Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound
VS
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu

Afghan Hound vs Shih Tzu

Compare Afghan Hound and Shih Tzu side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Afghan Hound
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
63 – 74 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
26 – 34 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 16 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
4/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
2/5
4/5
Health
5/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
1/5
2/5
Barking level
1/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
1/5
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Characteristics

Afghan Hound
Great with kids
High energy
Quiet
Stubborn
Large
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small

Summary

About Afghan Hound
Ancient sighthound with tall, elegant build and long silky coat needing frequent grooming. Aloof with strangers but affectionate with family, independent and sensitive to harsh handling. Requires calm, positive training, secure exercise, and careful health and coat care.
About Shih Tzu
Small, sturdy companion dog from Tibetan and Chinese palaces, 4.5–8 kg with a long, flowing coat and chrysanthemum-like face. Affectionate, cheerful, and confident, it suits many homes. Needs moderate exercise, intensive grooming, and patient, reward-based training.

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