A few years ago there were reports of a Shih Tzu alive and well into his early twenties, which was pretty mind blowing. And although lifespans like this are rare, this story isn’t totally exceptional. The average Shih Tzu lifespan is around 13 years, but i’ve met plenty of owners who claim their pups stayed lively well into their late teens. And there is plenty that you as a puppy parent can do to help your Shih Tzu reach a ripe old age.
Contents
- Do flat faced dogs die younger?
- Hip dysplasia
- Lifespan vs hereditary organ issues
- How to help your dog live longer
How Long Do Shih Tzu Live With Conformational Defects?
The main issue Shih Tzu dogs face when it comes to health is structural. A Shih Tzu’s short muzzle often causes trouble breathing and issues with overheating. These cute dogs may not be able to tolerate a lot of exercise, especially on hot days. You’ll have to be careful to watch for signs of overheating and not keep them out in the heat too long.
Buying a Shih Tzu puppy from parents with longer than average muzzles will help to reduce the chances of this condition causing them a decreased lifespan, but it won’t remove it completely. That’s because it’s such a key part of the breed at this point.
Little Mouths, Big Problems?
Short muzzled dogs have less space in their mouths, but the same number of teeth as the average dog. This inevitably leads to dental overcrowding and gum disease. Although your pup is unlikely to die of dental neglect, it can cause a lot of discomfort and difficulty eating, which leads to other issues.
How Long Do Shih Tzu Live with Joint Problems?
Hip dysplasia is something common to the breed and it happens when the hip socket doesn’t develop properly. This can cause pain and arthritis. Although it technically doesn’t decrease lifespan by itself, the cold sad reality is that the pain it causes can lead to euthanasia at a younger age. However, you can avoid this condition by buying a puppy from a breeder that has checked the parents’ hips are good.
Another conformational defect Shih Tzu face is patellar luxation, which is common in small breeds. This is when a dog’s kneecap is dislocated. Again it’s not a direct cause of fatalities, but can cause ongoing issues with discomfort.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when a Shih Tzu’s thyroid is not producing enough hormones. This can affect a dog’s metabolism and organ function, and therefore shorten potential lifespan.
Kidney Disease
Juvenile renal dysplasia is a genetic disease where the kidneys don’t develop fully. Sadly, most puppies with this condition won’t like to see adulthood.
Liver Disease
Shih Tzu can develop a disease called liver shunt. This compromises the flow of blood to and from the liver. Dogs with liver shunt don’t grow normally and are smaller and weaker than other Shih Tzu their same age.
A veterinarian can diagnose liver shunt and provide a treatment plan, which can help them to increase their lifespan but it is still unlikely to match that of a healthy pup.
Increasing Shih Tzu Lifespan
There are several things owners can do to ensure their dogs live the longest, healthiest lives possible.
If you’re adopting from a breeder, the very first thing you can do is to know your dog’s medical history. Do not buy a dog from someone who won’t share the parents’ and puppy’s vet records. Sometimes a breeder is irresponsible and doesn’t have the parents tested for health problems, or breeds them despite knowing they will pass down genetic conditions.
A good breeder will show you certificates that demonstrate the parents both have good hip scores. They will be happy to chat through whether they have needed surgery to help their airways or suffered as a result of heat exhaustion on a hot day.
Diet and Exercise
It’s no surprise that what you eat and how much you move are directly related to how long you live. And the same goes for our tiny fluffy friends too. Staying slim and fit is good for every dog, with the caveat for this breed that you will need to make sure they don’t overheat.
Although Shih Tzu have thick coats, you can still assess their body condition by eye when they have just been washed, or by running your hands along their flanks and backs. A healthy dog will also have a nipped in waist, with an upwards tuck.
Carol Davio says
I am having a really hard time knowing what to do , my shiatsu is almost 16 . She has eye drops daily, liver supplements , Just got over a urinary tract infection, now with getting her urine checked , the vet says she’s showing signs of kidney problems . I love her to death , but how do you know when it’s time to let them go? I guess only I can decide . She also has digestion problems too.
