Rottweiler
A powerful and confident guardian, the Rottweiler is deeply loyal and protective of its family. With proper training and socialization, they are calm, obedient, and surprisingly affectionate.
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 Rottweiler if you want easier to train. Choose Shih Tzu if you want better with kids and more apartment-friendly.
Quick Comparison
Rottweiler
Attribute
Shih Tzu
large
Size
small
36–60 kg (79–132 lbs)
Weight
4–7 kg (9–15 lbs)
56–69 cm (22–27 in)
Height
20–28 cm (8–11 in)
8–10 yrs
Lifespan
10–16 yrsBetter
Better4/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Energy
2/5
3/5
Good with Kids
4/5Better
3/5
Shedding
1/5Better
Better2/5
Grooming
5/5
2/5
Apartment
5/5Better
3/5
Health
3/5
$1,000–$3,000
Price
$500–$2,000Better
Attribute Comparison
Size & Appearance
Rottweiler is the larger breed; Shih Tzu is more compact.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Weight (kg)
36–60
vs4–7
Height (cm)
56–69
vs20–28
Size is one of the most obvious contrasts between these breeds. The Rottweiler tips the scales at 36–60 kg (79–132 lbs), dwarfing the Shih Tzu's 4–7 kg (9–15 lbs).
Exercise & Activity
Rottweiler needs more exercise; Shih Tzu is lower-maintenance.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Energy Level
4/5
vs2/5
Exercise Needs
4/5
vs2/5
Apartment Friendly
2/5
vs5/5Better
These breeds sit on opposite ends of the activity spectrum. The Rottweiler (energy: 4/5, exercise: 4/5) was built for action and thrives on physical challenges.
Grooming & Shedding
Rottweiler sheds more; Shih Tzu is easier to maintain.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Shedding
3/5
vs1/5Better
Grooming Needs
Better2/5
vs5/5
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Rottweiler is a prolific shedder (3/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Family & Social Life
Shih Tzu is better suited for families with children.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Good with Kids
3/5
vs4/5Better
Good with Dogs
2/5
vs4/5Better
Strangers
2/5
vs4/5Better
The Shih Tzu has a slight edge with children (4/5 vs 3/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Shih Tzu's affectionate temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Health & Lifespan
Both breeds have similar health profiles.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Lifespan (years)
8–10
vs10–16Better
Health Robustness
3/5
vs3/5
The lifespan difference is significant. Shih Tzus live 10–16 years on average, while Rottweilers live 8–10 years.
Training & Intelligence
Rottweiler is generally easier to train.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Trainability
Better4/5
vs3/5
Intelligence
Better5/5
vs3/5
The Rottweiler has a slight training edge (4/5 vs 3/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Rottweiler tends to catch on a bit faster.
Cost of Ownership
Shih Tzu is less expensive to own annually.
Rottweiler
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$840
Annual Vet$600
Annual Grooming$150
Annual Total$1,590
Shih Tzu
Avg. Purchase$1,250
Annual Food$360
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$500
Annual Total$1,310 ✓
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,000–$3,000 for a Rottweiler versus $500–$2,000 for a Shih Tzu. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Temperament & Personality
Shih Tzu is calmer; Rottweiler is more energetic.
Rottweiler
Shih Tzu
Playfulness
4/5
vs4/5
Barking Level
3/5
vs3/5
Energy
4/5
vs2/5
The Rottweiler and Shih Tzu bring very different personalities to the table. Rottweilers are loyal, confident and protective, while Shih Tzus tend to be affectionate, outgoing and happy.
Summary: Which Should You Choose?
On balance, the Shih Tzu has the edge — it's better with children (4/5), more apartment-friendly (5/5), lower exercise needs (2/5). For most families, the Shih Tzu is the more practical choice, particularly if you value a kid-friendly dog.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Rottweiler and Shih Tzu are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Rottweiler needs significantly more daily exercise than Shih Tzu, Rottweiler sheds considerably more. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Shih Tzu by roughly $300/year.
Choose Rottweiler if...
- ✓You're an active person who runs, hikes, or exercises daily — Rottweilers will keep up and thrive on that activity.
- ✓You want a dog that will alert you to strangers — Rottweilers have strong watchdog instincts (5/5).
Choose Shih Tzu if...
- ✓You live in an apartment or don't have a yard — Shih Tzus adapt much better to smaller spaces (5/5 vs 2/5 apartment rating).
- ✓You have young children — Shih Tzus are generally more patient and gentle with kids.
- ✓You lead a quieter lifestyle — Shih Tzus are happy with shorter walks and less vigorous exercise.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Rottweiler or Shih Tzu?
The Shih Tzu is generally better with children, scoring 4/5 compared to the Rottweiler's 3/5. The Shih Tzu is one of our top-recommended breeds for families.
Is a Rottweiler or Shih Tzu easier to train?
The Rottweiler is easier to train with a score of 4/5, compared to the Shih Tzu's 3/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well.
Which costs more, a Rottweiler or Shih Tzu?
A Rottweiler puppy costs $1,000–$3,000 while a Shih Tzu costs $500–$2,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,590 for the Rottweiler and $1,310 for the Shih Tzu. The Rottweiler is the more expensive breed to own long-term.
Do Rottweilers or Shih Tzus live longer?
The Rottweiler 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 Rottweiler or Shih Tzu live in an apartment?
The Shih Tzu adapts better to apartment living (5/5) than the Rottweiler (2/5). The Shih Tzu ranks among our best apartment breeds.