Australian Cattle Dog vs Shih Tzu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: ACD or Chinese Lion Dog?

Compare the Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a ACD or a Chinese Lion Dog? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Red Heeler, Blue Heeler, ACD, Queensland Heeler, Hall39;s Heeler, Cattle Dog

Chinese Lion Dog, Chrysanthemum Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

35.0 pounds ( 16 kg )

12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu

19.0 inches ( 48.3 cm )

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

Both the Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds have an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Australian Cattle Dog is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu dogs?

Aggressive
Energetic
Loyal
Responsive
Alert
Intelligent
Protective

Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing

Shedding Level

Do Australian Cattle Dogs shed more than Shih Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus?

Australian Cattle Dogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Shih Tzus shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

Choose an Australian Cattle Dog if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Shih Tzus are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu dog breeds?

Australia

Tibet
China

Ancestry

What are the origins of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?

Dingo

Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds first developed?

1800s

Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

Herding (AKC:1980 & UKC)

Toy (AKC:1969)
Companion Dog (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu dogs?

Blue
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?

Blue
Red

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?

Australian Cattle Dogs have medium-length coats.

Shih Tzus are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An Australian Cattle Dog can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

10-16 puppies per pregnancy

A Shih Tzu can have a litter of 10-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Australian Cattle Dogs have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Shih Tzus are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?

Deafness
OCD
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

Cataracts
Lens Luxation

Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?

Eye
Hip
Hearing

Eye
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Australian Cattle Dogs and Shih Tzus compare?

Australian Cattle Dogs thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Shih Tzus are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

Australian Cattle Dog vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison

Australian Cattle Dog has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Shih Tzu has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Australian Cattle Dog vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison.

Australian Cattle Dogs need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Shih Tzus need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

Australian Cattle Dogs are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Shih Tzus are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

The Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus bark more/less frequently?

Australian Cattle Dog dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Shih Tzu dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Territorial

Is the Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu a better guard dog?

Australian Cattle Dog dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Shih Tzu dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Australian Cattle Dog vs Shih Tzu?

Roaming urge

Australian Cattle Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu entertained?

Chase, Running, Walk, Run, Fetch, Play, Herding, Playing, Walking, Road trip, Playing fet, Hiking, Eating Snacks, Hike, Sleep, Kisses, Sniffing, Sprint, Tug-of-war, Hunt, Tracking, Investigating, Cuddling, Off-leash, Chewing, Herding birds, Bike ride, Go to Park, Jogging, Dog Parks

Walk, Bike ride, Brushing, Running, Sleeping, Resting, Short walks, Play, Play with lea, Sniffing, Dog Parks, Go to Park, Being pet, Sit, Eating Snacks, Fetch, Walking, Snuggling, Run, Treats, Petting, Scenting, Marking, Runnig, Watching tv, Playing, Cuddling, Trick training, Shopping, Training

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus?

High

Australian Cattle Dogs are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Shih Tzus are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu walk each week?

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Australian Cattle Dog, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih Tzu, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus require more exercise?

90 minutes

In general most Australian Cattle Dogs usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

30 minutes

In general most Shih Tzus usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus?

The Australian Cattle Dog is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Shih Tzus have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu dogs?

Monthly

In general Australian Cattle Dog should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Daily

Ideally, Shih Tzu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Australian Cattle Dogs and Shih Tzus?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 33-40 pound (15 - 18 kg) Australian Cattle Dog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1 cups

For an average 9-16 pound (4 - 7 kg) Shih Tzu feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of an Australian Cattle Dog is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Shih Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of an Australian Cattle Dog is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$28 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shih Tzu is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Australian Cattle Dogs vs Shih Tzus

Australian Cattle Dog is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Shih Tzu is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Sensitivity Level

How do Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Shih Tzus have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Australian Cattle Dog vs Shih Tzu?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

The Australian Cattle Dog is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Shih Tzus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Australian Cattle Dogs or Shih Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Australian Cattle Dogs make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Shih Tzus are not the best choice for families with kids.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

Cat Friendly

Do Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Australian Cattle Dogs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Shih Tzus are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

Australian Cattle Dogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Shih Tzus are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Australian Cattle Dog or Shih Tzu?

Australian Cattle Dogs are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Shih Tzus are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Australian Cattle Dog and Shih Tzu?

Australian Cattle Dogs are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Shih Tzus are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Australian Cattle Dogs and Shih Tzus compare?

Australian Cattle Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Shih Tzus are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.