Jack Russell Terrier vs Shih Tzu
Terrier · Small vs Toy · Small
Jack Russell TerrierSmall
A fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy.
Weight: 13–17 lbsLifespan: 13–18 years
Shih TzuSmall
An affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you.
Weight: 9–16 lbsLifespan: 10–18 years
Quick take
- • Jack Russell Terrier is the larger breed at 13–17 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Jack Russell Terrier typically lives longer (13–18 years).
- • The Jack Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Jack Russell Terrier | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Toy |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | England | Tibet |
Height (male) | 10–15" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 10–15" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 13–17 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 13–17 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 13–18 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | short | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–17 lbs and lives 13–18 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, vocal, athletic.
About the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you. Originally from Tibet, this small toy breed typically weighs 9–16 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Jack Russell Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues