Bulldog
The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.
VS
Shih Tzu
An ancient royal companion bred for Chinese emperors, the Shih Tzu is a charming, outgoing lap dog. They are affectionate with everyone they meet and thrive on human companionship.
Quick Answer
Choose Bulldog if you want a great companion. Choose Shih Tzu if you want easier to train and less shedding.
Quick Comparison
Bulldog
Attribute
Shih Tzu
medium
Size
small
18–25 kg (40–55 lbs)
Weight
4–7 kg (9–15 lbs)
31–40 cm (12–16 in)
Height
20–28 cm (8–11 in)
8–10 yrs
Lifespan
10–16 yrsBetter
2/5
Trainability
3/5Better
2/5
Energy
2/5
4/5
Good with Kids
4/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5Better
Better2/5
Grooming
5/5
5/5
Apartment
5/5
1/5
Health
3/5Better
$1,500–$4,000
Price
$500–$2,000Better
Attribute Comparison
Health & Lifespan
Shih Tzu tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Lifespan (years)
8–10
vs10–16Better
Health Robustness
1/5
vs3/5Better
The lifespan difference is significant. Shih Tzus live 10–16 years on average, while Bulldogs live 8–10 years.
Grooming & Shedding
Bulldog sheds more; Shih Tzu is easier to maintain.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Shedding
3/5
vs1/5Better
Grooming Needs
Better2/5
vs5/5
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Bulldog is a prolific shedder (3/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Cost of Ownership
Shih Tzu is less expensive to own annually.
Bulldog
Avg. Purchase$2,750
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$900
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,600
Shih Tzu
Avg. Purchase$1,250
Annual Food$360
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$500
Annual Total$1,310 ✓
Be prepared for sticker shock: the Bulldog costs $1,500–$4,000 from a reputable breeder — significantly more than the Shih Tzu's $500–$2,000. That's a $1,500 difference just to bring your puppy home.
Size & Appearance
Bulldog is the larger breed; Shih Tzu is more compact.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Weight (kg)
18–25
vs4–7
Height (cm)
31–40
vs20–28
These two breeds look nothing alike. The Bulldog is a medium breed at 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs) and 31–40 cm (12–16 in), while the Shih Tzu is a small breed at just 4–7 kg (9–15 lbs) and 20–28 cm (8–11 in).
Temperament & Personality
Both breeds have similar temperaments.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Playfulness
3/5
vs4/5Better
Barking Level
Better2/5
vs3/5
Energy
2/5
vs2/5
If you've spent time around both breeds, the personality gap is unmistakable. A Bulldog greets the world with a docile attitude, whereas a Shih Tzu leans more toward a affectionate approach.
Training & Intelligence
Shih Tzu is generally easier to train.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Trainability
2/5
vs3/5Better
Intelligence
2/5
vs3/5Better
The Shih Tzu has a slight training edge (3/5 vs 2/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Shih Tzu tends to catch on a bit faster.
Family & Social Life
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Good with Kids
4/5
vs4/5
Good with Dogs
3/5
vs4/5Better
Strangers
4/5
vs4/5
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
Exercise & Activity
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Bulldog
Shih Tzu
Energy Level
2/5
vs2/5
Exercise Needs
2/5
vs2/5
Apartment Friendly
5/5
vs5/5
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Bulldog and Shih Tzu need low daily activity (2/5). Neither breed will overwhelm you with exercise demands.
Summary: Which Should You Choose?
On balance, the Shih Tzu has the edge — it's easier to train (3/5 vs 2/5), less shedding (1/5), better health profile (3/5). For most families, the Shih Tzu is the more practical choice, particularly if you value an easy-to-train companion.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bulldog and Shih Tzu are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Bulldog sheds considerably more. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Shih Tzu by roughly $300/year.
Choose Bulldog if...
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Choose Shih Tzu if...
- ✓Long-term health costs concern you — Shih Tzus are generally more robust (3/5 health score).
- ✓You have other dogs at home — Shih Tzus tend to get along well with other dogs (4/5).
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bulldog or Shih Tzu?
The Bulldog scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Shih Tzu at 4/5. The Bulldog is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bulldog or Shih Tzu easier to train?
The Shih Tzu is easier to train, scoring 3/5 versus the Bulldog's 2/5. The Shih Tzu's forgiving nature makes it ideal for beginners.
Which costs more, a Bulldog or Shih Tzu?
A Bulldog puppy costs $1,500–$4,000 while a Shih Tzu costs $500–$2,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,600 for the Bulldog and $1,310 for the Shih Tzu. The Bulldog is the more expensive breed to own long-term.
Do Bulldogs or Shih Tzus live longer?
The Bulldog lives 8–10 years on average, while the Shih Tzu lives 10–16 years. The Shih Tzu tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bulldog or Shih Tzu live in an apartment?
The Bulldog is equally suited for apartments (5/5) as the Shih Tzu (5/5). The Bulldog is one of our top picks for apartment living.