Sarplaninac
VS
Shih Tzu
Sarplaninac vs Shih Tzu
Compare Sarplaninac 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
Sarplaninac
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
57 – 62 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
30 – 45 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
11 – 13 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
3/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
2/5
Barking level
3/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
1/5
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Characteristics
Sarplaninac
Large
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Sarplaninac
The Sarplaninac is a large, rustic Balkan livestock guardian, calm and serious yet deeply loyal to its family. It has a thick weatherproof double coat and strong territorial instincts, needs space, firm but fair handling, steady exercise, and careful socialization with strangers and other dogs.
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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