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

"Find similarities and differences between Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu" Compare Silky Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which is better: Silky Terrier or Shih Tzu?
 
 
 
Name Silky Terrier Shih Tzu
OriginsAustralia flagAustralia China flagChina
Group Hunting Dogs Companion Dogs
Popularity Rank10620
Reviews019
User Ratings

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Size and Weight Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Price and Availability Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Silky Terrier and a Shih Tzu. How do their temperaments differ?
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Quick
Joyful
Inquisitive
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Silky 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: Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu?
High: Silky Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
See more.
Social Needs
Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison:
Silky Terrier dogs are a social breed.
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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 Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu?
Silky Terrier dogs have average wanderlust potential.
See more.
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 Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu? Which can be better for hunting?
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 dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
See more.

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Activity and Playfulness Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Adaptability and Independence Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Bite Characteristics Comparison

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

Low 🔽

The Silky 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 Silky Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Silky Terrier dogs have an 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 Silky Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Silky Terrier bite force: Weak.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Silky Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare average lifespans.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Silky Terrier: 13 years
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Silky 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 Silky Terrier and a Shih Tzu. Which breed is healthier?
The Silky 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: Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu?
Average
The Silky 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: Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu health problems comparison:
Collapsed Trachea
Legg-perthes Disease
Epilepsy
Diabetes
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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Energy and Activity Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Diet and Weight Management Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Allergies and Grooming Comparison

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

Medium

The Silky 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 Silky Terrier and a Shih Tzu? Compare fur types.
Silky
Straight
Glossy
Dense
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Silky Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare bathing frequencies.
2-3 weeks
Frequent. This breed has high-maintenance hair and may require a bath every 2-3 weeks.
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 Silky Terrier or Shih Tzu? Do Silky Terrier dogs shed more than Shih Tzu dogs?
Silky Terrier dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
See more.

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Good With Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Silky 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 Silky 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 Silky 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 Silky 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 Silky Terrier or a Shih Tzu? Compare maritime abilities.

Not really

Silky Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Reproducibility Comparison

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

Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Silky Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1959 as a Toy breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Silky Terrier and Shih Tzu. Which groups are they in?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Toy 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 Silky Terrier and Shih Tzu. 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
Club Espanol De Terriers
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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