American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Comparison – Which dog is better Pit or Chrysanthemum Dog?

"Find similarities and differences between American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu" Compare American Pit Bull Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which is better: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?

Size and Weight Price and Availability Trainability and Intelligence Personality and Temperament Activity and Playfulness Adaptability and Independence Bite Characteristics Health and Lifespan Energy and Activity Diet and Weight Management Allergies and Grooming Good With As a Working Dog Reproducibility Recognition Show differences only

Name	American Pit Bull Terrier	Shih Tzu
Origins	United States	China
All Dog Breeds By Country Of Origin
Group	Hunting Dogs	Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank	336	20
Reviews	10	15
User Ratings

Other Names What other names do they have?	Pit Pit Bull Pitbull Pitty APBT	Chrysanthemum Dog Chinese Lion Dog
Breed Type Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu breed type comparison:	Purebred	Purebred

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Which dog is bigger, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Is the American Pit Bull Terrier bigger than the Shih Tzu breed? Is an American Pit Bull Terrier smaller than a Shih Tzu?	Medium	Small
Weight Which is heavier, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu weight comparison:	22-78 pounds (10-35 kg)	9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)
Average Weight Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?	50 pounds (22.5 kg)	9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height Which is taller, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Is an American Pit Bull Terrier taller than a Shih Tzu?	14-24 inches (35-60 cm)	8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
Average Height Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?	19 inches (47.5 cm)	9.5 inches (24 cm)

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Which is cheaper, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between American Pit Bull Terrier and Shih Tzu?	$500-$700	$800-$1200
Availability Which is easier to get, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	Average: The American Pit Bull Terrier is a commonly available dog breed.	Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank Which dog has more intelligence? Is a American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu smarter? Which is best? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu intelligence:	Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. See more.	Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence. See more.
Smartest Dog Breeds
Trainability American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu trainability comparison. What's the difference between American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are easy to train. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train. See more.
Least Obedient Dog Breeds		Dog Breeds That Easy To Train
Watchdog Ability Which is the better watchdog: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. See more.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial Which is a better guard dog American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Which dog is most likely to protect its owner? Which is the best dog to use for protection?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are average defenders. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory. See more.
Guard Dog Breeds List

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu behavior/temperament comparison:	Stubborn Clownish Courageous Intelligent Friendly Affectionate Obedient Loyal Strong Willed Aggressive	Active Playful Happy Courageous Intelligent Friendly Outgoing Lively Gentle
Sensitivity Level Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. See more.
Most Sensitive Dog Breeds		Less Sensitive Dog Breeds
Affection Level Which is the more affectionate dog breed: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	High: American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.	High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.
Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
Social Needs American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are a social breed. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction. See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	The wanderlust potential of the American Pit Bull Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. See more.
Prey Drive Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu? Which can be better for hunting?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. See more.
Dog Breeds With Low Prey Drive		Dog Breeds With High Prey Drive

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu playfulness comparison:	The American Pit Bull Terrier is a playful breed. See more.	Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed. See more.
Most Playful Dog Breeds
Barking Which dog barks more/less: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	Average: The American Pit Bull Terrier barks occasionally. See more.	A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed. See more.
Quiet Dog Breeds That Don't Bark		Dog Breeds That Bark The Most
Apartment Friendly Which dog is more apartment friendly American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	It is not recommended to keep the American Pit Bull Terrier breed in the home.	Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.
The Worst Dog Breeds for Apartment Living		Apartment Friendly Dogs List

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?	Average: American Pit Bull Terrier dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.	Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Tolerates Being Left Alone Which dog can be left alone: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.	Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Force PSI Which bite is stronger: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	Between 200 and 400 PSI ⏺ American Pit Bull Terrier bite force: Ordinary.	Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽 Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.
Dog Breeds With The Lowest Bite Force		Dog Breeds With the Strongest Bite Force
Biting Potential Is an American Pit Bull Terrier more dangerous than a Shih Tzu?	High 🔼 The American Pit Bull Terrier has a high chance of biting somebody.	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthiness Which is the better dog? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu mouthiness comparison:	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. See more.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu health comparison. Which is the healthier: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terriers tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.	The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Healthiest Dog Breeds
Health Problems Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:	Hip Dysplasia Demodectic Mange Skin Allergies	Hip Dysplasia Patellar Luxation Allergies Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) Umbilical Hernias Ear Infections Distichiasis Portosystemic Liver Shunt Bladder Stones Ectopic Cilia Reverse Sneezing Dry Eye Proptosis Juvenile Renal Dysplasia Keratitis Retained Baby Teeth Snuffles
Veterinarian Visits Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	Frequent The American Pit Bull Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year.	Average The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Longest Living Dog Breeds
Life Expectancy American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu lifespan comparison. How long do American Pit Bull Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the American Pit Bull Terrier and Shih Tzu?	10-14 years The average lifespan of American Pit Bull Terrier: 12 years	10-16 years The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Calculate dog years to human years by breed here
Weather and Climate Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	Prefers average to warm weather conditions Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. See more.	Tolerates warm and cold weather Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. See more.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level Who has more energy a American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu energy level comparison:	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.	Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Low-Energy Dog Breeds		High-Energy Dog Breeds
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs have an average exercise need.	Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need Which one sleeps the least/most: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.	Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
Dog Breeds That Sleep A Lot

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption Which dog eats more: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Does the American Pit Bull Terrier breed eat more than the Shih Tzu breed?	Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.	Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.
Dog Breeds That Eat A Lot
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu weight gain potential comparison:	Average: The American Pit Bull Terrier has an average risk for obesity. See more.	Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight. See more.
Dog Breeds Prone To Obesity

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types What type of coat/fur do they have? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu coat comparison:	Fine	Dense
Colors What are the original American Pit Bull Terrier and Shih Tzu color? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu color comparison:	Black Gray Tan Red Blue White Brown Yellow	Black Red Blue Silver Brindle Liver Gold
Grooming Which dog is easy to maintain, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu grooming comparison:	Effortless: The American Pit Bull Terrier requires minimal grooming. See more.	Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. See more.
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds		High-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Shedding Level Who sheds more American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Do American Pit Bull Terrier dogs shed more than Shih Tzu dogs?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs shed moderately. See more.	Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal. See more.
Low-Shedding Dog Breeds		Dog Breeds That Shed The Most
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency Which dog should be bathed more: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	3-4 weeks More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. See more.	4-6 weeks Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. See more.
Hypoallergenic American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?	No See more.	Yes See more.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Stinkiness Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	Medium ⏺ The American Pit Bull Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Drooling Tendency Which dog drools the most? Which dog drools the least? What's the difference between American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	The American Pit Bull Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.	The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

Pet Friendly Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.	Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly Which dog is more stranger friendly American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Which dog is more friendly?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.	Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Dog Breeds That Are Aloof With Strangers		Dog Breeds That Are Friendly To Strangers
Child Friendly Which dog is more child/kid friendly American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs.	Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
Kid-Friendly Dog Breeds
Cat Friendly Which dog is more cat friendly American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.	Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Cats
Dog Friendly Which dog is more dog friendly American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Can an American Pit Bull Terrier and a Shih Tzu be friends? Do American Pit Bull Terrier dogs get along with Shih Tzu dogs?	American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are not dog-friendly.	Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners Which dog is best for first time owners: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	Yes American Pit Bull Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.	Yes Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly Which one fits better in the office?	No American Pit Bull Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.	No Shih Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly Which dog is good for elderly people?	American Pit Bull Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.	Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Which one could be a service dog?	Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. See more.	Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. See more.
Most Popular Service Dog Breeds
Therapy Dog Which one could be a therapy dog: American Pit Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu? Which is better for autism?	Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. See more.	Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. See more.
Therapy Dog Breeds
Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog Which one could be a detection/sniffer dog?	Yes After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.	Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search and Rescue Dog (SAR) Which one could be a search and rescue dog?	Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.	Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Boat and Sailor Dog Which one could be a boat dog: American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu?	Not really American Pit Bull Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.	Not really Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.
Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog Which one could be a cart pulling or drafting dog?	Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. See more.	Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. See more.
Fighting Dog / Military Dog	Yes In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs.	Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Gestation Length	60-64 days See more.	60-64 days See more.
Litter Frequency	Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. See more.	Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. See more.
Litter Size How many puppies can American Pit Bull Terrier and Shih Tzu have? American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu litter size comparison:	5-8 puppies	2-5 puppies
Dog Name Generator – Find A Perfect Name For Your Puppy

American Pit Bull Terrier vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Group Which dog is recognized by the AKC?	Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.	Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.
FCI Group Which dog is recognized by the FCI?	Not recognized by FCI.	Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.
Breed Recognition What other organizations and kennel clubs recognize these dog breeds?	American Canine Registry Dog Registry of America Inc. North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club United Kennel Club Backwoods Bulldog Club	American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Canadian Kennel Club Dog Registry of America Inc. Federation Cynologique Internationale Kennel Club of Great Britain North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Australian National Kennel Council Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club New Zealand Kennel Club United Kennel Club Canadian Canine Registry

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