Shih Tzu vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Toy · Small vs Terrier · Medium
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
Soft Coated Wheaten TerrierMedium
A happy, steady, self-confident Irish farm dog with a wheat-colored silky coat — the friendliest terrier.
Weight: 35–40 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is the larger breed at 35–40 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Toy | Terrier |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Tibet | Ireland |
Height (male) | 9–10.5" | 18–19" |
Height (female) | 9–10.5" | 17–18" |
Weight (male) | 9–16 lbs | 35–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 9–16 lbs | 30–35 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–18 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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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.
About the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a happy, steady, self-confident Irish farm dog with a wheat-colored silky coat — the friendliest terrier. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 35–40 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as happy, steady, self-confident.
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Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Renal dysplasia
- • Protein-losing diseases
- • Addison's disease