Strong lookalikes
Moderate Lookalikes
More Distinct but Still Related in Appearance
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Strong Lookalikes (Close Matches):
1) Lhasa Apso
Let’s start with the breed that is the easiest to mistake for a Shih Tzu, as there are almost no differences - or better to say no differences in appearance, because when it comes to temperament, they couldn’t be more different! While the Shih Tzu is the ultimate companion dog, the Lhasa Apso is more like a big dog in a small body—courageous and surprisingly good as a watchdog. I’ve made a detailed video comparing the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso, so be sure to check it out in the video description or the first pinned comment! 2) Maltese The Maltese may lack the Shih Tzu’s iconic face shape, but their silky white coats and playful personalities make them equally charming companions. I’m sure plenty of people would confuse these two breeds! This ancient toy breed is known for being affectionate and lively. And by the way, I’ve also made a detailed comparison video—Shih Tzu vs. Maltese—so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out! Link is in video description. 3) Löwchen The Löwchen, commonly nicknamed as the Little Lion Dog is a rare dog breed, but you can not deny the similarities between them and Shih Tzus, especially thanks to their similar coat. And their cheerful and outgoing nature makes them great companions as well, just like Shih Tzu! 4) Bichon Frisé After the Maltese, the Bichon Frisé is the second breed from the 'Bichon dog family' on this list. These dogs all share a striking resemblance to the Shih Tzu, and you’ll see more Bichons later in this video. The similarities with the Shih Tzu come down to their flowing coats and small size, which make them equally adorable companions 5) Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka The Russian Bolonka is another rare and unknown dog in this video with big similarities to Shih Tzu. The only true purpose and utilization of Russian Bolonka is companionship. They were bred for being great loving, playful and cheerful companions and that is exactly what they are. 6) Havanese The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese, is another breed from the Bichon group. It’s also another breed I’ve compared in detail with the Shih Tzu in a separate video, so don’t forget to check that out! The Havanese is an exceptional companion dog, known for its loving, affectionate, and calm nature. 7) Havana Silk Dog Often times confused with Havanese, the Havana Silk Dog is a re-created breed of a dog, that was popular in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries and that is generally believed to be developer in colonial Cuba. The breed was developed by dedicated Havanese breeders in an attempt to re-develop this old, extinct dog breed. 8) Yorkshire Terrier The Yorkshire Terrier is not as similar to Shih Tzu as the previous breeds, especially due to different coloration, head shape and completely different temperament, which is more energetic and courageous. However, thanks to their luxurious coat and tiny size, many people still confuse these two breeds. 9) Biewer Terrier The Biewer Terrier is basically a color variation of a Yorkie, but it is considered as a separate breed. And the colors of Biewer Terrier resembles the Shih Tzu more than the typical Yorkshire Terrier, so i believe they deserve a spot in this video as well. 10) Coton de Tulear Another Bichon dog breed in this video, this time the Coton de Tulear. Its fluffy white coat and sweet nature resemble a Shih Tzu’s charm. Originating from Madagascar, they’re cheerful, loving, and incredibly people-oriented. 11) Kyi-Leo The Kyi-Leo is a cross between the Lhasa Apso and the Maltese—two breeds I’ve already mentioned in this video—so it’s no surprise that this mix also makes it onto the list! They’re friendly, adaptable, and known for their silky fur. 12) Pekingese The Pekingese and Shih Tzu don’t just share similar temperaments and appearances—they also share a royal history in Asia. However, the Pekingese is easy to distinguish from the Shih Tzu, thanks to its flatter face and distinct build. 13) Bolognese Once again – a dog from the Bichon dog family, this time the Bolognese, which basically look like a Shih Tzus italian cousin, with its fluffy white coat and gentle temperament. They’re calm, devoted, and happiest when spending time with their families. 14) Dandie Dinmont Terrier The second terrier in this list is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. They have longer bodies and face, but they still can be confused with the Shih Tzu quite easily. But of course, their temperament is completely different, as terriers tend to be more feisty, courageous and active. 15) Chinese Imperial Dog The Chinese Imperial Dog, also known as Imperial Shih Tzu is a Shih Tzu variation. It is a Shih Tzu, that is deliberately bred to be smaller than the Shih Tzu's written standard of 9 pounds. So it is only logical to include them in this video as well. BUT, i have to say, that i would be very careful when buying the Chinese Imperial, because majority of these dogs are bred by bad breeders who only want to sell these dogs for good profit and they do not care about their health. Very often they suffer from various health issues and they are extremely fragile. I believe that the Shih Tzu is small enough and i believe that you will make a better choice of buying a purebred Shih Tzu rather than this Chinese Imperial Dog. |