Shih Tzu vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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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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Breed Snapshot

Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years
Size:

Small

Maintenance Level:

Medium

Shed Level:

Medium

Best For

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs are best for people who want an "up-for-anything" companion. They thrive in both low- and high-activity households and live for playtime and impromptu cuddle sessions. These pups are excellent family...

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs are best for people who want an "up-for-anything" companion. They thrive in both low- and high-activity households and live for playtime and impromptu cuddle sessions. These pups are excellent family dogs.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Temperament

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet and gentle toy dog breed with no shortage of playfulness to share with the whole family. They’re adaptable and easy-going, ready for everyday adventures or spending quality time relaxing at home. Cavaliers are known to mirror their pet parents; they eas...

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet and gentle toy dog breed with no shortage of playfulness to share with the whole family. They’re adaptable and easy-going, ready for everyday adventures or spending quality time relaxing at home. Cavaliers are known to mirror their pet parents; they easily adapt to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re super active or more low-key.

Their love language is giving and receiving affection; these little dogs will boost your mood and shower you with love. True social butterflies, Cavaliers enjoy most social settings, and take pride in getting to know every human they may encounter. And because of their big hearts and good nature, they can also be effective therapy dogs.

With their cheerful demeanor, it’s no surprise that Cavaliers get along well with people and other animals—including cats. Because they’re a small breed, they may be a little timid around larger dogs at first. So, don’t put too much pressure on them to play with the “big boys” until your Cavalier feels comfortable doing so.

If you’re not up for making new friends, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy may not be the dog for you. Their over-the-top friendliness is best for folks looking for a way to meet new people. After all, with their fun-loving attitude and zest for life, they’re likely to get you striking up conversations with new friends everywhere you go.

Cavalier King Charles 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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