Shona JJJ says
My shitziu Mischa aka Mimi had her 17th birthday Feb 19th 2022. She is now 17 years old and two months exactly. She is blind. She had a mini stroke about a month ago, but recovered. She is playful, greedy, and happy. I love her so much. I got her when I lived in England. She was from a private family in Cambridge. She has traveled all over the UK. We now live in South Korea with her sisters Myiah (12 plus mixed Jack Russell and Maltese) also from England), Myeong-Cho (adopted in South Korea – Korean Blend), and Moshani (adopted in South Korea – 3lb Maltese).
Stephen driscoll says
Are little baby her in England is 18 years and nearly 2 months old she struggles on her legs sleeps a lot but still active.
Sharron Havard says
Paper my shitzu is over 13 years old he’s blind but he’s mine and he’s doing fine I know it won’t be long then it might be longer than I think but he’s been quite the little trooper we just lost his brother Thunder he was a mastweiler he was only 4 years old he had lots of health issues but he went to the vet regularly every month I love him and miss him dearly
Brooke Collins says
I have a 12.5 year old shih tzu. He’ll be 13 next May. Overall he seems pretty healthy! I do think his hearing is starting to go as I really have to talk loud for him to hear me. He had his vet visit almost a year ago and is going soon so I plan to ask her then. He does have some wart like growths but my vet doesn’t seem concerned and has never mentioned them to be anything dangerous… They just bleed sometimes if he bumps into something but overall they are fine. He does have some irritable bowel issues occasionally but he has his entire life so that’s not from being old– we just manage from a strict diet but sometimes our 5 year old drops something and it’ll make it’s way in his mouth and bother him. Overall he’s doing good and well enjoy each day we have with our sweet pepper boy until he lets us know it’s time. My childhood shih tzu died at 10.5 (congestive heart failure) so I’m thankful he’s this healthy at 12.5.
Ed says
I have one. Who is close to 15 , she has a little problem with her breathing.
That is from being sedated at the Vets.
That is the only way to cut her hair.
She does not like hair cuts.
Anyone have a better way to cut her hair?
Eva mullendore says
We have a male shih tzu that will be 15 years old two years ago he had to have one of his eyes removed he has adapted very well to the missing eye he walks very slow and isn’t very active anymore but he is still our baby and we love him
Evie says
I currently have a 14 year old ShihTzu named Bandit. She is a rescue from a puppy mill and I’ve had her for 10 years. She has been pretty with drawn for a couple of years, no longer jumps up to sit with me but has continued to eat well and her tail is held high and wags. Last time she was to her spa day we found that a small lesion on her chest had grown quite a bit. The vet says it’s cancer and he could remove it. We are currently doing dressings daily and she wears a newborn indie which we cut the snaps off. She doesn’t seen in pain but has several other lesions “warts” that the vets feels will become cancerous in time. I am debating surgery or is it time to let her cross the Rainbow Bridge? She is a real sweetheart and has been through so much in her life, I want what’s best for her.
Carmel says
My friend has a dog who has warts all over his body.She had them removed twice and they all came back.Her vet said it doesn’t seem to bother him just ignored them .I would never put any dog to sleep.for that reason .My friend agreed .Accept her the way she is ,spoiled and love her.I have a 21 year old dog.He blind ,deaf .He wears wraps because he has occ incidents . He cries when he needs to go out .He loves to eat ,loves his treats and cuddles.We will keep him until he has no quality of life.They give us so much . I will not give up until he does .All My dogs live over 16 years old .
Brooke Collins says
My 12.5 year old shih tzu has warts/lesions on him…they don’t bother him except he occasionally bumps one and it’ll bleed and once our groomer nicked it… But the vet doesn’t seem concerned and has never mentioned these being cancer.
Adri says
My shih tzu is 10 years old, she has been healthy and happy. Has slowed down a bit but have maintained active with short walks each day. Last year she started having joint issues and it took 6 months to recover slightly; she is walking better. We just go slower. She is a blessing in my life. Has changed my life for the better, and has traveled with me and has been content every day—she is happy go lucky puppy. I am happy she is 10 and going. All you can do is give them the best life!
