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Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Comparison – Which dog is better Jack or Chrysanthemum Dog?

"Find similarities and differences between Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu" Compare Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu?
 
 
 
Name Jack Russell Terrier Shih Tzu
OriginsEngland flagEngland China flagChina
Group Hunting Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank7820
Reviews319
User Ratings

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

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is heavier?
11-18 pounds (5-8 kg) 9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
14.5 pounds (6.5 kg) 9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu? Is a Jack Russell Terrier taller than a Shih Tzu?
8-15 inches (20-38 cm) 8-11 inches (20-28 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
11.5 inches (29 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm)

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range
Compare puppy prices between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Shih Tzu. Which breed costs more?
$700-$1000 $800-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu?
Very frequent: The Jack Russell Terrier is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Very smart: Jack Russell Terrier is an excellent dog breed.
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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare training requirements.
Jack Russell Terrier 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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare alertness levels.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good watchdogs.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare territorial behaviors.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Jack Russell Terrier and a Shih Tzu. How do their temperaments differ?
Stubborn
Independent
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Cheerful
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Jack Russell 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.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu?
High: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Jack Russell Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average.
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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 Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu?
The wanderlust potential of the Jack Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
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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 Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu? Which can be better for hunting?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
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Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare vocalization tendencies.
A lot: Jack Russell Terrier is a particularly loud breed.
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A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare play drive and energy.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a highly playful breed.
See more.
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare living space needs.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare adaptability levels.
Jack Russell Terrier 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: Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner.
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

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

Low 🔽

The Jack Russell Terrier 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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than 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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Jack Russell Terrier bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare average lifespans.
12-16 years
The average lifespan of Jack Russell Terrier: 14 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare climate tolerances.
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.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is healthier?
The Jack Russell Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
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: Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu?
Average
The Jack Russell Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least 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: Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
Legg-perthes Disease
Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Glaucoma
Lens Luxation
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

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare activity levels.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs.
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises.
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep.
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Jack Russell Terrier's weight, he can easily gain weight.
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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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare daily food needs.
1/4 to 1 cup 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.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare allergy friendliness.
No See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu? Compare breed colors.
Black
Tan
White
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare maintenance needs.
Easy to groom: The Jack Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming.
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Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare drooling amounts.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
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The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare natural smell levels.

Medium

The Jack Russell Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Shih Tzu? Compare fur types.
Rough Dense
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare bathing frequencies.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
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 Jack Russell Terrier or Shih Tzu? Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs shed more than Shih Tzu dogs?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are heavy shedders.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

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

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Jack Russell Terrier 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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare therapy capabilities.

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.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Jack Russell Terrier 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 Jack Russell Terrier 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 Jack Russell Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare maritime abilities.

Yes

Jack Russell Terrier breed usually likes being on a boat.
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Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Jack Russell Terrier 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.
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Military Service Background
Compare military history between Jack Russell Terrier 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.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which has larger litters?
4-8 puppies 2-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Jack Russell Terrier 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.

Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2012 as a Terrier breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which groups are they in?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Small sized Terriers section. Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which is more widely recognized?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
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
Irish Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers
Jack Russell Terrier Club Of America
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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