How Big Does a Shih Tzu Get? Complete Size Guide

How big does a Shih Tzu get? Most Shih Tzus reach 9 to 16 pounds and stand about 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown. This Shih Tzu size range holds true for puppies raised from genetically tested AKC parents, which is the foundation of our breeding program at Champaign Shih Tzu. Because our puppies grow up inside our family home, their development is consistent, confident, and remarkably predictable.

Why understanding Shih Tzu size helps families prepare

Most families fall in love with a Shih Tzu’s big eyes and sweet nature long before they think about size. But the Shih Tzu size affects daily life in ways people do not expect. A dog that stays comfortably between 9 and 16 pounds fits beautifully into homes with children, retirees, and apartment living. They are small, but not fragile. They are portable, but not helpless. They are playful, but do not require the space or exercise level of larger breeds.

Understanding how big a Shih Tzu gets helps families prepare with the right harness, crate size, grooming tools, toys, and expectations for training and feeding. It also helps ensure the puppy you choose truly fits your lifestyle.

What determines how big does a Shih Tzu get?

Shih Tzu size is shaped by 3 major factors: genetics, nutrition, and early environment. As breeders who raise puppies in our living room rather than in a kennel, we see firsthand how each piece shapes growth.

1. Genetics create the blueprint

We begin every litter with AKC-registered, genetically tested adults. This matters more than people realize. When genetics are stable, size patterns become predictable. We avoid trends like extreme miniaturization, because shrinking dogs below the healthy standard often leads to fragile bones, breathing concerns, and long-term health issues. Our focus on correct structure ensures puppies grow into sturdy, well-balanced adults.

2. Nutrition supports healthy development

We feed our dogs Royal Canin Shih Tzu because it is designed specifically for this breed’s unique needs, from digestive support to coat health to the shape of their little jaws. A consistent, high-quality diet helps puppies grow at a steady pace, rather than gaining weight too quickly or too slowly. 

Every puppy goes home with a small bag of their food and our reminder to follow the manufacturer's feeding guidelines carefully. Overfeeding can cause rapid growth that stresses joints, while underfeeding can limit healthy development. We also recommend NuVet Plus supplements to support the immune system as puppies move through their most important growth stages.

3. Home raising strengthens body and mind

A Shih Tzu raised in a quiet kennel grows differently from one raised in the middle of family life. Our puppies experience sounds, smells, movement, children, and gentle handling from day 1. Confident puppies explore more, eat better, and build strong muscles through daily play. The environment shapes their physical and emotional development, which in turn affects how they grow.

Growth stages from birth to adulthood

After raising many litters, we have seen nearly identical patterns in how our puppies grow.

Newborn to 8 weeks

Puppies remain very small but gain weight quickly. They begin forming their signature round faces and thick coats. Their bodies stay soft, and their movements are clumsy but adorable. These weeks set the foundation for healthy development.

8 weeks to 6 months

This stage brings the biggest visible changes. Height increases first as their little legs stretch and strengthen. By 6 months, most of our puppies reach close to their full height, even though they look like fluffy cotton balls with legs. Weight continues to rise steadily.

6 to 12 months

This is where their bodies mature. They begin to build muscle, especially around the chest and shoulders. Their faces lose the baby look and take on the classic sweet expression of an adult Shih Tzu. Their coats thicken and may require more brushing.

12 to 18 months

This is the finishing stage. Puppies fill out, build strength, and settle into their final weight. The Shih Tzu size becomes stable, and you will know exactly what to expect for the rest of their life.

Why our Shih Tzus grow differently from kennel-raised puppies

Families often tell us that their puppy grew into exactly the size we predicted. That is not luck. It comes from how they are raised. When puppies grow up in the home, surrounded by warmth, routine, and human connection, they experience almost no stress. Stress can stunt growth or cause fluctuations in appetite. Calm, confident puppies grow in a balanced, healthy way.

We see the difference every day. Puppies play under the kitchen table, nap beside our children during homework time, and wag their tails with complete trust. These early experiences help shape strong bodies and even stronger bonds. Their size reflects the peaceful, joyful environment in which they grew up.

What living with a full-grown Shih Tzu is actually like

Once fully grown, a Shih Tzu becomes the perfect size for a companion dog. They love to be held, carried, cuddled, and included in every moment. They are small enough to travel easily in a car or lightweight carrier but solid enough to feel secure in your arms. Their body size makes grooming manageable and exercise flexible. A few short walks, indoor play, and lots of affection are perfect for this breed.

A full-grown Shih Tzu has an elegant, flowing coat when kept long or a soft teddy-bear look when trimmed short. Their coat can make them appear bigger than they truly are, which is why families sometimes think their puppy “grew more than expected” when it is really just the coat adding volume.

A personal look at Shih Tzu size in our home

To give you a real example, we often see our puppies pile into our children’s laps like warm, sleepy doughnuts. At around 10 or 12 pounds, they fit perfectly. They hop on the couch, curl up at your side, and gently nudge your hand for attention. Their size allows them to be indoor pets who stay close without taking over the house.

We have watched generations of Shih Tzus grow from tiny newborns to confident adults who trot proudly through the living room. Their size feels like part of their charm, but it also makes them one of the easiest companion breeds to live with, whether you are 8 years old or 80.

Have questions or want to meet our puppies? Contact us, and we’ll be happy to guide you.

FAQ

How big does a Shih Tzu get when fully grown?  Most adults reach 9 to 16 pounds and 9 to 11 inches tall.

When do Shih Tzus reach their adult size?  Most reach full height by 6 months and full weight by 12 to 18 months.

Do males grow bigger than females?  Males may be slightly heavier, but the difference is usually small.

Does coat length make a Shih Tzu look larger?  Yes, long coats create volume even when the dog’s true size stays the same.

What affects Shih Tzu size the most?  Genetics, nutrition, and early socialization inside the home.