Shih Tzu vs Havanese
A side-by-side look at two breeds people often weigh against each other. Every line below is drawn from each breed's own care profile, so you can compare the honest version rather than the marketing one.
Key differences at a glance
- The Havanese tends to live longer - about 14-16 years, against 10-16 years for the Shih Tzu.
- The Shih Tzu is the bigger dog - a small breed at 4-7 kg, while the Havanese is toy at 3-6 kg.
 Shih Tzu The Shih Tzu is a small, long-coated toy dog with imperial Chinese origins and a personality as elaborate as its show... |  Havanese The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and the only breed native to the island. | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Toy |
| Typical weight | 4-7 kg | 3-6 kg |
| Lifespan | 10-16 years | 14-16 years |
| Temperament | Friendly, sociable, and outgoing. | Friendly, outgoing, and gentle. |
| Exercise needs | Modest. | Modest. |
| Grooming | The long double coat is the highest-maintenance feature. | The long silky coat is the main work. |
| Good with kids | Yes with respectful older children. | Excellent - patient, gentle, sociable. |
| Best suited for | Retirees and singles wanting a constant companion. | Families with children of any age. |
Common questions
Does the Shih Tzu or the Havanese live longer?
On published ranges the Havanese tends to live longer, roughly 14-16 years against 10-16 years for the Shih Tzu. Any individual dog varies with genetics, weight and care.
Is the Shih Tzu bigger than the Havanese?
The Shih Tzu is the larger breed - a small dog at roughly 4-7 kg, where the Havanese is toy at 3-6 kg.
Is the Shih Tzu or the Havanese better with kids?
For the Shih Tzu, our profile notes: Yes with respectful older children. For the Havanese: Excellent - patient, gentle, sociable. With either breed, supervise young children and pick the individual dog's temperament over breed rules.
This is a starting point, not a verdict - the right breed depends on your home, time and experience. Read the full guides for Shih Tzu and Havanese, or compare two other breeds.