Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Pekingese (3–6 kg, 12–15 years) and the Shih Tzu (4–7 kg, 10–16 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Both breeds have similar energy demands — Shih Tzu tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.
If you have young children, the Shih Tzu is the clearly more child-friendly choice.
For a first-time owner, the Shih Tzu is much more forgiving than the Pekingese.
For allergy sufferers, the Shih Tzu is the lower-shed, more hypoallergenic option.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
 Pekingese |
 Shih Tzu |
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Toy | Toy |
| Origin | China | Tibet / China |
| Weight | 3–6 kg | 4–7 kg |
| Height | 15–23 cm | 20–28 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 10–16 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
PekingeseDignified, independent, sometimes aloof. Devoted to their chosen person.
Just 20–30 minutes of light walking daily. Cannot tolerate heat.
Long heavy double coat. Daily brushing. Many owners do a shorter "puppy cut" every 6 weeks.
BOAS (severe). Eye injuries (eyes are very prominent). Heart disease. Spinal issues. Heat stroke.
Full Pekingese profile →
Shih TzuGentle, friendly, slightly aloof, content. Shih Tzus thrive on company and dislike being left alone. They're playful but not high-energy, and generally good with children, other dogs and cats.
30 minutes of daily walking plus indoor play is plenty. Brachycephalic features mean they overheat easily — avoid hot weather and strenuous exercise.
Long double coat. Daily brushing if kept long; most owners choose a "puppy cut" every 4–6 weeks for ease. Hair around eyes needs daily wiping (eye discharge collects). Top-knot to keep hair out of eyes.
Brachycephalic airway syndrome (mild). Eye issues (proptosis — eye popping out — in trauma). Patellar luxation. Hip dysplasia. Dental disease (small crowded mouths). Generally long-lived for a brachycephalic breed.
Full Shih Tzu profile →Calm households, retirees, single-pet homes.
First-time owners, retirees, apartment dwellers, allergy-sensitive families.
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