Pekingese and Shih Tzus are small, adorable dogs that are firm favorites as family pets. They have a similar appearance, and it’s easy for anyone unfamiliar with the breeds to confuse the two. But don’t worry, when it comes to Pekingese vs Shih Tzu, some key differences will make it much easier to tell them apart.
In this article, we’ll share in detail everything you need to know about Pekingese and Shih Tzus, including where they come from and what their behavior and temperament are. We’ll also discuss their appearance, coat types, and energy levels. Join us as we discover all of the differences between Pekingese and Shih Tzus.
This post was updated on November 10, 2025 to clarify the origin of the Shih Tzu, difference in coat types, the Pekingese “mane”, differences in sociability, and history of the Pekingese as a watchdog.
Comparing Pekingese and Shih Tzu
Pekingese and Shih Tzus are both dogs that are equally comfortable in a house as they are in the show ring. Both breeds are popular as pets as well as for show. They both have thick, impressive coats, small but stocky bodies, and excellent temperaments. However, there are still some distinct differences between them.
| Shih Tzu | Pekingese | |
| Origin | Ancestors from Tibet Perfected in China Refined in England after the 1930s | China |
| Size | Weight – 8 to 16 pounds Height – 8 to 11 inches | Weight – 6 to 14 pounds Height – 6 to 9 inches |
| Body | Uniform body, broad and deep chest | Heavy front and lighter rear |
| Coat | luxurious, flowing, and sheds very little | Dense, coarse, and sheds a lot |
| Face | Broad with distinguishable snout and no wrinkles | Flat face with short snout and wrinkles |
| Legs | Straight legs, front and rear balanced | Front legs short and bowed, rear legs closer together and thinner |
| Temperament | Affectionate, Happy, Outgoing Thrive on companionship | Opinionated, Affectionate More independent Less social with strangers |
| Energy Level | Medium | Low |
| Lifespan | 10 – 16 years | 12 – 15 years |
The 4 Key Differences Between Pekingese and Shih Tzus
Pekingese are best known for their flat faces and short snouts.
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The main differences between Pekingese and Shih Tzus are body shape, face shape, coat, and temperament. Pekingese have a flatter face than Shih Tzus and more wrinkles. They also have a thicker coat and a body that is heavier at the front than it is at the back. Shih Tzus have a long, silky coat, and they shed very little. They also have straight forelegs compared to the bowed legs of the Pekingese.
Let’s discuss all of these differences in more detail below.
Body Shape
Shih Tzus and Pekingese both have small, compact bodies, but their shapes differ quite a lot. Shih Tzus have a typically uniform body with a broad and deep chest. They also have straight legs, with equally balanced fore and hind legs.
Pekingese have a stocky and compact body. However, the body is heavier at the front than at the rear, giving them a uniquely shaped rear that is often described as pear-shaped. Pekingese also have unusual legs as their front legs are short and bowed, and their front feet tend to turn out slightly. The hind legs of Pekingese are thinner and closer together, but their feet point forwards.
Face Shape
Shih Tzus have a broader face which is slightly more rounded in appearance.
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When it comes to Pekingese and Shih Tzus, it’s impossible not to fall in love with them when looking at their cute faces and expressive eyes. However, their faces are one of the most distinguishable differences between them. Pekingese are best known for their adorable flat faces and short snouts. They tend to have a lot of wrinkles on their face which adds to their flattened and squashed appearance.
Shih Tzus have a broader face which is slightly more rounded in appearance. Their snouts are more prominent than that of the Pekingese, and they don’t have any wrinkles on their face. Shih Tzus also tend to have much longer facial hair which can cover their faces.
Coat
Although both breeds have long hair, there are still some slight differences between them. Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that are silky to the touch. They shed very little, which adds to how long the hair can grow. They require regular grooming to prevent their coat from getting matted or tangled.
Pekingese tend to have much thicker, coarser, and more dense hair, and they shed quite a lot. Their fur is also more abundant around the neck, creating a bit of a mane. They too require regular grooming to keep their coats in top condition.
Both dogs can be seen in various coat colors and markings, and both have a particularly fluffy tail that is carried over their back.
Temperament
Shih Tzus are social dogs that are active and outgoing.
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Both Pekingese and Shih Tzus are friendly and affectionate towards people they know. They both tend to grow strongly attached to their owners and love nothing more than to faithfully follow their trusted human around. However, while Shih Tzus thrive on companionship, Pekingese are more independent and less social with strangers, often behaving wary and aloof around new people. In fact, despite their size, Pekingese are actually excellent guard dogs, as they were once bred as palace watchdogs and bark at unfamiliar sounds. Shih Tzus may alert but are less territorial.
The energy levels also differ between these two dogs. Shih Tzus are quite active dogs and have medium energy levels. They are energetic, outgoing and like to play. Pekingese have much lower energy requirements, and it is important to make sure that they don’t overdo things as they are prone to overheating, particularly in hot weather. They are not as playful as Shih Tzus and are more content to spend their day relaxing in comfort.
