Quick facts for Shih Tzus.
Size: Small
Typical weight: 9-16 lbs
Typical lifespan: 10-16 years
Common health concerns: Atopic skin and ear infections, Brachycephalic airway syndrome, Dental disease, Patellar luxation, Eye problems (corneal ulcers, dry eye)
Dosing note: A 12 lb Shih Tzu takes 1 Daily Probiotic chew per day. If joint support is added, dogs under 25 lbs take 1 Hip and Joint chew per day.
Common health concerns for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus carry the typical brachycephalic concerns: airway issues, dental crowding, and eye sensitivity from prominent eyes. Atopic skin disease and recurring ear infections are the most common chronic quality-of-life issues, and a lot of that traces back to gut and immune health.
Structurally, the breed is mostly sound but patellar luxation is overrepresented. They live 10 to 16 years, which is a long window for daily support to pay off in skin and coat quality as well as joint preservation.
What supplements help
Daily Probiotic addresses the skin, ear, and gut sensitivity that defines the breed. Five named strains and the prebiotic blend support the immune system from the gut up, which feeds into the skin and ear issues that drive most owner complaints. Most dogs see firmer stool within 2 weeks and improvements in coat and skin within 4 to 8 weeks.
Hip and Joint becomes useful in middle age or sooner if patellar luxation is diagnosed. Glucosamine and chondroitin support cartilage and the anti-inflammatory profile helps with chronic low-grade inflammation.
When to start
Probiotic from any age. Hip and Joint around age 7 to 8 for healthy Shih Tzus, sooner if patellar issues or stiffness appear. Long-lived small breeds reward years of consistent supplementation.