Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: A Detailed Comparison To Help You Choose Your Perfect Pet
Yorkies and Shih Tzus are two of the most popular small dog breeds in the world.
With their adorable appearances and endearing personalities, it’s no wonder that potential pet owners often find themselves torn between these two breeds.
In this article, we’ll dive into a comprehensive comparison of the Yorkie and Shih Tzu, examining their history, physical characteristics, personality traits, grooming needs, and health issues.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which breed might be the perfect addition to your family.
The Origins of Yorkies and Shih Tzus
Learning about the origins and history of a dog breed can provide valuable insights into their temperament, behavior, and overall characteristics. In this section, we will explore the origins of Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus.
Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers, commonly known as Yorkies, originated in England during the mid-19th century. They were bred as working dogs, primarily to catch rats and other vermin in mines and mills.
Yorkies are a crossbreed of several terrier breeds, including the Clydesdale Terrier, English Black and Tan Terrier, Waterside Terrier, and the Paisley Terrier. The breed was named after the English county of Yorkshire, where it was first developed.
Over time, the Yorkshire Terrier’s role evolved from a working dog to a companion animal. The breed gained popularity among the English upper class, with its small size, elegance, and silky coat becoming fashionable features.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Yorkshire Terrier as an official breed in 1885.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are an ancient breed believed to have originated in Tibet or China more than 1,000 years ago. The breed’s name, “Shih Tzu,” translates to “lion dog” in Chinese, reflecting their association with Buddhist mythology, where the lion is a sacred symbol.
Shih Tzus were bred to resemble lions, albeit in a smaller, more manageable size.
The Shih Tzu was a favored breed among Chinese royalty and nobility, particularly during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. They were considered prized possessions and were often given as gifts between royal families.
The breed remained relatively secluded in China until the early 20th century when the first Shih Tzus were exported to Europe and America. The AKC officially recognized the Shih Tzu as a breed in 1969.
In summary, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have fascinating histories and origins that have shaped their unique traits and characteristics. Understanding the breed’s origins can help potential owners appreciate the breed’s temperament, behavior, and specific needs.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Appearance
When comparing dog breeds, size, and appearance are often essential factors for potential pet owners. Each breed has unique physical characteristics that set them apart, and understanding these differences can help you determine which breed is the best fit for you.
Size
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) are a small breed, with adults typically weighing between 4 to 7 pounds and standing around 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder. Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living and easy to carry around when needed.
Shih Tzus are also a small breed, but they are slightly larger than Yorkies. Adult Shih Tzus generally weigh between 9 to 16 pounds and stand around 9 to 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder.
While still small enough for apartment living, their slightly larger size may make them sturdier and more suitable for families with young children.
Appearance
Yorkies have a distinct appearance, characterized by their long, silky coat that comes in various shades of blue and tan.
Their coat is usually parted down the middle and flows down to the floor, giving them a glamorous look. Yorkies have erect, V-shaped ears and a high-set tail, which is often docked.
Shih Tzus have a sturdy, compact body with a long, flowing double coat that comes in a variety of colors, including gold, white, black, and combinations thereof.
Their face is characterized by a short, broad muzzle, large dark eyes, and a slight underbite. The Shih Tzu’s coat can be left long or trimmed into a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance.
Both breeds have a beautiful, eye-catching appearance that is sure to turn heads. However, their unique features may appeal to different preferences, so considering the size and appearance of each breed can help you decide which is the best fit for your lifestyle and tastes.
Coat Type and Colors
Coat type and colors are essential factors to consider when choosing a dog breed, as they can impact grooming requirements and personal preferences. Below, we examine the coat types and colors of both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus.
Coat Type
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) have a long, silky coat with a texture similar to human hair. Their coat is single-layered, meaning they do not have an undercoat.
This feature contributes to their hypoallergenic status, as they shed very little. However, the coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Shih Tzus have a double coat, consisting of a soft, dense undercoat and a long, flowing outer coat. Their coat is thick and can be quite luxurious.
Like Yorkies, Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding nature. Nevertheless, their coat also requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and manageable.
Colors
Yorkies typically have a coat that comes in various shades of blue (ranging from dark steel blue to silver) and tan (ranging from golden to pale).
The blue and tan colors may appear in clearly defined sections, with the tan color typically appearing on the head, face, chest, and legs, while the blue color covers the rest of the body.
