Shih Tzu vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

Shih Tzu vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed ComparisonShih Tzu is originated from China but Polish Tatra Sheepdog is originated from Poland. Shih Tzu may grow 42 cm / 16 inches shorter than Polish Tatra Sheepdog. Shih Tzu may weigh 53 kg / 116 pounds lesser than Polish Tatra Sheepdog. Shih Tzu may live 6 years more than Polish Tatra Sheepdog. Shih Tzu may have more litter size than Polish Tatra Sheepdog. Shih Tzu requires High maintenance. But Polish Tatra Sheepdog requires Moderate maintenance

History

shih tzu - historyThe Shih Tzu is an Imperial Chinese breed developed by palace breeders hundreds of years ago with breed stock from the Tibetan lines. It is quite probable that the Shih Tzu was originally a cross between two Sino-Tibetan ancient dogs – the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. Based on their looks, the Shih Tzu means the lion dog, but they were really very pampered palace dogs living with the Chinese emperors and families. The emperors were always gifting the breeders who developed the most affectionate, gentle and beautiful Shih Tzus.

Until the 1930’s the Shih Tzu was not known to the world outside the emperor’s palace. Once the breed did come out from behind the palace walls, they were immediately popular. Much debate went on about how to refine the breed as clubs began to spring up in Peking and then in England. It was not until 1969 the Shih Tzu was recognized and entered in the AKC Stud Book.

While the original Shih Tzu might have been a mix between the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso, today’s breed spread around the world after the second world war. In Europe in the 1930’s the breed was classified as Apsos. In 1935 the first Shih Tzu Club of Europe was formed, and the first standard was written, and the breed was categorized as the Shih Tzu.

Following World War II, soldiers brought the dogs to the States from Europe. By the 1950’s the breed was growing in popularity and the AKC recognized the breed in 1969 as members of the Toy Group. They are now recognized by all major kennel clubs throughout the western world. They are recognized by the Federation Cynoloqique Internationale in the Companion and Toy Group, among Tibetan breeds.

The Shih Tzu is a good watchdog, but it was bred to be a companion animal. It is a friendly, open breed that welcomes strangers. They are great with other animals and children as well as adults.

polish tatra sheepdog - historyKnown also as the Tatra Mountain Sheepdog, Polish Mountain Sheepdog or the Polski Owczarek, the Polish Tatra Sheepdog comes from Poland.

Shepherds were wanting an excellent guard dog for their livestock, and this dog has a natural instinct for guarding. Apart from being a good protection dog, the dog is also a superb companion.

This is a rare dog breed and not recognized by the AKC. This is actually an ancient breed, and the dog has lived in the Polish mountains for thousands of years. When the breed actually came about hasn’t been recorded. Some people suggest the Tatra Sheepdog comes from the Mastiff dog.

After the World Wars the dog’s number had been reduced and the Federation Cynologique Internationale started breeding the dog in the 1960s.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Working dog
Origin:
China
Poland
Height Male:
20 - 28 cm
7 - 12 inches
60 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Height Female:
20 - 28 cm
7 - 12 inches
60 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
4 - 7 kg
8 - 16 pounds
36 - 60 kg
79 - 133 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
36 - 60 kg
79 - 133 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 18 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 8
3 - 5
Size:
Toy dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Chinese Lion Dog Chrysanthemum Dog,, Lion Dog
Tatra Mountain Sheepdog, Polski Owczarek, Polish Mountain Sheepdog
Colors Available:
all often multiple colored
White
Coat:
fine, straight, and silky
Medium length, thick
Shedding:
Moderate
Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
High maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

shih tzu puppy - descriptionThis is a breed of lively, sturdy and alert little dogs with a beautiful double coat that is flowing and long. In its full glory the Shih Tzu coat is touching the floor all the way around the dog. The dog’s bearing is as royal as its history, arrogantly carrying his head high and his tail curving over his back.

