Exercise and Activity Requirements
for the Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu running on grass with tennis balls, illustrated

Overview

It's important to provide just the right balance of exercise for Shih Tzu dogs. Regular cardiovascular activity plays a big role in both physical and emotional health. Yet, since the Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed, it's also vital to take precautions to avoid over-heating.

This article will cover everything you need to know including the top benefits of exercise, daily requirements, and tips for both indoor and outdoor activity.

Please note: AllShihTzu is reader-supported, and some of the product suggestions on this page are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

The Benefits of Exercise for a Shih Tzu

It cannot be overstated just how important regular exercise is for Shih Tzu dogs. It is healthy in the following ways:

Strengthens a dog's heart and improves blood circulation (for fewer heart-related issues down the line)
Helps the body manage glucose levels (reducing the chances of developing canine diabetes later in life)
Is thought to play a role in keeping the immune system strong and even extending life span.
Strengthens a dog's bones and supporting muscles (for fewer hip and knee issues)
Helps keep the metabolism functioning properly
Helps stimulate the appetite
Aids in a good night's sleep
Allows a dog to engage their canine senses (hearing, scenting, sight), which often leads to a more emotionally satisfied dog
Helps a dog release pent-up energy that may otherwise be directed toward behaviors like excessive barking or chewing
Outdoor exercise can enable a Shih Tzu to be exposed to stimuli, which eventually leads to less reaction (i.e. barking at other dogs)

So, as you can see, exercise plays a huge role in your Shih Tzu's overall health. Allowing your little guy or gal to remain sedentary can be very detrimental.

Defining Healthy Exercise for a Shih Tzu

When it comes to a Shih Tzu, exercise should be gentle, consistent, and never overdone. As a brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed, Shih Tzus are prone to breathing difficulties, so the goal is not heavy panting or exhaustion. Instead, healthy exercise means moderate cardiovascular activity that gets the joints moving, keeps muscles toned, and supports overall health without pushing your dog too hard.

A proper exercise session should:

Involve steady, continuous movement (not too many sporadic bursts)
Be long enough to provide physical and mental stimulation, without overheating
Keep your Shih Tzu alert and engaged, but able to breathe easily throughout

A brisk walk at your dog’s own pace is ideal. It’s structured, easy to time, and provides both physical movement and mental enrichment. Low-impact indoor or outdoor play can help round things out, but true exercise should follow the rule: consistent, moderate motion with controlled breathing.

How Much Exercise a Shih Tzu Needs

At a bare minimum, healthy puppies 6+ months and adult Shih Tzu should have 1 walk per day for a duration of 20 minutes, done at a pace considered brisk for your particular dog.

The ideal daily exercise for Shih Tzu is 2 walks per day, each lasting a duration of 20 to 30+ minutes, done at a pace considered brisk for your particular dog. Additional supervised and controlled cardio sessions can be added in, anywhere from 1 to 3 times per day.

When You Can Start Exercising a Shih Tzu

Young puppies should have all of their puppy shots before being taken outside to any public places (such as walks in the neighborhood) or even into the yard (if there is any chance that other dogs or wildlife has been there). Though vaccination schedules for Shih Tzu puppies can vary, most puppy shots are complete by the 4-month mark; be sure to check with your vet regarding this.

Tuppence, photo courtesy of Maureen

Walking Tips

Walking is one of the best types of exercise for a Shih Tzu. Since there is a starting and ending point it helps ensure proper duration and the pace can be controlled.

Here's some tips to make things easier:

1. Stick to a schedule. Whenever something is scheduled, it's more likely to be done. And, since dogs have excellent inner time clocks, your Shih Tzu will quickly learn to look forward to their walks.

2. Use a harness, not a collar. Brachycephalic breeds like the Shih Tzu should wear a harness, not a collar, when on a leash. A collar is constricting to the windpipe which can increase breathing issues. Yet, a harness displaces pressure across the chest, shoulders, and back and leaves the neck free. One recommended brand is the Puppia Harness Soft B Vest.

3. If your Shih Tzu has trouble staying in step, keep them in a heeling position. This means to your left side and no further ahead of you than the extension of your foot. This allows you to be in control instead of your Shih Tzu walking you. As an added plus, this reinforces proper hierarchy (alpha/beta ranking).

4. Bring along water. Use a water travel container like the lesotc Water Bottle for Dogs and plan to take a break at the halfway mark. If your Shih Tzu is panting heavily or otherwise appears to be over-heating, take the break immediately and offer a rest in the shade and a drink of water.

5. If you're looking to make walks more fun for your Shih Tzu, adding small changes can keep things interesting. Let them take sniff breaks. Vary your route when possible, even just reversing your usual loop or exploring a different sidewalk. Weaving gently around trees or posts adds a playful agility element, and bringing a favorite snack for a quick picnic can turn the outing into a mini adventure. You can also practice simple commands along the way to keep their mind sharp.

