Comparison: Pekingese and Shih Tzu

Pekingese and Shih Tzu are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Pekingese
Photo: Rwc2118, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Shih Tzu
Photo: Mostafameraji, CC0, source
PekingeseShih Tzu
FCI group9. Companion and Toy Dogs9. Companion and Toy Dogs
Country of originChinaChina
CategoryVery small (toy)Small
Height at withers15–25 cm20–28 cm
Weight3–6 kg4–7.5 kg
Life span12–14 years12–16 years
Recognition features
  • Long dense coat with a mane and plumed tail
  • Flat face, wide head
  • Short legs, heavy forehand
  • Long, flowing silky coat
  • Flat face with a beard and a ´chrysanthemum´ head
  • Tail carried over the back, short legs
CoatLong, coarse, straight outer coat with dense undercoat.Long dense coat with an undercoat.
PurposeAn imperial palace dog of Beijing, brought to Europe after the 1860 looting of the Summer Palace.A Chinese companion dog bred at the imperial court in Beijing; the ´lion dog´.

Breed page: Pekingese · Breed page: Shih Tzu

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.