The Shih Tzu is a solid, compact breed with weight and substance. They may be a small dog, but they are a strong one. They have large dark eyes with a short muzzle and fur covered drop ears. They are just a little longer than they are tall with a distinct underbite.

There are a few differences between the European or UK Kennel Club standard and the American Kennel Club AKC standard. As opposed to the UK standard the AKC standard states that:

  • The head is round and large, and the face looks up or forward.

• The hindquarters are muscular while the front are straight. They are balanced in that they are not too long or too short.

  • The eyes face the front and are very large.
  • The bod and neck are proportional and not exaggerated.
  • The shoulders are frontal.

polish tatra sheepdog puppy - descriptionIf you bring a Polish Tatra Sheepdog puppy into your home you might think you had a gorgeous Polar Pear Cub roaming around – that’s how cute they are.

These are large, well built white coated dogs and the average height for them as an adult is between 60 to 70cm, male and female. Weight of the dog is between 36 and 60kg.

The double coat is medium length and thick. The ears are medium length and floppy and the tail is long and carried low when the dog is at rest, but it is carried up and over the back when the dog is alert and watchful.

Temperament:

These dogs have a lot of characteristics that make it such a good guardian dog. He is territorial, bold, protective, loyal and always loving towards his human family.

The Tatra has a loud bark and he uses this when he is wary of anything that he thinks may harm his family. He is an intelligent dog too, and you won’t have any trouble training and socializing him.

Characteristics

1.Children friendliness – they are very good with children.

shih tzu dog - characteristics2.Special talents – they were bred to be companion animals. They are friendly and loyal.

3.Adaptability Yes very much so. They can live in an apartment or on a farm. It doesn’t matter and they don’t need a yard.

4.Learning ability – intelligent but can be stubborn.

polish tatra sheepdog dog - characteristicsThese large sheepdogs have always been guard dogs – they were bred to guard sheep and have always spent a lot of time on their own, away from humans.

To many people, he may seem to be somewhat aloof and independent, but for people looking for a guard dog, this particular characteristic is particularly appealing.

Nonetheless, brought up with lots of love and care he makes the most devoted, loving pet.

Health Problems

shih tzu puppies - health problemsFor many breeds that have the advantage of isolation like the Shih Tzu did with the emperors of China usually have very little genetic health issues. Most of the breed is indeed healthy but there are some issues.

• Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome due to the shape of their face and head causes them to have breathing issues. They cannot handle heat and they cannot swim. They can have an upper airway obstruction that makes it hard for them to breath. If this is bad enough, surgery may be required.

  • Hip Dysplasia and patellar luxation can both lead to lameness or arthritis.

• Hypothyroidism – thyroid does not produce the hormones necessary for metabolism to work effectively. This can lead to weight gain, hair loss, lethargy and muscle loss. It can be treated effectively.

• Issues of the eyes include – cataracts, corneal dryness and inflammation, progressive retinal atrophy, improperly closing eyelids and retinal detachment.

  • Portosystemic shunt of the liver.
  • Intervertebral disk disease – severe back pain.
  • Epilepsy.
  • Ear infections.
  • Immune mediated hemolytic anemia can be fatal.

polish tatra sheepdog puppies - health problemsWhile your Polish Tatra Sheepdog isn’t likely to suffer from any major dog health issues if he is well fed, well exercised and loved, he may well succumb to one or two of some of the typical illnesses there are that plague dogs -

Hip Dysplasia:

This is such a common- and serious problem with dogs, that it bears mentioning. Hip dysplasia is a problem with the hips so that the bones don’t fit- and move properly. The end result for the dog is pain, inflammation and swelling. Your dog is reluctant to play and get up again after lying down. Arthritis can set in which can also be painful. There are treatments to help with managing pain, but in some instances, surgery may be required.

Bloat:

Because the Polish Tatra Sheepdog is a deep chested dog, he is more prone to bloat, which is life threatening. Gas is trapped in the stomach, the stomach twists and the dog has a swollen stomach, is restless and in stress. Immediate veterinary intervention will be required.

