Shih Tzu vs. Min Pin Shepherd: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih Tzus or Min Pin Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Min Pin Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd dogs?

Active
Friendly
Happy
Lively
Playful
Courageous
Gentle
Intelligent
Outgoing

Curious
Playful
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Outgoing
Responsive
Obedient
Loyal
Watchful
Clever

Shedding Level

Do Shih Tzus shed more than Min Pin Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Shih Tzus or Min Pin Shepherds?

1 / 5

Shih Tzus shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

4 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds?

Lhasa Apso, Pekingese, Tibetan Mountain Dog

Miniature Pinscher  and German Shepherd

Date of Birth

When were Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd?

Black
Brown

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds?

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Silver
White
Brindle

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds?

5 / 5

Shih Tzus are known for their coat length.

3 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd?

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd?

A Shih Tzu can have a litter of 10-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Min Pin Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherds are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds?

Intervertebral Disc Disease
Eye Problems
Brachycephalic Syndrome

Canine Hip Dysplasia
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd?

Otitis Externa
Urolithiasis
Eye Disease
Cleft Lip or Palate

Cataracts
Sebaceous Adenitis
Mitral Valve Disease
Corneal Dystrophy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd breeds?

Eye
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Blood Tests for Organ Function
X-ray imaging
Blood And Urine Analysis
Regular Full Physical Examination By Veterinarian
Full Physical Eexamination by the Veterinarian to test the range of movement in the joint areas
Eye Examinations (both internal as well as external)

Social Needs

Shih Tzu vs Min Pin Shepherd social needs comparison

5 / 5

Shih Tzu has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Min Pin Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

4 / 5

Shih Tzus are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

2 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih Tzu vs Min Pin Shepherd?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih Tzu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd entertained?

Walk, Bike ride, Brushing, Running, Sleeping, Resting, Short walks, Play, Play with lea, Sniffing, Dog Parks, Go to Park, Being pet, Sit, Eating Snacks, Fetch, Walking, Snuggling, Run, Treats, Petting, Scenting, Marking, Runnig, Watching tv, Playing, Cuddling, Trick training, Shopping, Training

Play, Walking, Playing, Training, Rough Housing, Running, Chase, Shake, Catch treats, Run, Nap, Cuddle, Chew, Playing Ball, Fetch, Tug-of-war, Frisbee, Walk, Toys

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih Tzus or Min Pin Shepherds?

Shih Tzus are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Min Pin Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih Tzu, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Min Pin Shepherd, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih Tzus or Min Pin Shepherds require more exercise?

In general most Shih Tzus usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Min Pin Shepherds usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Shih Tzus or Min Pin Shepherds?

5 / 5

Shih Tzus have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

2 / 5

The Min Pin Shepherd has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd dogs?

Ideally, Shih Tzu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Min Pin Shepherd should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Shih Tzus and Min Pin Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd in cups?

For an average 9-16 pound (4 - 7 kg) Shih Tzu feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 50-60 pound (23 - 27 kg) Min Pin Shepherd feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

The average cost of a Shih Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Min Pin Shepherd is somewhere $1.80 - $2.10 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

The average per month expenses of a Shih Tzu is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Min Pin Shepherd is between $49 - $63. This makes an average of $588 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

3 / 5

Shih Tzus have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

5 / 5

Shih Tzus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

4 / 5

The Min Pin Shepherd is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Shih Tzus or Min Pin Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

2 / 5

Shih Tzus are not the best choice for families with kids.

5 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Shih Tzus are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

3 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

5 / 5

Shih Tzus are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

2 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Shih Tzu or Min Pin Shepherd?

3 / 5

Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Shih Tzu and Min Pin Shepherd?

2 / 5

Shih Tzus are not known for being a highly playful breed.

4 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih Tzus and Min Pin Shepherds compare?

3 / 5

Shih Tzus are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Min Pin Shepherds are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.