Spanish Water Dog vs. Shih Tzu: Breed Differences and Similarities
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dog has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Shih Tzu has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Spanish Water Dogs or Shih Tzus hypoallergenic, or neither?
Both Spanish Water Dog 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 Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu dogs?
Affectionate
Diligent
Trainable
Athletic
Loyal
Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing
Shedding Level
Do Spanish Water Dogs shed more than Shih Tzus, or which breed sheds more, Spanish Water Dogs or Shih Tzus?
Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dogs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.
Shih Tzus are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Origin
What is the origin of Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu dog breeds?
Spain
Tibet
China
Ancestry
What are the origins of Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?
Ancient European Water Dog
Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
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 Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu breeds first developed?
10th Century
Ancient Times
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu?
Herding (AKC:2015)
Gun Dog (UKC)
Toy (AKC:1969)
Companion Dog (UKC)
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu?
A Spanish Water Dog can have a litter of 10-14 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
Spanish Water Dogs are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Shih Tzus are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?
Hip Dysplasia
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hypothyroidism
Addison's Disease
Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu breeds?
Hip And Eyes
Blood Test
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Eye
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Spanish Water Dogs and Shih Tzus compare?
Spanish Water Dogs' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.
Shih Tzus are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.
Social Needs
Spanish Water Dog vs Shih Tzu social needs comparison
Spanish Water Dog has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Shih Tzu has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Exercise Needed
Spanish Water Dog vs Shih Tzu exercise need comparison.
Spanish Water Dogs require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
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: Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dogs sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.
Shih Tzus are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dog has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.
Shih Tzu minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Spanish Water Dogs or Shih Tzus bark more/less frequently?
Spanish Water Dogs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Shih Tzu dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Territorial
Is the Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu a better guard dog?
Spanish Water Dog dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.
Shih Tzu dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Spanish Water Dog vs Shih Tzu?
Roaming urge
Spanish Water Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu entertained?
Long walks, Play
Walk, Bike ride, Brushing, Running, Sleeping, Resting, Short walks, Play, Play with lea, Sniffing, Dog Parks, Go to Park, Being pet, Sit, Eating Snacks, Fetch, Walking, Snuggling, Run, Treats, Petting, Scenting, Marking, Runnig, Watching tv, Playing, Cuddling, Trick training, Shopping, Training
Tolerance of being left alone
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Spanish Water Dogs or Shih Tzus?
The Spanish Water Dog has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.
Shih Tzus have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Spanish Water Dogs vs Shih Tzus
Spanish Water Dog has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Shih Tzu is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.
Sensitivity Level
How do Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.
Shih Tzus have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Spanish Water Dog vs Shih Tzu?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
Shih Tzus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Spanish Water Dogs or Shih Tzus have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu are not the most kid-friendly dogs. If you have children, you might want to reconsider adopting them as companions.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Cat Friendly
Do Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Spanish Water Dogs are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.
Shih Tzus are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Shih Tzus are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Pet friendly
How do Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Spanish Water Dog or Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dogs are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.
Shih Tzus are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Spanish Water Dog and Shih Tzu?
Spanish Water Dogs are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
Shih Tzus are not known for being a highly playful breed.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Spanish Water Dogs and Shih Tzus compare?
Spanish Water Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
Shih Tzus are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
Compare Spanish Water Dog with other breeds

Petite Labradoodle
Spanish Water Dog vs Petite Labradoodle

Boerboel
Spanish Water Dog vs Boerboel

Bospin
Spanish Water Dog vs Bospin

Cairanian
Spanish Water Dog vs Cairanian

Papastzu
Spanish Water Dog vs Papastzu

Afghan Retriever
Spanish Water Dog vs Afghan Retriever

Presa Dane
Spanish Water Dog vs Presa Dane

Coton Schnauzer
Spanish Water Dog vs Coton Schnauzer

Bull Jack
Spanish Water Dog vs Bull Jack

West of Argyll Terrier
Spanish Water Dog vs West of Argyll Terrier

Ratshire Terrier
Spanish Water Dog vs Ratshire Terrier

English Setter
Spanish Water Dog vs English Setter