Shih Tzu vs Havanese: Which Breed Is Right for You?

Shih Tzu vs Havanese: Which Breed Is Right for You?

If you're looking for a small, affectionate companion dog, you'll quickly find yourself deciding between a Shih Tzu or a Havanese. Both belong to FCI Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), both have long, silky hair, and both are deeply attached to their humans. However, there is a difference between these two breeds that outweighs fur color, temperament, or price: their health. The Havanese is a relatively robust dog with a natural head shape. The Shih Tzu, conversely, is a brachycephalic (short-headed) breed—making this more than just a typical purchase; it's a decision with health implications you need to be aware of.

This guide offers an honest comparison of both breeds, covering temperament, care, daily life, and costs—as well as the health aspects often overlooked in other comparisons. By the end, you'll know not only whether a Shih Tzu or Havanese is a better fit for your lifestyle but also what you really need to watch out for with each breed.

A Quick Overview: Shih Tzu and Havanese Compared

Before we dive into personality and daily life, here are the key facts for a direct Shih Tzu comparison with the Havanese—including the health aspect, which marks the biggest difference.

Health: The Decisive Difference Between the Breeds

The most important point in this comparison isn't a matter of preference; it's a matter of health. The Shih Tzu belongs to the brachycephalic (short-headed) breeds. Its very short muzzle—the FCI standard mentions a length of about 2.5 cm—is not a harmless aesthetic feature. The more extreme the breeding for a flat face, the more frequent the respiratory problems, medically known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Affected dogs struggle to breathe, snore, get out of breath easily, and have limited tolerance for heat and exercise.

For this reason, the Shih Tzu is discussed alongside other short-nosed breeds under animal welfare laws regarding torture-breeding and is listed on veterinary torture-breeding awareness leaflets. This doesn't mean every single Shih Tzu suffers—but it does mean that the current breed standard favors traits that can make breathing difficult for the dog. In addition to short airways, many Shih Tzu have large, prominent eyes prone to injury and irritation, as well as significant sensitivity to summer heat. This is why, at HonestDog, we don't treat the Shih Tzu as just any random purchase option alongside the Havanese.

The Havanese, by contrast, has a natural, medium-length head shape and does not suffer from brachycephalic airway issues. It is considered a relatively robust, long-lived small dog. However, it isn't without its own vulnerabilities: as with many small breeds, you should watch for patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps), and hereditary eye diseases such as cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) can occur. Responsible Havanese breeders screen their breeding stock accordingly. You can find more about their temperament and health in our Havanese breed profile and Shih Tzu breed profile.

Character and Temperament: Aristocrat Meets Cuban Clown

To understand a dog's nature, it helps to look at what it was originally bred for. The Shih Tzu was a pure companion dog in Chinese imperial palaces: meant to look beautiful, provide proximity, and warm the hands of aristocrats. This heritage shows in its proud, calm demeanor to this day. It is loving and cheerful but also possesses a certain stubbornness. If you call a Shih Tzu, it might first consider whether it's actually worth coming.

The Havanese has a different story. As the national dog of Cuba and a darling of the 18th and 19th-century high society, and later as a witty street and circus dog, it had to rely on charm and cleverness to succeed. This makes it a highly intelligent, playful, and human-oriented companion that loves being the center of attention and learning new things.

Who learns faster?

In terms of trainability, the Havanese is the clear leader (5/5). It is a classic "will-to-please" dog, picks up commands quickly, and is even suitable for dog dancing or entry-level agility. The Shih Tzu reaches a trainability score of about 3/5—not because it's unintelligent, but because it is selectively motivated. It requires patient, loving consistency and high-value treats to work reliably.

Daily life and energy level

Both breeds are considered well-suited for city life, but their energy levels differ. The Shih Tzu (2/5) loves its downtime; a leisurely walk around the block is often enough on quiet days. Important note: Due to its airways, you should never overexert the dog and take extra care during hot weather. The Havanese (3/5) has more temperament, loves to run, and will more actively initiate play.

Grooming and Care: Beauty Comes at a Price

If you choose a long-haired companion dog, you must factor in time for grooming. Both breeds shed very little (shedding score 1/5), which makes them pleasant roommates if you don't like dog hair on your sofa. However, because they don't shed, their hair grows continuously and requires regular maintenance.

Grooming effort in detail

The Havanese’s long, soft outer coat is beautiful but must be brushed daily to avoid matting. Its weakly developed undercoat makes combing slightly easier (grooming effort 4/5). The Shih Tzu requires even more (grooming effort 5/5): its dense hair is prone to knots, and daily brushing is mandatory. Many owners opt for a short "puppy clip," which makes daily life easier but requires a professional grooming appointment every six to eight weeks.

Eye and ear care

Facial hygiene is especially important for the Shih Tzu. Because of its short head shape, its large eyes water more easily, and long hair around the face must be tied back or trimmed to prevent cornea irritation. For both breeds, regular ear checks are part of the routine, as hairy, floppy ears are prone to infections. Teeth also need attention: small breeds with narrow jaws are prone to tartar, so brushing should be taught from puppyhood.