Oscar says
I have a female rescue Shih Tzu who’s just turned 11. We took her in when she was 5, after she was rescued from a horrid breeder along with 140 other dogs that were kept in indescribably bad conditions. It was hard at first, as she had severe mental disorders like fear of humans and a fear that her food would be stolen, which is why she ate it so fast and sometimes choked on it. Overtime though, she became fiercely loyal to us, especially my grandma, and developed fear of abandonment when she was away. My Shih Tzu is just a joy now. She’s been with us with 6 years and I wish she’d live forever. She used to hike in the forest with my grandma every morning for 5 years, 7 miles a day! Unfortunately, she fell very ill last year and we almost lost her but she recovered thankfully. A problem that arose from her illness is that she’s now insatiably hungry and has grown fatter than she’s ever been, which makes it harder for her to walk and get up, and she can no longer jump. We’re putting her through a workout regimen and a diet and hopefully she will get better. She’s never had any overheating or respiratory issues, or any significant issues at all for that matter, aside from that mysterious disease.
Patricia Turner says
I Have a male shit tuz 12 1/2 yrs old be 13 in July. Has bad alergies, growth on the light side of his jaw the size of a hard ball,sleeps all off & on does not want to walk to far happy if I used the buggy happy eating one meal a day. Vet said s long as his growth is fleshy it is ok. Now eyes site is going use drops all the time walk into poles I help him up curbs. All inall debating whether not to put him down. Had him since two months and is a pure bread. Has beena excellent dog no a barker gets lo with veryone for the exception oflarge dogs. Any info will help Thankyou.
Rina says
We lost our 14 year old Shih Tzu Jordy on Wednesday. He passed peacefully in our home in his favorite cushion with my my husband and our 2 adult children. He lived a very happy life. The last year he developed prostrate issues and was on medications. Jordy’s health took took a turn for the worst the last 2 weeks. His last day was spent in his favorites parks and with his loved ones.
Oh Jordy! How I miss you terribly!
Jordy filled our lives with so much love, joy and laughter. Jordy was the best dog.
Richard says
Very sad for your loss, I have one she is 11 now and I start to worry about how much longer I will have her, best wishes to all of you.
Driana says
Thanks fully in God’s name my babies Shih Tzu Sophia will be 8 years old on August and Rosie 3 on October, both are healthy and happy. Always keeping me busy before and after work. I love and care for them very much. Will do all on my hand to love them until their last moment of their life.
Annmary Malave says
My Shih Tzu 17 years old she a old one
meg says
My Shi Tzu Suzie is now 15 years of age. A few months ago she started walking very stiffly and slowly. We put her onto hemp oil – one teaspoon a day – and she is a different dog – walking with more confidence. Prior to this she was on injections to reduce the pain from arthritis. They are the best breed of dogs – so loving and attentive.
elise says
I have a 13 nearly 14 year old Shih Tzu and apart from having his teeth out due to inflamed gums he was well and healthy until he had a bout of diarrhoea and vomiting which led over that weekend to blood in his pooh – Feb 2021. He was kept at the vet and had lots of water, via drip, meds and antibiotics. I continued the treatment when he came home. Bloods taken whilst at the vet and after showed abnormal liver enzymes, then he had a ultrasound which showed some abnormalities, diffuse in the right lobe of of his liver. He went to a university specialist for a second ultrasound which confirmed anomalies around a collection of blood vessels and more wide spread granular areas. He is having a CT scan with contrast dye tomorrow, please pray for him. Thanks Elise
Lu says
I inherit my mother in laws shih Tzu ( 14 years old now) and this dos is driving me crazy, For a few month after my mother in law died, Sarah is the little dos name, she will run away like looking for her, I guess she could not understand what had happened, it has been two years and she acts like she was never trained, now she pees and poop everywhere, wakes up in the middle of the night thinking is day time, wants to eat all the time, I have diapers everywhere but she will find a spot where there is no diaper and will do it. Because she is old and has had a trauma I dont say anything but I really dont know what else to do.
Thomas Uttendorfer says
My Bruno. Went to heaven this year. 16 years old. His legs just couldn’t carry them anymore. I believe dementia was also starting to set in. And hearing loss and losing eyesight. He had a very strong heart and was such a good dog. I miss him terribly. I feel like I gave up on him. I know I gave him a good life but I still miss him so much. It seems like yesterday I brought him home is a tiny puppy. I will never be the same again.
