If you’re here because you’re trying to make one practical decision after losing your Shih Tzu, I’m so sorry. This guide keeps urn sizing simple—so you can choose a size that fits comfortably without second-guessing it.
Quick answer
- Sizing rule: plan for about 1 cubic inch per pound of body weight.
- Typical adult Shih Tzu weight: about 9–16 lb.
- Minimum capacity: about 9–16 cubic inches.
- Comfort range (roomier fit): about 11–19 cubic inches (adds ~20%).
- Most Shih Tzus fit best in a Small urn. If your dog was larger than expected (or weight is an estimate), compare a roomier Small or consider Medium.
Start shopping here: Pet Urns for Dogs. Most Shih Tzus will shop comfortably in: Small Pet Urns.
The sizing rule (1 cubic inch per lb) and why we still size up
Urn capacity is measured in cubic inches. A practical estimate is 1 cubic inch per pound of your dog’s weight. Many families choose a little more than the minimum because it helps the inner bag settle easily and makes the closure feel calmer—especially if your dog’s weight is an estimate or you want room for a small memento.
If you’d like to double-check your number, use the Pet Urn Size Calculator and compare it with the Urn Size Chart & Complete Guide.
Shih Tzu weight to urn capacity (cubic inches)
If you have a recent vet record, use that number. If not, use your best estimate and choose extra capacity for comfort. (And if your Shih Tzu was larger than “typical,” that’s okay—size for your dog’s actual weight.)
| Your Shih Tzu’s weight | Minimum capacity (1:1) | Comfort capacity (add ~20%) | Usually a good fit in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 lb | 9 cu in | 11 cu in | Small |
| 12 lb | 12 cu in | 15 cu in | Small |
| 16 lb | 16 cu in | 19 cu in | Small (roomier capacity recommended) |
| 20 lb (larger / overweight) | 20 cu in | 24 cu in | Small (higher-capacity) or Medium (extra breathing room) |
Which Funeral.com size category fits most Shih Tzus?
Most Shih Tzus fit best in a Small pet urn. Small is usually plenty of capacity for the typical Shih Tzu weight range, while still looking proportionate in your home. If your dog was closer to 20 lb (or you simply want the easiest closure), compare a higher-capacity Small urn or step up to Medium for breathing room.
Tip: Shop by listed capacity. Some designs (especially photo urns or memory-box styles with compartments) can have less usable interior space than they appear to from the outside.
When a keepsake urn can make sense for a Shih Tzu
Because Shih Tzus are small, some families consider a keepsake-sized urn—especially when sharing ashes. The simplest way to decide is to compare the keepsake urn’s listed capacity to your comfort target (and size up if you’re unsure).
Sharing options: Pet Keepsake Urns and Pet Cremation Jewelry.
Size up if… (a simple rule that prevents a tight fit)
Size up if your dog’s weight is an estimate, your dog is a mix, your dog is big-framed or very muscular, you want room for mementos (tag, note, fur clipping), or you want the easiest closure with the inner bag. If you’re choosing between two capacities, the larger option is usually the calmer choice because it avoids a tight fit.
Helpful tools to confirm your choice
FAQ
What size urn do I need for a 12 lb Shih Tzu?
Start with 12 cubic inches minimum. For a more comfortable fit, aim for about 15 cubic inches (+20%). Most families choose a Small pet urn at this weight.
What size urn do I need for a 9 lb Shih Tzu?
A good minimum is 9 cubic inches. A comfort target is about 11 cubic inches. A Small urn is typically the best fit.
What size urn do I need for a 16 lb Shih Tzu?
Start with 16 cubic inches minimum. For comfort, aim for about 19 cubic inches. A Small urn usually works well—just choose a roomier listed capacity so the fit doesn’t feel tight.
Is a Small urn big enough for most Shih Tzus?
Yes. Most Shih Tzus fit well in Small. The key is choosing an urn whose listed capacity meets or exceeds your comfort target.
When should I choose Medium instead of Small?
Choose Medium if your Shih Tzu was larger than expected (often around 20 lb or more), weight is an estimate, you’re adding mementos, or you want the easiest closure with the inner bag.
How much extra space (buffer) should I add?
A common approach is to add about 15–20% to your minimum estimate. This helps avoid a tight fit and makes the inner bag easier to place.
My dog’s weight is only an estimate. What should I do?
Use your best estimate and choose extra capacity for comfort. If you’re choosing between two capacities, the larger option is usually the calmer choice.
Can I include a collar tag or small mementos in the urn?
Often, yes—if you plan for it. If you want room for a tag, note, or small keepsake, aim for your comfort target (or size up) so the fit doesn’t feel tight.
Can a keepsake urn hold a Shih Tzu’s full ashes?
Sometimes, depending on your dog’s weight and the keepsake urn’s listed capacity. If you’re sharing ashes, keepsakes are a great option alongside a primary urn. See Pet Keepsake Urns.
How can I double-check my sizing before ordering?
Use the Pet Urn Size Calculator and compare it with the Urn Size Chart & Complete Guide. Then choose an urn whose listed capacity meets or exceeds your comfort target.
