Coton Tzu vs. Silkin: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Coton Tzus or Silkins hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Coton Tzu and Silkin dogs?

Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Trainable
Vocal

Playful
Loving
Independent
Alert
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Loyal
Quick
Joyful
Inquisitive

Shedding Level

Do Coton Tzus shed more than Silkins, or which breed sheds more, Coton Tzus or Silkins?

2 / 5

Coton Tzu or Silkin dogs are low shedders. The coat sheds an average amount and doesn't require much care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Coton Tzu or Silkin?

3 / 5

Coton Tzus are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

1 / 5

Avoid Silkins as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds?

Coton De Tulear, Shih Tzu

Silky Terrier, Japanese Chin

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Coton Tzu and Silkin?

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

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®

Date of Birth

When were Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Coton Tzu and Silkin dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Coton Tzu and Silkin?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds?

White
Black
Cream
Brindle
Brown

Black
Brown
White
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds?

4 / 5

Coton Tzus have longer coats compared to most dogs.

3 / 5

Silkins have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Coton Tzu and Silkin?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Coton Tzu and Silkin?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Coton Tzu and Silkin?

A Coton Tzu 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 Silkin can have a litter of 3-5 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.

Adaptability

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Health Issues

Between Coton Tzu and Silkin, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Coton Tzu and Silkin 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 Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds?

Patellar Luxation
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia

Ear Infections
Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Diabetes

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Coton Tzu and Silkin?

Bladder Stones
Heart Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Liver Shunts

Hip Dysplasia
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Heart Murmur
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds?

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Blood Work
Ophthalmic Examination

Physical Examination
Blood Count
X-rays or other radiographic imaging
Eye and Ear Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Coton Tzus and Silkins compare?

3 / 5

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Coton Tzu and Silkin breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Coton Tzu vs Silkin social needs comparison

5 / 5

Coton Tzu and Silkin 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

Coton Tzu vs Silkin exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Coton Tzus need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

1 / 5

Silkins require minimal physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Coton Tzu or Silkin?

4 / 5

The Coton Tzu and Silkin breed are known for their relaxed and calm nature, as well as their tendency to sleep for long periods of time.

Tendency to Bark

Do Coton Tzus or Silkins bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

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

1 / 5

Silkins are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Coton Tzu vs Silkin?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Coton Tzu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Coton Tzu or Silkin - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Coton Tzus or Silkins?

Coton Tzus 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.

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

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Coton Tzu or Silkin walk each week?

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

Activity per Day

Do Coton Tzus or Silkins require more exercise?

In general most Coton Tzus usually need at least 35 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 Silkins 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.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Coton Tzus or Silkins?

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Silkins 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 Coton Tzu and Silkin dogs?

Ideally, both Coton Tzu and Silkin should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) to improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Coton Tzus and Silkins?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Coton Tzu or Silkin in cups?

For an average 9-16 pound (4 - 7 kg) Coton 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 8-11 pound (4 - 5 kg) Silkin feed 1.5 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, Coton Tzu or Silkin?

The average cost of a Coton Tzu is somewhere $1.00 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Silkin is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Coton Tzu or Silkin?

The average per month expenses of a Coton Tzu 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 Silkin 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Coton Tzus vs Silkins

3 / 5

Coton Tzu and Silkin have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Coton Tzu and Silkin compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Coton Tzu vs Silkin?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Coton Tzu or Silkin?

5 / 5

Coton Tzus and Silkins are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Coton Tzus or Silkins have a friendlier temperament towards children?

3 / 5

Coton Tzu and Silkin are average friendly dogs towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Coton Tzu or Silkin?

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Coton Tzu or Silkin breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

5 / 5

Coton Tzus are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

4 / 5

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

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Coton Tzu or Silkin?

5 / 5

Coton Tzus are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

3 / 5

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

Pet friendly

How do Coton Tzu or Silkin dogs interact with other pets?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Coton Tzu or Silkin?

4 / 5

Coton Tzu and Silkin are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Coton Tzu and Silkin?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Coton Tzus and Silkins compare?

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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