Can a Shih Tzu Swim? Dog Stamina & Strength Explained

Shih Tzus are often thought of as dogs unsuitable for any activities other than sitting on laps. While this is true for some dogs, many Shih Tzus have a moderate activity level and need exercise and mental stimulation.

These intelligent dogs love to play and participate in activities. If you need a buddy for walks, light jogs, easy-to-moderate hikes, and even dog sports, this breed can be a great companion. This fancy pup can be quite the little trailblazer, so don’t sell your Shih Tzu short!

Can Shih Tzu's swim, though? Yes, Shih Tzus can swim. Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs that is low impact and supports the health of the joints and cardiovascular system. That said, you need to work with your vet to determine whether this is a safe activity for your specific Shih Tzu to participate in.

Can Shih Tzus Swim?

Not only can they swim, but many Shih Tzus also enjoy swimming and have a natural affinity for it without any guidance. Unfortunately, though, this breed isn't necessarily built for swimming. They lack the stamina necessary to safely swim for long periods.

Swimming is a great form of exercise for these strong pups, but they may get tired quickly. It’s extremely important that your Shih Tzu is never allowed to swim without direct supervision.

Ideally, they should wear a properly fitted doggy life jacket when swimming. This can ensure that your dog doesn’t go under the water if they become exhausted. However, a lifejacket isn’t a guarantee of safety, which is why it’s so important that you are always nearby and properly supervising your Shih Tzu when they’re in the water.

Are Shih Tzus Strong?

Even though their stamina may be lacking, Shih Tzus are actually quite athletic, muscular dogs. They can excel in a variety of activities, including agility. Their strength and athleticism make them ideal companions for many types of dog sports, and they can also be good companions for active households that spend a lot of time outdoors.

Although they're strong, there is a major reason that the Shih Tzu's stamina is lacking: the shape of their head. This breed has a short snout and a somewhat flat face, which can lead to a variety of breathing issues. They may therefore struggle to develop adequate stamina for participating in activities like swimming for long periods.

Conclusion

Shih Tzus are athletic little dogs that have a natural ability to swim, but they don’t have the stamina to swim for extended periods. Properly fitted doggy life jackets and adult supervision are necessary to ensure the safety of your pup while swimming.

Regular swimming can improve the stamina of your Shih Tzu, enabling them to swim for longer, but the shape of their face and short snout may make it difficult for them to develop adequate stamina for extended periods of swimming.

Featured Image Credit: Sue Thatcher, Shutterstock