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

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

Differences only

Weight

What is the average weight of Italian Tzu and Shetinese?

20.5 pounds ( 9 kg )

17.5 pounds ( 8 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Italian Tzu and Shetinese

13.0 inches ( 33 cm )

11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Italian Tzus or Shetineses hypoallergenic, or neither?

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.

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Italian Tzu and Shetinese dogs?

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

Playful
Stubborn
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Good-natured
Opinionated

Shedding Level

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

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

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

Origin

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

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Italian Tzu and Shetinese breeds?

Italian Greyhound, Shih Tzu

Shetland Sheepdog and Pekingese

Date of Birth

When were Italian Tzu and Shetinese breeds first developed?

Unknown

2000's

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Brown

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

White
Pied

Black
Gray
Brown
White
Blue
Sable
Red

Coat Length

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

Italian Tzus have medium-length coats.

Shetineses have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

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

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Italian Tzu and Shetinese?

Straight

Litter Size

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

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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Shetinese can have a litter of 4-6 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

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

While the Italian Tzu breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Shetineses typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Italian Tzu and Shetinese breeds?

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

Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Dermatomyositis
Von Willebrand's Disease
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Ulcerative Dermatosis

Occasional Tests

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

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

Brain Auditory Evoked Response (BAER)
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Ear Tests and Myringotomy Tests
Blood Sugar and Thyroid Tests
Yearly Physical Examination
Full Chemistry Panel Tests and Blood Count
Various Blood Testing Modalities
Eye Examinations (both internal as well as external)
X-rays of various parts of the skeletal system
Echocardiography (ultrasound)

Social Needs

Italian Tzu vs Shetinese social needs comparison

Italian Tzu and Shetinese 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: Italian Tzu or Shetinese?

Italian Tzu and Shetinese breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Italian Tzu vs Shetinese?

Roaming urge

Italian Tzu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Italian Tzus or Shetineses?

Medium

Italian 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.

High

Shetineses 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.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Italian Tzu or Shetinese walk each week?

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.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shetinese, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Italian Tzus or Shetineses require more exercise?

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.

120 minutes

In general most Shetineses usually need at least 120 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, Italian Tzus or Shetineses?

The Italian Tzu requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Shetineses 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 Italian Tzu and Shetinese dogs?

Weekly

Italian Tzu and Shetinese 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 Italian Tzus and Shetineses?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

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.

2 cups

For an average 11-24 pound (5 - 11 kg) Shetinese feed 2 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, Italian Tzu or Shetinese?

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

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

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Shetinese is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$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.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shetinese 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Italian Tzu and Shetinese compare in sensitivity?

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

Apartment Friendly

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

Italian Tzu and Shetinese are apartment-friendly dog breeds. They can do perfectly well in apartments providing they are sufficiently exercised and taken out and about as part of their owner's daily lifestyle.

Child Friendly

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

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

Shetineses have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

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

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

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

Dog Friendly

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

Italian Tzus and Shetineses 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 Italian Tzu or Shetinese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

Italian Tzu and Shetinese 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 Italian Tzu and Shetinese?

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

Shetineses are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Trainability

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

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

Shetineses are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.