Weston vs. Shih Tzu: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Westons or Shih Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Weston and Shih Tzu are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Weston and Shih Tzu dogs?

Playful
Independent
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Trainable
Vocal

Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing

Shedding Level

Do Westons shed more than Shih Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Westons or Shih Tzus?

2 / 5

Westons are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

1 / 5

Shih Tzus shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Weston or Shih Tzu?

3 / 5

The Weston and Shih Tzu dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Weston and Shih Tzu breeds?

Coton de Tulear and West Highland White Terrier

Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Weston and Shih Tzu?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were Weston and Shih Tzu breeds first developed?

Unknown

Ancient Times

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Weston and Shih Tzu dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Weston and Shih Tzu?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Weston and Shih Tzu breeds?

Brown
White
Cream
Black

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Weston and Shih Tzu breeds?

4 / 5

Westons have longer coats compared to most dogs.

5 / 5

Shih Tzus are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Weston and Shih Tzu?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Weston and Shih Tzu?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Weston and Shih Tzu?

A Weston can have a litter of 4-6 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Shih Tzu can have a litter of 10-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Weston and Shih Tzus are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Weston and Shih Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

Westons typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

3 / 5

While the Shih Tzu breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Weston and Shih Tzu breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Eye Problems
Craniomandibular Osteopathy
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Weston and Shih Tzu?

Allergies
Hip Dysplasia

Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Weston and Shih Tzu breeds?

X-Rays
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests
Eye Examinations
Blood Tests
Hip and Knee

Eye
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Westons and Shih Tzus compare?

3 / 5

Westons are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

2 / 5

Shih Tzus are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

Weston vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison

4 / 5

Weston has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

Shih Tzu has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Weston vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Westons require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

2 / 5

Shih Tzus need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Weston or Shih Tzu?

3 / 5

Westons have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

4 / 5

Shih Tzus are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

Tendency to Bark

Do Westons or Shih Tzus bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Westons bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

5 / 5

Shih Tzu dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Weston vs Shih Tzu?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Weston vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Weston or Shih Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Westons or Shih Tzus?

Both Weston and Shih Tzu are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Weston or Shih Tzu walk each week?

Weston and Shih Tzu generally need a minimum of 6 miles of walking per week, but it can be increased as long as they are comfortable with it.

Activity per Day

Do Westons or Shih Tzus require more exercise?

Both Weston and Shih Tzu typically require a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Westons or Shih Tzus?

5 / 5

These breeds are known for having high grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Weston and Shih Tzu dogs?

Ideally, both Weston and Shih Tzu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Westons and Shih Tzus?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Weston or Shih Tzu in cups?

For an average 12-18 pound (5 - 8 kg) Weston feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 9-16 pound (4 - 7 kg) Shih Tzu feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Weston or Shih Tzu?

The average cost of a Weston is somewhere $1.00 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Shih Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Weston or Shih Tzu?

The average per month expenses of a Weston is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Shih Tzu is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Westons vs Shih Tzus

3 / 5

Westons are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

1 / 5

Shih Tzu is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

Sensitivity Level

How do Weston and Shih Tzu compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

3 / 5

Shih Tzus have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Weston vs Shih Tzu?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Weston or Shih Tzu?

4 / 5

The Weston is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

5 / 5

Shih Tzus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Westons or Shih Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Westons are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

2 / 5

Shih Tzus are not the best choice for families with kids.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Weston or Shih Tzu?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Weston or Shih Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Westons are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

5 / 5

Shih Tzus are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Weston or Shih Tzu?

4 / 5

Westons are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

5 / 5

Shih Tzus are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do Weston or Shih Tzu dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Weston or Shih Tzu?

4 / 5

Westons are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Shih Tzus are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Weston and Shih Tzu?

5 / 5

Westons are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

2 / 5

Shih Tzus are not known for being a highly playful breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Westons and Shih Tzus compare?

4 / 5

Westons are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Shih Tzus are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.