Cocker Spaniel vs Shih Tzu

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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
10 to 14 years
Size:

Small

Maintenance Level:

High

Shed Level:

High

Best For

Affectionate and adaptable dogs, Cocker Spaniels thrive in lively homes (whether large or small) and with pet parents who can offer companionship, regular exercise and extra time tending to their pup's fabulous silky coat. Consistent...

Affectionate and adaptable dogs, Cocker Spaniels thrive in lively homes (whether large or small) and with pet parents who can offer companionship, regular exercise and extra time tending to their pup's fabulous silky coat. Consistent care and attention contribute to a happy Cocker Spaniel.

Cocker Spaniel Temperament

Cocker Spaniels are generally happy dogs who get along with most two- and four-legged friends. This makes them a great companion for families with kids and babies or other pets. Some Cocker Spaniels make good therapy dogs, too, but it will depend on your pup’s individual temperament. Gentle a...

Cocker Spaniels are generally happy dogs who get along with most two- and four-legged friends. This makes them a great companion for families with kids and babies or other pets. Some Cocker Spaniels make good therapy dogs, too, but it will depend on your pup’s individual temperament.

Gentle and loving dogs, Cocker Spaniels enjoy the company of their humans. You can expect they’ll want to be where you are, usually not straying too far away. While Cocker Spaniels are usually pretty laid-back pups, they’re not couch potatoes. They’re born hunters, so they’re thrilled to participate in dog sports, agility trials and playtime with you.

Cocker Spaniels are adaptable and can make themselves at home in an apartment in the center of town or on an acreage in the country. (They do tend to bark, so they will make some noise!)

Cocker Spaniel Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
10 to 18 years
Size:

Small

Maintenance Level:

Medium

Shed Level:

Very Low

Best For

With a charming personality and minimal exercise needs, Shih Tzus make perfect indoor companions for those seeking a loving and low-maintenance canine friend.

Shih Tzu Temperament

Small in size but big on personality, the Shih Tzu is adored by everyone they meet. An agile and adaptable pet, your pint-sized pooch will love cuddling with you on the couch in front of the TV, but they’re equally happy trotting by your side in the park. A fu...

Small in size but big on personality, the Shih Tzu is adored by everyone they meet. An agile and adaptable pet, your pint-sized pooch will love cuddling with you on the couch in front of the TV, but they’re equally happy trotting by your side in the park.

A fun-loving breed, Shih Tzus enjoy playing with older children, who understand how to play gently with a small dog, and other four-legged pets as long as proper introductions have been made (they are descended from royalty after all). They aren’t known for biting, but like any dog, they may bite if pushed too far in rough play. Be sure to teach all children how to gently interact with dogs, and to supervise your Shih Tzu puppy around young children who may mistake this adorable pup for their favorite stuffy.

With their ability to assess situations much faster than other small breeds, the Shih Tzu is so much more than a pretty face. They make excellent watchdogs; they are always on alert for someone approaching your home and will let you know they’re coming. Even though they may exhibit a stubborn streak and require extra patience when training, they are worth the effort. Their loyalty and calm manner in all types of situations serve them in good stead as emotional support animals when their small size is not an issue.

Shih Tzu Traits

Friendliness
Exercise Needs
Health Issues
Barking Tendencies
Grooming Needs
Shedding Level
Training Needs
Good With Kids
Good With Cats
Good As A Service Dog
Good For Apartments & Small Homes
Biting Tendencies
Energy Level
Good With Other Dogs
Playfulness
Sensitive to Cold Weather
Sensitive to Warm Weather
Good For First Time Pet Parents
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