Chow Chow vs Shih Tzu
Non-Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Small
Chow ChowMedium
A dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue.
Weight: 45–70 lbsLifespan: 8–12 years
Shih TzuSmall
An affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you.
Weight: 9–16 lbsLifespan: 10–18 years
Quick take
- • Chow Chow is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
- • The Shih Tzu is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Chow Chow | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Toy |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | China | Tibet |
Height (male) | 17–20" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 17–20" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 45–70 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–70 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 8–12 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very Low (1/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.
About the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you. Originally from Tibet, this small toy breed typically weighs 9–16 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing.
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Chow Chow health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Skin issues
- • Bloat
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues