Which lives longer, the French Bulldog or the Shih Tzu?

The Shih Tzu has the longer median lifespan: French Bulldog 9.8 years versus Shih Tzu 12.8 years (McMillan 2024).

Which is healthier, the French Bulldog or the Shih Tzu?

On the Breed Health Score the French Bulldog scores 38/100 and the Shih Tzu scores 65/100. The Shih Tzu scores higher.

French Bulldog vs Shih Tzu

The French Bulldog has a median lifespan of 9.8 years and a Breed Health Score of 38/100 (grade D); the Shih Tzu lives a median of 12.8 years with a score of 65/100 (grade B). On the overall index the Shih Tzu scores higher. The Shih Tzu has the longer median lifespan.

French Bulldog

38grade D

Shih Tzu

65grade B

Median lifespan

9.8 yr

12.8 yr

Size

small · 8-14 kg

small · 4-7 kg

Flat-faced

Yes

Longevity

Conformation

Hereditary burden

Health Score

38D

65B

Conditions

BOAS IVDD Skin fold dermatitis Cherry eye Hemivertebrae

BOAS Corneal ulcers IVDD Dental disease Renal dysplasia

Full profiles

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How to read this. The Breed Health Score combines longevity (65%), conformation (20%) and hereditary burden (15%); see the methodology. Median lifespan is from McMillan, K.M. et al. (2024) "Longevity of companion dog breeds", Scientific Reports (584,734 UK dogs). Data CC-BY 4.0. These are independent estimates for comparing breeds, not veterinary advice. Build your own with the interactive compare tool.