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Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Comparison – Which dog is better Csivava or Chrysanthemum Dog?

"Find similarities and differences between Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu" Compare Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Chihuahua or Shih Tzu?
Name Chihuahua Shih Tzu
OriginsMexico flagMexico China flagChina
Group Companion Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank3220
Reviews1719
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare different names used for Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. What other names are these breeds known by?
Csivava
Chihuahueño
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Breed Classification
Compare breed classifications between a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu. Learn about their genetic backgrounds.
Purebred Purebred

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is heavier?
2-6 pounds (1-3 kg) 9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
4 pounds (2 kg) 9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Chihuahua or Shih Tzu? Is a Chihuahua taller than a Shih Tzu?
6-9 inches (15-23 cm) 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
7.5 inches (19 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm)

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy prices between a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu. Which breed costs more?
$600-$800 $800-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Chihuahua or Shih Tzu?
Very frequent: The Chihuahua is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
See more.
Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare training requirements.
Chihuahua dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare alertness levels.
Chihuahua dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare territorial behaviors.
Chihuahua dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu. How do their temperaments differ?
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Quick
Devoted
Lively
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu?
Sensitive: Chihuahua dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu?
High: Chihuahua 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.
Social Needs
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Chihuahua dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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 Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu?
Chihuahua dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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 Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu? Which can be better for hunting?
Chihuahua 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.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare vocalization tendencies.
A lot: Chihuahua is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare play drive and energy.
Average: Chihuahuas, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare living space needs.
Very house-friendly dog the Chihuahua breed.
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare adaptability levels.
Chihuahua dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Chihuahua or Shih Tzu?
Chihuahua dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment
Which has lower bite risk: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare biting tendencies.

Low 🔽

The Chihuahua has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Which is more mouthy: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Chihuahua dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Which has a stronger bite: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Chihuahua bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare average lifespans.
14-18 years
The average lifespan of Chihuahua: 16 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare climate tolerances.
Prefers warm weather
Dogs that prefer warm weather conditions are typically breeds that were originally bred in warmer climates.
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.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is healthier?
Chihuahuas are commonly healthy dogs.
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu?
Rare
The Chihuahua should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year).
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
Collapsed Trachea
Heart Murmurs
Open Fontanel
Patellar Luxation
Pulmonic Stenosis
Hydrocephalus
Hypoglycemia
Shivering
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

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare activity levels.
Chihuahua dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Chihuahua or Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Chihuahua dogs exercise need is very minimal.
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Chihuahua or Shih Tzu?
Chihuahua dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare obesity risks.
Average: The Chihuahua 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.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare daily food needs.
Recommended daily amount: 1/4 to 1/2 cups of high-quality dry food a day. Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare allergy friendliness.
No See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Chihuahua and Shih Tzu? Compare breed colors.
Black
Tan
Red
Cream
Fawn
Chocolate
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare maintenance needs.
Effortless: The Chihuahua requires minimal grooming.
See more.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare drooling amounts.
The Chihuahua 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.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare natural smell levels.

High 🔼

The Chihuahua has a high chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu? Compare fur types.
Fine Dense
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare bathing frequencies.
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.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Chihuahua or Shih Tzu? Do Chihuahua dogs shed more than Shih Tzu dogs?
Chihuahua dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Which is better with children: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare kid-friendliness.
Chihuahua dogs are not kid-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Chihuahua dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Chihuahua or Shih Tzu? Which dog is more friendly?
Chihuahua dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Chihuahua or Shih Tzu?
Chihuahua dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Chihuahua or Shih Tzu? Can a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu be friends? Do Chihuahua dogs get along with Shih Tzu dogs?
Chihuahua dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu?
Yes
Chihuahua 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
Chihuahua 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?
Chihuahuas are not recommended for elderly people.
Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare service capabilities.

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.
Therapy Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare therapy capabilities.

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search & Rescue Potential
Which is better for search and rescue: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare SAR abilities.

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.
Maritime Work Ability
Which is better on boats: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

Chihuahua 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.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu? Compare draft work capabilities.

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.
Military Service Background
Compare military history between Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which has stronger military background?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which has larger litters?
2-4 puppies 2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Chihuahua and Shih Tzu breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which needs longer recovery?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904 as a Toy breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which groups are they in?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Chihuahueno section. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Chihuahua and Shih Tzu. Which is more widely recognized?
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
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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  • Chihuahua

    Jun 23, 2020, 4:41:31 AM:

  • Katie

    Dec 10, 2020, 1:17:17 PM:

    this is just what I needed! thank you DOGELL!

  • Katie

    Dec 10, 2020, 1:18:38 PM:

    when I want to know which dog is better I go to Dogell