English Cocker Spaniel vs Shih Tzu
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
English Cocker Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Shih Tzu: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
English Cocker Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Shih Tzu: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
English Cocker Spaniel: 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
English Cocker Spaniel5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Other Dogs
English Cocker Spaniel5/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Strangers
English Cocker Spaniel4/5
Shih Tzu3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
English Cocker Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
PSOM: Middle ear disease
Kidney Disease: Renal function issues
Heart Issues: Cardiac health 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
English Cocker Spaniel
Pros
Affectionate family companion
Excellent with children
Highly trainable
Moderate size
Good sporting abilities
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Needs consistent exercise
Potential health issues
Separation anxiety prone
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
English Cocker Spaniel Fun Fact
Their characteristic 'merry' tail action while working gave rise to their nickname as the 'merry cocker.'
Shih Tzu Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions in Chinese imperial courts!
Heritage & Purpose
English Cocker Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for hunting woodcock and other game birds, these skilled retrievers excelled at flushing and retrieving game in dense undergrowth.
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
English Cocker Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise routine. Ear cleaning and monitoring essential due to breed's susceptibility to infections.
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.