Border Collie vs. Shih-Mo: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Border Collies or Shih-Mos hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Border Collie 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 Border Collie and Shih-Mo dogs?

Intelligent
Alert
Tenacious
Protective
Energetic
Responsive
Loyal

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

Shedding Level

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

3 / 5

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

Watchdog Ability

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

5 / 5

Choose a Border Collie if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

2 / 5

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

Ancestry

What are the origins of Border Collie and Shih-Mo breeds?

Roman Herding Dogs, Spitz-type Herders

American Eskimo, Shih Tzu

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Border Collie and Shih-Mo?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
The American Int. Border Collie Registry
The American Border Collie Association

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

Date of Birth

When were Border Collie and Shih-Mo breeds first developed?

1800s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Blue
Hazel
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Length

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

3 / 5

Border Collies have medium-length coats.

5 / 5

Shih-Mos are known for their coat length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Border Collie and Shih-Mo?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Border Collie and Shih-Mo?

Straight

Litter Size

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

A Border Collie can have a litter of 12-15 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

Border Collies 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 Border Collie and Shih-Mo, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Border Collie and Shih-Mo 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 Border Collie and Shih-Mo breeds?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Pannus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Portosystemic Shunt

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 Border Collie and Shih-Mo?

Epilepsy
Lens Luxation
Multidrug Resistance

Ear Infections
Allergies
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Occasional Tests

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

Eye
Hip
Blood Test
Physical Examination

Dental Examination
Eye examination
Chest X-rays
Clinical Exam

Energy

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

5 / 5

Border Collies thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

3 / 5

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

Social Needs

Border Collie vs Shih-Mo social needs comparison

5 / 5

Border Collie 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.

Exercise Needed

Border Collie vs Shih-Mo exercise need comparison.

5 / 5

Border Collies need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

3 / 5

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

Sleeping Need

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

1 / 5

Border Collies are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

3 / 5

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

Tendency to Bark

Do Border Collies or Shih-Mos bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Border Collie dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

3 / 5

Shih-Mos bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Border Collie vs Shih-Mo?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Border Collie vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

Prey Drive

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

3 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Border Collie and Shih-Mo entertained?

Go to Beach, Bike ride, Boat ride, Walk, Run, Frisbee, Go Camping, Road trip, Hike, Swim, Tug-of-war, Play, Fetch, Brushing, Shake, Dog Parks, Catch treats, Walks, Workin, Running, Swimming, Walking, 4 years, Belly rubs, Playing, Sniffing, Hiking, Chase, Being rubbed, Cuddling

Going for walks, Going to petco

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Border Collies or Shih-Mos?

Border Collies 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.

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.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Border Collie 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 Border Collie, it's at least 14 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 Border Collies or Shih-Mos require more exercise?

In general most Border Collies 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.

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, Border Collies or Shih-Mos?

3 / 5

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

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.

Brushing Frequency

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

Border Collie 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

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Border Collies and Shih-Mos?

Pin Brush
Flea Comb
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

For an average 30-55 pound (14 - 25 kg) Border Collie 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.

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, Border Collie or Shih-Mo?

The average cost of a Border Collie is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 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, Border Collie or Shih-Mo?

The average per month expenses of a Border Collie is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Border Collies vs Shih-Mos

5 / 5

Border Collie is highly intelligent and very trainable.

3 / 5

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

Sensitivity Level

How do Border Collie and Shih-Mo compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Border Collie vs Shih-Mo?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Apartment Friendly

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

2 / 5

Border Collies can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

5 / 5

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

Child Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

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 - Border Collie or Shih-Mo?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

3 / 5

Border Collies are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

4 / 5

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

Dog Friendly

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

3 / 5

Border Collies are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

5 / 5

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

Pet friendly

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

3 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

3 / 5

Border Collie 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 Border Collie and Shih-Mo?

5 / 5

Border Collies are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

4 / 5

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

Trainability

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

4 / 5

Border Collie and Shih-Mo dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.