Finnish Spitz vs Shih Tzu
Non-Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Small
Finnish SpitzMedium
A friendly, faithful, alert fox-red Finnish bark-pointer — national dog of Finland, hunts by yodeling.
Weight: 25–33 lbsLifespan: 13–15 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
- • Finnish Spitz is the larger breed at 25–33 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Finnish Spitz has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Finnish Spitz | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Toy |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Finland | Tibet |
Height (male) | 17.5–20" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 15.5–18" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 25–33 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 20–28 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–15 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | 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 High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a friendly, faithful, alert fox-red Finnish bark-pointer — national dog of Finland, hunts by yodeling. Originally from Finland, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 25–33 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, faithful, alert.
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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Finnish Spitz health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Epilepsy
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues