Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua
Chihuahua and Shih Tzu breeds are well known as small companion dog breeds. There are considerable differences between Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas. Chihuahua breed, for example is much smaller than a more substantial Shih Tzu. Lap companion breeds such as Shih Tzu and Chihuahua can be delightful animal companions for older people and for families with older, sensible children. Shih Tzu dogs are more appropriate for families with younger kids, because Chihuahua may be too fragile to be comfortable around toddlers and babies.
Both, Chihuahuas and Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of attention and time with the owners. Shih Tzu breed is high maintenance when it comes to grooming needs and potential owners need to like brushing a dog every day. Short haired Chihuahuas, in comparison, have a shorter coat that is easier to groom. Long haired Chihuahuas, just like Shih Tzu dogs need to be brushed daily to remove any mats and tangles.
When comparing Chihuahua to Shih Tzu, temperament of these breeds should be considered. Shih Tzus are playful and affectionate with their families, and, while Chihuahuas are also loving towards their families, they tend to choose a favorite family member.
Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix: Shichi
Chihuahua Shih Tzu mix is also known as Shichi. The cross between Shih Tzu and Chihuahua is a small dog that has features of both parent breeds. Shichi is small in size, just like the parents and in temperament can resemble either of the two breeds. Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix dogs can have a variety of coat colors or color combinations. The length of the coat is also difficult to predict as Shih Tzu dogs have a long coat while short haired Chihuahuas have a short coat. In temperament Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix dogs are usually sociable and affectionate towards their owners.
Image of Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix
Half Shih Tzu half Chihuahua dogs are frequently called "Shichi". Half Chihuahua half Shih Tzu can reach the size of up to 16 pounds in weight and up to 11 inches in height.
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu: Grooming
Chihuahuas, especially short haired Chihuahuas are easier to groom in comparison to high maintenance Shih Tzus. Shih Tzus need an owner who can dedicate at least thirty minutes every day for grooming this glamorous breed. Shih Tzus need to be thoroughly brushed daily to remove any mats and tangles from the coat. In addition, Shih Tzu's coat needs to be trimmed about once every six weeks or so to maintain a neat look. In comparison, short haired Chihuahuas only need to be brushed once every few days to remove any dead hair. Long haired Chihuahuas need daily brushing to keep mats from forming. Both, Shih Tzu and Chihuahua breeds need their teeth brushed daily. Some Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas have stains that form around the eye area - these eye stains need to be gently removed with a clean towel or with eye stain remover for dogs.
Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua: Lifespan
When comparing Shih Tzu life span to Chihuahua, it is important to note that both of these small breeds are relatively healthy and long lived. Chihuahuas have the longest lifespan of all breeds and can live on average up to 16 years or even longer. Shih Tzu dogs live from 11 to 16 years of age. A dog's life expectancy depends on many factors, including breed of the dog, general health, lifestyle, diet and so on.
Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua: Size
Chihuahuas are among the smallest dog breeds and in comparison to Shih Tzu, Chihuahuas are much smaller in size. Chihuahua dogs can reach up to 6 pounds in weight, while more substantial Shih Tzus can reach up to 16 pounds in weight. Shih Tzus are about 10 pounds heavier than Chihuahuas. In height, Shih Tzu dogs are not much taller than Chihuahuas. While a Shih Tzu can reach up to 11 inches, Chihuahuas can reach only 10 inches in height. There's about one inch difference in height and Shih Tzus are slightly taller than Chihuahuas. For more detailed size comparison between Shih Tzu and Chihuahua, see the size comparison chart for these breeds below.
Chihuahua male weight: 4 to 6 lb (1.8 to 2.7 kg)
Shih Tzu male weight: 8.8 to 16 lb (4 to 7.25 kg)
Chihuahua male height: 6 to 10 in (15 to 25 cm)
Shih Tzu male height: 7.9 to 11 in (20 to 28 cm)
Difference between Chihuahua and Shih Tzu: Shedding
In comparison to Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus are considered to be low shedding and hypoallergenic, meaning Shih Tzu breed produces less allergens in comparison to many other breeds. Chihuahuas shed, but because of the small size of the dog, the shedding is not as noticeable as on larger breeds. Brushing a Chihuahua daily with a deshedding brush for short breeds can help to manage the dog's shedding.
Chihuahua versus Shih Tzu: Price
Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas have an average price of about $500. A dog's price depends on many factors, such as the dog's age, coat color, pedigree, training level and so much more. Show dogs are more expensive in comparison to pet dogs.
Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua: Temperament
Shih Tzu and Chihuahuas are essentially companion breeds that require a lot of attention and dedication from their owners every day. Shih Tzus, just like Chihuahuas are affectionate and sociable. In temperament, Shih Tzus are more stubborn and like to have their own way, while Chihuahuas are less stubborn and more willing to learn basic obedience commands. Don't expect too much in terms of obedience from Shih Tzu dogs - they are too dignified and can be challenging to train. Chihuahuas are more of a drama queen in temperament. Chihuahuas are alert, busy and love attention. Small Chihuahuas have a big dog personalities and can be demanding but always entertaining.
Shih Tzu vs. Chihuahua: Country of breed origin
Shih Tzu breed was developed in Tibet as a companion dog.
Chihuahua breed originated in Mexico.
Good with kids: Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu
Although Shih Tzu or Chihuahua breeds aren't ideal for households with babies or young children, Shih Tzu is sturdier and more tolerant towards children. Chihuahuas aren't recommended for families with young children. This small breed is too vulnerable and is more suitable for older children or for adults of any age. Seniors and single people may find Chihuahua to be an ideal companion, affectionate, easy to care for and light enough to carry the pet around.
