What is the difference between a Portuguese Water Dog and a Shih Tzu?

The Portuguese Water Dog is 35–60 lbs, 17–23 in sized while the Shih Tzu is 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in sized. They differ in size (35–60 lbs, 17–23 in vs 9–16 lbs, 9–11 in), lifespan (11–13 years vs 10–18 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Portuguese Water Dog or Shih Tzu?

Portuguese Water Dog is generally good with kids. Shih Tzu is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Portuguese Water Dog or Shih Tzu?

The Portuguese Water Dog has a lifespan of 11–13 years while the Shih Tzu has a lifespan of 10–18 years.

Portuguese Water Dog vs Shih Tzu — Breed Comparison

About the Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog was developed centuries ago along Portugal's coast, where it served as an indispensable fisherman's companion — herding fish into nets, retrieving lost tackle, and swimming messages between boats. These robust, medium-sized dogs stand 17 to 23 inches tall and weigh 35 to 60 pounds, with a strong, muscular build optimized for swimming. Their coat comes in two varieties — curly or wavy — in black, white, brown, or combinations thereof, and grows continuously like human hair rather than shedding seasonally.

Temperament & Personality

Portuguese Water Dogs are spirited, obedient, and deeply bonded to their families — they thrive on being included in activities and do not do well relegated to the backyard. They are playful and patient with children, typically friendly with other dogs, and possess an enthusiasm for life that is both infectious and demanding. Their intelligence and eagerness to work make them highly trainable, though they need a job or purpose to remain content.

Pros

Low-shedding, hypoallergenic-type coat suitable for many allergy sufferers
Outstanding swimming ability and love of water activities
Highly trainable, biddable, and eager to please
Robust health with a lifespan of 11 to 13 years

Cons

High exercise demands — needs vigorous daily activity including swimming when possible
Coat requires regular professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks
Can become mouthy and destructive if under-stimulated or left alone too long
Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and GM1 storage disease

A water-loving, people-devoted companion awaits — explore Portuguese Water Dog listings on Puplister.

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.

Portuguese Water Dog vs Shih Tzu