Breed comparison
Shih Tzu vs Pekingese: comparing two flat faced companion breeds
Both were bred inside Chinese and Tibetan palaces as companions rather than workers, and both need daily coat care and heat caution. The Shih Tzu is generally friendlier with strangers and a little easier to train, while the Pekingese has a flatter face, a more independent streak, and a stronger tendency to bark at visitors.
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
| Shih Tzu | Pekingese | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 4 to 7 kg | 3 to 6 kg |
| Height | 20 to 27 cm | 15 to 23 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10 to 16 years | 12 to 14 years |
| Daily exercise | 30 to 60 min | 30 to 60 min |
| Energy | 2 / 5 | 2 / 5 |
| Easy to train | 3 / 5 | 2 / 5 |
| Shedding | 2 / 5 | 4 / 5 |
| Good with children | 3 / 5 | 2 / 5 |
| Apartment friendly | 5 / 5 | 5 / 5 |
Size and structure
The Shih Tzu weighs 4 to 7 kg (9 to 15 lb) and stands 20 to 27 cm (8 to 11 in), with a fairly level back and sturdier legs than many toy breeds.
The Pekingese weighs 3 to 6 kg (7 to 13 lb) but is shorter at 15 to 23 cm (6 to 9 in), with bowed front legs and more chest for its size, giving it a distinctive rolling gait.
Face and breathing
The Shih Tzu is brachycephalic but its muzzle is a little longer than the Pekingese's, which usually means less snoring and fewer overheating episodes, though it still needs shade and rest breaks on warm walks.
The Pekingese has one of the flattest faces of any breed and is rated for health as its defining trait. Expect snorting, skin fold care around the nose, and a real need to avoid exertion once the temperature climbs.
Coat care
The Shih Tzu's long coat grows continuously, closer to hair than fur, and needs daily brushing plus a professional trim every six to eight weeks to prevent painful mats near the ears, armpits and tail.
The Pekingese carries a heavier double coat with a thick mane. It sheds more noticeably than the Shih Tzu, especially twice a year, and also needs near daily brushing to stop the undercoat from matting against the skin.
Temperament with people
Shih Tzus score higher for friendliness toward strangers and tend to greet new visitors with curiosity rather than suspicion, making them a common choice for households that host guests often.
The Pekingese is more reserved and protective, barking more readily when someone approaches the door. It bonds tightly with its own family but takes longer to warm to unfamiliar people.
Health, lifespan and training
Shih Tzus typically live 10 to 16 years, a wide range that rewards owners who keep them at a lean weight and brush teeth regularly, since dental crowding is common in their short jaws. They are moderately trainable with patient, reward based sessions.
Pekingese live 12 to 14 years but face more breathing and back problems tied to their extreme face and long spine relative to short legs. They are noticeably more stubborn in training, so owners should expect slower progress and keep sessions brief. Call a vet if either dog shows labored breathing at rest or sudden reluctance to jump, which can signal spinal trouble.
Cost and daily practicalities
Budget for regular professional grooming with either breed, roughly every six to eight weeks, plus the time cost of daily brushing at home if you want to stretch out those appointments.
The Shih Tzu's slightly sturdier legs make it marginally easier to carry on longer errands or up several flights of stairs, while the Pekingese's low built frame and short legs mean stairs and high furniture should generally be managed for it rather than left to the dog.
Choose the Shih Tzu if
- Friendlier and more outgoing with visitors
- Slightly easier to train with consistent short sessions
- A little less extreme facial structure, so marginally better airflow
- Enjoys being styled and groomed as a bonding activity
- Good option for a household that has people over often
Choose the Pekingese if
- Prefers a more reserved, watchful companion
- Fine with a heavier shedding double coat
- Comfortable managing more pronounced breathing needs
- Wants a dog that announces visitors at the door
- Drawn to the distinctive rolling Pekingese gait and mane
Which sheds more, the Shih Tzu or the Pekingese?
The Pekingese sheds more noticeably, particularly during its twice yearly coat blow, because it carries a thicker double coat. The Shih Tzu's single coat sheds less but mats just as easily if it is not brushed daily.
Is the Shih Tzu or Pekingese better for a first time owner?
The Shih Tzu is usually the friendlier choice for a first time owner because it is more food motivated, warms up to strangers faster, and is slightly easier to train. The Pekingese suits someone who wants a more independent, dignified companion and has time for daily coat care.
Do both breeds have breathing problems?
Yes, both are brachycephalic, but the Pekingese has the flatter face of the two and a higher rate of breathing difficulty. Keep both breeds lean, avoid exercise in heat, and see a vet if you hear persistent snorting or gagging sounds.
How much grooming time should I budget for each breed?
Plan on 15 to 20 minutes of daily brushing for either breed, plus a professional groom every six to eight weeks for the Shih Tzu and regular trimming of the Pekingese's feathering to prevent matting.