What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a Shih Tzu?

The Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized while the Shih Tzu is 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in sized. They differ in size (55–80 lbs, 21–25 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, Labrador Retriever or Shih Tzu?

Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids. Shih Tzu is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Labrador Retriever or Shih Tzu?

The Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10–18 years.

Labrador Retriever vs Shih Tzu — Breed Comparison

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America's most popular dog breed for over three decades — and for good reason. Originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve catch from the icy North Atlantic, the breed was refined in England into the versatile sporting dog we know today. Labs stand 21.5–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with a short, dense, water-resistant double coat in three recognized colors: black, yellow (ranging from fox-red to pale cream), and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited — they greet nearly every person, dog, and situation with unbridled enthusiasm and a wagging tail. They are exceptionally patient and gentle with children, making them one of the most trusted family dogs in the world. Labs are also remarkably intelligent and eager to please, which is why they dominate as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and detection dogs across dozens of working disciplines.

Pros

Outstanding family dog — patient, gentle, and naturally good with children of all ages
Highly trainable and eager to please — consistently ranks among the most obedient breeds
Versatile and adaptable — equally at home on the couch, in the field, or in the water
Friendly and social temperament — gets along well with other dogs, cats, and strangers

Cons

Heavy shedding year-round with major seasonal blowouts — not suited for allergy sufferers
Prone to obesity — Labs are notoriously food-motivated and will eat anything not locked away
High energy in the first 2–3 years — requires substantial daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior
Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse, and progressive retinal atrophy

There's a reason the Lab is the world's favorite dog — discover adoptable Labrador Retrievers 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.

Labrador Retriever vs Shih Tzu