11 Dogs that Look Like the Shih Tzu
There are many reasons to love the Shih Tzu — but its adorable appearance is definitely up there on that list.
In addition to their cuteness, Shih Tzus are also loved for their friendly nature & small size, which makes them great family dogs that are adaptable to many different living conditions.
Do you feel like you want a Shih Tzu, but are thinking there might be another breed out there that could better fit your needs?
Well, these 11 Shih Tzu Lookalikes offer the same — well, similar — cute looks & small size of the Shih Tzu with their own unique personality & disposition of their own.
In this article, you’ll learn about these 11 dogs that look like Shih Tzus, their personality traits, and what their similarities and differences are.
1. Lhasa Apso
About the Lhasa Apso
| Origin | Tibet |
| Size | Small, but slightly larger than the Shih Tzu |
| Coat | Long, silky |
| Personality | Spirited, independent, loyal, and affectionate |
The Lhasa Apso, originating from Tibet, is a small, hardy dog known for its long, silky coat and spirited, independent personality.
Lhasa Apsos have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with their primary role as protectors of Buddhist monasteries in the high Himalayan mountains. They were highly regarded by monks, who believed the breed brought good luck and fortune.
This breed is loyal to its family but can be wary of strangers, making it an excellent watchdog.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu share many similarities such as their luxurious coat, compact body, and affectionate demeanor.
Both breeds require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful appearance.
Additionally, they both have a strong attachment to their families and enjoy cuddling and spending time with their loved ones.
- Both require regular grooming
- Lap dogs that love to cuddle & spend time with loved ones
Differences from the Shih Tzu
Differences between the two breeds include the Lhasa Apso’s stronger-willed temperament and slightly larger size.
While both breeds are affectionate, the Lhasa Apso can be more independent and stubborn, sometimes requiring a firm hand during training.
Additionally, the Lhasa Apso has a more elongated snout compared to the Shih Tzu’s flatter face. This difference in facial structure can affect the breed’s overall health, with Lhasa Apsos generally being less prone to breathing issues.
- Less prone to breathing issues
- Can be more independent & stubborn
2. Pekingese
About the Pekingese
| Origin | China |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Long, thick, and lion-like |
| Personality | Regal, loyal, independent, and sometimes stubborn |
The Pekingese, hailing from China, boasts a flat face, lion-like mane, and a regal demeanor. This breed is known for being loyal, independent, and sometimes stubborn. They were once exclusive companions of Chinese royalty and have a history spanning over 2,000 years.
Pekingese dogs are known for their unique, rolling gait and stocky build. They are affectionate with their families but can be aloof with strangers, making them a good choice for those seeking a small, watchful companion.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Like the Shih Tzu, Pekingese have a flat face and a luxurious coat. Both breeds are small in size and share a strong bond with their families.
They both can also be quite stubborn, requiring patience and consistency in training.
- Their flat faces
- Loyal to their loved ones
- Both can be a bit stubborn
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The Pekingese is more independent and often requires a patient, experienced owner to handle its stubborn nature.
The breed’s coat is also thicker and requires more grooming than the Shih Tzu. Pekingese dogs may be more prone to certain health issues, such as breathing problems, due to their flat faces.
- Their coat is a bit more high-maintenance
- They have even flatter faces on average compared to Shih Tzus, which causes more breathing problems
3. Chinese Imperial Dog
About the Chinese Imperial Dog
| Origins | China |
| Size | Small, typically under 9 pounds |
| Coat | Long, silky |
| Personality | Friendly, affectionate, and playful |
The Chinese Imperial Dog, also known as the Imperial Shih Tzu, is a small, friendly, and affectionate breed. The Chinese Imperial Dog is often considered a smaller version of the Shih Tzu.
With its long, silky coat and playful nature, this breed is an excellent companion for individuals or families. This breed is well-suited for apartment living and enjoys being close to its owner, often following them around the house.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
The Chinese Imperial Dog shares many similarities with the Shih Tzu, including its appearance, love for companionship, and playfulness.
Both breeds have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
- Playfulness
- Appearance
- Love for companionship
- Both make great apartment dogs
- Long silky coats that require regular grooming
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The main difference between the Chinese Imperial Dog and the Shih Tzu is their size, with the Shih Tzu being a bit bigger than the Chinese Imperial Dog.
Additionally, Chinese Imperial Dogs may be less prone to certain health issues, as their smaller size can sometimes result in fewer structural problems.
- It is smaller
- They are considered a bit healthier than Shih Tzus
4. Havanese
About the Havanese
| Origin | Cuba |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Silky, wavy, or curly |
| Personality | Social, intelligent, and easily trainable |
The Havanese is a small breed originating from Cuba, known for its silky, wavy, or curly coat and social, intelligent personality. It’s actually the national dog of Cuba and has a history dating back to the 1500s. It is closely related to the Bichon family of dogs and shares many of their endearing qualities.
