Which lives longer, the German Shepherd Dog or the Shih Tzu?

The Shih Tzu has the longer median lifespan: German Shepherd Dog 11.3 years versus Shih Tzu 12.8 years (McMillan 2024).

Which is healthier, the German Shepherd Dog or the Shih Tzu?

On the Breed Health Score the German Shepherd Dog scores 59/100 and the Shih Tzu scores 65/100. The Shih Tzu scores higher.

German Shepherd Dog vs Shih Tzu

The German Shepherd Dog has a median lifespan of 11.3 years and a Breed Health Score of 59/100 (grade C); the Shih Tzu lives a median of 12.8 years with a score of 65/100 (grade B). On the overall index the Shih Tzu scores higher. The Shih Tzu has the longer median lifespan.

German Shepherd Dog

59grade C

Shih Tzu

65grade B

Median lifespan

11.3 yr

12.8 yr

Size

large · 22-40 kg

small · 4-7 kg

Flat-faced

Yes

Longevity

Conformation

100

Hereditary burden

Health Score

59C

65B

Conditions

Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Degenerative myelopathy Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency GDV (bloat)

BOAS Corneal ulcers IVDD Dental disease Renal dysplasia

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How to read this. The Breed Health Score combines longevity (65%), conformation (20%) and hereditary burden (15%); see the methodology. Median lifespan is from McMillan, K.M. et al. (2024) "Longevity of companion dog breeds", Scientific Reports (584,734 UK dogs). Data CC-BY 4.0. These are independent estimates for comparing breeds, not veterinary advice. Build your own with the interactive compare tool.