English Setter vs Shih Tzu
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
English Setter
Also known as: Laverack Setter, Llewellin Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gun dog known for its distinctive feathered coat and gentle demeanor. Often called the 'gentleman of the dog world,' they combine athletic prowess with a sweet, affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions for active households.
Large
High
11-13 yrs
61-69 cm
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small and affectionate dog breed known for its luxurious, flowing coat and friendly, outgoing personality. Originally bred as a companion for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu is cherished today as a loving and devoted family pet.
Small
Low
10-16 years yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Small |
| Energy Level | High | Low |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | challenging |
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Shedding Level | High | Low |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Light |
| Housing | Yard | Apartment |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Experienced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Hikers, runners, hunters, or active families with a large fenced yard. Someone who works from home or can provide companionship. Understanding they are getting a hunting dog, not a couch ornament. | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Shih Tzu. |
English Setter Dealbreakers
- No fenced yard - dealing with a Setter without secure fencing is a part-time job
- Work long hours away from home - separation anxiety is significant
- Cannot commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
- Fastidious housekeepers - mud, hair, and water drips are part of the package
Shih Tzu Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 20-30 min daily exercise
- Cannot commit to grooming needs
Surrender Risk
| Factor | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Escaping - 'He won't stay in the yard', Too much energy for owner's lifestyle, Separation anxiety and barking when left alone | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
English Setter Social Traits
Low
Low - generally excellent with other dogs and enjoy pack life. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Shih Tzu Social Traits
Moderate
Generally friendly
Training
English Setter
- They are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections or yelling will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- Recall training must be proofed with high distractions - a long line is recommended until reliability is 100%
- Use high-value treats to compete with bird distractions
Shih Tzu
- **: Positive reinforcement only. This breed shuts down or becomes defensive with harsh correction.
English Setter Considerations
English Setters are intensely social 'velcro' dogs that bond deeply with their humans. Left alone for 8+ hours without conditioning or companionship, they frequently develop severe anxiety manifesting as destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent howling.
Their predatory drive is all-consuming. On walks, they may become deaf to commands if they catch a scent or spot a bird. Off-leash reliability in unfenced areas is nearly impossible for the average owner.
Bored or under-exercised Setters are notorious for testing perimeter security. Their athleticism allows them to jump moderate fences, and digging instincts can compromise fence lines if they see prey on the other side.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Risky - while some can live with cats if raised together, the instinct to chase is hardwired. Generally not safe. | Generally safe with proper introduction |
| Small Mammals | Caution required - rabbits and hamsters trigger the chase instinct. Supervision mandatory. | Supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - birds are their ancestral prey. Will fixate on bird cages causing stress to both animals. | Caution advised |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Medium |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
English Setter: Predatory sequence is Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Point. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are usually inhibited, meaning they are less dangerous to prey than terriers, but the chase drive is just as strong. They want to please but are easily distracted by birds.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 7-12 | 4-10 |
| House Training | Medium | Moderate |
| Crate Training | High | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
English Setter: Setter puppies combine high energy with a distractible hunting brain. House training can be slower than average (sensitive to surface textures). Very mouthy and prone to chewing furniture if bored. Around 8-10 months, they often 'forget' recall - this is when they're most likely to run off after a bird.
Shih Tzu: Shih Tzu puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 12-24 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 61-69 cm | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Small |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 10–16 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 4-8 |
English Setter Coat
Shih Tzu Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Locating and setting (pointing) game birds on English moors for net and gun hunters | The Shih Tzu ("Lion Dog") was developed in the palaces of the Chinese Emperor, likely by crossing th |
| Origin | England, 15th-17th century | Tibet) with the Pekingese |
Breeding Details
| Detail | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
English Setter Health Issues
Shih Tzu Health Issues
English Setter Suggested Tests
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test for deafness
- Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
Shih Tzu Suggested Tests
- Renal Dysplasia (wedge biopsy or ultrasound)
- CERF/CAER eye clearances
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Food Allergies | Grain sensitivities possible |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
English Setter Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hearing loss
- Mobility issues
Quality of life often remains good until late. Cancer and mobility issues are the common end-of-life factors. Some reach 14-15 years.
Shih Tzu Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
English Setter
high maintenanceShih Tzu
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
English Setter Daily Life
Shih Tzu Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-1,500 | N/A |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,300–$2,000 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $180–$275 | $70–$120 |
| Yearly Range | $2,160–$3,300 | $840–$1,440 |
| Food / Month | $75-125 | $30-50 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $65-100 | $60-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $600-960 | $500-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
English Setter Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Shih Tzu Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | English Setter | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | Low |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Occasional |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Low |
English Setter Quirks
Setter Sprawl
Famous for sleeping in bizarre, contorted positions on furniture
Water Dripper
Loose 'flews' (lips) that drip water after drinking and leave slime on your pants after a nudge
Velcro Attachment
Will follow you to the bathroom - they need to be integrated into family life, not left as backyard dogs
The Off Switch
Indoors, a well-exercised Setter is a 'rug dog' - calm, quiet, and happy to sleep. Not hyperactive pacers like some herding breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
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