Shih-Mo vs. Cortese: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih-Mos or Corteses hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Shih-Mo and Cortese dogs?

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

Active
Playful
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Docile
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Going
Tempered
Sweet
Cheerful
Easygoing

Shedding Level

Do Shih-Mos shed more than Corteses, or which breed sheds more, Shih-Mos or Corteses?

3 / 5

Shih-Mo or Cortese 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 Shih-Mo or Cortese. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih-Mo and Cortese breeds?

American Eskimo, Shih Tzu

Maltese, Welsh Corgi

Date of Birth

When were Shih-Mo and Cortese breeds first developed?

Unknown

2000

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih-Mo and Cortese dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih-Mo and Cortese?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Shih-Mo and Cortese breeds?

5 / 5

The coat of Shih-Mo and Cortese dogs is generally known for its length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih-Mo and Cortese?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih-Mo and Cortese?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih-Mo and Cortese?

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.

A Cortese can have a litter of 3-5 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

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Health Issues

Between Shih-Mo and Cortese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Shih-Mo and Cortese breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Shih-Mo and Cortese breeds?

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

Cataracts
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Minor Concerns

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

Ear Infections
Allergies
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Retinal Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih-Mo and Cortese breeds?

Dental Examination
Eye examination
Chest X-rays
Clinical Exam

X-Rays
CT Scan
Eye Examination
Urinalysis
Blood Tests

Social Needs

Shih-Mo vs Cortese social needs comparison

5 / 5

Shih-Mo and Cortese 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: Shih-Mo or Cortese?

3 / 5

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih-Mo vs Cortese?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih-Mo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Shih-Mo or Cortese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih-Mos or Corteses?

Shih-Mos are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Corteses are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih-Mo or Cortese walk each week?

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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cortese, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih-Mos or Corteses require more exercise?

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.

In general most Corteses usually need at least 90 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, Shih-Mos or Corteses?

4 / 5

Shih-Mos require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

3 / 5

The Cortese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Shih-Mo and Cortese dogs?

Ideally, Shih-Mo should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Cortese should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Shih-Mos and Corteses?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih-Mo or Cortese in cups?

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.

For an average 8-28 pound (4 - 13 kg) Cortese feed 2 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, Shih-Mo or Cortese?

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

The average cost of a Cortese is somewhere $1.40 - $2.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Shih-Mo or Cortese?

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.

The average per month expenses of a Cortese is between $42 - $84. This makes an average of $504 - $1008 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 Shih-Mo and Cortese compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Shih-Mo or Cortese?

5 / 5

Shih-Mos and Corteses are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Shih-Mos or Corteses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Corteses make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

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

3 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Shih-Mo or Cortese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Shih-Mos are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

5 / 5

Corteses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Shih-Mo or Cortese?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Shih-Mo or Cortese dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Shih-Mo or Cortese?

3 / 5

Shih-Mos are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

4 / 5

Corteses are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Shih-Mo and Cortese?

4 / 5

Shih-Mo and Cortese are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Shih-Mo and Cortese is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih-Mos and Corteses compare?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Corteses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.