Steve says
I just lost my Gizmo last night. He was a few months short of his 16th birthday. I tried everything to keep him from being put to sleep. But he was very ill and started to have brain sesures. I am missing him so much.
Kim Wilkinson says
Steve my little doggo Maxis 13 and starting to have seizures- do you know why this happened to your Gizmo?
Tonya says
I understand exactly how you’re feeling. I miss my Max so much it hurts. I wish I had paid much more attention than I had. IDK if I can say I ever done enough.
Lucy says
Hi Thomas, my Gizmo (16 years and a half) just went to heaven. I can totally relate to how you felt and probably still feeling. I’m distraught, depressed and can’t stand the thought of going home after work knowing he’s no longer there. Gizmo has not been his usual self for some time now, I was selfish for holding on to him as long as I did! Like you, I’ve given him a good life and miss him TERRIBLY but in my heart I know he’s no longer suffering. My condolences to you! RIP Bruno!
Ashley says
I am so so sorry for your loss my Sam is 15 this year and over the last few months I’ve noticed a progressive decline. He is loosing his muscle strength in his back legs and somedays they just completely give out. His sleep schedule has def changed, as I’m up most nights with him. He will bark into space for no reason and will whine at night. The last few mornings he’s snubbed his food. He enjoys being outside and loves his cuddles with me! He is my best friend and I’m struggling with not knowing if he truly has a good quality of life or if I’m just being selfish. My heart hurts and I can’t fathom life without my best friend 💔
Kelly Mar says
My darling boy Parker is almost 16 and barely shows his age.
Walkies are much shorter now, his hearing has always been a little selective, so maybe only slightly diminished with age if at all and eyesight is excellent. He still bounds around like a puppy when we leave the house, shreds his toys, no health conditions (other than seasonal skin allergies) No signs of aches or pains, no digestive/appetite changes. Just some slightly thinning fur and greying on his ears (he’s all black). He is more clingy than he was during his younger years, but so am I 🙂 As long as he’s near me he’s content. Yes, I am acutely aware how fortunate I am, and I do not take it for granted.
Bev says
My girl suki is 10 in jan , still plays but neede help on to the bed and wont walk for long other than that shes fine , i dread the day shes not here ♥️
Fiona says
I have a 17 year old shih Tzu Jack. He is my baby. He’s has his fair share of issues, high blood pressure, cataracts in one eye, loss of hearing, but otherwise he is doing great! He is a happy dog! As our fur babies age I think what as Heller my jack out is a good diet, exercise, and lots of love. I give him daily a raw diet with Veges, sardine oil, bone broth, and colostrum. I walk him shirt walks three times a week and give him lists of love. I feel confident he will continue to do well, but I know he’s getting up there in age and am dreading the day when I have to say goodbye.
Wanda says
We have a 13 year old his name is Romeo. I didn’t want a dog knowing how much work is involved but our daughter convinced her dad to get a dog. I was furious when I saw hubby had purchased a dog. But when I saw Romeo at 6 weeks I fell in love plus he is all black. Now Romeo is blind and deaf hubby is tired because our daughter has moved out (but she never did much for Romeo any way. Hubby wants to put him to sleep but I told him not to. I stated when we got Romeo that we will be keeping him until Romeo dies just pray that hubby don’t get an appointment for him to be put to sleep
Elizbeth says
Ask your hubby when he becomes a senior if he wishes to be thrown away. To many people don’t wish to deal with their senior dog who has been loyal all their lives, yet we show no loyalty to them when they need it. Sad.
Jen says
Unconditional love is what that dig gave to your family, please be a responsible pet owner and care for him during his elderly years. They are the most affectionate breed. You couldn’t ask for a more loyal friend.
Androulla Joannou says
Please don’t put your dog down because you and your husband Can not care for him anymore. Why not find a family that will care for him for the remainder of his life. Animals are so precious !!!
Teri Romei says
I lost both of my shitzus in the past six months. Toie was 15 and a half years old she had a large cyst on her back leg that a vet would not remove. It ended up killing her. She was my sweet little girl she was 8 pounds.
