Border Terrier vs Shih Tzu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Munchener or Chinese Lion Dog?

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

Differences only

Other names

Munich Schnauzer, Russian Bear Schnauzer, Munchener, Riesenschnauzer

Chinese Lion Dog, Chrysanthemum Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

14.0 pounds ( 6 kg )

12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu

10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Border Terrier tends to gain weight easily, needs increased exercise and playtime along with controlled food intake.

Shih Tzu has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Border Terriers or Shih Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

Both Border Terrier and Shih Tzu are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu dogs?

Affectionate
Outright
Tempered
Intelligent
Alert
Fearless
Obedient

Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing

Shedding Level

Do Border Terriers shed more than Shih Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Border Terriers or Shih Tzus?

Border Terrier or Shih Tzu will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Border Terriers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

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

Origin

What is the origin of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu dog breeds?

Border of Scotland and England

Tibet
China

Ancestry

What are the origins of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds?

dandie dinmont terrier, bedlington terrier

Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Border Terrier 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
Border Terrier Club Of America, Inc.
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Border Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds first developed?

1700s

Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

Terrier (AKC:1930 & UKC)

Toy (AKC:1969)
Companion Dog (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Border Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds?

Black
Gray
Red
Cream
Blue
Brindle

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Border Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds?

Border Terriers have short coats.

Shih Tzus are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

Wiry

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Border Terrier 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

Border Terrier and Shih Tzus are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Border Terrier and Shih Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Border Terrier 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 Border Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds?

Cataracts
Retinal Dysplasia

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Fanconi Syndrome

Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Border Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds?

Fanconi Urine Test
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Eye Examination

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

Energy

How do the energy levels of Border Terriers and Shih Tzus compare?

Border Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

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

Social Needs

Border Terrier vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison

Border Terrier 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

Border Terrier vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison.

Border Terriers need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

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: Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Border Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

The Border Terrier 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 Border Terriers or Shih Tzus bark more/less frequently?

The Border Terrier is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

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

Territorial

Is the Border Terrier or Shih Tzu a better guard dog?

Border Terrier 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: Border Terrier vs Shih Tzu?

Roaming urge

Border Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Border Terrier or Shih Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Border Terrier and Shih Tzu entertained?

Sniffing, Walks, Walk, Hunt, Chase, Fetch, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Walking

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, Border Terriers or Shih Tzus?

Medium

Both Border Terrier and Shih Tzu are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Border Terrier or Shih Tzu walk each week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Border Terrier, it's at least 10 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 Border Terriers or Shih Tzus require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Border Terriers usually need at least 60 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, Border Terriers or Shih Tzus?

The Border Terrier requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

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 Border Terrier and Shih Tzu dogs?

Weekly

Border Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

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 Border Terriers and Shih Tzus?

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Border Terrier or Shih Tzu in cups?

1 cups

Border Terrier and Shih Tzu share the same recommended daily food intake of 1 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

$1.40 - $1.80 / day

The average cost of a Border Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 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, Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Border Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $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.

$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: Border Terriers vs Shih Tzus

Border Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

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

Sensitivity Level

How do Border Terrier and Shih Tzu compare in sensitivity?

Border Terrier and Shih Tzu dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Border Terrier vs Shih Tzu?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Border Terriers and Shih Tzus are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Border Terriers or Shih Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Border Terriers 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 - Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Cat Friendly

Do Border Terrier or Shih Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Border Terriers are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

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

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Border Terriers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

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

Pet friendly

How do Border Terrier or Shih Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Border Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Border Terriers 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 Border Terrier and Shih Tzu?

Border Terriers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Border Terriers and Shih Tzus compare?

Border Terriers 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.