Jack Tzu vs Shar Tzu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Jack-Tzu or Shih-Pei?

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

Differences only

Other names

Russell-Tzu, Jack-Tzu, Jack-A-Tzu

Shih-Pei

Weight

What is the average weight of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

12.0 pounds ( 5 kg )

32.5 pounds ( 15 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

15.0 inches ( 38.1 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Jack Tzus or Shar Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Jack Tzu nor Shar Tzu are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu dogs?

Active
Playful
Stubborn
Independent
Happy
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Cheerful

Active
Playful
Loving
Independent
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Affectionate
Devoted
Lively
Gentle
Reserved
Suspicious

Shedding Level

Do Jack Tzus shed more than Shar Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Jack Tzus or Shar Tzus?

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

Shar 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 Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu dog breeds?

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu breeds?

Jack Russell Terrier, Shih Tzu

Chinese Shar-Pei and Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

DBR = Designer Breed Registry

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu breeds first developed?

Unknown

1990s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu dogs?

Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu breeds?

White
Black
Brown
Cream
Pied

Cream
Fawn
Brown
Black
Red
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu breeds?

Jack Tzus have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Shar Tzus have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

4-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Jack Tzu 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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Shar Tzu 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

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

Shar Tzus are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

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

Shar Tzus 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 Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome

Patellar Luxation
Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Renal Dysplasia
Urinary Stones

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

Eye Abnormalities
Hydrocephalus
Dermoid Sinus
Familial Nephropathy
Tracheal Collapse
Diabetes
Von Willebrand's Disease
Hypothyroidism
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Cleft Palate
Cutaneous Asthenia
Intervertebral Disk Disease
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Persistent Pupillary Membranes (PPM)
Mitral Valve Dysplasia

Ear Infections
Skin Allergies
Eye Disease and Disorder

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu breeds?

Dna Test For Vwd
Thyroid Tests
Physical Examination
Eye Examinations
Urinalysis
Blood Work
Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap
Heart Rate Tests

Serum Biochemistry
Urinalysis
Full Physical Examination
Ear Tests and Myringotomy Tests
Laryngeal Examinations
Ophthalmic Examination
Blood Tests and Blood Count
Ultrasound to detect urinary stone location
X-rays or other radiographic imaging

Social Needs

Jack Tzu vs Shar Tzu social needs comparison

Jack Tzu and Shar 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: Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

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

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Jack Tzu vs Shar Tzu?

Roaming urge

Jack Tzu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Jack Tzus or Shar Tzus?

High

Jack Tzus 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

Shar 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 Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu walk each week?

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Jack Tzu, it's at least 12 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 Shar Tzu, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Jack Tzus or Shar Tzus require more exercise?

120 minutes

In general most Jack Tzus 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.

60 minutes

In general most Shar Tzus 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.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Jack Tzus or Shar Tzus?

Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu are breeds of dogs that require a significant amount of grooming. They will also require regular trims, and a professional groomer's help is often necessary to keep their coat in good condition. They may also need regular baths to maintain their coat and skin.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu dogs?

Weekly

Jack 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

Daily

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Jack Tzus and Shar Tzus?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu in cups?

1 cups

For an average 14-23 pound (6 - 10 kg) Jack 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.

2.5 cups

For an average 25-40 pound (11 - 18 kg) Shar Tzu 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.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

$1.30 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Jack Tzu is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

$2.00 - $3.10 / day

The average cost of a Shar Tzu is somewhere $2.00 - $3.10 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Jack Tzu 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.

$50 - $56 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shar Tzu is between $50 - $56. This makes an average of $600 - $672 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 Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu compare in sensitivity?

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

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

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

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

Child Friendly

Do Jack Tzus or Shar Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Jack Tzus have an average level of friendliness towards children.

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

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

Cat Friendly

Do Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Jack Tzus and Shar Tzus are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

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

Shar Tzus are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Jack Tzu or Shar Tzu?

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

Shar Tzus are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Jack Tzu and Shar Tzu?

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

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Jack Tzus and Shar Tzus compare?

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