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Compare Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.
Breed traits
Character & behavior
Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone
Lifestyle fit
Apartment-friendly
Yes
Yes
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
Yes
Yes
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs
Physical & general
Life span
10–16 years
12–15 years
Weight
4.5–8.1 kg
3.6–5.4 kg
Height
25–28 cm
32–38 cm
Origin
Tibet
Italy
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Shih Tzu and the Italian Greyhound are two charming breeds that appeal to pet lovers for different reasons. The Shih Tzu, originating from Tibet, is known for its friendly demeanor and suitability for apartment living, making it a great companion for families and first-time owners alike. With a lifespan of 10 to 16 years, this breed is relatively long-lived, although it requires regular grooming due to its coat. On the other hand, the Italian Greyhound, hailing from Italy, is slightly smaller and boasts a higher energy level, making it more playful and requiring more exercise. Its lifespan ranges from 12 to 15 years, and it is also well-suited for apartment living. Both breeds are sociable and good with children, but they differ in their exercise needs and grooming requirements, which potential owners should consider.
Shih Tzu — Advantages
Good with kids
Apartment friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Lower exercise need
Sociable and friendly
Apartment friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Lower exercise need
Sociable and friendly
Disadvantages
Higher grooming difficulty
Can stay alone for only short periods
Moderate noise level
Medium shedding level
Less tolerant to cold climates
Can stay alone for only short periods
Moderate noise level
Medium shedding level
Less tolerant to cold climates
Italian Greyhound — Advantages
Good with kids
Apartment friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Lower grooming difficulty
Lower health risk
Apartment friendly
Suitable for first-time owners
Lower grooming difficulty
Lower health risk
Disadvantages
Higher exercise need
Can stay alone for longer periods
Moderate energy level
Slightly less sociable than Shih Tzu
Less tolerant to cold climates
Can stay alone for longer periods
Moderate energy level
Slightly less sociable than Shih Tzu
Less tolerant to cold climates
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breed is better for families with young children?
Both breeds are good with kids, but the Shih Tzu may be more adaptable due to its lower exercise needs.
How much grooming do these breeds require?
The Shih Tzu has a higher grooming difficulty compared to the Italian Greyhound, which requires less maintenance.
Are these breeds suitable for apartment living?
Yes, both the Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound are apartment-friendly.
What is the average lifespan of each breed?
The Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10 to 16 years, while the Italian Greyhound lives between 12 to 15 years.
How do their exercise needs compare?
The Italian Greyhound has a higher exercise need compared to the Shih Tzu, which requires less physical activity.
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