Shih-Mo vs. Lurcher: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih-Mos or Lurchers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Shih-Mo nor Lurcher 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 Lurcher dogs?

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

Affectionate
Funny
Loving

Shedding Level

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

3 / 5

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

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Shih-Mo or Lurcher?

2 / 5

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

4 / 5

Lurchers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Ancestry

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

American Eskimo, Shih Tzu

Sight-hound

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Shih-Mo and Lurcher?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®

Dog Registry of America Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Shih-Mo and Lurcher breeds first developed?

Unknown

Middle Ages

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Brown

Blue
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black

Blue
Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Length

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

5 / 5

Shih-Mos are known for their coat length.

3 / 5

Lurchers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

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

5 / 5

2 / 5

Coat Texture

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

Straight

Litter Size

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

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 Lurcher can have a litter of 12-14 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.

3 / 5

Lurchers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

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

3 / 5

Shih-Mo and Lurcher 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 Lurcher breeds?

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

Heat Stroke
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

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

Ear Infections
Allergies
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Hypothyroidism
Foot and Toenail Injuries
Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Occasional Tests

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

Dental Examination
Eye examination
Chest X-rays
Clinical Exam

Eye Examinations
Blood And Urine Analysis
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Bone Biopsy

Energy

How do the energy levels of Shih-Mos and Lurchers compare?

3 / 5

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Shih-Mo and Lurcher breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Shih-Mo vs Lurcher 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.

3 / 5

Lurcher has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Shih-Mo vs Lurcher exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

The Shih-Mo and Lurcher breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shih-Mo or Lurcher?

3 / 5

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

Tendency to Bark

Do Shih-Mos or Lurchers bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Shih-Mo and Lurchers 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 Lurcher?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih-Mo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Shih-Mo or Lurcher - 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 Lurcher entertained?

Going for walks, Going to petco

Go on Vacation, Frisbee, Catch treats, Tug-of-war, Chase, Nose work, Dog Parks, Hike, Ball chasing, Hide and seek

Activity Level

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

Both Shih-Mo and Lurcher 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

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih-Mo or Lurcher 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 Lurcher, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih-Mos or Lurchers require more exercise?

Both Shih-Mo and Lurcher typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

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

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 Lurcher requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

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

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

Lurcher 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 Lurchers?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih-Mo or Lurcher 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 60-70 pound (27 - 32 kg) Lurcher feed 2.5 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 Lurcher?

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

The average cost of a Lurcher is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

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 Lurcher is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $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 Lurchers

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Lurcher has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shih-Mo and Lurcher compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Shih-Mo and Lurcher 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 Lurcher?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

1 / 5

The Lurcher is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Child Friendly

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Lurchers 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 Lurcher?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Shih-Mo or Lurcher 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

Lurchers 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 Lurcher?

5 / 5

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

2 / 5

Lurchers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

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

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

3 / 5

Shih-Mo and Lurcher 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 Shih-Mo and Lurcher?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

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

Trainability

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

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

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