Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Shih Tzu
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Calm0.4
Shih Tzu: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Shih Tzu: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shih Tzu: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Strangers
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel4/5
Shih Tzu3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Mitral Valve Disease: Heart condition
Syringomyelia: Neurological disorder
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac concerns
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
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Pros
Exceptionally affectionate
Good with children
Adaptable to different living situations
Easy to train
Gentle temperament
Cons
Significant health concerns
Regular grooming required
Separation anxiety prone
Cannot be left alone long
Expensive medical care
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
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Fun Fact
King Charles II was so devoted to these dogs that he decreed they be allowed in any public place, including Parliament!
Shih Tzu Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions in Chinese imperial courts!
Heritage & Purpose
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in the United Kingdom during the 16th century as companion dogs for nobility, particularly favored by King Charles II. Served as lap warmers and gentle companions.
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
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Regular heart monitoring required. Daily brushing needed to maintain coat. Cannot tolerate extreme temperatures or long periods of solitude.
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.