Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua
Compare Shih Tzu and Chihuahua 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
Shih Tzu
Chihuahua
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
23 – 27 cm
15 – 25 cm
Weight
5 – 8 kg
1 – 3 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 16 years
10 – 18 years
Child friendly
4/5
2/5
Energy level
2/5
3/5
Intelligence
2/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
3/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
2/5
Shedding
2/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
5/5
Aggressiveness
1/5
3/5
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Characteristics
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Chihuahua
Low grooming
Tiny
Summary
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.
About Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a tiny yet sturdy companion dog, usually 1.5–3 kg with an apple-shaped head and large eyes. Found in smooth or long coats in many colors, it is devoted, alert, and bold. It needs daily walks, training, close companionship, and good health and dental care to thrive.
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