Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Comparison – Which dog is better Chrysanthemum Dog or Decker Giant?

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

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	Rat Terrier
Origins	China	United States
All Dog Breeds By Country Of Origin
Group	Companion Dogs	Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank	20	97
Reviews	19	2
User Ratings

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

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification Which is bigger: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare size differences between these breeds.	Small	Small
Weight Statistics Compare weight ranges between a Shih Tzu and a Rat Terrier. Which breed is heavier?	9–16 pounds (4-7 kg)	Standard: 12-35 pounds (5.5-16 kg)
Average Weight Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?	9–16 pounds (5.5 kg)	Standard: 23.5 pounds (5.10.5 kg)
Height Which is taller, Shih Tzu or Rat Terrier? Is a Shih Tzu taller than a Rat Terrier?	8-11 inches (20-28 cm)	Standard: 14-23 inches (35.5-58.5 cm)
Average Height Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?	9.5 inches (24 cm)	Standard: 18.5 inches (35.5-58.5 cm)

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Price and Availability Comparison

Price Range Compare puppy prices between a Shih Tzu and a Rat Terrier. Which breed costs more?	$800-$1200	$300-$500
Availability Which is easier to get, Shih Tzu or Rat Terrier?	Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.	Very frequent: The Rat Terrier is quite easy to get.

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating Which is smarter: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.	Low: The Shih Tzu is one of the dog breeds that have the lowest degree of obedience intelligence. See more.	Smart: The Rat Terrier dogs have great intelligence. See more.
Smartest Dog Breeds
Training Difficulty Which is easier to train: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare training requirements.	Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train. See more.	Rat Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. See more.
Least Obedient Dog Breeds		Dog Breeds That Easy To Train
Watchdog Rating Which makes a better watchdog: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare alertness levels.	Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. See more.	Rat Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. See more.
Territorial Protection Which is more protective: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare territorial behaviors.	Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory. See more.	Rat Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. See more.
Guard Dog Breeds List

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits Compare personalities of a Shih Tzu and a Rat Terrier. How do their temperaments differ?	Active Playful Happy Courageous Intelligent Friendly Outgoing Lively Gentle	Loving Alert Affectionate Lively Inquisitive
Sensitivity Level Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier?	Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. See more.	They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. See more.
Most Sensitive Dog Breeds		Less Sensitive Dog Breeds
Affection Level Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier?	High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. See more.	High: Rat Terrier 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 Rat Terrier social needs comparison:	Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction. See more.	Rat Terrier 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 Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier?	Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. See more.	The wanderlust potential of the Rat Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. See more.
Prey Drive Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier? Which can be better for hunting?	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. See more.	Rat Terrier 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

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Barking Frequency Which breed barks more: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare vocalization tendencies.	A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed. See more.	Average: The Rat Terrier barks occasionally. See more.
Quiet Dog Breeds That Don't Bark		Dog Breeds That Bark The Most
Playful Nature Which breed is more playful: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare play drive and energy.	Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed. See more.	Average: Rat Terriers, like any other dog breed, like playing. See more.
Most Playful Dog Breeds
Apartment Adaptability Which is better for apartments: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare living space needs.	Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.	Very house-friendly dog the Rat Terrier breed.
The Worst Dog Breeds for Apartment Living		Apartment Friendly Dogs List

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Adaptability and Independence Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Risk Assessment Which has lower bite risk: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare biting tendencies.	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.	Low 🔽 The Rat Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency Which is more mouthy: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare mouthing behaviors.	Shih Tzu dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. See more.	Rat Terrier dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. See more.
Bite Strength Rating Which has a stronger bite: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare bite force PSI.	Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽 Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.	Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽 Rat Terrier bite force: Weak.
Dog Breeds With The Lowest Bite Force		Dog Breeds With the Strongest Bite Force

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan Which lives longer: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare average lifespans.	10-16 years The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years	14-18 years The average lifespan of Rat Terrier: 16 years
Calculate dog years to human years by breed here
Climate Tolerance Which handles weather better: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare climate tolerances.	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.
Health Concerns Compare common health issues between a Shih Tzu and a Rat Terrier. Which breed is healthier?	The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.	The Rat Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Healthiest Dog Breeds
Vet Care Frequency Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier?	Average The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.	Average The Rat Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Longest Living Dog Breeds
Health Problems Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier 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 Legg-perthes Disease Patellar Luxation Eye Problems Heart Problems

