English Springer Spaniel vs Shih Tzu
Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Small
English Springer SpanielMedium
A friendly, playful, obedient gundog — bred to spring game from cover for the hunter's net or gun.
Weight: 50–55 lbsLifespan: 12–14 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
- • English Springer Spaniel is the larger breed at 50–55 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The English Springer Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
- • The English Springer Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | English Springer Spaniel | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Toy |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | England | Tibet |
Height (male) | 19–21" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 18–20" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 50–55 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 40–50 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, playful, obedient gundog — bred to spring game from cover for the hunter's net or gun. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 50–55 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, playful, obedient.
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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English Springer Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye conditions
- • Ear infections
- • Phosphofructokinase deficiency
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues