Shih Apso vs. Irish Bostetter: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Shih Apsos or Irish Bostetters hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Shih Apso nor Irish Bostetter 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 Apso and Irish Bostetter dogs?

Active
Playful
Happy
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Obedient
Devoted
Lively
Gentle
Steady
Spirited
Assertive

Playful
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Friendly
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Aggressive
Companionable

Shedding Level

Do Shih Apsos shed more than Irish Bostetters, or which breed sheds more, Shih Apsos or Irish Bostetters?

3 / 5

Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter 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 Apso or Irish Bostetter. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu

Boston Terrier and Irish Setter

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

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

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

Black

Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter breeds?

5 / 5

Shih Apsos are known for their coat length.

3 / 5

Irish Bostetters have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

A Shih Apso 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.

An Irish Bostetter can have a litter of 7-10 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

Shih Apso and Irish Bostetters are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter 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 Apso and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Kidney Problems
Liver Problems
Bladder Stones and Infections

Patellar Luxation
Gastric Torsion
Cherry Eye
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

Ear Infections
Allergies
Eye Disease
Hernia
Reverse Sneezing
Dental Problems

Cataract
Megaesophagus
Hypothyroidism
Osteochondritis Dissecans
Corneal Ulcer
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter breeds?

Wellness Check
Chest X-rays
Dental and Oral Examinations
Clinical Exam
Eye and Ear Examination

Physical Examination
Neurological Examination
Blood Tests
Blood Work
Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
Blood And Urine Analysis
Buccal Mucosal Screening
Orthopedic Exam
Ocular Exam
Hormone Analysis

Social Needs

Shih Apso vs Irish Bostetter social needs comparison

4 / 5

Shih Apso has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

5 / 5

Irish Bostetter has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter?

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Irish Bostetters sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Shih Apso vs Irish Bostetter?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Shih Apso vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Shih Apsos or Irish Bostetters?

Shih Apsos are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Shih Apso dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.

Irish Bostetters 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

2 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih Apso, it's at least 4 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 Irish Bostetter, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Shih Apsos or Irish Bostetters require more exercise?

In general most Shih Apsos usually need at least 30 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 Irish Bostetters 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, Shih Apsos or Irish Bostetters?

5 / 5

Shih Apsos have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

3 / 5

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

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter dogs?

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

Irish Bostetter 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 Apsos and Irish Bostetters?

Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Hemostat
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter in cups?

For an average 15-18 pound (7 - 8 kg) Shih Apso 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 35-45 pound (16 - 20 kg) Irish Bostetter 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 Apso or Irish Bostetter?

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

The average cost of an Irish Bostetter is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter?

The average per month expenses of a Shih Apso 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 an Irish Bostetter 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter?

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Irish Bostetters are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Shih Apsos or Irish Bostetters have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Shih Apsos are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters 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 Apso or Irish Bostetter?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Shih Apsos and Irish Bostetters are very cat friendly dogs. They generally make good companions for cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter?

5 / 5

Shih Apsos and Irish Bostetters are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Shih Apso or Irish Bostetter?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Irish Bostetters are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Shih Apso and Irish Bostetter?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Irish Bostetters are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Shih Apsos and Irish Bostetters compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Irish Bostetters are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.