Shih Tzu vs Golden Retriever: Is Shih Tzu Better Than Golden Retriever?

Is Shih Tzu better than Golden Retriever? The answer isn’t straightforward. Both breeds have unique qualities that make them excellent companions, but the “better” choice depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and personal preferences.

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate lap dogs perfect for apartment living, while Golden Retrievers are larger, energetic family dogs ideal for active households with outdoor space.

In this post, you will have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of both Shih Tzus and Golden Retrievers.

We’ll look into their personalities, care requirements, health concerns, and suitability for different types of owners.

Which Dog Breed Is Better, Golden Retriever or Shih Tzu?

The choice between a Golden Retriever and a Shih Tzu boils down to your personal needs and lifestyle. Let’s break down the key factors:

1. Size
   • Golden Retriever: Large (55-75 pounds)
   • Shih Tzu: Small (9-16 pounds)
2. Energy Level
   • Golden Retriever: High
   • Shih Tzu: Moderate
3. Space Requirements
   • Golden Retriever: Needs a yard or frequent outdoor exercise
   • Shih Tzu: Suitable for apartments
4. Grooming Needs
   • Golden Retriever: Moderate to high
   • Shih Tzu: High
5. Trainability
   • Golden Retriever: Highly trainable
   • Shih Tzu: Can be stubborn
6. Life Expectancy
   • Golden Retriever: 10-12 years
   • Shih Tzu: 10-18 years
7. Cost of Ownership
   • Golden Retriever: Higher (food, vet bills)
   • Shih Tzu: Lower
8. Shedding
   • Golden Retriever: Heavy shedder
   • Shih Tzu: Low shedding
9. Adaptability
   • Golden Retriever: Adapts well to families
   • Shih Tzu: Adapts well to various living situations
10. Exercise Needs
    • Golden Retriever: High (1-2 hours daily)
    • Shih Tzu: Moderate (30 minutes daily)

Golden Retriever: The Family-Friendly Gentle Giant

Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They’re often described as the perfect family dog due to their patience with children and their eagerness to please.

Here’s what you need to know about Goldens:

Personality Traits

• Friendly and outgoing
• Patient with children
• Intelligent and easy to train
• Loves to play and swim
• Thrives on human companionship

Exercise Requirements

Golden Retrievers need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy:

• Daily walks (at least 1 hour)
• Fetch games
• Swimming
• Agility training

Grooming Needs

These dogs have a thick, water-repellent double coat that requires regular grooming:

• Brush 2-3 times a week
• Bathe monthly
• Trim nails regularly
• Clean ears weekly

Health Concerns

Like many purebred dogs, Golden Retrievers are prone to certain health issues:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Eye problems (cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy)
• Cancer (higher risk compared to some other breeds)
• Heart problems

Ideal Living Situation

Golden Retrievers do best in homes with:

• A yard for play and exercise
• Active families who can provide plenty of attention and exercise
• Homes without small pets (due to their hunting instincts)

Shih Tzu: The Regal Lap Dog

Shih Tzus, with their flowing coats and charming personalities, have been beloved companions for centuries. Here’s what you should know about this breed:

Personality Traits

• Affectionate and loving
• Generally good with children and other pets
• Can be stubborn but responds well to positive reinforcement
• Enjoys being a lap dog
• Alert and makes a good watchdog

Exercise Requirements

Shih Tzus have moderate exercise needs:

• Daily walks (15-30 minutes)
• Indoor play sessions
• Mental stimulation through toys and games

Grooming Needs

The Shih Tzu’s long, silky coat requires significant grooming:

• Daily brushing to prevent mats
• Regular baths (every 3-4 weeks)
• Frequent professional grooming (every 6-8 weeks)
• Daily eye and face cleaning

Health Concerns

Shih Tzus may face these health issues:

• Brachycephalic syndrome (due to their flat faces)
• Eye problems (cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy)
• Hip dysplasia
• Dental issues

Ideal Living Situation

Shih Tzus adapt well to various living situations:

• Apartments or houses
• Families with children or seniors
• Homes with other pets
• Urban or suburban environments

Which Dog Is Better Than a Golden Retriever?

It’s challenging to say that any dog is objectively “better” than a Golden Retriever, as they’re beloved for good reasons.