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu: Companion dogs
Shih Tzu dogs were originally developed to be the ideal lap dogs. Shih Tzus are known for their sociable and playful temperament, yet this breed is not too clingy and for people who like grooming a pet this is an ideal companion dog. Chihuahuas, in comparison to Shih Tzus are just as fond of their families, but they tend to choose one family member as their favorite. This is one of the reasons why many Chihuahua owners choose to have more than one Chihuahua. Sociable and smart Chihuahuas can adjust to the energy level of their families and can be loving companions for older adults and for single people who want a small pet whose company they can enjoy all day long. Both of these breeds are not recommended for busy families who only get to see the dog for a short time every day. Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus need to be around the owners most of the time. Choose a different breed if your schedule doesn't allow you to spend most of the day with companionable dogs such as these two breeds.
Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua: Ideal home
Chihuahuas and Shih Tzu dogs can adjust to the enviroment where they are loved and properly cared for. Whether the dog lives in an apartment or in a large country home, these dogs are happy as long as the owners can provide these dogs with the love and care they need. Having a fenced yard is always a plus for Chihuahua or Shih Tzu owners. These dogs can enjoy exploring and getting some exercise outdoors. If you live in an apartment, a few short walks every day should be enough to keep Chihuahuas and Shih Tzu dogs in good shape.
Good with other dogs: Shih Tzu vs Chihuahuas
Shih Tzu dogs are friendly by nature and usually get along fine with other friendly dogs. In comparison, Chihuahuas really enjoy the company of other Chihuahuas and when properly socialized from a young age, Chihuahuas can get along with other dogs. Always be careful when introducing a small dog to larger dogs as during playtime the larger dog can accidentally hurt the smaller one. Always supervise your dog around other dogs to prevent any problems. Sometimes larger dogs with strong hunting instinct may confuse a smaller dog with a prey and this can end in tragedy. Use common sense when choosing canine friends for your pet.
Chihuahuas versus Shih Tzu: Intelligence
Shih Tzu and Chihuahua are clever little dogs that enjoy mental stimulation. Provide your Chihuahua or Shih Tzu with interactive dog toys or with treat dispenser toys for small breeds. Indoor and outdoor playtime is always a great way to stimulate your pet's mind.
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu: Trainability
Chihuahuas and Shih Tzu dogs respond in different ways during obedience training. Shih Tzu, for example, are more stubborn and more set in their ways. Shih Tzus are notoriously difficult to train. Chihuahuas, in comparison, are easier to motivate during training and they respond better to gentle obedience training approach.
Potty training can take a few weeks with either a Shih Tzu or a Chihuahua. The owner needs to be around to monitor the small pet and to guide the dog towards desired behavior during housetraining. Shih Tzus are more difficult to housetrain than Chihuahuas. Never punish a dog in case of an accident as that will only slow down the potty training process. Instead, pay close the attention to potty readiness signs and take the dog to the designated potty area immediately if you notice that the Chihuahua or Shih Tzu is sniffing the floor or walking in circles. Have some treats available to reward good behavior during potty training. Ignore accidents. These tips will help you to successfully potty train a Shih Tzu or Chihuahua.
Chihuahuas versus Shih Tzu: Barking
Shih Tzu dogs rarely bark and are considered to be a quiet breed. Chihuahuas enjoy barking more than Shih Tzus but usually only bark for a reason. Between the two breeds, Chihuahuas bark more frequently. Dogs typically bark because there's something unusual happening, they are excited or hungry or they want to get attention. Sometimes dogs bark because they are left alone frequently or they are bored.
Chihuahua compared to Shih Tzu: Exercise needs
Chihuahua and Shih Tzu adjust to the energy level of their family. These small breeds can enjoy short walks around the block or a longer walk, but owners should be ready to carry the pet if they notice that Chihuahua or Shih Tzu is tired. Chihuahuas and Shih Tzu enjoy some physical exercise during the day. Indoor or outdoor playtime or a quiet walk in the park are always welcome by these small companion dogs.
Health issues: Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua
Shih Tzus may suffer from heart conditions and kidney problems, certain blood disorders and a number of eye problems. Older Shih Tzus may suffer from joint problems. Chihuahuas are healthy dogs with few known health issues. Molera is a soft spot on Chihuahua's head makes this breed more vulnerable to accidents. The smaller size of Chihuahuas also puts them in danger of being accidentally stepped on or sat on, which can result in various physical traumas or even death. If you have a small pet such as the Chihuahua, be especially careful not to accidentally hurt the small pet. Shih Tzus are less prone to being stepped on as they are larger in size and easier to notice.
Chihuahua versus Shih Tzu: Dog behavior issues
Companion breeds such as Chihuahua or Shih Tzu require to be around the owner most of the time. When this is not the case and the dog is left alone frequently for long periods of time, behavior problems become common for either a Shih Tzu or a Chihuahua. Excessive barking or scratched up furniture or doors are signs that the dog may not get enough time with the owners and is feeling lonely. Always walk a Shih Tzu or a Chihuahua if you need to step out and leave the small dog alone for some time. A nice walk will get your pet tired and ready for some rest when you are away. Leave some of the favorite dog toys around so that your pet could have something to keep him or her busy until you are back.
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu: Popularity
The Chihuahua takes 30th place in popularity ranking in the United States. Shih Tzu takes 20th place in popularity ranking in the United States, according to AKC.
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu: Loyalty to the owner
Affectionate and loving Chihuahuas and Shih Tzu dogs are loyal companions to their families and enjoy to spend as much time as possible with their people.
|