Wintertime Exercise Tips

It's common for dogs to receive less exercise in the wintertime, but being active only part of the year can have consequences, both short and long-term. Here are some tips to help ensure your Shih Tzu is meeting their exercise requirements during even when it's snowing or the temps have plummeted.

1. Help your Shih Tzu stay warm. Placing a water-proof and wind-proof coat on your Shih Tzu, like the Kuoser Cozy Reversible British-Style Cold Weather Coat, that protects a dog's core body, can make being outside a lot more tolerable.

2. Dress warm yourself. If you feel comfortable, you'll be more apt to take the full walk or remain outside with your little guy or gal for the intended time.

3. Regularly apply paw wax on your Shih Tzu's feet. The paws can take a beating all year-round, but winter is one of the worst seasons in this regard. Paws can easily get dried out, be irritated by road salt or sand, and have skin between the toes stretched out due to 'snowballing' (when snow melts but quickly refreezes in that area). Paw wax like Musher's Secret Pet Paw Protection Wax will help stop all of those issues as well as give a Shih Tzu better traction on slippery surfaces.

4. Switch over to indoor activities when winter weather is too severe. When temps are below freezing, during snowstorms, or with other inclement weather conditions, it's time to switch over to some indoor activity. Keep reading for some summer tips, or jump down to: Indoor Exercise Tips.

Porter, at 10 months old, photo courtesy of Laura Toma

Summertime Exercise Tips

Exercising a Shih Tzu in the summertime can be tricky. During hot weather, care must be taken for canines in general. But when you have a brachycephalic breed (compressed skull, and therefore compressed breathing passages), extra precautions should be taken.

Here are some tips for safe summertime exercise:

1. Head outside before 10 AM and after 5 PM. Usually, these are the coolest parts of the day.

2. Reassess the walking route. Hot pavement that can burn paws (see next tip) and direct sunlight (that can more quickly lead to over-heating) are the main elements to try to avoid. If your Shih Tzu's regular walking route does not provide it, consider making changes to include walking over grass and/or in the shade.

3. Be aware of possible hot walking surfaces. Every year, hundreds of dogs suffer from terrible burns on their paws, so never underestimate what can happen. A dog's pain threshold is about 120 F (49 C) and at 140 F (60 C) a dog's paws will suffer burns after just one minute of contact.

But, can pavement really heat up that high if you take your Shih Tzu for a walk in the summer? The answer may surprise you. Studies have shown that red brick, cement, and blacktop pavement have all heated up passed 120 F (and up to 140 F) on sunny days in the low 90's.

A good rule of thumb is that if you can hold your palm to the ground for a count of 10, it's safe for your dog to walk on. And note that paw wax, as discussed earlier, can certainly offer a layer of protection but should not be counted on to prevent burns under such extreme conditions.

4. Bring along water. As covered earlier, Shih Tzu dogs should be given breaks when exercising and this is especially so on hot days.

5. Know the signs of overheating and react quickly. Overheating can quickly lead to heat stroke. Signs include rapid panting, red or pale gums, a bright red tongue, sticky saliva, weakness, or dizziness. If you notice these, stop all activity, move your Shih Tzu to a cool or shaded area, and offer small sips of water. If distress continues, contact your vet. You may need to cool your dog with damp cloths and a fan before transport.

6. If it's just too hot to walk safely, keep your Shih Tzu moving inside. Keep reading for tips on playing fetch, or jump down to: Indoor Exercise Tips.

Buddy, at 15 months old, photo courtesy of Shelly C.

Tips for Playing Fetch

This is a quintessential game for a reason and is an excellent way to engage a dog in some healthy cardio in which the pace is easily controlled by you. And, if you've tried this but think that your Shih Tzu doesn't like playing fetch, it may just be a matter of making a few adjustments.

Here are some tips to make fetch part of your Shih Tzu's regular exercise:

1. When playing outside, opt for a safe, enclosed gated area if possible, so your Shih Tzu can run free. If that is not an option, there are long-reaching leashes that extend out anywhere from 20 to 100 feet. If you use this sort of leash for running games, be sure your Shih Tzu is wearing their harness (not a collar), to avoid tracheal issues.

2. To encourage your Shih Tzu to chase, use a brightly colored and interesting fetch toy. Something like Zanies Mini Tennis Balls for Dogs can be a lot of fun. Be animated and use an excited voice to rev them up; saying 'Are you ready?... are you ready?.... ' then toss it and give an enthusiastic 'Go get it!'. Start with close tosses, just a few feet away, gradually adding distance as your Shih Tzu catches on.

3. To encourage your Shih Tzu to return the toy to you, use training treats. Keep a handful of something like Zuke's Mini Natural Dog Training Treats in a jacket pocket or training treat bag. Start with close tosses. Ask for the toy back. As soon as your Shih Tzu follows through, mark the moment with one treat and an enthusiastic 'Good dog!'.

