Irish Saint Terrier vs. Shih-Mo: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Saint Terriers or Shih-Mos hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Irish Saint Terrier nor Shih-Mo are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo dogs?

Independent
Happy
Protective
Intelligent
Friendly
Dominant
Lively
Gentle
Going
Social
Trainable
Quiet
Respectful

Active
Playful
Independent
Happy
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle

Shedding Level

Do Irish Saint Terriers shed more than Shih-Mos, or which breed sheds more, Irish Saint Terriers or Shih-Mos?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo breeds?

Saint Bernard and Irish Terrier

American Eskimo, Shih Tzu

Date of Birth

When were Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo?

Black

Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo breeds?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers have medium-length coats.

5 / 5

Shih-Mos are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo?

An Irish Saint Terrier can have a litter of 6-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Shih-Mo can have a litter of 4-6 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Shih-Mos are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

3 / 5

While the Shih-Mo breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo breeds?

Entropion
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Allergies
Hip Dysplasia

Liver Disease
Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems
Kidney Problems
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Pateller Luxation
Bladder Stones and Infections

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo?

None Known

Ear Infections
Allergies
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo breeds?

X-Rays
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Dental Examination
Eye examination
Chest X-rays
Clinical Exam

Social Needs

Irish Saint Terrier vs Shih-Mo social needs comparison

5 / 5

Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Saint Terrier vs Shih-Mo?

1 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Irish Saint Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Saint Terriers or Shih-Mos?

Both Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Saint Terrier, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih-Mo, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Saint Terriers or Shih-Mos require more exercise?

In general most Irish Saint Terriers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Shih-Mos usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Irish Saint Terriers or Shih-Mos?

4 / 5

Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo are breeds of dogs that require a significant amount of grooming. They will also require regular trims, and a professional groomer's help is often necessary to keep their coat in good condition. They may also need regular baths to maintain their coat and skin.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo dogs?

Ideally, both Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Saint Terriers and Shih-Mos?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo in cups?

For an average 90-120 pound (41 - 54 kg) Irish Saint Terrier feed 4 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 18-25 pound (8 - 11 kg) Shih-Mo feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

The average cost of an Irish Saint Terrier is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

The average cost of a Shih-Mo is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

The average per month expenses of an Irish Saint Terrier is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Shih-Mo is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

5 / 5

Shih-Mos make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Irish Saint Terriers or Shih-Mos have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

3 / 5

Shih-Mos have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers and Shih-Mos are one of the best dogs for cats. They accept cats readily as part of the family. However, this dog breed should be trained to not chase after the kitty early on

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

4 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

5 / 5

Shih-Mos are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Saint Terrier or Shih-Mo?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Saint Terrier and Shih-Mo?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

4 / 5

Shih-Mos are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Irish Saint Terriers and Shih-Mos compare?

3 / 5

Irish Saint Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

Shih-Mos are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.