| Breed |  Tibetan Terrier |  Shih Tzu |
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| Origin | Tibet | Tibet and China |
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| Group | Utility | Toy |
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| Size | Medium | Small |
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| Coat | Long, fine double coat | Long, dense double coat |
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| Weight | 8 to 14 kg | 4 to 7.5 kg |
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| Height | 36 to 41 cm | 20 to 28 cm |
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| Lifespan | 12 to 16 yrs | 10 to 16 yrs |
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| Exercise need | 6/10 | 4/10 |
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| Affection | 9/10 | 9/10 |
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| Grooming needs | 9/10 | 9/10 |
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| Barking | 5/10 | 5/10 |
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| Good with children | 7/10 | 7/10 |
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| Good with other dogs | 7/10 | 7/10 |
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| Trainability | 6/10 | 5/10 |
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| Prey drive | 3/10 | 2/10 |
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| Copes alone | 3/10 | 3/10 |
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| Drool | 1/10 | 1/10 |
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| Shedding | 2/10 | 2/10 |
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| Flat fit | 8/10 | 9/10 |
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| Running cost | €97 / month | €108 / month |
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Tibetan Terrier verdict
The shaggy 'holy dog' of Tibet, devoted and sure-footed, and not a terrier at all
Get one if
- · Families or couples who are home a fair amount
- · Owners happy to brush several times a week
- · Flats or houses with daily outings
Think again if
- · Anyone wanting a low-maintenance coat
- · Owners out at work all day
- · People expecting a scrappy working terrier
Shih Tzu verdict
A affectionate, dignified companion dog bred for lap life, not long hikes.
Get one if
- · Owners who enjoy daily grooming or can budget for regular professional clips
- · Calm households wanting an affectionate indoor companion
- · People who can commit to daily eye and face cleaning
Think again if
- · Owners wanting a low maintenance, wash and go coat
- · Active owners seeking a jogging or hiking companion
- · Households unable to manage heat exposure carefully
