A side-by-side comparison of the Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier across size, temperament, grooming, family fit, and more.
Shih Tzu
Yorkshire Terrier
Overall, Shih Tzu wins more categories — but the right choice still depends on your family's specific needs.
Shih Tzu
3 wins
Yorkshire Terrier
2 wins
More family-friendly
Shih Tzu edges ahead on kid-friendliness, affection, and trainability.
Lower maintenance
Yorkshire Terrier sheds less and needs less grooming overall.
Longer-lived
Yorkshire Terrier typically lives longer on average.
Calmer
Shih Tzu is generally more relaxed and lower-energy.
Quieter
Shih Tzu tends to bark less.
More trainable
These breeds are equally trainable.
| Breed | Size | Weight | Height | Lifespan | Energy | Shedding | Grooming | Trainable | Affection | Barking | Kids | Dogs | Cats | Apartment | First-timers | Low-allergen |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 11–18 lb | 11 in | 10 yr | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||||||
| Small | 7 lb | 8–9 in | 12–15 yr | — | — | — | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
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The Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier are both popular breeds, but they differ meaningfully in day-to-day life. The verdict above scores them on six key dimensions — use it as a starting point, then factor in your specific home, activity level, and family situation.
Overall, Shih Tzu wins more categories — but the right choice still depends on your family's specific needs.