Shih Tzu vs Whippet
Toy · Small vs Hound · Medium
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
WhippetMedium
An affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too.
Weight: 25–40 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Whippet is the larger breed at 25–40 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Whippet has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Whippet |
|---|---|---|
Group | Toy | Hound |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Tibet | England |
Height (male) | 9–10.5" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 9–10.5" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 9–16 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 9–16 lbs | 25–40 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–18 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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.
About the Whippet
The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.
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Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues
Whippet health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Heart disease
- • Eye conditions
- • Anesthesia sensitivity