The Shih Tzu is a small, long-haired dog breed that is known for its friendly and playful personality. They are also one of the longest-lived dog breeds, with an average lifespan of 10 to 16 years. However, there have been a few Shih Tzus that have lived well beyond that, and the oldest known Shih Tzu lived to be an incredible 23 years old.
Smokey the Shih Tzu
The oldest known Shih Tzu was a dog named Smokey who lived in St. Petersburg, Florida. Smokey was born on January 18, 1986, and he passed away on December 25, 2010. This means that Smokey lived to be 23 years, 11 months, and 7 days old.
Smokey’s owners, Joe and Mary Slatton, adopted him in 2000. They were not aware at the time that he was already 14 years old, but they quickly fell in love with him. Smokey was a very healthy dog, and he lived a long and happy life with his family.
Other Long-Lived Shih Tzus
In addition to Smokey, there have been a few other Shih Tzus that have lived to be very old. The second oldest known Shih Tzu was a dog named Teddy who lived in Phoenix, Arizona. Teddy was born on August 1, 2000, and he passed away on December 12, 2019. This means that Teddy lived to be 19 years, 4 months, and 10 days old.
The third oldest known Shih Tzu was a dog named Tutsy who lives in Liverpool, England. Tutsy was born in September 2003, and she is still alive today. This means that Tutsy is currently 19 years old, and she is still going strong.
What Factors Contribute to a Long Lifespan in Shih Tzus?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a long lifespan in Shih Tzus. Some of these factors include:
Good genetics: Shih Tzus that come from long-lived lines are more likely to live long themselves.
Proper care: Shih Tzus that receive proper care, including regular veterinary checkups, good nutrition, and plenty of exercise, are more likely to live long lives.
Luck: Of course, there is always an element of luck involved in how long a dog lives. Some dogs are simply genetically predisposed to live longer than others.
How Can You Help Your Shih Tzu Live a Long and Healthy Life?
If you want your Shih Tzu to live a long and healthy life, there are a few things you can do:
Get your dog from a reputable breeder. This will help ensure that your dog comes from long-lived lines.
Provide your dog with proper care. This includes regular veterinary checkups, good nutrition, and plenty of exercise.
Keep your dog’s weight under control. Obesity is a major health risk for dogs, and it can shorten their lifespan.
Avoid giving your dog table scraps. Table scraps can be high in fat and calories, which can contribute to obesity.
Manage your dog’s dental health. Good dental health is essential for overall health, and it can help your dog live longer.
Be aware of the signs of illness. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or appearance, take them to the vet right away.
By following these tips, you can help your Shih Tzu live a long and healthy life.
Conclusion
The Shih Tzu is a wonderful breed of dog that can bring years of joy to their owners. With proper care, Shih Tzus can live long and healthy lives. If you are thinking about getting a Shih Tzu, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. With a little bit of care, your Shih Tzu can be your loyal companion for many years to come.