Have at least 5 successful sessions at a certain distance before tossing the toy a bit further. Each day, work on increasing the distance. Once your Shih Tzu catches on, you can slowly phase out the treats and just use praise.

4. Always end the game when your Shih Tzu is still interested, as opposed to when they are tired or bored of it. This way, they will be more prone to wanting to play again.

Indoor Exercise Tips

Though outdoor exercise certainly has its advantages, indoor exercise does have its place, such as when it's pouring or heavily snowing. This should not be the main method of keeping your Shih Tzu active, but rather as an alternative when circumstances dictate a day indoors.

Here are some tips to make indoor exercise effective for your Shih Tzu:

1. One of the best (and easiest) games to play inside is fetch. It's a classic game for a reason. Most dogs love chasing after things, and all you need is a bit of room (like a hallway), and a fun (and safe) indoor toy like the Chuckit! Indoor Ball for Small Dogs. Aim for 20 minute sessions. And remember that your enthusiasm will play a bit role in how much your Shih Tzu enjoys this.

2. Consider setting up a fun obstacle course with pillows, books or other everyday household items.

3. You can explore walking options outside the house, such as taking some loops around a pet-friendly mall or exploring a store that welcomes dogs.

4. If your Shih Tzu likes other dogs, they may love to burn off some energy by spending an hour or so at an indoor doggie daycare.

5. Help replace the outdoor experience. When a dog can’t get outside the way they’re used to, they may grow restless even if they’re getting some indoor play. That’s because outdoor walks and yard time provide far more than just movement; they offer sights, sounds, and especially scents that keep a dog’s brain active and fulfilled.

You can help make up for this missing enrichment in a few simple but meaningful ways:

Window Watching: Many dogs enjoy sitting near a window to quietly observe the neighborhood. This can be mentally satisfying and help pass the time as long as a Shih Tzu isn't getting overstimulated or being too reactive, like barking at every passerby. A comfy perch and a low window are often all it takes.
Sniffing Stations: Dogs need sniffing like we need reading; it exercises their brain. A snuffle mat (a fabric mat designed to hide treats) can give your Shih Tzu a healthy way to sniff and forage. One that we love is the colorful Snuffle Mat by Oli. You can also hide small treats in rolled-up towels or safe cardboard boxes.
Interactive Toys: Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys like the wobbly Bob-a-Lot toy, or frozen lick mats can help replace some of the problem-solving your dog might naturally do during outdoor exploration.

By providing substitutes for both physical and sensory stimulation, you’ll help your Shih Tzu stay content, even when going outside isn’t an option.

A Final Thought

Daily exercise is one of the most valuable things you can give your Shih Tzu. It supports their health in a number of ways, sharpens the mind, keeps the spirit balanced and can even extend their years.

Because this is a brachycephalic breed, exercise should be steady but moderate and focused more on consistency than intensity. With the right routine of paced walks, seasonal adjustments, and gentle play, you’ll be supporting your Shih Tzu’s long-term comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

Let's be email friends...

Take a quick moment to become a free AllShihTzu member. You'll receive a Welcome Booklet and our newsletters to let you know when new articles are added to this site. It's the best way for us to stay in touch, so we hope you'll join us today.

Lists to Love: Treat Edition

Treats for Shih Tzus with Sensitive Stomachs - If your Shih Tzu has a tummy that’s quick to protest, finding the right treat can feel like a guessing game. Thankfully, there are gentle options that dogs find super-delicious. See our list of the best belly-friendly treats.

Healthy Yummy Cheese Treats for a Shih Tzu - Is your Shih Tzu a true cheese connoisseur or a doggo that wants to be, but struggles with dairy? See these tummy-friendly options, including one long-lasting lactose-free chew that’s safe to savor and loved by even the pickiest pups.

Top Fish Treats for Shih Tzus - Don't let your Shih Tzu miss out on the powerful benefits of omega-3s. These wholesome fish snacks support healthy skin, a glossy coat, and smooth digestion, making them a smart & tasty boost to a Shih Tzu’s diet.

More Articles You May Like:

Shih Tzu Physical Comfort - How to address the top 5 concerns of: Sensitive skin, tummy troubles, cold intolerance, breathing discomfort and mobility issues in Shih Tzu dogs. Help your Shih Tzu start feeling better today.

Shih Tzu Snorting and Snoring Noises - Some noises are normal for this breed. See what to expect both when a Shih Tzu is sleeping and when awake.

Shih Tzu Allergies - Allergies can develop at any time. Tips and advice when a Shih Tzu has allergies; includes food, airborne and contact triggers. In many cases, this can be treated with home remedies.

Giving a Shih Tzu a Bath - Scrub-a-dub, it's time for the tub! The technique you use and the products you apply to the coat will make a big difference into both skin and coat health and how your Shih Tzu tolerates baths.

Exercise and Activity Requirements for the Shih Tzu