Pomeranian vs Shih Tzu
Everything we know about the Pomeranian and the Shih Tzu, in the same order for both. Every figure comes from our own breed guides — follow the links under each column to read the detail.
| Trait | Pomeranian | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 15–18 cm (6–7 in) | 23–28 cm (9–11 in) |
| Weight | 1.4–3.2 kg (3–7 lb) | 4–7 kg (9–16 lb) |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 10–16 years |
| Coat | Long, double, with a dense undercoat | Long, double, silky |
| Shedding | High — noticeable year-round, heavy when the coat blows | Low — hair sheds into the coat, not onto the floor |
| Grooming | Brush several times a week, daily during a moult; bath every 3–4 weeks | Daily brushing; professional groom every 6–8 weeks |
| Exercise | 30–45 min/day | 20–40 min/day |
| Good with | Older children, other dogs and cats with proper introduction | Children, other dogs, cats with proper introduction |
Which one suits you
Pomeranian
Right for you if…
- You live in a flat and want a dog that genuinely fits one
- You want an alert, characterful little dog rather than a quiet lap-warmer
- You will brush several times a week, and daily when the coat blows
- You can live with a dog that barks at things you cannot see
- You want a small breed that still tends to live 12–16 years
Wrong for you if…
- You have a toddler — a 3 lb dog is easily hurt by rough play
- You need a quiet dog, or you share thin walls with neighbours
- You want a coat you can ignore between grooms
- You want a dog that shrugs off being left alone all day
- You dislike hair on dark clothes and furniture
Shih Tzu
Right for you if…
- You are home most of the day, or can arrange company
- You will brush daily, not weekly — this is the whole deal
- You want a companion dog rather than a hiking partner
- You live in a flat or a house without a garden
Wrong for you if…
- You are out at work ten hours a day
- You want a low-maintenance coat
- You want an off-lead running or hiking companion
- You cannot budget for grooming every 6–8 weeks