Havanese vs. Shih Tzu

Attribute	Havanese	Shih Tzu
Origin	Cuba	Tibet
Size	Small	Small
Weight	7-13 pounds	9-16 pounds
Coat	Long, silky	Long, silky
Color	Various colors	Various colors
Temperament	Intelligent, affectionate	Outgoing, friendly
Trainability	Highly trainable	Moderately trainable
Exercise Needs	Moderate	Moderate
Life Expectancy	14-16 years	10-18 years

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a small dog breed, two popular options that often come to mind are the Havanese and Shih Tzu. Both breeds are known for their adorable appearance and affectionate nature, but they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we will delve into the attributes of Havanese and Shih Tzu, exploring their origins, physical traits, temperament, grooming needs, and trainability.

Origins

The Havanese breed originated in Cuba and is named after the country's capital, Havana. These dogs were cherished by Cuban aristocracy and were often seen in the laps of wealthy families. They were even referred to as "Havana Silk Dogs" due to their luxurious, silky coats. On the other hand, the Shih Tzu breed has its roots in ancient China, where they were highly regarded as companion dogs for Chinese royalty. These regal dogs were treasured for their beauty and were often kept in palaces.

Physical Traits

Havanese dogs are small in size, typically weighing between 7 to 13 pounds (3 to 6 kilograms) and standing around 8.5 to 11.5 inches (22 to 29 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy build with a slightly longer body than their height. Their most distinctive feature is their long, silky coat that comes in various colors, including white, cream, black, chocolate, and more. In contrast, Shih Tzus are also small, weighing between 9 to 16 pounds (4 to 7 kilograms) and standing around 9 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 centimeters) tall. They have a compact body with a broad head and large, round eyes. Shih Tzus have a double coat that is dense and flowing, often seen in colors such as gold, black, white, and combinations of these.

Temperament

When it comes to temperament, both Havanese and Shih Tzu are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. Havanese dogs are sociable and love to be around their family members. They are often described as "velcro dogs" due to their tendency to stick close to their owners. Havanese are also known for their intelligence and adaptability, making them easy to train and suitable for various living situations. On the other hand, Shih Tzus are known for their outgoing and playful personalities. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being the center of attention. Shih Tzus are generally good with children and other pets, making them a great choice for families.

Grooming Needs

Both Havanese and Shih Tzu have high grooming requirements due to their long, luxurious coats. Havanese dogs require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their hair. Their coat also needs to be trimmed every few months to maintain a manageable length. Additionally, Havanese dogs may require regular bathing to keep their coat clean and healthy. Shih Tzus, on the other hand, have a dense double coat that requires daily brushing to prevent matting. Regular professional grooming is also necessary to keep their coat in top condition. Shih Tzus may need occasional bathing to keep their coat clean, but over-bathing can strip their hair of natural oils.

Trainability

When it comes to trainability, both Havanese and Shih Tzu are intelligent breeds that can learn quickly. Havanese dogs are known for their eagerness to please their owners, which makes them highly trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and enjoy participating in various activities such as obedience, agility, and even therapy work. Shih Tzus, on the other hand, can be a bit more independent and stubborn at times. However, with consistent training and positive reinforcement, they can also excel in obedience and other activities. It's important to note that early socialization and training are crucial for both breeds to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded and obedient companions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Havanese and Shih Tzu are wonderful small dog breeds with their own unique attributes. While Havanese dogs have a slightly longer body and a silky coat, Shih Tzus have a more compact body and a dense double coat. Both breeds are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, but Havanese dogs are often described as intelligent and adaptable, while Shih Tzus are outgoing and playful. When it comes to grooming, both breeds require regular brushing and professional grooming, but Havanese dogs may need more frequent bathing. Finally, in terms of trainability, Havanese dogs are highly trainable and eager to please, while Shih Tzus may require consistent training and positive reinforcement. Ultimately, the choice between these two breeds depends on individual preferences and lifestyle, but either way, both Havanese and Shih Tzu will bring joy and companionship to their owners.