Shih-Mo vs. Jack-Rat Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih-Mos or Jack-Rat Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Shih-Mo nor Jack-Rat Terrier 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 Jack-Rat Terrier dogs?

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

Loving
Stubborn
Independent
Energetic
Alert
Courageous
Affectionate
Lively
Inquisitive
Cheerful

Shedding Level

Do Shih-Mos shed more than Jack-Rat Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Shih-Mos or Jack-Rat Terriers?

3 / 5

Shih-Mos are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

5 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier?

2 / 5

Shih-Mos aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

3 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier breeds?

American Eskimo, Shih Tzu

Jack Russell Terrier, Rat Terrier

Date of Birth

When were Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier breeds first developed?

Unknown

​Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier?

Black

Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier breeds?

5 / 5

Shih-Mos are known for their coat length.

1 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier?

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 Jack-Rat Terrier can have a litter of 4-8 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.

Adaptability

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

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

3 / 5

Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier 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 Jack-Rat Terrier breeds?

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

Patellar Luxation
Deafness
Cardiomyopathy
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Minor Concerns

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

Ear Infections
Allergies
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Hemivertebrae
Familial Nephropathy
Tracheal Collapse
Diabetes
Von Willebrand's Disease
Hypothyroidism
Cleft Palate
Cutaneous Asthenia
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Persistent Pupillary Membranes (PPM)
Mitral Valve Dysplasia
Eye Conditions

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier breeds?

Dental Examination
Eye examination
Chest X-rays
Clinical Exam

Dna Test For Vwd
Thyroid Tests
Physical Examination
Eye Examinations
Blood Work
Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap
Heart Rate Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of Shih-Mos and Jack-Rat Terriers compare?

3 / 5

Shih-Mos are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Shih-Mo vs Jack-Rat Terrier social needs comparison

5 / 5

Shih-Mo has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Shih-Mo vs Jack-Rat Terrier exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Shih-Mos need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier?

3 / 5

Shih-Mos have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

1 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Shih-Mos or Jack-Rat Terriers bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terriers tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih-Mo vs Jack-Rat Terrier?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih-Mo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier entertained?

Going for walks, Going to petco

Run, Hike, Tug-of-war, Nap, Fetch, Off-leash, Walking, BREED ISSUES, HER/MINE ISSUES, Sleeping, Eating, Running, Walk, Chase a ball, Playing toys, Playing catch, Cuddeling, Playing fetch, Giving pig ear, Watching tv, Retrival games, Playdate, Frisbee, Wrestling, Chase, Tracking, Park visits, Car rides, Napping, Jogging

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih-Mos or Jack-Rat Terriers?

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.

Jack-Rat Terriers 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

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier 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 Jack-Rat Terrier, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih-Mos or Jack-Rat Terriers 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 Jack-Rat Terriers usually need at least 120 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 Jack-Rat Terriers?

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.

2 / 5

The Jack-Rat Terrier has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier dogs?

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

Jack-Rat Terrier 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 Jack-Rat Terriers?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier 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 20-26 pound (9 - 12 kg) Jack-Rat Terrier feed 3 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 Jack-Rat Terrier?

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

The average cost of a Jack-Rat Terrier is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier?

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 Jack-Rat Terrier is between $49 - $63. This makes an average of $588 - $756 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Shih-Mos vs Jack-Rat Terriers

3 / 5

Shih-Mos are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih-Mo vs Jack-Rat Terrier?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Shih-Mos or Jack-Rat Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

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

3 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers 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 Jack-Rat Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Shih-Mo or Jack-Rat Terrier?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers 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 Jack-Rat Terrier?

4 / 5

Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Shih-Mo and Jack-Rat Terrier 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 Jack-Rat Terriers compare?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Jack-Rat Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.