71 BEST Tips Shih Tzu vs Havanese (Comparison)

Shih Tzu vs Havanese: A Comprehensive Comparison

When it comes to choosing a companion dog, many people consider the Shih Tzu and Havanese breeds due to their small size, adorable looks, and affectionate personalities.

However, these two breeds have distinct differences that one should consider before adopting.

In this article, we will compare and contrast the Shih Tzu and Havanese breeds in terms of their origin, appearance, temperament, trainability, and health.

Origins

The Shih Tzu breed originated in China, where they were kept as royal pets. They were first introduced to Europe in the 1930s and gained popularity in the United States in the 1960s.

On the other hand, the Havanese breed originated in Cuba and was also kept as a royal pet by wealthy families. They were imported to the United States in the 1950s and became recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1996.

Appearance

Shih Tzus and Havanese both have fluffy coats, but their physical features vary. Shih Tzus are slightly larger, weighing between 9-16 pounds and standing at 8-11 inches tall. They have a short snout, large round eyes, and a flat face that is prone to respiratory issues.

Havanese, on the other hand, are smaller, weighing between 7-13 pounds and standing at 8.5-11.5 inches tall. They have a longer snout, almond-shaped eyes, and a more proportional face.

Coat

Both breeds have a double-layer coat that requires regular grooming to avoid matting and tangling. Shih Tzus have a dense, straight coat that comes in different colors such as white, black, brown, and gold. Havanese have a silky, wavy coat that usually comes in white, black, brown, or a combination of these colors.

Temperament

Both breeds have loving and playful personalities, but some differences may make one more suitable for a particular lifestyle. Shih Tzus are loyal and affectionate towards their owners and may be reserved around strangers.

They are known to be stubborn and independent, which can make training challenging. However, with patience and positive reinforcement, they can learn basic obedience commands.

Trainability

Havanese, on the other hand, are easy to train and eager to please their owners. They are intelligent and excel in obedience training and agility courses. They are social dogs and enjoy being around other pets and people, making them an excellent choice for families with children.

Health

Like all dog breeds, Shih Tzus and Havanese are susceptible to genetic health issues. Potential health problems for Shih Tzus include respiratory issues, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and skin conditions. Havanese may develop patellar luxation, liver disease, deafness, or cataracts.

Proper diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary visits can help prevent or manage these health issues.

Life Expectancy

The average lifespan for Shih Tzus is 10-16 years, while Havanese can live between 13-15 years. However, with proper care, some individuals from both breeds have lived into their late teens.

Exercise and Activity Requirements

When it comes to exercise and activity needs, Shih Tzus and Havanese share some similarities. Both breeds are small and do not require a lot of space to live comfortably.

They can adapt well to apartment living and do not need a large yard to exercise in. However, they do require regular exercise to maintain good physical health and mental stimulation.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus have low to moderate exercise requirements. They enjoy short walks and indoor play sessions. Due to their small size and respiratory issues, they may have difficulty handling high-intensity exercise or extreme temperatures. Overexertion or exposure to extreme weather conditions may cause respiratory distress or heatstroke.

Havanese

Havanese, on the other hand, are more active than Shih Tzus and require moderate exercise. They enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and playing fetch. They also excel in agility courses and obedience training. Havanese are social dogs and enjoy interacting with other dogs and people.

Grooming

Both Shih Tzus and Havanese have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of mats and tangles.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus have a dense coat that requires daily brushing to avoid matting. They also need regular baths and professional grooming every few months to maintain their coat's health and appearance.

Havanese

Havanese have a less dense coat than Shih Tzus, but they also need daily brushing to keep their coat from tangling. Like Shih Tzus, they need regular baths and professional grooming to maintain their coat's health and appearance.

Compatibility with Children and Other Pets

A crucial factor to consider when choosing a companion dog is their compatibility with children and other pets.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus can get along well with children and other pets if socialized early. They are loyal dogs and enjoy spending time with their owners. However, they may be wary of strangers and may not tolerate rough handling from young children.

Havanese

Havanese are social and love spending time with children and other pets. They are gentle dogs and do not mind being handled by young children. They also get along well with other dogs, making them an excellent choice for multi-pet households.

Cost

The cost of owning a Shih Tzu or Havanese depends on several factors, such as the breeder's reputation, geographic location, and the dog's age and health.

Shih Tzu

The cost of a Shih Tzu puppy can range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the breeder's reputation and the dog's pedigree. Adopting an adult Shih Tzu from a rescue or shelter can cost around $200 to $500.

Havanese

The cost of a Havanese puppy can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the breeder's reputation and the dog's pedigree. Adopting an adult Havanese from a rescue or shelter can cost around $300 to $600.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, both Shih Tzus and Havanese are excellent companion dogs that make great family pets. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of size, temperament, trainability, grooming needs, and exercise requirements. It is essential to consider these factors before choosing a breed to ensure they fit your lifestyle and preferences.

No matter which breed you choose, providing them with proper care, love, and attention will result in a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.

Choosing Between Shih Tzu and Havanese

Choosing between a Shih Tzu and Havanese can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with their unique characteristics. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing between these two breeds:

Lifestyle

Consider your lifestyle and how a dog will fit into it. If you have a busy schedule or live in an apartment, a Shih Tzu may be a better fit due to their lower exercise requirements and adaptability to small spaces.

If you have an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities, a Havanese may be a better choice due to their moderate exercise requirements and love for outdoor adventures.

Family Members

Consider the age and temperament of your family members. If you have young children or elderly family members at home, a Havanese may be a better choice due to their gentle nature, tolerance for handling, and social skills.

On the other hand, if you have older children or adult family members who can handle a more independent and stubborn dog, a Shih Tzu may be a good fit.

Grooming Needs

Consider the time and resources you have available for grooming. If you do not have the time or budget for frequent grooming appointments and daily brushing, a Shih Tzu may not be the best choice since they require more grooming than Havanese. Havanese require regular grooming as well, but they are generally less demanding than Shih Tzus.

Health Concerns

Consider potential health concerns associated with each breed. While both breeds are generally healthy, Shih Tzus are more prone to respiratory issues, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and skin conditions. Havanese may develop patellar luxation, liver disease, deafness, or cataracts. Discussing these concerns with a reputable breeder or veterinarian can help you make an informed decision.

Adoption or Rescue Options

If you are considering adopting a Shih Tzu or Havanese, there are several adoption and rescue options available.

Shih Tzu

The American Shih Tzu Club has a list of reputable breeders who follow their code of ethics. You can also check local animal shelters or rescue organizations for Shih Tzus in need of a loving home. Some organizations that specialize in Shih Tzu rescue include Shih Tzu and Furbaby Rescue, Southern California Shih Tzu Rescue, and the National Shih Tzu Rescue.

Havanese

The Havanese Club of America has a list of reputable breeders who follow their code of ethics. You can also check local animal shelters or rescue organizations for Havanese in need of a loving home. Some organizations that specialize in Havanese rescue include Havanese Rescue Inc., Havanese Angel League Organization, and Havanese Rescue of Florida.

Training and Socialization

Both Shih Tzus and Havanese can benefit from obedience training and socialization to develop good behavior and prevent behavioral issues.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus can be stubborn and independent, so positive reinforcement and patience are necessary when training them. They can benefit from early training and socialization to prevent shyness or aggression towards strangers or other pets.

Havanese

Havanese are intelligent and eager to please their owners, making them easy to train with positive reinforcement methods. They thrive on social interaction, so early socialization is crucial to prevent shyness or aggression.

Breed-Specific Traits

Both breeds have unique traits that set them apart from each other.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus have a distinctive flat face and large round eyes that give them a cute and cuddly appearance. They are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them excellent lap dogs.

Havanese

Havanese have a lively and outgoing personality that makes them great family pets. They are also hypoallergenic and produce less dander than other breeds, making them a good choice for people with allergies.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the lifespan of Shih Tzu and Havanese?

The average lifespan for Shih Tzus is 10-16 years, while Havanese can live between 13-15 years.

Which breed sheds less, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Havanese tend to shed less than Shih Tzus due to their silky, wavy coat.

Do Shih Tzu or Havanese make better apartment dogs?

Both breeds make good apartment dogs due to their small size and adaptability to small spaces.

Are Shih Tzus good with kids?

Shih Tzus can be good with kids if socialized early. However, they may not tolerate rough handling from young children.

Can Havanese be left alone for long periods?

No dog should be left alone for long periods, but Havanese can handle short periods of alone time if trained properly.

Are Shih Tzu or Havanese easier to train?

Havanese are generally easier to train than Shih Tzus due to their eagerness to please and intelligence.

Which breed is more prone to health issues, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds are susceptible to genetic health issues, but Shih Tzus are more prone to respiratory issues, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and skin conditions, while Havanese may develop patellar luxation, liver disease, deafness, or cataracts.

Do Shih Tzus need more grooming than Havanese?

Yes, Shih Tzus require more grooming than Havanese due to their dense coat.

Which breed is more active, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Havanese are more active than Shih Tzus and require moderate exercise.

Are Shih Tzus or Havanese good with other pets?

Both breeds can get along well with other pets if socialized early.

Are Shih Tzus or Havanese more intelligent?

Both breeds are intelligent, but Havanese are generally easier to train due to their eagerness to please.

Do Shih Tzus or Havanese bark a lot?

Both breeds can be vocal and may bark excessively if not trained properly.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for agility courses?

Yes, both breeds can be trained for agility courses and excel in obedience training.

Which breed is more prone to separation anxiety, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, but Shih Tzus tend to be more prone to this issue.

Do Shih Tzus or Havanese have better temperament?

Both breeds have loving and playful personalities, but Havanese are generally more easy-going and adaptable than Shih Tzus.

How much do Shih Tzu and Havanese puppies cost?

