Shih Tzu vs Standard Schnauzer

Small in size but big on personality, the Shih Tzu is adored by everyone they meet. An agile and adaptable pet, your pint-sized pooch will love cuddling with you on the couch in front of the TV, but they’re equally happy trotting by your side in the park.

A fun-loving breed, Shih Tzus enjoy playing with older children, who understand how to play gently with a small dog, and other four-legged pets as long as proper introductions have been made (they are descended from royalty after all). They aren’t known for biting, but like any dog, they may bite if pushed too far in rough play. Be sure to teach all children how to gently interact with dogs, and to supervise your Shih Tzu puppy around young children who may mistake this adorable pup for their favorite stuffy.

With their ability to assess situations much faster than other small breeds, the Shih Tzu is so much more than a pretty face. They make excellent watchdogs; they are always on alert for someone approaching your home and will let you know they’re coming. Even though they may exhibit a stubborn streak and require extra patience when training, they are worth the effort. Their loyalty and calm manner in all types of situations serve them in good stead as emotional support animals when their small size is not an issue.

A Standard Schnauzer’s confidence is one of their best qualities, but these dignified dogs also harbor deep wells of playfulness and energy.

A Standard Schnauzer’s compatibility with others (both two- and four-legged friends) hinges on early socialization. Standard Schnauzers can be wary of people they don’t know. They tend to sound the bark alarm at passing strangers and won’t tolerate certain things like teasing from children.

Standard Schnauzers are intelligent and learn quickly. They’re also high-spirited and will run circles around you—literally and figuratively—if you let them. Consistent, positive reinforcement training will help your Standard Schnauzer be their best self.

Bred to be Germany’s best all-around farm dog, Standard Schnauzers are their happiest, most authentic selves when they have a job, such as obedience, agility, herding or doing tasks around the house. These brilliant dogs live by the mantra “work hard, play hard.”