Pekingese
Pekingese
VS
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu

Pekingese vs Shih Tzu

Compare Pekingese 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
Pekingese
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
15 – 23 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
3 – 7 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
1 – 13 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
3/5
4/5
Energy level
2/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
2/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
2/5
Barking level
3/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
1/5
Sponsored Ad

Characteristics

Pekingese
Tiny
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small

Summary

About Pekingese
Small, solid toy dog once reserved for Chinese royalty, the Pekingese has a lion‑like mane, flat face, and long double coat needing regular grooming. Calm yet proud and independent, it bonds closely with chosen people, needs modest exercise, and serves as an alert, loyal watchdog.
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.

Similar breeds

View more