I lost my Beethoven on the 6 of august he was also 25 and a half the vet said they lived a very long life I miss them very much
Arilee says
I just lost my Shih Tzu a week ago. I took it very hard. She was almost 15. She developed a growth on her breast that started about 2 years ago and it gradually got bigger over the years. The mass was never a problem for her until it kept getting bigger and ran out of room to grow and a ulcer formed and eventually became infected. I struggled with whether to have her go through surgery being that she was already 13 when it developed. I didn’t want to put her through that. But I had no idea it would grow the way it did. Not sure if the infection or old age or a combination of both took her out. The ulcer was infected before and with antibiotic treatment, she bounced back within a week. That was about 6 weeks ago. But not this time. It eats at me because I feel like I failed her and that I made the wrong decision not doing the surgery when it was smaller 2 years ago. But IDK. Overall I think I gave her a pretty good life. I mean, how else would she have lived to this age right.
WILMA A LEAMASTER says
My Cleopatra is 12 years old. She has cateract on one eye and the pressure has gone up and the Eye Vet says eye needs to be removed, The other eye she is going blind eventually. She get 4 eye meds daily She is in a deep sleep most of the day.I wake her up and she just fall right back into deep sleep snoring. Its a big decesion to what to do. She been in my life from the day she was born. She ia the sunshine of every day I wake up. A cupie doll. She is the sweetest dog I have ever had.
Arilee says
It’s never a easy decision as to what’s the best choice for them.
Jennifer Taylor says
You have to do what’s best for the dogs quality of life, my elderly boy 16 sleeps most of the day too but so does his younger sister whose 9. As long as he’s eating drinking and not showing signs of pain and he’s happy when w you, he’s happy and just aging. Hang onto the time remaining.
Madrina Knickerbocker says
I have 2 shin tzu’s. One is 13 years old and the other one is 12 years old. I can see them slowing down and am afraid of the day when they are no longer with me. They sleep a lot but still get around. They won’t jump on the furniture anymore. I have to pick them up. But both my girls love to go for walks with their leash on. Lots of joy and happiness from them.I love my girls!!!!!
Julie Birken says
My Toto will be 17 July 18th, 2020. He’s doing pretty good. Walks four times a day and loves his treats. My 4 year old Shitzu keeps him going I think
Arilee says
Wow!!!! 17 years old?!?!?!? Amazing
Jennifer Taylor says
My baby boy will be 17 in March 2020 and he’s slowed down quite a bit this last year. He has a lot of issues w skin allergies and dry eyes. We give him apaquil daily and takes eye meds every 8 hours for tear production. Our goal is to make his elderly years comfortable as he’s loved us unconditionally for all these years!
Kanelle says
My guy is 14 this summer, his name is dil. He doesn’t see or hear well but has a great appetite, his bathroom habits are normal and he’s drinking normal. He has skin infections and gets ear infections easily and he does not produce tears anymore in his left eye. We treat this all. The vet says he has a very strong heart, he’s truly the love of my life and I will grieve him forever.
Candice ferrell says
Chip just turned 14. He has slowed down and is hard of hearing has a hard time seeing up close. Sleeps all day off and on. He can still jump up on the couch but has a hard time climbing into my car. He still loves to go for rides. He has lost interest in playing with his toys. I look into his big brown eyes and tell him I love him every day…
Elaine says
Awwwww, you are a very loving shih tzu Mom. They’re so deserving. I pray all is well with Chip.
Michelle Mcmillan says
My shih tzu is 16 yr old name Nemo am lost for words .. my Nemo is sick I’ve took him to the vet Tuesday 4/9/20 I got some meds acouple of shots but today my dog is not doing well am goin keep on trying before I make a decision with my husband about the Nemo this is the saddest day of my LIFE
Brenda says
Praying he’s doing better, please don’t give up.🙏💔💗
Jenny Castillo says
We put my baby to sleep yesterday. He was 13 years and 6 months to be exact. He was the best dog and I would do it all over again even with the pain I fell right now. I met him the first time when he was about 10 weeks old and he stole my heart right away. I still question if I did the right thing. I would have loved to have had him healthy and well just a couple more years but I continue to try and find comfort in that he went peacefully. No pain, no post surgery recovery, no stressful monthly vet visits for him, he is just sleeping until we meet again.
Arilee says
What was wrong with him?
Smitha Gopinathan says
I lost my Shih Tzu who was only one. He turned one only on Jan second this year and just after ten days of his birthday he left me suddenly. He was my son. This is killing me.
