Shih Tzu vs Borzoi - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Shih Tzu vs Borzoi - Breed ComparisonBorzoi is originated from Bosnia and Herzegovina but Shih Tzu is originated from China. Borzoi may grow 57 cm / 23 inches higher than Shih Tzu. Borzoi may weigh 40 kg / 89 pounds more than Shih Tzu. Borzoi may live 8 years less than Shih Tzu. Borzoi may have more litter size than Shih Tzu. Borzoi requires Moderate Maintenance. But Shih Tzu requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Toy dog
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Bosnia and Herzegovina
China
Height Male:
75 - 85 cm
29 - 34 inches
20 - 28 cm
7 - 12 inches
Height Female:
66 - 83 cm
25 - 33 inches
20 - 28 cm
7 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
34 - 47 kg
74 - 104 pounds
4 - 7 kg
8 - 16 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 45 kg
55 - 100 pounds
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
Life Span:
7 - 10 Years
10 - 18 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 11
1 - 8
Size:
Large
Toy
Other Names:
Russian Wolfhound Russian Hunting Sighthound Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya
Chinese Lion Dog Chrysanthemum Dog,, Lion Dog
Colors Available:
Any colour – tan, white, black or a mix such as sandy and white or tan and white.
all often multiple colored
Coat:
Long, silky, wavy or curly
fine, straight, and silky
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

borzoiDeveloped in Russia and also known as the Russian Wolfhound, the Borzoi was used to hunt wolf in the country. By 1873 there were only a few Borzoi which remained, and the Imperial Association was created to protect this graceful, elegant dog. They were often presented to European nobility as gifts, and thanks to a few dedicated breeders, the breed was saved from extinction and exported to other parts of the world. He was imported to the UK in the late 19th century, and it was Princess Alexandra who did a lot to increase the dog’s popularity in Britain.

The tall, slender, elegant dog was recognized by the AKC in 1891. The Borzoi Club of America, which started off being known as the Russian Wolfhound Club was formed but in 1936 the name was changed to Borzoi. The Russian world ‘Borzoi’ is a term used to encompass all Sight Hounds. Today he is no longer used for hunting but is a gentle companion.

shih tzuThe Shih Tzu is an Imperial Chinese breed developed by palace breeders hundreds of years ago with breed stock from the Tibetan lines. It is quite probable that the Shih Tzu was originally a cross between two Sino-Tibetan ancient dogs – the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. Based on their looks, the Shih Tzu means the lion dog, but they were really very pampered palace dogs living with the Chinese emperors and families. The emperors were always gifting the breeders who developed the most affectionate, gentle and beautiful Shih Tzus.

Until the 1930’s the Shih Tzu was not known to the world outside the emperor’s palace. Once the breed did come out from behind the palace walls, they were immediately popular. Much debate went on about how to refine the breed as clubs began to spring up in Peking and then in England. It was not until 1969 the Shih Tzu was recognized and entered in the AKC Stud Book.

While the original Shih Tzu might have been a mix between the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso, today’s breed spread around the world after the second world war. In Europe in the 1930’s the breed was classified as Apsos. In 1935 the first Shih Tzu Club of Europe was formed, and the first standard was written, and the breed was categorized as the Shih Tzu.

Following World War II, soldiers brought the dogs to the States from Europe. By the 1950’s the breed was growing in popularity and the AKC recognized the breed in 1969 as members of the Toy Group. They are now recognized by all major kennel clubs throughout the western world. They are recognized by the Federation Cynoloqique Internationale in the Companion and Toy Group, among Tibetan breeds.

The Shih Tzu is a good watchdog, but it was bred to be a companion animal. It is a friendly, open breed that welcomes strangers. They are great with other animals and children as well as adults.

Description

Tall and Graceful to the Eye

borzoi puppy - descriptionThe Borzoi’s silky coat is longer with the male dogs than with the females. The height of these tall graceful dogs is 68 to 74cm. You’ll find that the Borzoi’s back is quite bony and it rises in a curve. He has a tall, lean body and a long, narrow head to match with small, thin ears which rest backwards towards the neck.The silky coat comes in a number of colors - tan, white, black or a mix such as sandy and white or tan and white. The coat is often wavy or slightly curly. The soft undercoat becomes thick in the Winter and he sheds this hair in hotter weather. You’ll find the coat frills on the neck and there is feathering on the hindquarters and with the long tail.

Sweet and Gentle

The Borzoi is a gentle, sweet dog, to such an extent that they don’t make good watch-dogs. He is good with other pets and children, although he isn’t the kind of dog to indulge in games with children. He doesn’t bark much and he is also not a high-energy dog, being fairly happy to make himself at home indoors. This is a faithful, loyal and courageous dog.

His temperament is quiet, sensitive, intelligent and somewhat aloof. Even though he has these quiet characteristics, he will still need training and socialization as this just rounds your dog off, making him a pleasure to have around.

shih tzu puppy - descriptionThis is a breed of lively, sturdy and alert little dogs with a beautiful double coat that is flowing and long. In its full glory the Shih Tzu coat is touching the floor all the way around the dog. The dog’s bearing is as royal as its history, arrogantly carrying his head high and his tail curving over his back.

The Shih Tzu is a solid, compact breed with weight and substance. They may be a small dog, but they are a strong one. They have large dark eyes with a short muzzle and fur covered drop ears. They are just a little longer than they are tall with a distinct underbite.

There are a few differences between the European or UK Kennel Club standard and the American Kennel Club AKC standard. As opposed to the UK standard the AKC standard states that:

  • The head is round and large, and the face looks up or forward.

• The hindquarters are muscular while the front are straight. They are balanced in that they are not too long or too short.