Costs and Acquisition: What You Should Realistically Plan For

With the Havanese, the path is clear: it is a healthy breed, and a puppy from a responsible breeder with health-tested parents typically costs between 1,800 and 3,000 euros. Be sure to find a breeder who tests for patella and eye issues.

The advice for the Shih Tzu is different. Because the breed carries brachycephalic health risks, we advise against fueling the demand for new puppies. While commercial prices often range from 1,200 to 2,500 euros, many Shih Tzu are waiting for a new home in animal shelters and breed-specific rescues—from puppies to calm seniors. If you have lost your heart to this breed, it is best to look into adoption first. This way, you give a dog a home without increasing the demand for a problematic breeding direction.

Regardless of origin, the initial purchase price is only the beginning. For both breeds, you must account for ongoing costs for professional grooming (about 40 to 80 euros per visit, often every two months), high-quality food, vet visits, dog taxes, and insurance. With a Shih Tzu, you should also anticipate potential vet costs related to breathing and eyes.

Target Audience: Who Is Each Breed Best For?

No dog is a perfect fit for everyone. Let's look at which life situation calls for which breed—and where health is a deciding factor.

For families with children

Both breeds are fond of children and robust enough for family life without knocking toddlers over. The advantage slightly favors the Havanese: due to its higher energy level and playfulness, it often keeps up longer during fetch and games. The Shih Tzu tends to withdraw when things get too wild—and shouldn't overheat anyway due to its breathing issues.

For singles, seniors, and quiet households

If you lead a quiet life and are looking for a relaxed companion, the Shih Tzu’s calm nature fits well into your routine. This is exactly where checking shelters is worth it: an adult Shih Tzu already has a set character, and you can work with the rescue organization to find a dog that is built as moderately as possible and breathes well. The Havanese is the better choice if you want to offer a bit more exercise and activity.

For first-time dog owners

If you are a first-time owner choosing between Shih Tzu or Havanese, the Havanese is often the easier option. Its high trainability (5/5) is more forgiving of beginner mistakes; it wants to please and quickly understands what you want from it. Due to its charming stubbornness, the Shih Tzu needs someone who remains calm and consistent.

For city dwellers

It’s a tie here: both are good city dogs. They don't bark excessively, don't require a large garden, and handle bustling environments well if habituated from a young age. For the Shih Tzu in the city, the added rule applies: schedule walks during cooler morning and evening hours on hot days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What about the Havanese-Shih-Tzu mix?

A Havanese-Shih-Tzu mix (often marketed as a Maltipoo-type cross) is often advertised as "the best of both worlds." Honestly, that is never guaranteed: a mixed breed can inherit the short muzzle and brachycephalic airway problems of the Shih Tzu—or the more natural head shape of the Havanese. There is no way to plan for this. If you are interested in such a mix, pay attention to the specific dog's head and muzzle shape and ensure it breathes freely. Again, adoption is a more honest path than intentional purchasing.

Can Shih Tzu and Havanese stay alone well?

Both were bred exclusively as companion dogs (FCI Group 9) and want to be with their humans. Consequently, both find it difficult to be left alone. With patient training during puppyhood, they can learn to spend a few hours at home alone. However, anyone who works full-time away from home and cannot take their dog with them will not be happy with either of these breeds.

Are these breeds suitable for allergy sufferers?

Dogs that hardly shed are often considered "hypoallergenic," but this is relative: there is no such thing as a 100% allergy-free dog. Allergies are usually triggered by dander or saliva, not just hair. Nevertheless, many mild allergy sufferers report better reactions to Havanese and Shih Tzu due to the lack of an undercoat. Extensive contact beforehand is still mandatory for allergy sufferers.

How well do they get along with other dogs and pets?

Both breeds are generally sociable (about 4/5). They usually lack a strong hunting instinct, so living with cats works well if they are socialized early. The Havanese often greets other dogs in the park exuberantly, while the Shih Tzu initially approaches strangers more calmly and reservedly before warming up.

Do these dogs bark a lot?

Neither the Shih Tzu nor the Havanese are "yappers." They may bark briefly when the doorbell rings, but they quiet down quickly. Both are well-suited for apartments with close neighbors.

Conclusion: Character Decides—and So Does Health

The choice between Shih Tzu and Havanese is not just a matter of taste. Regarding character: the Havanese is the cheerier, more easy-going companion, while the Shih Tzu is the calmer, more stubborn cuddler. Regarding health, however, the difference is more significant than many comparisons admit—and it should factor into your decision.

The Havanese is a relatively healthy breed that you can seek out from responsible breeders with a clear conscience. The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed with ingrained health risks for breathing and eyes; here, the most honest path is through adoption and choosing a dog with a more moderate build, rather than fueling the demand for new puppies.

At HonestDog, that is exactly our goal: not to sell you just any dog, but to ensure that human and dog are healthy and well-matched for the long term. Learn more in our breed profiles and verified listings and make a decision you can both live with happily.