Shih Tzu Poodle Mix: Complete Breed Guide 2024

Are you thinking of adding a Shih Tzu Poodle mix to your family? If so, you’re in for a treat. These adorable dogs are intelligent and friendly and make great pets. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to ensure your Shih Tzu Poodle mix is healthy and happy. In addition, we’ll discuss the breed’s history, temperament, care requirements, and some pros and cons of owning a Shih Tzu Poodle mix. So, whether you’re considering getting a Shih Tzu Poodle mix or already have one, this guide is for you.

Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

The Shih Tzu Poodle mix, also known as a Shih Poo, is one of the most popular designer breeds. A combination of the playful and energetic poodle and the sweet and loyal Shih Tzu, this hybrid dog has a lot to offer potential pet owners.

The Shih Poo is a hybrid of two purebred dogs—the Shih Tzu and the Toy or Miniature Poodle. It is believed that these two breeds were crossed to create a hypoallergenic pup that still retained its parents’ endearing qualities. In addition, since both parent breeds are relatively small, this mixed breed also tends to be quite compact—making it ideal for those who live in smaller homes or apartments.

History of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

The exact origins of this hybrid are unknown, but it is generally accepted that they originated in North America during the 1960s. These dogs were believed to be bred by combining a purebred Shih Tzu with a purebred Toy or Miniature Poodle. In some cases, other breeds, such as Bichon Frise or Lhasa Apso, may be mixed in.

The purpose behind breeding these two breeds was to create a small dog with low-shedding fur and an outgoing personality. The resulting hybrid was dubbed “Shih-Poo,” which quickly became shorthand for “Shih Tzu-Poodle” or “Shih Tzu Poodle Mix.” These dogs remain extremely popular today due to their lovable personalities and low maintenance requirements.

Physical Appearance of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

Size, Height, and Weight of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

Shih Tzu Poodles typically weigh between 7-20 pounds, but this can vary depending on the size of their parents. The height of a full-grown Shih Poo ranges from 8-14 inches.

Coat Colors of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

The coat of a Shih Poo is usually short and wavy with tight curls like that of its poodle parent. It may be more curly or straight, depending on which parent it takes after most closely. It usually comes in shades of white, black, grey, brown, and even red.

A typical color combination is white with black spots or patches (known as tuxedo markings). Shedding isn’t too much of an issue with this breed, making them perfect for people who suffer from allergies.

Shih Tzu Poodle Mix’s Temperament and Personality

These dogs tend to be very loyal and loving companions who are also quite intelligent. They have a playful nature, so they require plenty of exercise and activity; however, they should not be left alone for long periods as they will become bored and may start misbehaving. As with all dog breeds, regular training is recommended to help keep them well-behaved.

They do well in many types of households due to their adaptability; however, due to their small size, they may do better with older children rather than toddlers or babies who could easily overpower them physically or unintentionally hurt them without meaning to do so.

Are They Aggressive?

ShiPoos can display some aggression regarding food or toys. This is typically a result of being deprived of either during puppyhood or getting into scraps with other animals in the household. In these cases, owners must provide adequate resources for each pet and ensure that everyone gets enough attention and exercise regularly.

Do They Get Along With Other Pets?

One way to ensure your Shih Tzu Poodle Mix gets along with other pets is by creating separate spaces for each pet in the home. This could mean giving each pet a bed or blanket where they can relax without feeling crowded or threatened by others in the house.

It also helps if you create designated play areas outside or inside where your pup can run around without getting too close or aggressive with any other pet in the home. These boundaries will help establish respect between all animals in the house and ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable.

Is Shih Tzu Poodle Mix Good With Kids?

Its gentle, loving nature and small size make it a perfect fit for households with smaller children. When introducing any new pet into a family home, it’s important to provide gentle guidance and plenty of positive reinforcement. Teach your kids how to safely handle their new companion by providing consistent instruction on sitting still while petting or grooming. This way, they’ll form a bond of trust with their new friend without risking any possible injuries due to rough handling.

Are They Good as Family Pets?

Living with a Shih Tzu Poodle Mix can be an enriching experience for families. These little dogs bring charm and cuddliness, making them ideal for busy households. In addition, they’re high energy, so they love spending time playing in the yard or even just taking leisurely walks around the neighborhood with their owners.