Shih Tzus have a more diverse range of coat colors, including gold, white, black, silver, brindle, liver, and blue. They can also come in various combinations of these colors, such as black and white or gold and white. Some Shih Tzus may even have a more unique pattern, like a black mask on their face.
In conclusion, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have beautiful, eye-catching coats that require regular grooming to maintain their health and appearance.
When choosing between these breeds, consider factors such as grooming requirements, hypoallergenic properties, and coat colors that best suit your preferences and lifestyle.
Personality and Temperament
The personality and temperament of a dog breed play a significant role in how well they fit into your lifestyle and household. In this section, we will discuss the general personality traits and temperaments of both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus.
Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) are known for their lively, confident, and affectionate personalities. Despite their small size, they possess a big-dog attitude and are often fearless and bold.
Yorkies are highly intelligent and can be quite stubborn at times, which may make training more challenging. However, their intelligence also means they can be highly trainable with consistent and patient instruction.
Yorkies are very loyal and tend to form strong bonds with their owners. They may become protective and can sometimes be wary of strangers or other dogs. Early socialization is essential to help Yorkies become well-rounded and confident adult dogs.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are friendly, affectionate, and outgoing dogs. They are known for their gentle and loving nature, which makes them excellent companion animals. Shih Tzus are generally good with children and other pets, making them a popular choice for families.
Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs that are eager to please, which can make training a more enjoyable experience for both dog and owner.
Like Yorkies, they can also be stubborn at times, so consistent and patient training is necessary. Shih Tzus enjoy being the center of attention and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
In summary, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have unique personality traits and temperaments that may make them more or less suitable for different households.
When choosing between these breeds, consider factors such as family dynamics, lifestyle, and the specific personality traits that will best complement your household.
Training and Exercise
Training and exercise are crucial aspects of dog ownership, as they contribute to the overall health and well-being of your pet. Understanding the training and exercise needs of a particular breed can help ensure a happy and harmonious life together.
Training Your Yorkie
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) are intelligent dogs that respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement training. They can be stubborn at times, so patience and persistence are necessary when training Yorkies.
Early socialization and obedience training are essential to help Yorkies become well-behaved and confident adult dogs. Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest.
Training Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are also intelligent dogs and can be trained effectively using positive reinforcement techniques. They are generally eager to please, which can make training a more enjoyable experience for both dog and owner.
Like Yorkies, early socialization and obedience training are crucial for Shih Tzus. Consistency and patience are key, as Shih Tzus can also exhibit some stubbornness.
Exercise Needs of Yorkies
Yorkies are energetic little dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk and some playtime are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs.
In addition, providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys, interactive games, or obedience training can help keep Yorkies engaged and content.
Exercise Needs of Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus have more moderate exercise requirements compared to Yorkies. A daily walk and some playtime indoors or in a fenced yard should be enough to keep them fit and satisfied. Shih Tzus may also enjoy short bursts of play or engaging in activities like fetch or hide-and-seek.
In summary, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus benefit from consistent training and exercise routines. When choosing between these breeds, consider the amount of time and effort you can dedicate to training and exercise, as well as which breed’s activity level best matches your lifestyle.
Grooming and Maintenance
Proper grooming and maintenance are essential for your dog’s health and well-being. Each breed has unique grooming requirements that you should consider when choosing a pet.
Grooming
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and tangle-free. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent mats and remove loose hair. Some owners choose to trim their Yorkie’s coat shorter for easier maintenance.
Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is recommended to maintain their coat’s overall health and appearance. Additionally, Yorkies require regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
Shih Tzus also have a coat that demands regular grooming. Their double coat is thick and luxurious, requiring daily brushing to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
Many Shih Tzu owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify grooming. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is advisable to keep their coat in top condition. Like Yorkies, Shih Tzus need routine nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
Maintenance
Yorkies can be prone to dental problems due to their small size and crowded teeth. Regular dental care, including teeth brushing and dental chews, is essential to maintain their oral health. Yorkies may also require extra attention to their eyes, as tear staining can be an issue for some individuals.
Shih Tzus can also experience dental issues, so a consistent dental care routine is necessary. Additionally, due to their short muzzle and facial folds, Shih Tzus may require regular face cleaning to prevent irritation and infection.
In conclusion, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have specific grooming and maintenance needs that owners must consider.
When choosing between these breeds, evaluate the amount of time and effort you can devote to grooming and maintenance, as well as your ability to meet the breed’s specific care requirements.
