Cairn Terrier
VS
Shih Tzu
Cairn Terrier vs Shih Tzu
Compare Cairn 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
Cairn Terrier
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
28 – 31 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
7 – 8 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 17 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
4/5
Shedding
1/5
2/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
1/5
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Characteristics
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
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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