Chinese Crested vs Shih Tzu
Breed Compatibility
77% Compatible
Energy Level
Chinese Crested: Regular Exercise0.6
Shih Tzu: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Chinese Crested: Agreeable0.6
Shih Tzu: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Chinese Crested: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Shih Tzu: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Chinese Crested3/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Chinese Crested3/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Strangers
Chinese Crested4/5
Shih Tzu3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Chinese Crested
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary Lens Luxation: Eye condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure disorder
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Cardiac Issues: Heart 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
Chinese Crested
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Minimal shedding
Good for apartment living
Affectionate with family
Cons
Requires skin care (hairless variety)
Sensitive to extreme temperatures
Can be yappy
May be difficult to housebreak
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
Chinese Crested Fun Fact
The hairless gene in Chinese Cresteds is actually incomplete dominance, resulting in some dogs being born with fur!
Shih Tzu Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions in Chinese imperial courts!
Heritage & Purpose
Chinese Crested
Origin:
Developed in ancient China as companion dogs for Chinese sailors, these small dogs served as ratters on ships while traveling maritime trade routes during the Han dynasty.
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
Chinese Crested
Hairless variety needs sun protection and regular skin care. Both varieties require dental attention and protection from extreme temperatures.
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
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