed Match QuizFrequently asked questions
How much does a full-grown Shih Tzu weigh?
A full-grown Shih Tzu typically weighs 9-16 lb (4.1-7.3 kg), making it a small breed. Individual dogs vary within that range depending on sex, genetics, and body condition — use the Puppy Weight Predictor above for an estimate based on your specific puppy's current weight and age.
How tall is a full-grown Shih Tzu?
A full-grown Shih Tzu stands 9-10.5 in (23-27 cm) tall, measured at the shoulder (withers).
When does a Shih Tzu stop growing?
As a small breed, Shih Tzus typically reach adult weight by around 9-10 months. Height typically levels off a bit before this; smaller breeds like this one fill out relatively quickly once they reach height.
Is a Shih Tzu a good first dog?
Generally yes. The Shih Tzu is forgiving enough for most first-time owners, as long as you're realistic about its exercise and care needs going in rather than assuming any dog is "easy."
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
Relatively little compared to most breeds. A couple of shorter walks a day is usually enough for a Shih Tzu, though every dog still benefits from some daily activity.
Is a Shih Tzu good with kids?
Generally good with kids, especially with basic training and normal socialization. As with any breed, supervise younger children and teach them how to approach and handle the dog.
How much grooming does a Shih Tzu need?
High — expect frequent brushing and likely regular professional grooming to manage the Shih Tzu's coat. This is one of the higher-maintenance breeds on this front.