Great Pyrenees vs Shih Tzu

Which dog breed is right for you?

Great Pyrenees

Size
85–160 lbs, 25–32 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Calm Patient Gentle Protective

Shih Tzu

Size
9–16 lbs, 9–11 in
Lifespan
10–18 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Affectionate Playful Outgoing Loyal

About the Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees — named for the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain where they guarded flocks for centuries — is a majestic, powerful livestock guardian with roots stretching back thousands of years to ancient Asia Minor. Standing 25–32 inches tall and weighing 85–115 pounds, these imposing dogs wear a thick, weather-resistant double coat that is predominantly white, sometimes with markings of badger, gray, reddish-brown, or tan. Their calm, regal bearing and abundant white coat give them an almost bear-like appearance that commands respect.

Temperament & Personality

Great Pyrenees are independent, patient, and serenely confident — bred for millennia to make their own decisions while guarding flocks without human direction. They are gentle and affectionate with their families, particularly protective of children, whom they tend to view as part of their "flock." However, their independent guardian nature means they are not eager-to-please dogs — they will consider your commands and decide whether compliance serves their protective mission.

Pros

  • Exceptional livestock and property guardian — naturally protective without aggression training
  • Gentle and patient with children — instinctively nurturing toward young family members
  • Calm, low-energy indoors — content to rest and observe during the day
  • Thick coat insulates against both extreme cold and moderate heat

Cons

  • Notorious wanderers — will roam far from home if not contained by secure fencing
  • Heavy nocturnal barking — bred to bark at predators through the night, which disturbs neighbors
  • Extremely independent and stubborn — among the most difficult breeds to obedience train
  • Massive shedding — the thick undercoat blows seasonally and produces enormous quantities of loose fur

If you have the space and patience for a noble guardian, find Great Pyrenees on Puplister today.

About the Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu — meaning "lion dog" in Mandarin — was bred for centuries within the walls of the Chinese imperial palace, likely from crosses between the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. These small, sturdy dogs stand 9 to 10.5 inches tall and weigh 9 to 16 pounds, with a slightly longer body than they are tall and a proud, flowing gait. Their luxurious double coat grows continuously and can reach floor length, coming in virtually every color and combination, with a distinctive chrysanthemum-like pattern on the face where hair grows in all directions.

Temperament & Personality

Shih Tzus are affectionate, outgoing, and delightfully playful — bred solely as companion dogs, they have centuries of experience perfecting the art of being a devoted lapdog. They are friendly with nearly everyone, including children, strangers, and other pets, making them one of the most sociable toy breeds available. Shih Tzus are happy, adaptable, and surprisingly sturdy for their size, with a mischievous charm that keeps their families entertained.

Pros

  • Exceptionally friendly and sociable with people of all ages and other animals
  • Low exercise requirements — short walks and indoor play satisfy their needs
  • Minimal shedding when coat is kept in a shorter "puppy clip"
  • Adaptable and content in apartments, condos, and any living situation

Cons

  • Long coat demands daily brushing or frequent professional grooming
  • Brachycephalic structure contributes to breathing issues and heat intolerance
  • Prone to eye problems (proptosis, corneal ulcers), ear infections, and dental disease
  • Can be stubborn about housetraining — patience and consistency are essential

A Shih Tzu's sole mission in life is to love and be loved — find yours waiting on Puplister today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Great Pyrenees and a Shih Tzu?
The Great Pyrenees is 85–160 lbs, 25–32 in sized while the Shih Tzu is 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in sized. They differ in size (85–160 lbs, 25–32 in vs 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 10–18 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Great Pyrenees or Shih Tzu?
Great Pyrenees is generally good with kids. Shih Tzu is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Great Pyrenees or Shih Tzu?
The Great Pyrenees has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10–18 years.

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