Health Concerns and Lifespan
Understanding the potential health concerns and average lifespan of a dog breed is essential when choosing a pet, as it can impact your pet’s quality of life and overall care.
Health Concerns
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) are generally a healthy breed but can be prone to certain health issues, including:
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Patellar luxation
- Hypoglycemia
- Portosystemic shunt (liver shunt)
- Dental problems
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and proper care can help prevent or manage these health concerns.
Shih Tzus are also relatively healthy but may be susceptible to specific health issues, such as:
- Hip dysplasia
- Allergies
- Eye problems (e.g., cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and keratitis)
- Brachycephalic syndrome (breathing difficulties due to their short muzzle)
- Dental problems
Routine veterinary care and a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate these health concerns and ensure a long, happy life for your Shih Tzu.
Lifespan
Yorkies have a relatively long lifespan for a small dog breed, with an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Proper care, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary visits, can contribute to a longer and healthier life for your Yorkie.
Shih Tzus also have a long life expectancy, ranging from 10 to 16 years. As with Yorkies, providing proper care through a healthy diet, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can help your Shih Tzu enjoy a long, fulfilling life.
In summary, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have their unique health concerns and life expectancies. When choosing between these breeds, consider the potential health issues and the commitment required to provide proper care throughout your pet’s life.
Suitability for Families and Living Situations
When selecting a dog breed, it is essential to consider how well it will fit into your family dynamic and living situation. Both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have unique traits that make them more or less suitable for different households.
Families
Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) can be a good choice for families, but they may be better suited for homes with older children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured if handled roughly or accidentally stepped on.
Older children who understand how to handle smaller dogs gently will likely be a better match for Yorkies.
Shih Tzus are generally considered an excellent choice for families, including those with younger children. Their slightly larger size and sturdy build make them more resilient to rough handling, and their friendly, affectionate nature helps them bond well with children.
However, it is still crucial to teach children how to handle and interact with dogs safely and respectfully.
Living Situations
Yorkies are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, including apartments and houses with or without yards. Their small size and relatively low exercise requirements make them well-suited for apartment living.
However, Yorkies can be somewhat vocal, so training to minimize excessive barking is essential, especially in close-quarters living situations.
Shih Tzus are also very adaptable and can adjust to different living environments. Their moderate exercise needs make them suitable for apartment living, as well as homes with small yards.
Shih Tzus are generally less vocal than Yorkies, which may make them a better choice for those concerned about noise in apartment settings.
In conclusion, both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus have unique traits that make them suitable for different families and living situations.
When choosing between these breeds, consider factors such as family dynamics, living environment, and the specific needs and characteristics of each breed to find the best fit for your household.
Conclusion
Both the Yorkie and Shih Tzu are charming and lovable breeds with unique characteristics and qualities. When deciding between the two, consider factors such as size, energy levels, grooming requirements, and compatibility with your lifestyle and family situation. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and which breed best fits your needs and desires.
Question People Also Ask: (FAQs)
Are Yorkies or Shih Tzus better for first-time dog owners?
Both breeds can be suitable for first-time dog owners, but Shih Tzus might be slightly easier to handle due to their more laid-back nature and adaptability.
Which breed is more hypoallergenic, the Yorkie or Shih Tzu?
Both breeds are considered hypoallergenic due to their low-shedding coats. However, individual reactions to dog allergens can vary, so it’s essential to spend time with each breed to determine which one is the best fit for your allergies.
Are Yorkies or Shih Tzus more prone to separation anxiety?
Both breeds can be prone to separation anxiety, as they tend to form strong bonds with their owners. Proper training and gradual desensitization to being alone can help alleviate separation anxiety.
Which breed requires more exercise, the Yorkie or the Shih Tzu?
Yorkies generally require more exercise than Shih Tzus due to their higher energy levels. However, both breeds enjoy daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.
Which breed is more likely to get along with other pets, Yorkies or Shih Tzus?
Shih Tzus tend to be more sociable and adaptable, making them more likely to get along with other pets. However, with proper socialization and training, both breeds can coexist peacefully with other animals.
Are Yorkies or Shih Tzus easier to train?
Both breeds are intelligent and trainable, but Shih Tzus may be slightly easier to train due to their more eager-to-please nature. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training with either breed.
Do Yorkies or Shih Tzus have a longer life expectancy?
Both breeds have relatively similar life expectancies, with Yorkies living an average of 12 to 15 years and Shih Tzus living 10 to 16 years. Regular veterinary care and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to a longer, happier life for either breed.
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