Do you want a Shih Tzu or pug? It’s a tough question, but we’ll help you decide. We compare the Shih Tzu and pug breeds so that you can make an informed decision on which one might be best for your family.
Table of Contents
A little bit about the dog you are comparing
Shih Tzus are tiny lion-like dogs with long, flowing locks. They have pleasant personalities and enjoy being around people. Shih Tzus are obedient, but they may be stubborn on occasion. Shih Tzus require regular grooming to keep their coats looking good.
The pug-faced dog from Mrs. Piggle Wiggle’s stories is a type of pug. The breed is recognized for its excellent disposition and intellect, making them easy to train. However, because they were developed as lapdogs, many of them still consider it their duty to sit on your lap (and stay there). Their small snout necessitates more attention in preventing health issues.
Shih Tzu: A small breed with lots of personalities.
The Shih Tzu is a tiny dog breed that is recognized for its big personality. These dogs are obedient, but they can be obstinate at times. To keep their long hair looking healthy and lion-like, they require regular grooming. Because they were developed as lapdogs, many Shih Tzus still believe it is their duty to sit on your lap (and stay there). Their Shih Tzu’s short snout necessitates more attention to avoid health issues.
Read Our Article About Why are Shih Tzu so aggressive?
Pug: A medium-sized breed, good for children
The pug is a robust-looking dog with the unmistakable pug-faced dog from Mrs. Piggle Wiggle’s tales as its inspiration. The breed is known for having a calm temperament and intellect, which makes them easy on the ear. They are, nevertheless, bred as lapdogs, so many of them still feel it is their duty to sit on your lap (and stay there). Their small noses need extra attention in order to avoid health problems. Shih Tzus have flat faces due to breathing issues.

Man feeding his pet dog on sofa at home
Grooming: how to care for each dog
Shih Tzus require frequent grooming to keep their long hair looking healthy and lion-like. This includes brushing at least once a day, as well as trimming every few months. Shih Tzu’s Shih Tzu also needs shihuahuas’ baths and visits to the groomer for their nails to be trimmed on occasion.
Pugs, on the other hand, require less maintenance than Shih Tzus. You’ll still want to brush them at least once a week and trim their nails every month or two, but they can go longer between bathes than Shih Tzus. Because of their short snouts, pugs are more susceptible to breathing difficulties than Shih Tzus due to their flat faces.
Temperament: who will the dog be good for?
The Shih Tzu is a docile breed that, while obedient, maybe obstinate at times. To keep their lengthy locks looking healthy and lion-like, they must be groomed on a regular basis. Because they were developed as lapdogs, many Shih Tzus still consider it their duty to sit in your lap (and remain there). Their Shih Tzu’s short snout necessitates greater attention to prevent health issues. The pug, on the other hand, is recognized for its even temperament and intellect, making them simple to train.
Activity Levels: how much does each dog need to be outside, play inside, etc.
Shih Tzus love to be around people and are constantly active. They need regular exercise Shih Tzu’s Shih Tzus in the form of long walks, trips to the park, or even a play date with another dog at home. Because Shih Tzus were bred as lapdogs, many of them still think it is their job to sit on your lap (and stay there). Their short snout requires extra care in preventing health problems. Pugs don’t require nearly as much activity outside shihhuahuas house; however, you should take them for a walk every day if possible so that they can get some fresh air and release energy.

Man feeding his pet dog on sofa at home
Conclusion: Shih Tzu or pug Which one will you choose?
When it comes to Shih Tzu or pug, which one will you choose? Both breeds have their own unique set of pros and cons, so it is important to consider what is most important to you before making a decision. If you are looking for a small breed that loves chihuahuas to be around people and needs lots of exercises, the Shih Tzu is perfect for you. However, if you are looking chihuahuas, a dog that doesn’t require as much activity and has an even temperament, the pug may be better suited for your lifestyle. No matter which breed you choose, make sure shihhuahuas provide them with plenty of love and attention!
FAQ
Q: What size will these dogs be?
Shih Tzus are a small breed, while pugs are medium-sized.
Q: How much exercise does each dog need?
Shih Tzus need regular exercise in the form of long walks, trips to the park, or even a play date with another Shih Tzus’ at home. Pugs don’t require as much activity outside of the house