How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
Daily exercise minutes, the activities a Shih Tzu enjoys and signs of too much or too little.
Two walks of 20 to 30 minutes plus indoor play is plenty for most adults. Shih Tzus enjoy sniffing routes, short games of fetch along a hallway and puzzle toys, and some take happily to gentle rally or beginner agility. They are not built for jogging, long hikes or ball sessions on a hot afternoon.
Heat is the real limit. A flat face moves air poorly, so these dogs cannot cool themselves by panting as well as longer-nosed breeds. Above roughly 25 °C (77 °F), keep walks short and shaded and carry water. Stop at once if breathing becomes loud, the tongue turns dark red or purple, or your dog lies down and refuses to move: those are signs to get to a vet immediately.
Shih Tzu exercise in numbers
Activity ranges are editorial planning estimates. The five-minutes-per-month puppy rule lacks scientific evidence. Adapt activity to the individual and seek advice for pain or exercise difficulty. PDSA puppy exercise guidance.
Editorial activity estimate
30 to 60 min
Puppy activity
Individual plan
adapt to age, health and development
Senior activity
Individual plan
adapt to comfort and ability
Size
small
4 to 7 kg
Energy level
Playfulness
Handles heat
Handles cold