Shih Tzu vs Jack Russell Terrier
Compare Shih Tzu and Jack Russell Terrier 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
Shih Tzu
Jack Russell Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
23 – 27 cm
25 – 30 cm
Weight
5 – 8 kg
5 – 6 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 16 years
13 – 16 years
Child friendly
4/5
5/5
Energy level
2/5
5/5
Intelligence
2/5
5/5
Trainability
4/5
5/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
4/5
2/5
Shedding
2/5
3/5
Barking level
3/5
5/5
Aggressiveness
1/5
3/5
Sponsored Ad
Characteristics
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Jack Russell Terrier
Great with kids
High energy
Super smart
Low grooming
Easy to train
Tiny
Summary
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.
About Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier: small, sturdy, energetic fox-hunting terrier with bold, intelligent nature. Needs 1–2 hours of daily exercise plus mental work. Predominantly white, three coat types, strong digging and prey drive. Affectionate with family but demanding and unsuited to very sedentary homes.
Similar breeds
View more