Australian Terrier
VS
Shih Tzu
Australian Terrier vs Shih Tzu
Compare Australian Terrier 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 Terrier
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
21 – 25 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
5 – 7 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 16 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
4/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
3/5
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 Terrier
Great with kids
Tiny
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small, sturdy working terrier with a harsh, weatherproof coat and soft topknot. Bred in Australia as a vermin controller and companion, it is confident, lively, people‑oriented, a devoted watchdog, needing moderate exercise and regular, simple grooming.
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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