Samoyed
VS
Shih Tzu
Samoyed vs Shih Tzu
Compare Samoyed 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
Samoyed
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
52 – 57 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
16 – 25 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
11 – 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
5/5
4/5
Shedding
4/5
2/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
1/5
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Characteristics
Samoyed
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Medium
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Samoyed
Medium, strong Arctic spitz bred by the Samoyede people to herd reindeer, pull sleds, and share family tents. Noted for its “Samoyed smile” and heavy, low‑odor double coat. Social, energetic, vocal, and intelligent, it needs close companionship, firm positive training, and ample exercise.
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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