ChihuahuaVSShih Tzu
Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus are both beloved toy breeds popular with apartment dwellers and small-dog lovers. The Chihuahua is fiercely devoted and feisty, while the Shih Tzu is a gentle, people-pleasing companion with a royal heritage. Choosing between them often comes down to grooming tolerance and social energy.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Chihuahua | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 2–6 lbs, 5–8 in | 9–16 lbs, 9–10.5 in |
| Energy Level | Moderate–High | Low–Moderate |
| Shedding | Low–Moderate | ✓Low (hair, not fur) |
| Trainability | Moderate (stubborn) | ✓Good |
| Good With Kids | Moderate (fragile, snappy) | ✓Very Good |
| Apartment Friendly | Excellent | Excellent |
| Average Lifespan | 14–16 years | 10–16 years |
| Monthly Cost (est.) | ✓$50–$120 | $80–$180 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Chihuahua if…
Single adults or couples who want an intensely loyal, low-cost, minimal-space companion and can handle a spirited personality.
Choose a Shih Tzu if…
Families or seniors who want a gentle, affectionate lap dog and are willing to invest in regular grooming appointments.
Grooming & Shedding: Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu
Chihuahuas come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties. Smooth-coat Chihuahuas are among the lowest-maintenance dogs in existence — a quick weekly wipe is all that is needed. Long-coat Chihuahuas have a soft, flowing coat requiring brushing two to three times per week and produce moderate shedding. Shih Tzus have a long, flowing double coat that resembles human hair and sheds very minimally. However, their coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting and mats are common around the ears, armpits, and collar area. Most pet owners keep Shih Tzus in a shorter "puppy cut," requiring professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Daily facial cleaning is important to prevent tear and food staining. The smooth-coat Chihuahua is the easiest to groom. The Shih Tzu, despite low shedding, requires the highest daily maintenance investment of the two.
Temperament & Family Compatibility
Chihuahuas are fiercely devoted, bold, and often single-person dogs. They form intense bonds with their primary caregiver and can be wary or even aggressive toward strangers. Their tiny size makes them fragile and unsuitable for households with rough or very young children who might accidentally injure them. They have high energy relative to their size and a surprisingly loud, persistent bark for a small dog. Shih Tzus are calmer, more uniformly gentle, and more broadly affectionate across the whole family. They are patient, adaptable, and tend to be better with children than Chihuahuas. They are somewhat easier to train for basic manners, though housebreaking can be challenging for both breeds. For a calm, family-friendly toy breed, the Shih Tzu is the more adaptable choice. For an intensely devoted one-person companion, the Chihuahua is incomparable.
Compare pet insurance for Chihuahua and Shih Tzu
Both breeds have different health profiles — find the right coverage level before your first vet visit.
Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better with young children — Chihuahua or Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are generally better with young children. Their sturdier build (9–16 lbs vs 2–6 lbs) makes them less fragile, and their temperament is more patient and tolerant. Chihuahuas can be snappy when startled and their tiny size puts them at risk of injury from rough handling by toddlers.
Which requires less grooming?
The Chihuahua (especially smooth-coated varieties) requires significantly less grooming — just a weekly brush and occasional bath. Shih Tzus have a long, flowing double coat that needs daily brushing or regular professional grooming every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting.
Which lives longer on average?
Both breeds are long-lived, but Chihuahuas have a slight edge with an average lifespan of 14–16 years, with many reaching 18+. Shih Tzus typically live 10–16 years. Both are among the longer-lived dog breeds relative to their size.
Find the perfect name for your Chihuahua or Shih Tzu
Our name finder quiz considers your dog's breed, personality, coat color, and vibe to give you a personalized top-3 recommendation — with explanations and audio.
Find the Perfect Name — Free🐾
Track your Chihuahua or Shih Tzu's health for free
Care log, vaccination tracker, weight trends, and health journal — all in one place. Works in your browser.
Create free account →No credit card required · Works in your browser