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

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.

Playful
Stubborn
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Devoted
Lively
Gentle
Clever

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

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

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

​United States

United States

Siberian Husky, Dachshund

Italian Greyhound, Shih Tzu

Blue
Brown

Brown

Black

Black

Black
Brown
Cream
Blue
White
Silver
Sable
Gray

White
Pied

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

Italian Tzus have medium-length coats.

Wiry

Straight

A Dusky can have a litter of 4-8 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 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.

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Eye Diseases and Disorders

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

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Work
Serum Chemistry
Neurologic Exam
Ophthalmic Examination

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

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

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

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

In general most Duskys 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.

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.

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

For an average 25-55 pound (11 - 25 kg) Dusky 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.

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.

The average cost of a Dusky is somewhere $1.40 - $2.00 per day.

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

The average per month expenses of a Dusky 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.

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.

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

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

Duskys have an average level of friendliness towards children.

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

Duskys are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

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

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

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