Weight, Height & Life Expectancy Most Shih Tzu’s are around 23-28 cm in height, and usually weigh in at around 4-8 kg. You can expect to share 12-14 years of wonderful times with your Shih Tzu. Personality Shih Tzu’s are playful, energetic, outgoing and friendly small dogs. They are very affectionate and require plenty of attention and love. However, it’s important to keep these small dogs grounded, as they may come to expect the “royal treatment,” as part of their regular routine. Shih Tzu’s are also very intelligent and may make very alert watchdogs. Although Shih Tzu’s typically like to bark, they are usually quiet inside the house. Obedience training is a smart idea, but try to keep it low-key and positive, as this will elicit a greater response from these small dogs. Grooming and Exercise Shih Tzu’s typically need daily brushing and grooming to avoid tangled ...