Shih Tzu
VS
West Highland White Terrier
Shih Tzu vs West Highland White Terrier
Compare Shih Tzu and West Highland White Terrier 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
West Highland White Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
23 – 27 cm
27 – 28 cm
Weight
5 – 8 kg
7 – 9 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 16 years
12 – 16 years
Child friendly
4/5
5/5
Energy level
2/5
3/5
Intelligence
2/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
3/5
Health
4/5
2/5
Grooming needs
4/5
5/5
Shedding
2/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
1/5
3/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
West Highland White Terrier
Great with kids
Small
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 West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a small, sturdy Scottish terrier with a harsh white coat that sheds lightly. Confident, vocal and independent yet affectionate, it suits city or country homes. Needs daily walks, mental stimulation, regular grooming and consistent, reward‑based training.
Similar breeds
View more
