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Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Comparison – Which dog is better Chrysanthemum Dog or Alsatian wolf dog?

"Find similarities and differences between Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd" Compare Shih Tzu and German Shepherd. Which is better: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
 
 
 
Name Shih Tzu German Shepherd
OriginsChina flagChina Germany flagGermany
Group Companion Dogs Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank202
Reviews1619
User Ratings

Other Names
What other names do they have?
Chrysanthemum Dog
Chinese Lion Dog
Alsatian wolf dog
Berger Allemand
Deutscher Schäferhund
Schäferhund
Alsatian
Breed Type
Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd breed type comparison:
Purebred Purebred

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Size and Weight Comparison

Size
Which dog is bigger, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Is the Shih Tzu bigger than the German Shepherd breed? Is a Shih Tzu smaller than a German Shepherd?
Small Large
Weight
Which is heavier, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd weight comparison:
9–16 pounds (4-7 kg) Male: 66-88 pounds (30-40 kg), Female: 49-71 pounds (22-32 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
9–16 pounds (5.5 kg) Male: 77 pounds (35 kg), Female: 60 pounds (27 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Is a Shih Tzu taller than a German Shepherd?
8-11 inches (20-28 cm) Male: 24-26 inches (60-65 cm), Female: 22-24 inches (55-60 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
9.5 inches (24 cm) Male: 25 inches (62.5 cm), Female: 23 inches (57.5 cm)

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Price and Availability Comparison

Price
Which is cheaper, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between Shih Tzu and German Shepherd?
$800-$1200 $800-$2000
Availability
Which is easier to get, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The German Shepherd is quite easy to get.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank
Which dog has more intelligence? Is a Shih Tzu or German Shepherd smarter? Which is best? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd intelligence:
Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence.
See more.
Outstanding: German Shepherd is one of the brightest dog breeds.
See more.
Trainability
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd trainability comparison. What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs are easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Ability
Which is the better watchdog: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
See more.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Which is a better guard dog Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Which dog is most likely to protect its owner? Which is the best dog to use for protection?
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament
Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd behavior/temperament comparison:
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Curious
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Obedient
Loyal
Watchful
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Sensitive: German Shepherd dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: German Shepherd dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd social needs comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs need for social interaction is average.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs are not the biggest explorers.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd? Which can be better for hunting?
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd playfulness comparison:
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
See more.
Average: German Shepherds, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Barking
Which dog barks more/less: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
See more.
Low to Average: The German Shepherd rarely barks.
See more.
Apartment Friendly
Which dog is more apartment friendly Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep German Shepherd indoors.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability
Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
German Shepherd dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
Which dog can be left alone: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Force PSI
Which bite is stronger: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

German Shepherd bite force: Ordinary.
Biting Potential
Is a Shih Tzu more dangerous than a German Shepherd?

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.

High 🔼

The German Shepherd has a high chance of biting somebody.
Mouthiness
Which is the better dog? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd mouthiness comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd health comparison. Which is the healthier: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
German Shepherds are commonly healthy dogs.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd health problems comparison:
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
Cataracts
Hip Dysplasia
Allergies
Cancer
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Von Willebrand's Disease
Bloat
Epilepsy
Blindness
Cherry Eye
Elbow Dysplasia
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Retinal Dysplasia
Demodectic Mange
Degenerative Myelopathy
Wobbler's Syndrome
Panosteitis
Hemophilia B
Megaesophagus
Cushing's Syndrome
Lens Luxation
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Chronic Diarrhea
Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Digestive Problems
Hemophilia A
Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
Lupus
Myasthenia Gravis
Nail Bed Disease
Osteochondrosis
Pannus
Paralysis
Perianal Fistula
Seborrhea
Vitiligo
Veterinarian Visits
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Rare
The German Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year).
Life Expectancy
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd lifespan comparison. How long do Shih Tzu and German Shepherd breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the Shih Tzu and German Shepherd?
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
9-13 years
The average lifespan of German Shepherd: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level
Who has more energy a Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd energy level comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
German Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
German Shepherd dogs need quite a lot of exercise.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
German Shepherd dogs don't need too much sleep.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption
Which dog eats more: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Does the Shih Tzu breed eat more than the German Shepherd breed?
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day. 3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd weight gain potential comparison:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
See more.
Low to Average: The German Shepherd has a low to the average risk for obesity.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat/fur do they have? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd coat comparison:
Dense Fuzzy
Colors
What are the original Shih Tzu and German Shepherd color? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd color comparison:
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Black
Tan
Red
Silver
Grooming
Which dog is easy to maintain, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd grooming comparison:
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Average: The German Shepherd requires average grooming effort.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Do Shih Tzu dogs shed more than German Shepherd dogs?
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
German Shepherd dogs are heavy shedders.
See more.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
Which dog should be bathed more: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one.
See more.
Hypoallergenic
Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?
Yes See more. No See more.
Stinkiness
Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.

Medium

The German Shepherd has an average chance of bad smell.
Drooling Tendency
Which dog drools the most? Which dog drools the least? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The German Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Good With Comparison

Pet Friendly
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
German Shepherd dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Which dog is more friendly?
Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
German Shepherd dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Which dog is more child/kid friendly Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.
German Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Shih Tzu or German Shepherd?
Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
German Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Can a Shih Tzu and a German Shepherd be friends? Do Shih Tzu dogs get along with German Shepherd dogs?
Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
German Shepherd dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?
Yes
Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
German Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Shih Tzu is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
German Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Shih Tzus are not the best breed for elderly people.
German Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd 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.

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Dog
Which one could be a therapy dog: Shih Tzu or German Shepherd? Which is better for autism?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
See more.
Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Which one could be a detection/sniffer dog?

Not really

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

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
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.

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Boat and Sailor Dog
Which one could be a boat dog: Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd?

Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

German Shepherd 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

Not really

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

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs.

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd 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 Shih Tzu and German Shepherd have? Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd litter size comparison:
2-5 puppies 6-10 puppies

Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd Recognition Comparison

AKC Group
Which dog is recognized by the AKC?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1908 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Which dog is recognized by the FCI?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section. Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.
Breed Recognition
What other organizations and kennel clubs recognize these dog breeds?
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
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
German Shepherd Dog Club Of America

Rate This Comparsion - Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd

Reviews

    Dec 11, 2020, 7:59:30 PM:

    I love Dogell it is such the help! right now I have two rottwilers and I think that it will really help others two

  • Dogloverforever!

    Dec 12, 2020, 7:39:59 PM:

    I now know that I want a German Shepherd!