Dachshund vs Shih Tzu
The Dachshund was bred for tracking badgers and rabbits by scent; the Shih Tzu was bred for companionship. The Dachshund is small to medium by weight; the Shih Tzu is small. The Dachshund has a coat that comes in varieties, needing light to regular grooming; the Shih Tzu, long hair, needing regular grooming. The Dachshund sheds anywhere from less than most to some; the Shih Tzu, less than most. The Dachshund needs a good daily walk; the Shih Tzu, lighter exercise.
Side by side
| Dachshund | Shih Tzu | |
|---|---|---|
| Bred for | Tracking badgers and rabbits by scent | Companionship |
| Size | Small to medium | Small |
| Weight | 16 to 32 lb | 10 to 18 lb |
| Coat | By variety: short and smooth, silky and feathered, or wiry | Long hair |
| Grooming | Light to regular | Regular brushing, and trims for some coats |
| Shedding | Lower to moderate | Less than most |
| Exercise | A good daily walk | Lighter exercise |
| Voice | Its descriptions mention barking | Not in its sources |
| In license records | 4,048 | 8,276 |
What people name them
The most common names in the pet license records we use.
From pet license records published by New York City, Seattle, Cambridge in Massachusetts, and Allegheny County in Pennsylvania.
General information to help you narrow your choices. Every animal is an individual; meet them first. Check your lease and local rules.
Breed facts: Wikidata and each breed's Wikipedia article, read 2026-10-04. The ratings are ours, from those facts; how we match is on the breed fit quiz.
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