Australian Terrier vs Shih Tzu
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Shih Tzu: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Shih Tzu: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shih Tzu: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Terrier5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Terrier3/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Terrier3/5
Shih Tzu3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Shih Tzu
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Breathing issues
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Ear Infections: Regular cleaning needed
Dental Issues: Regular care required
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
Can be territorial
Shih Tzu
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Good with children
Adaptable to small spaces
Low exercise needs
Affectionate personality
Cons
High grooming requirements
Prone to health issues
Can be stubborn
Temperature sensitive
Difficult to housebreak
Australian Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
Shih Tzu Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions in Chinese imperial courts!
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
Shih Tzu
Origin:
Developed in ancient China's imperial courts as companion dogs, Shih Tzus served as cherished pets to Chinese royalty during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
Special Considerations
Australian Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shih Tzu
Daily grooming is essential for coat maintenance. Temperature sensitivity requires climate control, and regular dental care is crucial for preventing common oral issues.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
InfrequentRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Australian Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Same Group
Australian Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Terrier vs Japanese Chin →