Dusky vs Italian Tzu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Dusky or Italian Tzu?

Compare the Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Dusky or a Italian Tzu? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Weight

What is the average weight of Dusky and Italian Tzu?

18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )

20.5 pounds ( 9 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Dusky and Italian Tzu

14.0 inches ( 35.6 cm )

13.0 inches ( 33 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Duskys or Italian Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Dusky 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, Italian 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 Dusky and Italian Tzu dogs?

Playful
Stubborn
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Devoted
Lively
Gentle
Clever

Active
Playful
Happy
Agile
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Companionable
Athletic
Mischievous

Shedding Level

Do Duskys shed more than Italian Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Duskys or Italian Tzus?

Duskys are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

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

Origin

What is the origin of Dusky and Italian Tzu dog breeds?

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds?

Siberian Husky, Dachshund

Italian Greyhound, Shih Tzu

Date of Birth

When were Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Dusky and Italian Tzu dogs?

Blue
Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Dusky and Italian Tzu?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds?

Black
Brown
Cream
Blue
White
Silver
Sable
Gray

White
Pied

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds?

Duskys have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Italian Tzus have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Dusky and Italian Tzu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Dusky and Italian Tzu?

Wiry

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Dusky and Italian Tzu?

4-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Dusky can have a litter of 4-8 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.

2-5 puppies per pregnancy

An Italian Tzu can have a litter of 2-5 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

Dusky and Italian 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 Dusky and Italian Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Dusky and Italian 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 Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Eye Diseases and Disorders

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Leg Fractures
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Reverse Sneezing

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Dusky and Italian Tzu breeds?

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Work
Serum Chemistry
Neurologic Exam
Ophthalmic Examination

Hip X-Rays
Eye Examination
Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap

Social Needs

Dusky vs Italian Tzu social needs comparison

Dusky and Italian Tzu have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dusky or Italian Tzu?

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

Italian Tzus have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Dusky vs Italian Tzu?

Roaming urge

Dusky vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Dusky or Italian Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Duskys or Italian Tzus?

Medium

Both Dusky and Italian 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 Dusky or Italian Tzu walk each week?

9 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dusky, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

7 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Italian Tzu, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Duskys or Italian Tzus require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Duskys 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 Italian 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, Duskys or Italian Tzus?

Dusky and Italian Tzu are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dusky and Italian Tzu dogs?

Weekly

Dusky and Italian Tzu 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.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Duskys and Italian Tzus?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Dusky or Italian Tzu in cups?

3 cups

For an average 25-55 pound (11 - 25 kg) Dusky feed 3 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 10-16 pound (5 - 7 kg) Italian 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, Dusky or Italian Tzu?

$1.40 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Dusky is somewhere $1.40 - $2.00 per day.

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of an Italian Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Dusky or Italian Tzu?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Dusky 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 an Italian 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Dusky and Italian Tzu compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Dusky and Italian Tzu need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dusky or Italian Tzu?

Duskys are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

The Italian Tzu is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Duskys or Italian Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Duskys have an average level of friendliness towards children.

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

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dusky or Italian Tzu?

Cat Friendly

Do Dusky or Italian Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

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

Italian Tzus are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Dusky or Italian Tzu?

Duskys and Italian Tzus are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Dusky or Italian Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dusky or Italian Tzu?

Dusky and Italian Tzu are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Dusky and Italian Tzu?

Duskys are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Duskys and Italian Tzus compare?

Dusky and Italian Tzu dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.