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Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Comparison – Which dog is better Chrysanthemum Dog or Australian Silky Terrier?

"Find similarities and differences between Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier" Compare Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier. Which is better: Shih Tzu or Silky Terrier?
 
 
 
Name Shih Tzu Silky Terrier
OriginsChina flagChina Australia flagAustralia
Group Companion Dogs Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank20106
Reviews190
User Ratings

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

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Small Small
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Shih Tzu and a Silky Terrier. Which breed is heavier?
9–16 pounds (4-7 kg) 8-11 pounds (4-5 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
9–16 pounds (5.5 kg) 9.5 pounds (4.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Shih Tzu or Silky Terrier? Is a Shih Tzu taller than a Silky Terrier?
8-11 inches (20-28 cm) 9-10 inches (23-25 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
9.5 inches (24 cm) 9.5 inches (24 cm)

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Price and Availability Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Shih Tzu or a Silky 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 Silky Terrier dogs have great intelligence.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare training requirements.
Shih Tzu dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Silky Terrier dogs are easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare alertness levels.
Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Silky Terrier dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare territorial behaviors.
Shih Tzu dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Silky Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Shih Tzu and a Silky Terrier. How do their temperaments differ?
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Quick
Joyful
Inquisitive
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Silky 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.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier?
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: Silky Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier social needs comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
See more.
Silky Terrier dogs are a social breed.
See more.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
Silky Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential.
See more.
Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Silky 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.
Silky Terrier 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 vs Silky Terrier Activity and Playfulness Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare adaptability levels.
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Average: Silky Terrier dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Which dog can be left alone: Shih Tzu or Silky Terrier?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
Silky Terrier dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Bite Characteristics Comparison

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

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

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

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Silky Terrier bite force: Weak.

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare average lifespans.
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Silky Terrier: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Shih Tzu or a Silky 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 average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Shih Tzu and a Silky 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 Silky Terrier 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: Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier?
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Silky Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Shih Tzu vs Silky 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
Collapsed Trachea
Legg-perthes Disease
Epilepsy
Diabetes

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Energy and Activity Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Shih Tzu or a Silky 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 Silky Terrier has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare daily food needs.
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day. 1/2 to 1 cup dry food a day.

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare allergy friendliness.
Yes See more. Yes See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier? Compare breed colors.
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Black
Gray
Tan
Blue
Cream
Silver
Fawn
Tricolor
Platinum
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare maintenance needs.
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
See more.
Advanced: The Silky Terrier requires a lot of grooming.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare drooling amounts.
The Shih Tzu is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Silky Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare natural smell levels.

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Silky Terrier has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Shih Tzu and a Silky Terrier? Compare fur types.
Dense Silky
Straight
Glossy
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare bathing frequencies.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
2-3 weeks
Frequent. This breed has high-maintenance hair and may require a bath every 2-3 weeks.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Shih Tzu or Silky Terrier? Do Shih Tzu dogs shed more than Silky Terrier dogs?
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Silky Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier Good With Comparison

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

Shih Tzu vs Silky Terrier As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Shih Tzu or a Silky 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.
Therapy Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Shih Tzu or a Silky 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.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Shih Tzu or a Silky 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 Silky Terrier? 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 Shih Tzu or a Silky Terrier? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

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

Not really

Silky 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 Silky 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 Silky 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 Silky Terrier Reproducibility Comparison

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier. Which has larger litters?
2-5 puppies 3-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Shih Tzu and Silky 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 Silky Terrier Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Shih Tzu and Silky 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 1959 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier. Which groups are they in?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section. Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Toy Terriers section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Shih Tzu and Silky 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
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
Club Espanol De Terriers

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