At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Pug | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Companion Dogs |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder | 9 to 10 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 14 to 18 pounds | 9 to 16 pounds |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 10 to 16 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Easy to groom
The Pug is easier to groom than the Shih Tzu.
Intelligence
The Shih Tzu is quicker to learn than the Pug.
Shedding
The Pug sheds more than the Shih Tzu.
Copes alone
The Shih Tzu copes better when left alone than the Pug.
General health
The Shih Tzu tends to have fewer health problems than the Pug.
Energy
The Pug has more energy than the Shih Tzu.
Which to choose
Pug or Shih Tzu?
Choose the Pug if…
- You want a dog that is easier to groom
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a more watchful dog (it is more reserved with strangers)
Choose the Shih Tzu if…
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
- You want a dog that tends to have fewer health problems
Questions.
Which is easier to train, the Pug or the Shih Tzu?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Pug or the Shih Tzu?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Shih Tzu sheds less than the Pug. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
