Newfoundland vs Shih Tzu
Working · Giant vs Toy · Small
NewfoundlandGiant
A sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast.
Weight: 130–150 lbsLifespan: 9–10 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
- • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 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 Newfoundland is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Newfoundland | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Toy |
Size | Giant | Small |
Origin | Canada | Tibet |
Height (male) | 28" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 26" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 130–150 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 100–120 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 9–10 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | 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 Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast. Originally from Canada, this giant working breed typically weighs 130–150 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as sweet, patient, devoted.
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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Newfoundland health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Bloat
- • Cystinuria
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues