A CLOSER LOOK

Compare dog breeds for everyday life.

Compare size, exercise, grooming and care tradeoffs. Unknown fields stay visible; breed tendencies do not guarantee individual behavior.

Compare selected breed traits

Elegantly groomed Shih Tzu show dog with a long golden-and-white coat and a decorative topknot.
Small

Shih Tzu↗

A small companion bred for close human company, well suited to a gentler daily routine.

Reviewed profile
Black Standard Poodle standing on grass, with a curly clipped coat and long legs.
Large

Standard Poodle↗

A bright, athletic companion with a low-shedding coat and a love of learning.

Reviewed profile
Compare up to four breeds side by side
Everyday lifeShih TzuStandard Poodle
OriginTibet (china)France
SizeSmallLarge
Height9-10.5 inchesover 15 inches (standard)
Weight9-16 pounds60-70 pounds (male standard), 40-50 pounds (female standard)
Typical lifespan10-18 years10-18 years
EnergyModerateHigh
Mental stimulationModerateVery high
GroomingHighHigh
TrainabilityHighVery high
BarkingModerateHigh
SheddingVery lowVery low
ChildrenVery highVery high
Other dogsVery highModerate
Apartment adaptabilityVery highModerate
First-owner suitabilityVery highHigh
Climate considerationsHeat sensitiveUnknown
Monthly estimate (USD)$160–$325$195–$380
Care considerationsFrequent coat care is needed. Avoid overexertion and heat, especially with their short muzzle.Professional grooming and mental enrichment are essential; low shedding does not guarantee allergy compatibility.
SourceAKC Shih Tzu breed guideAKC Poodle (Standard) breed guide

AKC trait ratings describe general tendencies. Apartment and first-owner ratings are editorial estimates. Unknown means unresearched or unavailable. Cats and small pets require individual assessment. Monthly estimates exclude emergencies, insurance, and initial costs. Read our methodology and sources.

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