Comparison: Havanese and Shih Tzu

Havanese and Shih Tzu are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Havanese
Photo: Hemlit, CC BY 2.0, source
Shih Tzu
Photo: Mostafameraji, CC0, source
HavaneseShih Tzu
FCI group9. Companion and Toy Dogs9. Companion and Toy Dogs
Country of originCubaChina
CategorySmallSmall
Height at withers21–29 cm20–28 cm
Weight3.5–7 kg4–7.5 kg
Life span14–16 years12–16 years
Recognition features
  • Long, light, wavy coat
  • Tail carried over the back
  • 23-27 cm tall
  • Long, flowing silky coat
  • Flat face with a beard and a ´chrysanthemum´ head
  • Tail carried over the back, short legs
CoatLong, soft, light coat.Long dense coat with an undercoat.
PurposeThe national breed of Cuba from the bichon family; companion of Cuban aristocrats.A Chinese companion dog bred at the imperial court in Beijing; the ´lion dog´.

Breed page: Havanese · Breed page: Shih Tzu

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.