Marlene says
I lost my baby girl on valentines day this year 2020.She got a treach prob.and died 2 weeks later
She was 13 yrs and 4 mos.R.I.P. Baby girl “Macy”.
BradB says
Bless your hearts
Karen Abert says
Our baby shitzu is now 17 years old. Vet says he has no palpable lumps, but has bad teeth. He can’t have teeth cleaned or pulled as he cant have anesthetic. He has cataracts and is quite deaf. He sleeps at least 20 hours a day. He acts quite frisky when we offer treats, and still eats well. He sleeps on our bed. I worry all the time that we’ll find him dead in the morning, yet I do hope he passes in his sleep. We are nearly 80 years old, and we will be so sad and lonely when he goes.
Betsy says
My little shi tzu is 17 years old also. I had to have both her eyes removed due to glaucoma and eye infections. Deaf also. She now has chronic renal failure and cannot hold her bladder very long. She sleeps with me, is still eating and walking around outside. She now sleeps a lot and I love her sooo much! I’m giving her all the love I can and hope she passes in her sleep.
Kim says
My sweet Shih tzu named Lady is 17 years 2 months and does have some sight and hearing issues – she is good otherwise. She loves to find things around the house and hide them in her house – things like my phone and wallet. She is the sweetest. I dread the day she crosses the rainbow bridge.
russsel says
I lost my Shih Tzu (Japanese Princess Type) yesterday November 15, 2019. I have kissed and bid goodbye before I left home. The house was fill with sadness until this very moment. I missed my Princess Penelope, she died at the age of 11 years old. I miss you much my Princess Penelope and I know you are an angel right now. I love you much my Princess
Antonina Downar says
My Nicky is a 16 and 4 months girl- she became blind this year and wearing a diaper when I go to work but other than that she is in good shape, wagging her tail when I get home , getting her food and walks as usual. Last summer though she wasn’t happy and I taught that I will loose her but I think she didn’t like the hot weather
Ellen says
my shih=-tzu was also named princess. She died from hge 24 hours after she got sick
I had her buried yesterday in the animal cemetary. I loved her so much , she was my
friend. I cry alot.
Mike in Dallas says
My previous three Shih Tzu’s all died at 13 years.
My current Shih Tzu, Mia, is now 14.
She has more good days than bad, but the last year loves to sleep a lot.
Her favorite thing to do is lay on her elevated bed and watch the neighbors dogs.
MJ Lm says
My Shih tzu’s name is Wiggle, 6years old. I love her so much. She’s the nicest dog I’ve ever had. She would greet me whenever I arrive at home, then would bid goodbye whenever I leave the house. Today, she became an angel. The hardest part, I wasn’t with her at her last remaining days, hours and minutes in this world. I felt like someone has to be blamed. I’m in sorrow and deep sadness. It was a sudden death. I felt that the stud dog hired by my mom had an infection and consequently infected my lovely Wiggle. I hope she’s in heaven right now and is now free of pain. God bless you my dear Wiggle. You will remain forever in my heart.
Meg Austwick says
I’m so sorry for your loss, she sounds like a very special companion, Meg.
Glynis says
I am devastated my little Shitzu Dixie aged 10yrs 8 mths had to go to sleep on Friday no answer as to WHY . Love You Forever Dixie… i am heart broken
Arlene says
Levi is the name of my loved one. He will be turning 17 in November. He has a heart disease and lots of allergies. There are times that you couldn’t tell. He is my joy, my baby boy. I’m so thankful that he is still with me. Everyday is so much more precious that he is still in my life.
Bob says
Our Shih Tzu is 17 and still hanging in there. He has several of the problems mentioned above at some level, and isn’t nearly as active as he used to be. But he is still playful at times. He has been a wonderful pet and member of our family, for as long as we have been a family.