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Energy and Activity Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency Which gains weight easier: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare obesity risks.	Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight. See more.	Average: The Rat Terrier has an average risk for obesity. See more.
Dog Breeds Prone To Obesity
Food Consumption Which eats more: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare daily food needs.	Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day.	No data available
Dog Breeds That Eat A Lot

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness Which is more hypoallergenic: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare allergy friendliness.	Yes See more.	No See more.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
Coat Colors What color variations exist for Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier? Compare breed colors.	Black Red Blue Silver Brindle Liver Gold	Black Tan Blue White Brown Tricolor
Grooming Requirements Which needs more grooming: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare maintenance needs.	Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. See more.	Effortless: The Rat Terrier requires minimal grooming. See more.
Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds		High-Maintenance Dog Breeds
Drooling Tendency Which drools more: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare drooling amounts.	The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.	The Rat Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. See more.
Stinkiness Rating Which has less odor: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare natural smell levels.	Low 🔽 The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.	Medium ⏺ The Rat Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics How do coats differ between a Shih Tzu and a Rat Terrier? Compare fur types.	Dense	Dense Shiny
Bathing Needs Which needs more baths: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? 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 Shih Tzu or Rat Terrier? Do Shih Tzu dogs shed more than Rat Terrier dogs?	Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal. See more.	Rat Terrier dogs shed above average. See more.
Low-Shedding Dog Breeds		Dog Breeds That Shed The Most

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility Which is better with children: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare kid-friendliness.	Shih Tzu dogs are not the most kid-friendly dogs.	Rat Terrier dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Kid-Friendly Dog Breeds
Pet Compatibility Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?	Shih Tzu dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.	Rat Terrier dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly Which dog is more stranger friendly Shih Tzu or Rat Terrier? Which dog is more friendly?	Shih Tzu dogs are average friendly towards strangers.	Rat Terrier dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Dog Breeds That Are Aloof With Strangers		Dog Breeds That Are Friendly To Strangers
Cat Friendly Which dog is more cat friendly Shih Tzu or Rat Terrier?	Shih Tzu dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.	Rat Terrier dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Cats
Dog Friendly Which dog is more dog friendly Shih Tzu or Rat Terrier? Can a Shih Tzu and a Rat Terrier be friends? Do Shih Tzu dogs get along with Rat Terrier dogs?	Shih Tzu dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.	Rat Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners Which dog is best for first time owners: Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier?	Yes Shih Tzu dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.	Yes Rat Terrier 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 Rat Terrier 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.	Rat Terriers are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability Which makes a better service dog: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? 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.
Most Popular Service Dog Breeds
Therapy Work Suitability Which is better for therapy work: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? 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.
Therapy Dog Breeds
Scent Detection Ability Which is better at detection work: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? 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 Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare SAR abilities.	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.
Maritime Work Ability Which is better on boats: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? Compare maritime abilities.	Not really Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.	Not really Rat Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. See more.
Draft Work Capability Which is better at pulling: a Shih Tzu or a Rat Terrier? 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 Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier. 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.

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size Compare litter sizes between Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier. Which has larger litters?	2-5 puppies	5-7 puppies
Dog Name Generator – Find A Perfect Name For Your Puppy
Pregnancy Duration Compare pregnancy duration between Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier breeds.	60-64 days See more.	60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency Compare breeding frequencies between Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier. 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.

Shih Tzu vs Rat Terrier Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification Compare AKC classifications of Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier. Which groups do they belong to?	Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.	Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2013 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Classification Compare FCI classifications of Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier. Which groups are they in?	Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section.	Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition Compare kennel club recognition between Shih Tzu and Rat Terrier. 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 Canadian Canine Registry	American Canine Registry American Kennel Club America's Pet Registry Dog Registry of America Inc. North American Purebred Registry, Inc. American Canine Association, Inc. Continental Kennel Club National Kennel Club United Kennel Club

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