However, some breeds might be more suitable for certain situations:

1. For Apartment Living: Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
2. For Allergy Sufferers: Poodle, Bichon Frise, or Portuguese Water Dog
3. For Lower Exercise Needs: Basset Hound, Bulldog, or Greyhound
4. For Longer Lifespan: Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, or Jack Russell Terrier
5. For Lower Grooming Needs: Beagle, Vizsla, or Weimaraner

The “better” dog depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Do Golden Retrievers and Shih Tzus Get Along?

Generally, Golden Retrievers and Shih Tzus can get along well when properly introduced and socialized. Here’s why:

1. Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly nature and patience with other dogs.
2. Shih Tzus are typically good-natured and can adapt to living with other pets.
3. The size difference might actually work in their favor, as Goldens are gentle with smaller dogs.

To help them get along:

• Introduce them gradually in a neutral space
• Supervise their interactions, especially at first
• Provide separate feeding areas
• Ensure each dog has their own bed and toys
• Give equal attention to both dogs

Individual personalities play a significant role in how well they’ll get along.

What Are the Advantages of Shih Tzu Dogs?

Shih Tzus offer several advantages that make them popular pets:

1. Size: Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living or homes with limited space.
2. Adaptability: They adjust well to various living situations and family dynamics.
3. Low Shedding: They’re often considered hypoallergenic, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.
4. Longevity: With proper care, Shih Tzus can live up to 18 years.
5. Affectionate Nature: They’re known for their loving and loyal personalities.
6. Good with Children: When properly socialized, they’re patient and gentle with kids.
7. Low Exercise Needs: They don’t require extensive exercise, making them suitable for less active owners.
8. Alert: They make good watchdogs, alerting owners to visitors or unusual noises.
9. Travel-Friendly: Their small size makes them easy to travel with.
10. Quiet: They’re not known for excessive barking, making them good neighbors.

What Is the Common Problem with Shih Tzu?

While Shih Tzus have many positive traits, they also come with some common issues:

1. Respiratory Issues: Their flat faces can lead to breathing problems, especially in hot or humid weather.
2. Eye Problems: Their protruding eyes are prone to injuries and infections.
3. Dental Issues: Their small mouths can lead to overcrowding and dental disease.
4. Grooming Demands: Their long coats require daily brushing and regular professional grooming.
5. Stubbornness: They can be challenging to train due to their independent nature.
6. Housetraining Difficulties: They can be slow to housetrain compared to some other breeds.
7. Separation Anxiety: They form strong bonds with their owners and may become anxious when left alone.
8. Temperature Sensitivity: They don’t tolerate extreme temperatures well.
9. Fragility: Their small size makes them vulnerable to injury, especially with rougher play.
10. Tear Staining: The area around their eyes often develops brownish stains due to tear production.

What Is the Best Dog to Get with a Golden Retriever?

If you’re looking to add a second dog to your home with a Golden Retriever, consider these breeds:

1. Labrador Retriever: Similar energy levels and temperament.
2. Beagle: Playful and friendly, with a size that complements a Golden.
3. Poodle: Intelligent and active, they can keep up with a Golden’s energy.
4. Collie: Gentle and loyal, they share many personality traits with Goldens.
5. Boxer: Energetic and playful, they make great playmates for Goldens.
6. Another Golden Retriever: They often do well in pairs.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle and affectionate, they can balance a Golden’s energy.
8. Irish Setter: Similar in size and energy level to Goldens.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog: Gentle giants that often get along well with Goldens.
10. Mixed Breed: A rescue dog with a compatible temperament can be a great choice.

Conclusion: Making Your Choice

Choosing between a Shih Tzu and a Golden Retriever isn’t about which breed is objectively “better,” but rather which one fits your lifestyle and preferences best.

Choose a Shih Tzu if you:

• Live in an apartment or have limited space
• Want a low-shedding, potentially hypoallergenic dog
• Prefer a small lap dog
• Don’t mind regular grooming sessions
• Have a less active lifestyle

Choose a Golden Retriever if you:

• Have a yard or access to outdoor spaces
• Want an energetic, playful companion
• Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or swimming
• Have an active family that can provide plenty of exercise
• Don’t mind some shedding and moderate grooming needs

Both breeds can make wonderful pets when given proper care, training, and love.

Consider your living situation, activity level, and long-term commitment before making your decision.

Whichever breed you choose, you’ll gain a loyal and loving companion.