Newborn Shih Tzu puppies weigh about 6 ounces and have underdeveloped nervous systems. A newborn puppy will not be able to see or hear anything, since he is born with his eyes tightly closed and his ear canals closed.
Shih Tzu Size by Age Predictions
Shih Tzus are well known for being the perfect lap dogs. They are small, fluffy, chubby, and absolutely adorable. In general, the full-grown Shih Tzu can range from 9 to 16 pounds. They typically measure 8 to 11 inches from the shoulder blades. The perfect cuddly companion!
The easiest way to estimate how big your Shih Tzu puppy will be once he grows up is to look at his parents. Of course, this is not an option if you have adopted your pup from a shelter. However, any responsible breeder will be able to tell you more about the parents of your future relative and advise you on their adult size. Additionally, grandparents will also affect the adult size of your Shih Tzu.
Why is my Shih Tzu so big?
In some cases, dogs may exceed the maximum size established for their breed. Rest assured, even if your Shih Tzu is bigger than you expected, it’s not necessarily bad.
Your pet may have a larger body and bone structure. It can happen because size is a genetic trait that can be passed down from five generations back.
Month 1
- Height: N/A
- Weight: 1 – 1.
5 lbs (0.45 – 0.68 kg) - What to expect: The first month of your puppy’s development has the fastest growth and the most gains. There is weight gain almost every day and the weight doubles in just the first week. During this time, the pups are small and slowly develop their vision and hearing, as well as walk and play. What to expect: In the second month, growth is moderately rapid with more level weight gain. The pups are more active and begin to gain more vocalization. Weaning usually ends and free feeding begins. Puppies can be easily startled at this stage; however, the fears have not yet been solidified.
Newborns
We really don’t have much to say about the newborn phase. It is the period when the puppies are getting used to the world outside their mother’s womb.
Newborn Shih Tzu puppies only weigh 5-6 ounces. All they do is eat and sleep. They cannot move, hear or see. Being blind, puppies rely on their scent, it’s the only way to know if mom is around.