Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Shih Tzu

Herding · Small vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the larger breed at 24–30 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
  • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPembroke Welsh CorgiShih Tzu
Group
HerdingToy
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
WalesTibet
Height (male)
10–12"9–10.5"
Height (female)
10–12"9–10.5"
Weight (male)
24–30 lbs9–16 lbs
Weight (female)
24–28 lbs9–16 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart, alert, affectionate herder on stumpy legs — the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 24–30 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, affectionate.

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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Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Obesity

Shih Tzu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Eye problems
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Dental issues