Allergic Dermatitis:

This can be debilitating for your dog as he wants to be licking and scratching the whole time. Usually you’ll see this in the paw- and stomach area. There are a range of medications that the vet will suggest.

Caring The Pet

shih tzu dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy – this is a toy dog so don’t overfeed. They have a tendency to become obese. Calorie and weight level need to be calculated with any diet you feed. The diet should be high quality with plenty of protein made for toy dogs. Feed the puppy at least 3 times a day, maybe four in very small amounts, never more than ½ cup per day.

2.Feeding the adult - this is a toy dog so don’t overfeed. They have a tendency to become obese. Calorie and weight level need to be calculated with any diet you feed. The diet should be high quality with plenty of protein made for toy dogs. Feed the adult once or twice a day in larger amounts than the puppy but never more than ¾ of a cup per day.

3.Points for Good Health - most Shih Tzu’s are hardy with exceptionally good health.

4. Games and Exercises

This is a pampered, not high energy dog. However, she still needs playtime, which can be indoors and short walks outdoors every day.

Exercise:

polish tatra sheepdog dogs - caringThe Polish Tatra Sheepdog is an energetic dog and this means he will require a large sized garden to run around in. As a large, active dog he isn’t recommended for city living but would suit a large property where he can be well exercised. Because of its size and energy levels, regular walks will be recommended. Provide the dog with stimulating games that will be mentally and physically beneficial.

Grooming:

This large dog sheds, and seasonally too, so he will need to be brushed at least twice a week to prevent loose hair.

Check inside your dog’s ears for infection.

Trim your dog’s nails.

Check your dog for fleas and ticks and check him over for any unusual lumps.

Diet:

Every pet lover wants their dog to live a long, healthy, active life. That is why it is so important to choose the best dog food.

If you buy commercially manufactured dog food, make sure its the high quality ones to ensure its properly formulated to provide your pet with all the vitamins and minerals he needs.

Home-made food is also an excellent choice for your pet. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots can be very healthy, and you can chop this up and add it into the dry kibble a couple of times a week. This is a super tasty treat. Some raw meat added in occasionally will do him the world of good.

Never leave your pet without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Shih Tzu vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  3. Shih Tzu vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  4. Shih Tzu vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  5. Shih Tzu vs Chorkie - Breed Comparison
  6. Shih Tzu vs Pekingese - Breed Comparison
  7. Shih Tzu vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Shih Tzu vs Chiweenie - Breed Comparison
  9. Shih Tzu vs Chug - Breed Comparison
  10. Shih Tzu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  11. Shih Tzu vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  12. Shih Tzu vs Chipoo - Breed Comparison
  13. Shih Tzu vs Chiapom - Breed Comparison
  14. Shih Tzu vs English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) - Breed Comparison
  15. Shih Tzu vs Long Haired Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  16. Shih Tzu vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  17. Shih Tzu vs Russian Toy Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Shih Tzu vs Franzuskaya Bolonka - Breed Comparison
  19. Shih Tzu vs Phalene - Breed Comparison
  20. Shih Tzu vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  21. Shih Tzu vs Cockachon - Breed Comparison
  22. Silky Terrier vs Shih Tzu - Breed Comparison
  23. Snorkie vs Shih Tzu - Breed Comparison
  24. Toy Bulldog vs Shih Tzu - Breed Comparison
  25. Toy Mi-Ki vs Shih Tzu - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  27. Presa Canario vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  28. Pyredoodle vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  29. Sarplaninac vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  30. Native American Indian Dog vs Polish Tatra Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  31. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  32. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  33. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  34. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  35. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  36. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  37. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  38. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  39. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  40. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  41. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Labrador Husky - Breed Comparison
  42. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  43. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  44. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  45. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Goldador - Breed Comparison
  47. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  48. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  49. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Dogo Cubano - Breed Comparison
  50. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds