What is the difference between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a Shih Tzu?

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 25–30 lbs, 10–12 in sized while the Shih Tzu is 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in sized. They differ in size (25–30 lbs, 10–12 in vs 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in), lifespan (12–13 years vs 10–18 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Pembroke Welsh Corgi or Shih Tzu?

Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally good with kids. Shih Tzu is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Pembroke Welsh Corgi or Shih Tzu?

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a lifespan of 12–13 years while the Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10–18 years.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Shih Tzu — Breed Comparison

About the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales, around the 10th century — brought by Flemish weavers and refined into an agile cattle-herding dog. These low-set, athletic dogs stand 10 to 12 inches tall and weigh 25 to 30 pounds, with surprisingly powerful legs and a deep chest for their compact frame. Their medium-length, weather-resistant double coat comes in red, sable, fawn, or black and tan, often with characteristic white markings.

Temperament & Personality

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are bold, outgoing, and surprisingly athletic — combining the work ethic of a herding dog with the affectionate nature of a devoted companion. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable, and they typically adore children and other pets in the household. Their herding instinct may lead them to nip at heels during play, a behavior that should be redirected early through training.

Pros

Highly intelligent and eager to learn — excels in obedience and herding trials
Manageable size with the personality and athleticism of a much larger dog
Adaptable to apartments, houses, and farms alike
Affectionate and entertaining — known for their expressive faces and playful antics

Cons

Heavy shedding year-round with massive blowouts twice yearly
Prone to obesity, which severely exacerbates spinal issues in their long backs
Susceptible to intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy
Herding instinct can lead to nipping at children's ankles and chasing moving objects

Corgis have captured hearts worldwide — and yours might be waiting on Puplister right now.

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.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Shih Tzu