Shih Tzu vs Ryukyu Inu - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Shih Tzu vs Ryukyu Inu - Breed ComparisonRyukyu Inu is originated from Japan but Shih Tzu is originated from China. Ryukyu Inu may grow 22 cm / 9 inches higher than Shih Tzu. Ryukyu Inu may weigh 18 kg / 40 pounds more than Shih Tzu. Ryukyu Inu may live 6 years less than Shih Tzu. Both Ryukyu Inu and Shih Tzu has same litter size. Ryukyu Inu requires Low Maintenance. But Shih Tzu requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Toy dog
undefined
Japan
China
Height Male:
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
20 - 28 cm
7 - 12 inches
Height Female:
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
20 - 28 cm
7 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
4 - 7 kg
8 - 16 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
10 - 18 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
1 - 8
Size:
Medium
Toy
Other Names:
Okinawa Native Dog, Ryukyu Dog
Chinese Lion Dog Chrysanthemum Dog,, Lion Dog
Colors Available:
liver or black - stripes like a Tiger, Brindle, red, white
all often multiple colored
Coat:
Shortish - single- and double-coated varieties
fine, straight, and silky
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Friendly, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

ryukyu inuThe Ryukyu Inu is a medium-sized dog that comes from Okinawa, Japan.

It’s a dog that is fairly rare having been used to track boar. There isn’t much information on the dog’s history but after its numbers declined after World War II, there was an urge in the 1980s to save the breed.

The dog isn’t recognized by any major Kennel Clubs.

shih tzuThe 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.

Description

ryukyu inu puppy - descriptionJapanese dog breeds end with the word ‘Inu’ or ‘Ken’ . It means ‘dog’.

The medium sized Ryukyu Inu stands at between 46 to 50cm in height and weighs between 15 to 25kg. He has a black nose, dark brown eyes and erect ears. The tail is long and curls over the back.

The dog’s coat is short and you get the single- and double coated varieties. The coat can be brindle, red, white, liver or black. Some of the dogs have tiger-like stripes in the coat. People are amazed at these dogs as they have incredible climbing abilities and are even capable of climbing a tree.

Temperament:

These dogs are quiet, unobtrusive dogs. The Ryukyu Inu looks very much like a wild dog, which gives the impression of being un-trainable and ferocious but they are easily trained and make splendid pets.

Many people who have had them as pets say they would choose this dog over and over again. They are brave too and get on well with children or pets in the home. They don’t look for trouble, and their kind, stable natures make them excellent therapy dogs.

They’re intelligent dogs and will require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They will also need to be trained and socialized as they are confident, strong-willed dogs who might not obey you if left to do what they want.

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.

Characteristics

ryukyu inu dog - characteristicsThis dog has always been a hunting dog so he will want to have his fair share of good exercise – long walks as well as ball and rope games.

He makes a splendid pet because he has an amicable nature wanting to please. He is quiet, loving and loyal, and with such a dog in your home and heart, you just keep discovering what a wonderful pet this 4-legged friend can be.

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.

Health Problems

ryukyu inu puppies - health problemsThese Japanese dogs are thought to be fairly healthy dogs, but like with most other dogs, you would need to be aware of hip dysplasia, bloat, caner and hypothyroidism.

The Ryukyu Inu, with its 10 to 12 years lifespan, will be prone to minor ailments, but with good care he is not likely to succumb to any of them.

Cataract:

Cataracts have a number of causes in dogs. This disease of the eye can occur at any age, and can develop over weeks or even years.

Cataracts can occur in just one eye or both eyes and a disease such as diabetes can bring on a cataract.

Good nutrition is important for a dog to build a strong immune system, and nutritional supplementation can certainly help to enhance lens health. Cataract surgery can be performed to remove the cataracts.

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.

Caring The Pet

ryukyu inu dogs - caringThe coat of the Ryukya Inu requires brushing twice a week to remove loose hairs. At the same time check your dog over for new lumps and check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Bad teeth can cause lots of pain and toxins within the body. You can also choose to have the teeth seen to and cleaned by your vet.

Provide him with his own warm, dry place to sleep.

Provide him with top quality food. There are some excellent commercially manufactured foods on the market that make a point of ensuring good ingredients in them. Your Ryukya Inu needs good food to ensure longevity and health.

Try to include some home-made food for him which can be simply mixed into the dry kibble twice a week. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots is super tasty and nutritious. This food can all be chopped up, refrigerated and added warmed up and in small portions to your pets dry kibble once or twice a week. Your dog will love it.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Have him neutered or spayed if you aren’t wanting puppies.

Keep his vaccines up to date against some deadly canine diseases.

Get him to the vet when he is injured, in pain or sick.

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.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Shih Tzu vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Shih Tzu vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Shih Tzu vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Shih Tzu vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Shih Tzu vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Shih Tzu vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Shih Tzu vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Shih Tzu vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Shih Tzu vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Shih Tzu vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Shih Tzu vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Shih Tzu vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Shih Tzu vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Shih Tzu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Shih Tzu vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Shih Tzu vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Shih Tzu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Shih Tzu vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Shih Tzu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Shih Tzu vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Shih Tzu vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Shih Tzu vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Shih Tzu vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Shih Tzu vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Shih Tzu vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Ryukyu Inu vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Ryukyu Inu vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Ryukyu Inu vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Ryukyu Inu vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Ryukyu Inu vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Ryukyu Inu vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Ryukyu Inu vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Ryukyu Inu vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Ryukyu Inu vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Ryukyu Inu vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Ryukyu Inu vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Ryukyu Inu vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Ryukyu Inu vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Ryukyu Inu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Ryukyu Inu vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Ryukyu Inu vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Ryukyu Inu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Ryukyu Inu vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Ryukyu Inu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Ryukyu Inu vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Ryukyu Inu vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Ryukyu Inu vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Ryukyu Inu vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Ryukyu Inu vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Ryukyu Inu vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison