Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Comparison – Which dog is better Chrysanthemum Dog or German: Italienisches Windspiel?

"Find similarities and differences between Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound" Compare Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound. Which is better: Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?

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	Shih Tzu	Italian Greyhound
Origins	China	Italy
All Dog Breeds By Country Of Origin
Group	Companion Dogs	Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank	20	74
Reviews	16	2
User Ratings

Other Names What other names do they have?	Chrysanthemum Dog Chinese Lion Dog	German: Italienisches Windspiel Piccolo Levriero Italiano Galgo Italiano French: Petit Levrier Italiane
Breed Type Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound breed type comparison:	Purebred	Purebred

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Size and Weight Comparison

Size Which dog is bigger, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Is the Shih Tzu bigger than the Italian Greyhound breed? Is a Shih Tzu smaller than an Italian Greyhound?	Small	Small
Weight Which is heavier, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound weight comparison:	9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)	6-10 pounds (3-5 kg)
Average Weight Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?	9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)	8 pounds (4 kg)
Height Which is taller, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Is a Shih Tzu taller than an Italian Greyhound?	8-11 inches (20-28 cm)	12-15 inches (30-38 cm)
Average Height Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?	9.5 inches (24 cm)	13.5 inches (34 cm)

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Price and Availability Comparison

Price Which is cheaper, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound?	$800-$1200	$800-$1000
Availability Which is easier to get, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.	Very frequent: The Italian Greyhound is quite easy to get.

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank Which dog has more intelligence? Is a Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound smarter? Which is best? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound intelligence:	Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence. See more.	Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. See more.
Smartest Dog Breeds
Trainability Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound trainability comparison. What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train. See more.	Italian Greyhound 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: Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. See more.	Italian Greyhound dogs are average watchdogs. See more.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial Which is a better guard dog Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? 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.	Italian Greyhound dogs strongly protect their territory. See more.
Guard Dog Breeds List

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound behavior/temperament comparison:	Active Playful Happy Courageous Intelligent Friendly Outgoing Lively Gentle	Agile Intelligent Affectionate Companionable Athletic Mischievous
Sensitivity Level Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. See more.	Sensitive: Italian Greyhound dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits. See more.
Most Sensitive Dog Breeds		Less Sensitive Dog Breeds
Affection Level Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.	High: Italian Greyhound dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.
Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
Social Needs Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound social needs comparison:	Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction. See more.	Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound?	Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. See more.	Italian Greyhound dogs have average wanderlust potential. See more.
Prey Drive Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound? Which can be better for hunting?	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. See more.	Italian Greyhound dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. See more.
Dog Breeds With Low Prey Drive		Dog Breeds With High Prey Drive

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound playfulness comparison:	Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed. See more.	Average: Italian Greyhounds, like any other dog breed, like playing. See more.
Most Playful Dog Breeds
Barking Which dog barks more/less: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed. See more.	Average: The Italian Greyhound barks occasionally. See more.
Quiet Dog Breeds That Don't Bark		Dog Breeds That Bark The Most
Apartment Friendly Which dog is more apartment friendly Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	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 Italian Greyhound indoors.
The Worst Dog Breeds for Apartment Living		Apartment Friendly Dogs List

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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.	Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound?	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 Italian Greyhound Bite Characteristics Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound health comparison. Which is the healthier: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.	The Italian Greyhound 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: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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	Hip Dysplasia Patellar Luxation Eye Problems Drug Sensitivity Thyroid Problems Alopecia
Veterinarian Visits Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	Average The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.	Average The Italian Greyhound should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Longest Living Dog Breeds
Life Expectancy Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound lifespan comparison. How long do Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound?	10-16 years The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years	11-15 years The average lifespan of Italian Greyhound: 13 years
Calculate dog years to human years by breed here
Weather and Climate Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	Tolerates warm and cold weather Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. See more.	Prefers warm weather Dogs that prefer warm weather conditions are typically breeds that were originally bred in warmer climates. See more.

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Energy and Activity Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption Which dog eats more: Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Does the Shih Tzu breed eat more than the Italian Greyhound breed?	Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.	1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Dog Breeds That Eat A Lot
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound has a low to the average risk for obesity. See more.
Dog Breeds Prone To Obesity

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types What type of coat/fur do they have? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound coat comparison:	Dense	Fine
Colors What are the original Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound color? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound color comparison:	Black Red Blue Silver Brindle Liver Gold	Black Gray Red Blue White Brown Yellow
Grooming Which dog is easy to maintain, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound grooming comparison:	Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. See more.	Effortless: The Italian Greyhound requires minimal grooming. See more.
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds		High-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Shedding Level Who sheds more Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Do Shih Tzu dogs shed more than Italian Greyhound dogs?	Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal. See more.	Italian Greyhound 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: Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	4-6 weeks Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. See more.	3-4 weeks More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. See more.
Hypoallergenic Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?	Yes See more.	Yes See more.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Stinkiness Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.	Medium ⏺ The Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound?	The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.	The Italian Greyhound is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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.	Italian Greyhound dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly Which dog is more stranger friendly Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Which dog is more friendly?	Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.	Italian Greyhound 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 Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.	Italian Greyhound dogs are not kid-friendly dogs.
Kid-Friendly Dog Breeds
Cat Friendly Which dog is more cat friendly Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound?	Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.	Italian Greyhound dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Cats
Dog Friendly Which dog is more dog friendly Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? Can a Shih Tzu and an Italian Greyhound be friends? Do Shih Tzu dogs get along with Italian Greyhound dogs?	Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.	Italian Greyhound dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners Which dog is best for first time owners: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	Yes Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.	Yes Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound 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.	Italian Greyhounds are not recommended for elderly people.

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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: Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound? 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.
Therapy Dog Breeds
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.	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: Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound?	Not really Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.	Not really Italian Greyhound 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.	Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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 Italian Greyhound have? Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound litter size comparison:	2-5 puppies	2-4 puppies
Dog Name Generator – Find A Perfect Name For Your Puppy

Shih Tzu vs Italian Greyhound 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 1886 as a Toy 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 Sighthounds group, in the Short-haired Sighthounds 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

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