Doberman Pinscher

Working · Large

Shih Tzu

Toy · Small

Doberman Pinscher vs Shih Tzu

Side-by-side comparison of the Doberman Pinscher and Shih Tzu — size, temperament, shedding, trainability, cost, and compatibility ratings.

Quick comparison

Best for families

Doberman Pinscher

Based on good-with-kids rating

Easier to train

Doberman Pinscher

Based on trainability rating

Less shedding

Shih Tzu

Based on shedding level

Better for apartments

Shih Tzu

Based on apartment-friendly rating

Lower maintenance

Doberman Pinscher

Based on grooming needs

Longer lifespan

Shih Tzu

Based on average lifespan

Detailed comparison

Physical traits

Trait	Doberman Pinscher	Shih Tzu
Size	Large	Small
Height	24–28″	9–10.5″
Weight	60–100 lbs	9–16 lbs
Lifespan	10–12 yrs	10–18 yrs
Group	Working	Toy
Coat type	Short, smooth, close-lying	Long, flowing, dense double coat

Temperament & behavior

Trait	Doberman Pinscher	Shih Tzu
Energy level	High	Low
Trainability	Very High	Moderate
Barking level	Moderate	Moderate

Compatibility

Trait	Doberman Pinscher	Shih Tzu
Good with kids	High	High
Good with dogs	Moderate	High
Good with cats	Moderate	High
Apartment friendly	Low	Very High

Care requirements

Trait	Doberman Pinscher	Shih Tzu
Shedding	Low	Very Low
Grooming needs	Very Low	Very High
Daily exercise	60–120 min	20–40 min
Daily food	2.5–3.5 cups	0.5–1 cups
Annual cost	$1 500–$2 600	$1 100–$2 000

Temperament