Lifespan matchup
Maltese vs Shih Tzu: lifespan
Typical ranges (12-15 years vs 10-16 years), size context, and health factors—so you can plan, not just pick a “winner.”
Toy companions frequently cited with long lifespans; dental care and safe handling protect those senior years.
Typical lifespan ranges
- Maltese: 12-15 years (midpoint ~13.5 years)
- Shih Tzu: 10-16 years (midpoint ~13.0 years)
These figures are published breed averages—not a guarantee for any individual dog. Overlap between ranges is common.
Size and longevity context
Maltese
small · 4-7 lbs · 8-10 inches
Energy 3/5 · Gentle, Playful
Shih Tzu
small · 9-16 lbs · 9-10 inches
Energy 2/5 · Affectionate, Playful
Across dogs, smaller size classes often average longer lives than giants. Within the same size class, genetics and care usually matter more than a small midpoint gap.
Health factors that affect years
Maltese
- Patellar Luxation
- Eye Problems
- Dental Issues
Shih Tzu
- Eye Problems
- Breathing Problems
- Hip Dysplasia
Lean weight, preventive care, and health-tested breeding lines support quality years for either breed. A longer midpoint on a chart is not a substitute for daily management.
Planning verdict
Lean Maltese
A Maltese may suit you if you want a small companion typically listed around 12-15 years, with health topics to discuss including Patellar Luxation, Eye Problems, Dental Issues.
Lean Shih Tzu
A Shih Tzu may suit you if you prefer small size and a published range near 10-16 years, watching for Eye Problems, Breathing Problems, Hip Dysplasia.
FAQs
- Which lives longer, a Maltese or a Shih Tzu?
- Published midpoint averages lean toward the Maltese, but ranges overlap and individuals vary. Maltese is commonly listed around 12-15 years (midpoint ~13.5 years) versus Shih Tzu at 10-16 years (midpoint ~13.0 years). On midpoints alone, Maltese edges longer; that is not a guarantee for any one dog. Both are small dogs—small breeds often average longer lives than giants.
- What is the lifespan of a Maltese vs a Shih Tzu?
- Maltese: typically about 12-15 years. Shih Tzu: typically about 10-16 years. These are population averages from breed education sources—not promises.
- Does size explain Maltese vs Shih Tzu longevity?
- Both are small, so size alone won’t decide the winner. Genetics, weight, and care usually matter more within the same size class.
- What health issues affect Maltese and Shih Tzu lifespan?
- Maltese topics often include Patellar Luxation, Eye Problems, Dental Issues. Shih Tzu: Eye Problems, Breathing Problems, Hip Dysplasia. Ask breeders for relevant clearances and plan preventive care with your vet.
- How can I help either breed live longer?
- Choose health-tested lines when buying, keep a lean body condition, use age-appropriate exercise, schedule regular vet care, and address breed-typical risks early. Longevity is mostly management plus luck—not a breed ranking trophy.
Related lifespan matchups
References
- How Long Will Your Dog Live? Size Matters — American Kennel Club (AKC)
- Pet Ownership Resources — American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- General Dog Care — ASPCA