Italian Tzu vs. Box Heeler: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Italian Tzus or Box Heelers hypoallergenic, or neither?

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Italian Tzus are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Unfortunately, the Box Heeler is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Italian Tzu and Box Heeler dogs?

Active
Playful
Happy
Agile
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Companionable
Athletic
Mischievous

Active
Playful
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Loyal
Fearless
Brave
Bright
Hard working
Resourceful

Shedding Level

Do Italian Tzus shed more than Box Heelers, or which breed sheds more, Italian Tzus or Box Heelers?

1 / 5

Italian Tzus shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

3 / 5

Box Heelers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Italian Tzu and Box Heeler breeds?

Italian Greyhound, Shih Tzu

Blue Heeler and Boxer

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Italian Tzu and Box Heeler?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Italian Tzu and Box Heeler breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Italian Tzu and Box Heeler dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Italian Tzu and Box Heeler?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Italian Tzu and Box Heeler breeds?

White
Pied

Brindle
Blue

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Italian Tzu and Box Heeler breeds?

3 / 5

Italian Tzus have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

Box Heelers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Italian Tzu and Box Heeler?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Italian Tzu and Box Heeler?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Italian Tzu and Box Heeler?

An Italian Tzu can have a litter of 2-5 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.

A Box Heeler can have a litter of 2-10 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

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

4 / 5

Box Heelers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Italian Tzu and Box Heeler, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Italian Tzu breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

4 / 5

Box Heelers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Italian Tzu and Box Heeler breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Leg Fractures
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Reverse Sneezing

Usually Very Healthy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Italian Tzu and Box Heeler breeds?

Hip X-Rays
Eye Examination
Full Physical Examination regarding joint movement around the hip and kneecap

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Social Needs

Italian Tzu vs Box Heeler social needs comparison

4 / 5

Italian Tzu and Box Heeler have above average social needs compared to other breeds. 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: Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

3 / 5

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

1 / 5

Box Heelers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Italian Tzu vs Box Heeler?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Italian Tzu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Italian Tzu or Box Heeler - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Italian Tzus or Box Heelers?

Both Italian Tzu and Box Heeler 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

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Italian Tzu or Box Heeler walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Italian Tzu, it's at least 7 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 Box Heeler, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Italian Tzus or Box Heelers require more exercise?

In general most Italian Tzus 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 Box Heelers usually need at least 45 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, Italian Tzus or Box Heelers?

3 / 5

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

1 / 5

The Box Heeler is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Italian Tzu and Box Heeler dogs?

Italian Tzu and Box Heeler 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 Italian Tzus and Box Heelers?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Italian Tzu or Box Heeler in cups?

For an average 10-16 pound (5 - 7 kg) Italian Tzu 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 35-80 pound (16 - 36 kg) Box Heeler 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, Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

The average cost of an Italian Tzu is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

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

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

The average per month expenses of an Italian Tzu is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $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 Box Heeler is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 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 Italian Tzu and Box Heeler compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Italian Tzu and Box Heeler need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

4 / 5

The Italian Tzu is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

3 / 5

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

Child Friendly

Do Italian Tzus or Box Heelers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

2 / 5

Italian Tzus are not the best choice for families with kids.

3 / 5

Box Heelers have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Italian Tzu or Box Heeler breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Italian Tzus are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

3 / 5

Box Heelers 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: Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

4 / 5

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

2 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Italian Tzu or Box Heeler dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Italian Tzu or Box Heeler?

3 / 5

Italian Tzu and Box Heeler 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 Italian Tzu and Box Heeler?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Italian Tzus and Box Heelers compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Box Heelers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.