Portuguese Podengo vs Shih Tzu
Compare Portuguese Podengo 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
Portuguese Podengo
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
55 – 70 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
20 – 30 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
13 – 17 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
4/5
4/5
Energy level
4/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
2/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
1/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Portuguese Podengo
Great with kids
High energy
Easy to train
Large
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Portuguese Podengo
Ancient Portuguese hunting dog in three sizes (small, medium, large) and two coats (smooth or wire). Lean, athletic and alert, it’s lively, clever and affectionate. Needs substantial exercise, positive training, and mental stimulation, but is generally robust and long‑lived.
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