The cost of a Shih Tzu puppy can range from $500 to $2,500, while a Havanese puppy can cost between $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the breeder's reputation and the dog's pedigree.

Which breed is better for seniors, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Havanese may be a better choice for seniors due to their gentle nature and tolerance for handling.

Are Shih Tzus or Havanese hypoallergenic?

Havanese are hypoallergenic and produce less dander than other breeds, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Shih Tzus are not hypoallergenic.

Which breed is more affectionate, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds are affectionate and loyal towards their owners.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be left alone with children?

No dog should be left alone with young children, but both breeds can get along well with children if socialized properly and supervised.

Are Shih Tzus or Havanese good guard dogs?

Neither breed is known for being a guard dog as they are both outgoing and friendly towards strangers.

Do Shih Tzus or Havanese require a lot of exercise?

Shih Tzus have low to moderate exercise requirements, while Havanese require moderate exercise.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for therapy work?

Yes, both breeds can be trained for therapy work due to their affectionate and gentle nature.

Which breed is more adaptable to different environments, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can adapt well to different environments, but Shih Tzus may have more difficulty handling extreme temperatures or high-intensity exercise.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be left alone with other pets?

No dog should be left alone with other pets, but both breeds can get along well with other animals if socialized early and supervised.

Are Shih Tzus or Havanese prone to separation anxiety?

Both Shih Tzus and Havanese are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It's important to provide them with proper training and mental stimulation to prevent this issue.

Which breed is easier to groom, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Havanese are generally easier to groom than Shih Tzus due to their silky, wavy coat. However, both breeds require regular grooming to maintain their coat's health and appearance.

Do Shih Tzus or Havanese have a better sense of hearing?

Both breeds have a good sense of hearing, but Havanese may have a slightly better sense of hearing than Shih Tzus.

Which breed is more prone to dental problems, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds are susceptible to dental problems, but Shih Tzus may be more prone to dental issues due to their small jaw and crowded teeth.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for search and rescue work?

While both breeds are intelligent and trainable, they are not typically used for search and rescue work due to their small size.

Which breed is better for first-time dog owners, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can make good pets for first-time dog owners with proper training and socialization. However, Havanese may be a better choice due to their easier trainability and gentle nature.

Do Shih Tzus or Havanese have better vision?

Both breeds have good vision, but Shih Tzus may be more prone to eye problems that can affect their vision.

Which breed is more independent, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Shih Tzus tend to be more independent and stubborn than Havanese, who are known for their eagerness to please.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for hunting?

Neither breed is typically used for hunting due to their small size and lack of hunting instincts.

Which breed has a better sense of smell, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds have a good sense of smell, but Havanese may have a slightly better sense of smell than Shih Tzus.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for competitive sports?

Yes, both breeds can be trained and compete in various sports such as agility, obedience, and rally.

Which breed is more prone to obesity, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can be prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise and a balanced diet. It's important to monitor their food intake and provide regular exercise to prevent obesity.

Are Shih Tzus or Havanese prone to separation anxiety?

Both Shih Tzus and Havanese are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It's important to provide them with proper training and mental stimulation to prevent this issue.

Which breed is more hypoallergenic, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Havanese are generally considered to be more hypoallergenic than Shih Tzus due to their silky coat that produces less dander. However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for service work?

Both breeds can be trained for service work, although Havanese may be better suited due to their adaptable nature and easy trainability.

Which breed is more prone to ear infections, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can be prone to ear infections, but Shih Tzus may be more susceptible due to their long, floppy ears that trap moisture.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for police work?

Neither breed is typically used for police work due to their small size and lack of protective instincts.

Which breed is more prone to anxiety, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can be prone to anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. However, Shih Tzus may be more prone to anxiety due to their independent nature.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be trained for herding?

Neither breed is typically used for herding due to their small size and lack of herding instincts.

Which breed is more likely to bark at strangers, Shih Tzu or Havanese?

Both breeds can be vocal and may bark at strangers if not properly trained and socialized. However, Shih Tzus may be more likely to bark excessively due to their protective nature.

Can Shih Tzus or Havanese be left alone with other dogs?

Both breeds can get along well with other dogs if socialized properly. However, it's important to supervise them when interacting with other dogs to ensure that they get along.

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Conclusion

Both the Shih Tzu and Havanese breeds are excellent options for a companion dog due to their affectionate and playful personalities. However, each breed has distinct differences that potential owners should consider before adopting. Shih Tzus are loyal and independent, while Havanese are easy to train and social.

Both breeds require regular grooming and veterinary care to maintain optimal health. Ultimately, the decision between a Shih Tzu and Havanese depends on individual preferences and lifestyle.

Choosing between a Shih Tzu and Havanese requires careful consideration of several factors, including lifestyle, family members, grooming needs, and potential health concerns.

Both breeds have unique characteristics that can make them excellent companions for the right person or family. Regardless of which breed you choose, providing them with proper care, love, and attention will result in a loyal and loving companion for many years to come.