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

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

Differences only

Other names

Chinese Lion Dog, Chrysanthemum Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Shih Tzu and Whippig?

12.5 pounds ( 6 kg )

25.0 pounds ( 11 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Shih Tzu and Whippig

9.5 inches ( 24.1 cm )

17.5 inches ( 44.5 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih Tzus or Whippigs hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Shih Tzu and Whippig dogs?

Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing

Agile
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Outright
Companionable
Adaptable
Quiet
Athletic
Mischievous

Shedding Level

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

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

Whippigs are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih Tzu and Whippig breeds?

Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog

Italian Greyhound and Whippet

Date of Birth

When were Shih Tzu and Whippig breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih Tzu and Whippig dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih Tzu and Whippig?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
White
Brindle

Coat Length

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

Shih Tzus are known for their coat length.

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

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih Tzu and Whippig?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih Tzu and Whippig?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih Tzu and Whippig?

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.

4-8 puppies per pregnancy

A Whippig 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.

Adaptability

Shih Tzu and Whippigs 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 Shih Tzu and Whippig, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Shih Tzu and Whippig 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 Shih Tzu and Whippig breeds?

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Patellar Luxation
Von Willebrand's Disease
Corneal Dystrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Minor Concerns

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

Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate

Cataracts
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy
Bone Fractures

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih Tzu and Whippig breeds?

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

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Full Body Physical Examination
DNA for VWD
Hip and Knee

Social Needs

Shih Tzu vs Whippig social needs comparison

Shih Tzu has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Whippig has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shih Tzu or Whippig?

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

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih Tzu vs Whippig?

Roaming urge

Shih Tzu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

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

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

Shopping, Tug-of-war, Nap, Hide & Seek, Speak, Cuddling, Tag, Running

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih Tzus or Whippigs?

Medium

Both Shih Tzu and Whippig 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 Shih Tzu or Whippig walk each week?

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.

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Whippig, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih Tzus or Whippigs require more exercise?

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.

60 minutes

In general most Whippigs 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, Shih Tzus or Whippigs?

Shih Tzus have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

The Whippig is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Shih Tzu and Whippig dogs?

Daily

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

Monthly

In general Whippig should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Shih Tzus and Whippigs?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

1 cups

For an average 9-16 pound (4 - 7 kg) Shih 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 20-30 pound (9 - 14 kg) Whippig 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, Shih Tzu or Whippig?

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Shih Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

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

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Shih Tzu or Whippig?

$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.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Whippig 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 Shih Tzu and Whippig compare in sensitivity?

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

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

Apartment Friendly

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

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

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

Child Friendly

Do Shih Tzus or Whippigs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

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

Whippigs have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Shih Tzu or Whippig?

Cat Friendly

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

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

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

Dog Friendly

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

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

Whippigs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Shih Tzu or Whippig dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

Shih Tzu and Whippig 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 Shih Tzu and Whippig?

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

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih Tzus and Whippigs compare?

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

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