Yorkshire Terrier vs Shih Tzu

Yorkshire Terrier
Toy
The Yorkshire Terrier is a small, lively breed known for its luxurious coat and vibrant personality. Originally bred for hunting vermin, Yorkies are now beloved companions, requiring regular exercise and grooming.

Shih Tzu
Toy
The Shih Tzu is a charming toy breed known for its affectionate nature and playful spirit. With a rich history as a companion dog, they thrive on love and social interaction, making them ideal pets for families and individuals.
At a Glance
| Yorkshire Terrier | Category | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Toy | Breed Group | Toy |
| England | Origin | China and Tibet |
| 20–23 cm | Height | 20–28 cm |
| 2.3–3.2 kg | Weight | 4–7 kg |
| 14-16 years | Lifespan | 11-14 years |
| 30 min/day | Exercise | 30 min/day |
| Silky | Coat Type | Double |
| Long | Coat Length | Long |
Ratings Comparison
| Yorkshire Terrier | Trait | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
High | Energy Level | Moderate |
Low | Trainability | Low |
High | Affection | High |
Very High | Intelligence | Moderate |
Very Low | Shedding | Very Low |
Low | Grooming Ease | Low |
High | Barking | Moderate |
Moderate | Good w/ Kids | High |
Low | Good w/ Pets | High |
Very High | Apartment | Very High |
High | Families | Very High |
Moderate | First-Time Owners | Moderate |
Very High | Playfulness | High |
Very Low | Drooling | Very Low |
Yorkshire Terrier vs Shih Tzu FAQ
Is a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih Tzu better for families?+
The Shih Tzu tends to be better suited for families. The Yorkshire Terrier scores 4/5 and the Shih Tzu scores 5/5 for family suitability.
Which is easier to train, a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih Tzu?+
Both breeds score 2/5 for trainability, making them equally easy to train.
Does a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih Tzu shed more?+
The Yorkshire Terrier has a shedding level of 1/5, while the Shih Tzu scores 1/5. They shed about the same amount.
Does a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih Tzu need more exercise?+
The Yorkshire Terrier needs about 30 minutes of daily exercise, while the Shih Tzu requires around 30 minutes. Both need similar amounts of exercise.
Which lives longer, a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih Tzu?+
The Yorkshire Terrier has an average lifespan of 14-16 years, while the Shih Tzu lives approximately 11-14 years.
Which is better for apartment living, a Yorkshire Terrier or Shih Tzu?+
Both breeds score 5/5 for apartment suitability.