Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: A Comparison
Key Differences Between Yorkie and Shih Tzu
There are many differences between Yorkies vs Shih Tzus. Yorkies and Shih Tzus are both little, long-haired dogs, but there is little in common between them. Yorkies have silky fur, while Shih Tzu fur is more dense. Shih Tzus grow slightly larger than Yorkies on average. Let’s look at the most obvious distinctions between the two breeds.
Appearance
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Height
The shoulder height of a mature Yorkie, male or female, is between 8 and 9 inches. The Shih Tzu, on the other hand, stands 8 to 11 inches tall.
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Weight
Compared to the Yorkie, the Shih Tzu is heavier. A Yorkie’s weight ranges from 7 to 10 pounds. In contrast, the Shih Tzu can weigh between 9 and 16 pounds.
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Coat Type
Yorkies are a single-coated breed with human-like soft, long, and silky hair. Just like human hair, it grows, needs to be cared for, and is eventually cut or shaved. The breed standard describes the Shih Tzu coat as dense, long, and flowing. The plush, puffy, double coat refuses to drape.
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Colors
The official Yorkie colors are black, tan, blue, and gold. Colors in Yorkies change with age, and every dog is unique. Because of its unique hair texture and coloration, the Shih Tzu stands out among other dog breeds. Standard color descriptions include black, blue, brindle, brown, double-colored, red, silver, tri-colored, and white.
Characteristics
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Sensitivity Level
Yorkshire Terriers are quite sensitive to changes in their daily routine. Yorkies aren’t big fans of people coming and going from the house, and this is especially true if you have a lot of house guests. Shih Tzus are a small to medium-sized dog breed with an average emotional capability and are not the most sensitive of canine breeds. It’s not uncommon for Shih Tzus to like to spend as much time with their owners as possible.
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Impulse to Wander
When a dog is infatuated with a scent trail or a wild animal, he or she will pursue it without thinking about how to go back home. Shih Tzus are less inclined than other breeds to take off on their own, whereas Yorkies are more likely to wander with an average wanderlust propensity.
Health Factors
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Energy Levels
Shih Tzus have less energy than most other dogs, while Yorkshire Terriers have a lot. The Yorkshire terrier is a ferocious, yet lovable, breed. The Shih Tzu is a low-energy dog that should still be stimulated on a regular basis. This means scheduling time for them to run around and play daily.
Yorkie vs Shih Tzu: Health Problems
Parvo, rabies, and distemper are bacterial and viral infections that Yorkies are particularly susceptible to. Reverse Sneezing, Hypoglycemia, and Patellar Luxation are some of the other illnesses that might affect Yorkies. Despite the Shih Tzu’s good health, you should consult your vet regularly as they are prone to disorders like allergies, bladder stones, ear infections, hip dysplasia, juvenile renal dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Wrapping up Yorkie and Shih Tzu
Yorkshire terriers and Shih Tzus both make excellent lap dogs. However, these two breeds are diametrically opposed in numerous aspects. For instance, they do not behave identically. Yorkshire terriers are far more active and bark much more than Shih Tzus. Shih Tzus, on the other hand, has a considerably more relaxed disposition. Both are endearing in their own ways and can make excellent friends in the correct home environment and with proper guidance.
