Portuguese Water Dog vs Shih Tzu
Working · Medium vs Toy · Small
Portuguese Water DogMedium
An affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets.
Weight: 42–60 lbsLifespan: 11–13 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
- • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Portuguese Water Dog has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Portuguese Water Dog | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Toy |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Portugal | Tibet |
Height (male) | 20–23" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 17–21" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 42–60 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 35–50 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–13 years | 10–18 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. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | 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. | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.
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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Portuguese Water Dog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Storage diseases
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues