Shih Tzus are known for their charm, sass, and couch-potato energy — and if you’re living in a busy place like New York City, that can actually be a perfect fit. But even though your little lion dog looks comfy sprawled out on the sofa all day, don’t be fooled. These dogs still need regular exercise to stay healthy, both physically and mentally.
You might be asking yourself, “How much exercise does a Shih Tzu really need?” And the truth is, while they’re not built like border collies or labs, they still thrive on movement. It keeps their joints loose, their waistline in check, and their brain from getting too bored — which, let’s be honest, can lead to some not-so-cute behavior.
This guide breaks it all down for you. Whether you’re walking the block in Brooklyn or tossing a toy across your hallway in Queens, here’s everything you need to know about giving your Shih Tzu the right amount and type of exercise they actually enjoy.
Do Shih Tzus Need Daily Exercise
Short answer? Yeah, absolutely. Even if your pup acts like royalty and refuses to move unless treats are involved, they still need daily physical activity. A Shih Tzu isn’t going to run laps around a dog park, but that doesn’t mean they should spend their day moving from bed to couch and back again.
Their little bodies are prone to weight gain. And once they pack on extra pounds, it puts pressure on their joints and back. That’s a real issue, especially as they get older. Daily exercise helps keep their muscles toned and heart healthy. And beyond the physical, it helps manage behavior. You’ve probably noticed — a tired Shih Tzu is way less likely to start barking at every sound in the hallway or chewing up your favorite socks.
How Much Exercise Is Enough for a Shih Tzu
A typical adult Shih Tzu needs around twenty to thirty minutes of activity every day. That doesn’t have to be done all at once. Most dogs — especially Shih Tzus — actually prefer a couple shorter sessions. A morning walk to the coffee shop and a stroll after dinner is more than enough to keep your dog in good shape.
If your pup’s still a puppy, they’ve got short bursts of energy. You’ll see them running in circles and then crashing hard. That’s normal. Give them multiple short play sessions a day to work off that zoomie energy, but keep it gentle — their joints are still developing.
Older Shih Tzus, on the other hand, might move slower or get tired quickly, but they still need that daily movement. Even a short walk around the block helps with circulation and keeps stiffness at bay.
What Kind of Exercise Works Best for a Shih Tzu
Now here’s where things get real. Shih Tzus are flat-faced, which makes them more prone to breathing issues and overheating. You’re not going to take your dog on a long jog through Central Park in the middle of summer — and if you do, you’re asking for trouble.
Stick with relaxed, low-impact activities. Walks are perfect. Just a few blocks at a decent pace where they can sniff around and take in the world is great. Indoors? A little hallway fetch or tug-of-war with a soft toy works wonders.
Shih Tzus are social little creatures too, so if you’ve got a friend with a mellow dog, let them have some hangout time. Social interaction gives them movement and mental stimulation all at once.
But here’s the key — mix it up. Take different walking routes. Try a new toy. Keep them curious. If they’re bored, they’re not going to want to move. Sound familiar?
What Happens If Your Shih Tzu Doesn’t Get Enough Exercise
You’ll notice. Trust me. If your Shih Tzu isn’t moving enough, they’ll find ways to let you know. Suddenly they’re barking nonstop, pacing the apartment, chewing on things they shouldn’t. That’s not them being a bad dog — it’s them saying, “Hey, I need something to do.”
They might also start gaining weight, and with small breeds, it doesn’t take much before that gets serious. An extra pound or two on a ten-pound dog is a big deal. That extra weight makes walking harder, which makes them move less, and the cycle keeps going. It’s your job to break it.
How to Fit Shih Tzu Exercise Into a Busy Schedule
Look, everyone’s got a packed calendar — work, errands, meetings, whatever. But if you’ve got time for Instagram or a scroll through TikTok, you’ve got time to walk your dog. Two short walks a day. Ten to fifteen minutes. That’s all they need.
Wake up, leash up, and take a loop around the block. End of the day? Grab that same leash and hit a different route. Rainy outside? Throw a soft toy across the living room a few times. Let them chase it down. You don’t need a backyard. You just need a little effort and consistency.
And hey, if you’re working from home, those stretch breaks you’re supposed to take? Make one of them a quick game of fetch or a training session. Keeps you both sharp.
Weather Considerations for Shih Tzus
Living in a city like New York, weather is no joke. One week it’s blazing hot, the next it’s snowing sideways. And your Shih Tzu — with their short snout and tiny body — doesn’t do well in extreme temps.
In summer, avoid the hot sidewalk during peak hours. Take walks early in the morning or after the sun goes down. Bring water. And watch for signs they’re getting too warm — heavy panting, drooling, slowing down. When in doubt, keep it short and stay in the shade.
In winter, your pup might need a sweater or boots if there’s snow or salt on the sidewalks. Keep walks brisk and warm. Indoors, keep them moving with a toy or treat puzzle.
Mental Exercise Is Just As Important
People always talk about physical activity, but mental stimulation matters just as much. Shih Tzus are smart little dogs — stubborn sometimes, sure — but smart. And a bored brain will cause just as much trouble as an unexercised body.
Teach them new commands, even if they already know sit and stay. Work in scent games, like hiding treats under cups. Or toss them a puzzle toy that makes them think. You’ll be amazed how tired they get after a ten-minute brain workout.
It’s like us doing Wordle — short, satisfying, and somehow exhausting.
What If Your Shih Tzu Doesn’t Want to Move
Every once in a while, you’ll get a Shih Tzu who flat-out refuses. They lay on their side when you bring the leash. They act like it’s the end of the world. Sound familiar?
First, rule out any medical issues. If this is new behavior, they might be hurting somewhere. Talk to your vet.
But if it’s just their attitude? Bribe them. Use treats. Talk in a happy voice. Make it fun. Start small — even just getting to the lobby might be a win. Build up gradually. They’ll come around once they realize walks lead to good things.
Exercise for Puppies vs Seniors
Puppies have energy in bursts. One second they’re spinning in circles, next they’re passed out. Keep their play short and safe. No long walks. Their bones are still growing, and too much too early can do more harm than good.
Seniors, meanwhile, still need daily movement. It keeps their joints mobile and helps prevent stiffness. Go slow, let them sniff, and don’t push it if they start dragging. A couple ten-minute sessions a day is usually perfect.
Just remember — age is not an excuse for no movement. It just means adjusting how you do it.
Making It a Habit
At the end of the day, exercise is about showing up. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel or buy fancy gear. Just get your dog moving. Every day. It’s good for them. It’s good for you. And it keeps the peace at home.
The more consistent you are, the more your Shih Tzu will expect and enjoy it. That little bounce when you grab the leash? That’s your dog saying, “Let’s go.”
Final Thought
Shih Tzus might not need as much exercise as a husky or a border collie, but they still need a daily routine that includes movement, fun, and interaction. Keeping your dog active isn’t about pushing them hard — it’s about keeping them balanced. When you give your Shih Tzu a healthy dose of walks, play, and mental work, they’ll reward you with better behavior, a calmer vibe, and a longer, happier life.
And let’s be honest — in a city that never sleeps, a calm Shih Tzu is a beautiful thing.