  • The eyes face the front and are very large.
  • The bod and neck are proportional and not exaggerated.
  • The shoulders are frontal.

Characteristics

borzoi dog - characteristicsIf you’re looking for a quiet, amicable, elegant breed, you’ll love the big Russian Borzoi, known for his gentleness, sweetness and gracefulness. He is a friendly dog with his human family, although not too keen on children with their boisterous games. It is his gentleness however, that has endeared him to so many dog lovers.

Even though he isn’t one of the most active dogs, he will still need exercise and a walk as he is a big dog used to wide, open spaces. He’ll need the opportunity every now and then to simply run.

He makes a wonderful pet for new- or seasoned pet owners, and if you’re looking for a quiet, devoted companion, why not welcome an elegant, graceful Borzoi into your home?

1.Children friendliness – they are very good with children.

shih tzu dog - characteristics2.Special talents – they were bred to be companion animals. They are friendly and loyal.

3.Adaptability Yes very much so. They can live in an apartment or on a farm. It doesn’t matter and they don’t need a yard.

4.Learning ability – intelligent but can be stubborn.

Health Problems

borzoi puppies - health problemsThe Borzoi is a healthy dog, and you’re not likely to be taking him to the veterinarian often but you do need to know about illnesses which are more prevalent in these large breed dogs.

Osteosarcoma

This is a common bone tumor found in dogs and it is more commonly found in large breeds. It can spread quickly to other parts of the body, and although there are treatments, the long term prognosis isn’t good. Your dog will have pain and swelling.

Lymphosarcoma

Lymphosarcoma is a common cancer diagnosed in dogs. It is a cancer of lymphocytes and the average dog gets it from 6 years on. Some dogs may not necessarily feel sick, while others are tired, they don’t eat, they lose weight and may have diarrhea.

Bloat

This is a disease that can be deadly for your dog. Known as gastric dilatation, the stomach twists and fills with gas, putting pressure on the diaphragm, and creating breathing problems. Bloat is more common in large breeds and its up to you as a responsible dog owner to watch out for a swollen stomach with drooling and attempts to vomit.

Remember that some health problems are inherited, but there are other health problems that can be prevented by the way you treat- and raise your dog.

shih tzu puppies - health problemsFor many breeds that have the advantage of isolation like the Shih Tzu did with the emperors of China usually have very little genetic health issues. Most of the breed is indeed healthy but there are some issues.

• Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome due to the shape of their face and head causes them to have breathing issues. They cannot handle heat and they cannot swim. They can have an upper airway obstruction that makes it hard for them to breath. If this is bad enough, surgery may be required.

  • Hip Dysplasia and patellar luxation can both lead to lameness or arthritis.

• Hypothyroidism – thyroid does not produce the hormones necessary for metabolism to work effectively. This can lead to weight gain, hair loss, lethargy and muscle loss. It can be treated effectively.

• Issues of the eyes include – cataracts, corneal dryness and inflammation, progressive retinal atrophy, improperly closing eyelids and retinal detachment.

  • Portosystemic shunt of the liver.
  • Intervertebral disk disease – severe back pain.
  • Epilepsy.
  • Ear infections.
  • Immune mediated hemolytic anemia can be fatal.

Caring The Pet

Shedding and the Coat

borzoi dogs - caringLong coated dogs shed, and the Borzoi female sheds after her season and the males shed annually. Once the female is spayed, she sheds like the males. You will need to be brushing your Borzoi every day to rid the dogs of this loose hair.

The Teeth

Borzoi teeth collect tartar, more so than with other breeds, so their teeth will need to be brushed at least 3 times a week with special dog toothbrushes and toothpaste to prevent gum and tooth problems.

Food

Good quality food is the foundation for good health with your pet. Home-made food is always good for your dog and should include meat, rice and vegetables. Apart from top quality commercially manufactured food for large breed dogs and recommended by your vet, make sure to include some raw meat into your Borzoi’s diet too. This is imperative to stave off ill health and skin problems. Make sure he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water available to him.

shih tzu dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy – this is a toy dog so don’t overfeed. They have a tendency to become obese. Calorie and weight level need to be calculated with any diet you feed. The diet should be high quality with plenty of protein made for toy dogs. Feed the puppy at least 3 times a day, maybe four in very small amounts, never more than ½ cup per day.

2.Feeding the adult - this is a toy dog so don’t overfeed. They have a tendency to become obese. Calorie and weight level need to be calculated with any diet you feed. The diet should be high quality with plenty of protein made for toy dogs. Feed the adult once or twice a day in larger amounts than the puppy but never more than ¾ of a cup per day.

3.Points for Good Health - most Shih Tzu’s are hardy with exceptionally good health.

4. Games and Exercises

This is a pampered, not high energy dog. However, she still needs playtime, which can be indoors and short walks outdoors every day.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Borzoi vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Borzoi vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Borzoi vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Borzoi vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Borzoi vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Borzoi vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Borzoi vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Borzoi vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Borzoi vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Borzoi vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Borzoi vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Borzoi vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Borzoi vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Borzoi vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Borzoi vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Borzoi vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Borzoi vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Borzoi vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Borzoi vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Borzoi vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
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  22. Borzoi vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Borzoi vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Borzoi vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Borzoi vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Shih Tzu vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Shih Tzu vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Shih Tzu vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Shih Tzu vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Shih Tzu vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Shih Tzu vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Shih Tzu vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Shih Tzu vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Shih Tzu vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Shih Tzu vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Shih Tzu vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Shih Tzu vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Shih Tzu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Shih Tzu vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Shih Tzu vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Shih Tzu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Shih Tzu vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Shih Tzu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Shih Tzu vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Shih Tzu vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Shih Tzu vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Shih Tzu vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Shih Tzu vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Shih Tzu vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison