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

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

Differences only

Other names

Mini St Bernard, Mini Saint Bernard

Shih-Pei

Weight

What is the average weight of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

40.0 pounds ( 18 kg )

32.5 pounds ( 15 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu

17.5 inches ( 44.5 cm )

15.0 inches ( 38.1 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Mini St. Bernards or Shar Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Mini St. Bernard 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 Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu dogs?

Playful
Independent
Happy
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Gentle
Going
Social
Trainable
Quiet
Faithful

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

Shedding Level

Do Mini St. Bernards shed more than Shar Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Mini St. Bernards or Shar Tzus?

Mini St. Bernards are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

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 Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu dog breeds?

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds?

Cocker Spaniel and Saint Bernard

Chinese Shar-Pei and Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds first developed?

1990s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu dogs?

Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds?

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Blue
Silver
White
Sable
Brindle

Cream
Fawn
Brown
Black
Red
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds?

The coat of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

6-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Mini St. Bernard can have a litter of 6-8 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

Mini St. Bernards 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 Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds are commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds?

Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
Seborrhea
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

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

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

Entropion
Ectropion
Skin-Fold Dermatitis
Retinal Dysplasia
Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome

Ear Infections
Skin Allergies
Eye Disease and Disorder

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu breeds?

Cardiac
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Ultrasound
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis

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

Mini St. Bernard vs Shar Tzu social needs comparison

Mini St. Bernard has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Shar Tzu has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

Mini St. Bernards 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: Mini St. Bernard vs Shar Tzu?

Roaming urge

Mini St. Bernard vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Mini St. Bernards or Shar Tzus?

Medium

Both Mini St. Bernard and Shar 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 Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Mini St. Bernard, it's at least 8 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 Mini St. Bernards or Shar Tzus require more exercise?

45 minutes

In general most Mini St. Bernards usually need at least 45 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, Mini St. Bernards or Shar Tzus?

The Mini St. Bernard requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Shar Tzus require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu dogs?

Daily

Ideally, both Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Mini St. Bernards and Shar Tzus?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu in cups?

2.5 cups

Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 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, Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

$2.20 - $3.40 / day

The average cost of a Mini St. Bernard is somewhere $2.20 - $3.40 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, Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

$67 - $101 / month

The average per month expenses of a Mini St. Bernard is between $67 - $101. This makes an average of $804 - $1212 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 Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

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

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

Child Friendly

Do Mini St. Bernards or Shar Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Mini St. Bernards make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

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

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

Cat Friendly

Do Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Mini St. Bernards are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

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

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

Mini St. Bernards 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 Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Mini St. Bernard or Shar Tzu?

Mini St. Bernards 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 Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu?

Mini St. Bernard and Shar Tzu have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Mini St. Bernards and Shar Tzus compare?

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