Portuguese Water Dog
VS
Shih Tzu
Portuguese Water Dog vs Shih Tzu
Compare Portuguese Water Dog 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 Water Dog
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
43 – 57 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
16 – 25 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 15 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
5/5
2/5
Intelligence
4/5
2/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
4/5
Shedding
1/5
2/5
Barking level
3/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
1/5
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Characteristics
Portuguese Water Dog
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Medium
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a sturdy, medium‑sized, low‑shedding water lover with a curly or wavy coat. Intelligent, people‑oriented and energetic, it needs regular grooming, daily training, and plenty of exercise and swimming, thriving as an active, closely involved family companion.
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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