Bernese Mountain Dog vs Shih Tzu
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Shih Tzu: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Shih Tzu: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Shih Tzu: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Strangers
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Shih Tzu3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Bernese Mountain Dog
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal family companion
Good working dog capabilities
Excellent guard dog instincts
Cons
Short lifespan
Heavy shedding
Heat sensitivity
Significant grooming needs
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
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Shih Tzu Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions in Chinese imperial courts!
Heritage & Purpose
Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s. Their versatile working abilities made them invaluable.
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
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.
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
FrequentShedding
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