Yolanda Recinos says
I am in pain, I just lost my Baby Leo 9/4 he was 12 years old. He was loved by everyone he met…please help me !! I don’t know how to cooperate with this pain in my heart!!! What can I do to ease this pain….I’m so sorry if I sound in despair…RIP Leo, I will always carry you in my heart….🐶❤️
Glynis Malpass says
Hi Yolanda my daughter and partner have had Shitzu, i say had as they had to let him go to sleep on Friday, i looked after him every other week also when they went on holiday. we are all feeling so sad about it as there was no proper answer off the vet Dixie had been off his food for about two weeks then seem to be in some pain, they took him to the vets on tuesday he was given tablets and injection, on wednesday they took him back to the vets when he hadnt improved, on thursday the vet said he would operate to see if he could find anything the answer we got was inflamation around his intestines .. sent him home friday they took him back again on the vet said he could no more for him.. i feel so angry that there is no definite answer as to why he had to go..i am absolutley devastated..
Van says
Hi Yolanda.
I lost my baby Mozart at same day! He is 16 years and 2 weeks old. Since that day I am constantly in pains, and I don’t know how to ease this heart broken . I feel like when he passed away he take with him a part of my life. That’s why I can understand and feel your pains, I hope with time our hearts will accept this lost! Good luck Yolanda.
Arilee says
I feel your pain Yolanda. It’s been a week since our Sasha passed. I cried so hard. I feel as if I failed her. She was almost 15. But I’m also glad that she isn’t sick anymore and that up until 2 weeks ago, she haven’t had any illnesses. Even though the mass started growing 2 years ago, it didn’t debilitate her up until recently. I’m sad she deteriorated so fast, but I’m also long that she wasn’t sick for long. She’s happy and healthy on the other side of the bridge.
Barbara Mahoney says
I have Shih Tzu named Zoe, she is 15 1/2 years old. The vet said she has
a mass in her stomach next to her splen, the vet wants to remove it he says there is a chance of hemorrahging (maybe misspelled). Should I let
the vet operate on her, I think she’s to old to put her through this. Please let me known what you think. He also said this wasn’t there a month ago
When she was there.
Arilee says
Please tell me what was your decision. I was faced with this dilemma 2 years ago when it 1st started growing at her brst. She was 13 and I eventually made the decision not to put her through surgery because of her age. And also because the mass wasn’t big and it wasn’t affecting her way of living. She was still healthy other wise. I had no idea it would grow the way it did, even though it still wasn’t affecting her way of living. It eventually ran out of room to grow and the mass developed an ulcer on there back the start of the year. The ulcer kept getting worst and became infected. We fixed the infection with antibiotics and and she bounced back from the infection and went back to her normal self. I looked for a Dr to remove the mass. Still a risky decision because of her age but at this point, the mass is a problem for her. After 6 weeks, the infection returned and it took her out within a week. She passed a week ago today. She was almost 15. I blamed myself for not having the surgery when I 1st saw it. I feel like I failed her. I took it very hard. Still struggling with her passing to this day.
Gwenda Hall says
My Shih tzu is named Simba,and he is not my dog,he is my son.We live together now that his dad (human),has passed away as well as his brother(dog).I love him dearly,and I think he is starting to have epilepsey.He 11 yrs old.He doesn’t seem to be in pain so I am just going to let nature take care of it.If he shows signs of pain he will go to the vet.
Brad says
Our Shih Tzu is currently 14 and 1/2. She’s slowing down a bit overall, but still acts like a puppy at times. She’s developing cataracts and going deaf, not to mention her sense of smell is getting weaker. But, she can still jump into our daughter’s bed and on to the couch and climb the stairs into our bed. No grey muzzle, yet.
Stellie says
Ours too , along with a giant growth from hip to down the leg
jeff bell says
I recently had to put my Daisy to sleep at the age of 13. She was the best dog. We traveled many times from Colorado to Ohio and she rode on my lap most of the ride with the fresh air blowing on her face. When I went to Starbucks she loved to go with me. When I came home from work she would greet me. But the last few years her health had deteriated. The hardest thing I have ever done was to say goodbye. But it was the right thing to do to ease her pain and suffering. I will always cherish the memories and be grateful for the 13 years of joy and love that Daisy provided me and my family.
Deborah Bryant says
Just put my koko down today after 13 years and im so sad. She was an angel. Its going to be so difficult to be without my best friend. I loved her so much
Maureen fitzgerald says
Our Shih Tzu Daisy we rescued when she was 3mths old from Many tears in Wales she was born blind she is amazing clever and cheaky she has cysts her body but we get them treated she is 7 yrs in August