Quick comparison
Best for families
Poodle
Based on good-with-kids rating
Easier to train
Poodle
Based on trainability rating
Less shedding
Poodle
Based on shedding level
Better for apartments
Shih Tzu
Based on apartment-friendly rating
Lower maintenance
Poodle
Based on grooming needs
Longer lifespan
Poodle
Based on average lifespan
Detailed comparison
Physical traits
| Trait | Poodle | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Height | 10–22″ | 9–10.5″ |
| Weight | 6–70 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
| Lifespan | 10–18 yrs | 10–18 yrs |
| Group | Non-Sporting | Toy |
| Coat type | Dense, curly, single coat, non-shedding | Long, flowing, dense double coat |
Temperament & behavior
| Trait | Poodle | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | High | Low |
| Trainability | Very High | Moderate |
| Barking level | Moderate | Moderate |
Compatibility
| Trait | Poodle | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Good with kids | High | High |
| Good with dogs | High | High |
| Good with cats | High | High |
| Apartment friendly | High | Very High |
Care requirements
| Trait | Poodle | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | Very Low | Very Low |
| Grooming needs | Very High | Very High |
| Daily exercise | 40–90 min | 20–40 min |
| Daily food | 0.5–3 cups | 0.5–1 cups |
| Annual cost | $1 200–$2 800 | $1 100–$2 000 |
Temperament
Poodle
IntelligentActiveProud
Shih Tzu
AffectionatePlayfulOutgoing
Common health issues
Poodle
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Epilepsy
- Addison's disease
- Bloat (Standard)
- Von Willebrand disease
Shih Tzu
- Brachycephalic syndrome
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Dental disease
- Intervertebral disc disease
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