Australian Kelpie
Australian Kelpie
VS
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu

Australian Kelpie vs Shih Tzu

Compare Australian Kelpie and Shih Tzu side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Australian Kelpie
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
43 – 51 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
14 – 20 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
11 – 15 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
2/5
Intelligence
5/5
2/5
Trainability
5/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
2/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
1/5
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Characteristics

Australian Kelpie
Great with kids
Super smart
Easy to train
Medium
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small

Summary

About Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is a medium, athletic herding dog, bred for stamina and focus. Intelligent and quick to learn, it needs extensive daily exercise and mental work. Affectionate yet independent, it excels in herding and dog sports, stays generally healthy, and suits active, committed homes.
About Shih Tzu
Small, sturdy companion dog from Tibetan and Chinese palaces, 4.5–8 kg with a long, flowing coat and chrysanthemum-like face. Affectionate, cheerful, and confident, it suits many homes. Needs moderate exercise, intensive grooming, and patient, reward-based training.

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