This breed is adaptable and easily trainable, making it a fantastic companion for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Havanese and the Shih Tzu are small breeds with a friendly and affectionate nature. They have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to maintain their appearance.
The two breeds also share a love for companionship and thrive on human interaction.
- Great companion dogs
- Both have high-maintenance coats
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The Havanese’s coat texture can be wavy or curly, unlike the Shih Tzu’s straighter coat. Additionally, the Havanese tends to have a higher energy level, requiring more exercise and mental stimulation. Due to their intelligence, Havanese dogs are generally more trainable than Shih Tzus.
- A wavier or curlier coat
- Easier to train than Shih Tzus
- Higher energy than Shih Tzus
5. Maltese
About the Maltese
| Origin | Mediterranean region |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Long, silky, and white |
| Personality | Affectionate, intelligent, and lively |
The Maltese is a small breed originating from the Mediterranean region, known for its long, silky, white coat and affectionate, intelligent personality. Maltese dogs have a history dating back over 2,000 years and have been cherished as lapdogs throughout the ages.
This breed is lively, making it a wonderful companion for families or individuals looking for an energetic, loving pet. They are known for their elegant appearance and ability to charm their owners with their playful antics.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Maltese and the Shih Tzu have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to maintain their beauty.
These breeds are also affectionate, intelligent, and enjoy human companionship. They’re both huge lap dogs. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living.
- Both require regular grooming
- Highly affectionate & love people (lap dogs)
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The main difference between the Maltese and the Shih Tzu is the color of their coat, with the Maltese always being white.
Additionally, Maltese dogs may have slightly more energy than Shih Tzus, requiring more exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
- A bit more energetic than Shih Tzus
- Shih Tzus come in more colors than Malteses
6. Coton de Tulear
About the Coton de Tulear
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Soft, cotton-like |
| Personality | Affectionate, social, and adaptable |
The Coton de Tulear, hailing from Madagascar, is a small breed known for its soft, cotton-like coat and affectionate, social personality. Coton de Tulears have a unique appearance, with their white or tri-colored coat giving them a distinct look.
This breed is adaptable and thrives in various living situations, making it a great companion for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners. They are also known for their cheerful and outgoing demeanor, making them a popular choice for therapy work.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Coton de Tulear and the Shih Tzu are small, affectionate breeds that enjoy human companionship.
Their coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain their soft texture. Both breeds are well-suited for apartment living and are adaptable to various environments.
- Both are small
- Both require regular grooming
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The primary difference between the Coton de Tulear and the Shih Tzu is the texture of their coats, with the Coton’s being soft and cotton-like.
Additionally, the Coton de Tulear may have a slightly more energetic and outgoing personality than the Shih Tzu.
- The Coton has a softer coat than the Shih Tzu
- The Coton de Tulear is more energetic than the Shih Tzu
7. Bolognese
About the Bolognese
| Origin | Italy |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Long, fluffy, and white |
| Personality | Devoted, intelligent, and playful |
The Bolognese, originating from Italy, is a small breed known for its long, fluffy, white coat and devoted, intelligent personality. The Bolognese is part of the Bichon family of dogs and has a history dating back to the Roman Empire.
They are known for their elegant appearance and ability to charm their owners with their loving nature. This breed is playful and forms strong bonds with its owner, making it an excellent companion for families or individuals.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Bolognese and the Shih Tzu are small breeds with a friendly and affectionate nature. They have long, fluffy coats that require regular grooming to maintain their appearance. The two breeds also share a love for companionship and thrive on human interaction.
- Both are small
- Friendly, playful, and loving
- Both require regular grooming
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The Bolognese’s coat is fluffier and less silky than the Shih Tzu’s coat. Additionally, Bolognese dogs may be more devoted to their owners and form stronger bonds, while Shih Tzus may be slightly more independent.
- Fluffier coat than the Shih Tzu
- They are less independent than Shih Tzus & tend to have stronger bonds with their owners
8. Yorkshire Terrier
About the Yorkshire Terrier
| Origin | England |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Long, silky, and blue-tan |
| Personality | Bold, intelligent, and energetic |
The Yorkshire Terrier — commonly known as the Yorkie — is a small breed that hails from England known for its long, silky, blue-tan coat and bold, intelligent personality. Yorkshire Terriers were initially bred as rat catchers in the 19th century, but their charming appearance and lively nature soon made them popular as companion pets.
This breed is energetic and requires regular exercise, making it a great companion for active individuals or families.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Yorkshire Terrier and the Shih Tzu have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to maintain their appearance. These breeds are also intelligent and enjoy human companionship, thriving in homes where they can receive plenty of attention.
- Love human companionship & attention
- Both have long, silky coats that require regular grooming
Differences from the Shih Tzu
Yorkshire Terriers are generally more energetic than Shih Tzus and require more exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Additionally, their coat color is distinctively different, with the Yorkie’s blue-tan coat setting them apart from the various colors seen in Shih Tzus.
- Yorkies tend to be more energetic
- Yorkies are notorious for barking a lot
9. Pomeranian
About the Pomeranian
| Origin | Germany/Poland |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Thick, fluffy, and double-coated |
| Personality | Confident, lively, and extroverted |
The Pomeranian, originating from Germany and Poland, is a small breed known for its thick, fluffy, double-coated fur and confident, lively personality. Pomeranians have a history dating back several centuries and were once much larger dogs used for herding and sled pulling.
This breed is extroverted and thrives in homes where it can receive plenty of attention and socialization. Their appearance and size have evolved over time, but their energetic and charming nature has remained consistent.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Pomeranian and the Shih Tzu are small breeds with a love for human companionship. Their coats require regular grooming to maintain their fluffy appearance, and both breeds are well-suited for apartment living due to their small size.
- Both require regular grooming
- Both make great apartment dogs
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The Pomeranian’s coat is thicker and fluffier than the Shih Tzu’s coat, giving it a distinct appearance. Additionally, Pomeranians tend to be more confident and extroverted, while Shih Tzus may be more laid-back and docile.
- They have thicker coats than Shih Tzus
- Shih Tzus are more laid-back
10. Japanese Chin
About the Japanese Chin
| Origin | Japan/China |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Silky, medium-length |
| Personality | Affectionate, elegant, and charming |
The Japanese Chin, with origins in both Japan and China, is a small breed known for its silky, medium-length coat and affectionate, elegant personality. Japanese Chins have a history dating back over a thousand years and were once considered a symbol of nobility.
This breed is charming and enjoys being pampered, making it an excellent companion for those who appreciate a refined, loving pet. They have been cherished as companion pets throughout the ages and continue to be popular for their graceful demeanor.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Japanese Chin and the Shih Tzu have silky coats that require regular grooming to maintain their appearance.
These breeds are affectionate, intelligent, and enjoy human companionship, making them well-suited for families or individuals who appreciate a loving pet.
- Great family dogs
- Both require regular grooming
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The main difference between the Japanese Chin and the Shih Tzu is their appearance, with the Chin having a more distinctive face, including large, expressive eyes.
Additionally, Japanese Chins may have a more elegant and regal demeanor compared to the Shih Tzu.
11. Löwchen (Little Lion Dog)
About the Lowchen
| Origin | France/Germany |
| Size | Small |
| Coat | Long, wavy, and dense |
| Personality | Playful, affectionate, and intelligent |
The Lowchen, originating from France and Germany, is a small breed known for its long, wavy, dense coat and playful, affectionate personality. Lowchens have a history dating back to the 15th century and were once popular among European nobility.
Their unique “lion” cut, featuring a shaved hindquarters and a full mane, adds to their distinctive appearance.This breed is intelligent and adapts well to various living situations, making it an excellent companion for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners. This breed is intelligent and adapts well to various living situations, making it an excellent companion for families, seniors, and first-time dog owners.
Similarities to the Shih Tzu
Both the Lowchen and the Shih Tzu have long coats that require regular grooming to maintain their appearance.
These breeds are affectionate, intelligent, and enjoy human companionship, making them well-suited for various living situations.
Differences from the Shih Tzu
The Lowchen’s coat is wavier and denser than the Shih Tzu’s coat. Additionally, Lowchens are often groomed in a distinctive “lion” cut, setting them apart from the Shih Tzu in appearance.
While both breeds are intelligent, Lowchens may be slightly easier to train due to their eagerness to please their owners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several dog breeds that share similarities with the Shih Tzu, each offering unique qualities and characteristics.
Recap of these 11 lookalikes
These 11 Shih Tzu Lookalikes include the Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Chinese Imperial Dog, Havanese, Maltese, Coton de Tulear, Bolognese, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Japanese Chin, and Lowchen.
Which breed is right for me?!
When choosing the best Shih Tzu lookalike breed for you, consider factors such as grooming requirements, energy levels, and temperament to find the perfect match for your lifestyle and preferences.
Each of these breeds can make a wonderful companion, offering love and affection in their own unique way.
All dogs are unique
As a final thought, remember that every dog is an individual, and their personality can be influenced by factors such as upbringing, socialization, and training.
Take your time to get to know each breed and consult reputable breeders or rescue organizations to ensure you find the perfect furry friend to join your family.