Labrador Retriever vs Shih Tzu
A side-by-side look at temperament, needs, and who each pet suits — to help you choose.
Side by side
| 🦮 Labrador Retriever | 🐕 Shih Tzu | |
|---|---|---|
| Dog | Type | Dog |
| Large | Size | Tiny |
| 10–12 years | Lifespan | 10–16 years |
Key differences at a glance
- Energy — 🦮 Labrador Retriever (5 / 2)
- Trainability — 🦮 Labrador Retriever (5 / 2)
- Grooming needs — 🐕 Shih Tzu (2 / 5)
- Shedding — 🦮 Labrador Retriever (4 / 1)
- Space needed — 🦮 Labrador Retriever (4 / 1)
🤔Which is right for you?
🦮 Choose Labrador Retriever if you want
- Energy
- Trainability
- Shedding
🐕 Choose Shih Tzu if you want
- Grooming needs
- Care difficulty
- Copes alone
🧭Temperament & needs
🦮 Labrador Retriever🐕 Shih Tzu
Energy
5 / 2
Affection
5 / 5
Sociability
5 / 4
Good with kids
5 / 4
Good with pets
5 / 4
Trainability
5 / 2
Grooming needs
2 / 5
Shedding
4 / 1
Noise
2 / 2
Space needed
4 / 1
Care difficulty
2 / 3
Copes alone
2 / 3
Upkeep cost
3 / 3
❓Frequently asked questions
Should I get a Labrador Retriever or a Shih Tzu?
Choose the Labrador Retriever if you want more energy, trainability, shedding. Choose the Shih Tzu if you prefer more grooming needs, care difficulty, copes alone.