Training Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to teach your pet basic obedience commands. When your pet does something right, reward it with verbal praise or a treat to reinforce good behavior. This will help create positive associations with the commands you give and make it easier for your pet to learn them in the long run.

Establish Consistency

Consistency is key when it comes to training your pet. Whenever you give a command, make sure that you stick with it and don’t change it up every time you issue an instruction. This will help ensure that your pet understands your expectations when you issue a command.

Start Early

It’s never too early to start training your pup! Start teaching basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” as soon as possible so that they become second nature for your pup. Doing this while they are still young will also make it easier for them to learn new tricks later in life.

Exercise Requirement of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

The amount of daily exercise your Shih Tzu Poodle Mix needs will depend on age and health. Generally speaking, puppies should get around an hour of exercise each day split between two or three playtime sessions. As they mature and reach adulthood, this can be increased to 1-2 hours per day as long as it does not cause joint pain or discomfort.

This could include walking or playing in the yard, going for runs or hikes, or any other physical activity that involves getting out and about – though swimming can be difficult for these dogs because their fur gets wet quickly.

Grooming of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

Brushing and Bathing

Shih-poos have long, thick fur coats that should be brushed every few days to prevent mats from forming. It’s best to brush with a soft brush or comb specifically designed for dogs with long fur. If your pup has a particularly unruly coat, you may need to use a pin brush or a slicker brush (but be careful not to pull too hard).

In addition to brushing, Shih-poos should also be bathed about once per month using a mild shampoo and conditioner for dogs. Make sure you rinse thoroughly, so there’s no soap residue left behind on the skin or fur.

Trimming and Nail Clipping

Shih-poos generally don’t need frequent haircuts as their fur grows slowly. However, if your pup’s fur gets too long, it can cause tangles and mats that require more frequent brushing and trimming. Since it can be difficult to get rid of mats on such thick fur, it is recommended that you take your pup to a professional groomer if you want them trimmed down or cut shorter.

Additionally, ensure you clip your pup’s nails regularly (about once per month), as long nails can cause joint pain, back problems, and even infections if not taken care of properly.

Are They Hypoallergenic?

Shih Tzu Poodle mixes are reasonably good for those with mild allergies. This is because Shih Poo puppies, sometimes called, have relatively low shedding coats that produce less dander and, thus, fewer allergens in the household. However, they also require regular grooming, so it’s important to keep their hair trimmed and brushed to reduce shedding.

It is always important to spend plenty of time with any prospective new pup before bringing them home; this is the best way to determine whether or not you will suffer from uncomfortable allergic reactions.

Food and Diet of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

The ideal diet for a Shih Tzu Poodle mix requires high-quality dog food with high protein content. It is best to feed your pup twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. A good rule of thumb for portion size is about 1/4 cup for every 10 pounds of body weight, spread out throughout the day.

Be sure to calculate the amount appropriately based on the age and size of your pup. For example, if you have an 8-pound puppy, they should get two tablespoons per meal, while if you have a 14-pound puppy, they should get 1/3 cup per meal.

Nutrition

Regarding nutrients, your Shih Poo should get all the necessary vitamins and minerals from its diet. However, if your pup isn’t getting enough nutrition from their meals alone, you can supplement their diet with fish oil capsules or calcium chews. You can also give them fresh fruits and vegetables (in moderation) as occasional treats; make sure they aren’t eating anything toxic or unhealthy (like grapes or onions).

The Lifespan of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

The average lifespan of a Shih Tzu Poodle Mix is between 10 and 15 years. This can vary depending on the specific mix, but overall, this is considered an above-average lifespan for most breeds. It’s important to note that smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, so if you’re looking for a pup that will stick around for many years, this could be a great choice.

Factors Affecting Lifespan

Several factors can affect the lifespan of your pup. Genetics determines how long your puppy will live and its overall health. Diet and exercise are also incredibly important for maintaining good health and extending life expectancy. Keeping up with regular vet appointments helps make sure any potential issues can be caught early on and appropriately treated before they become serious problems.

Living Environment

Providing your pup with a safe living environment is also key to increasing its life expectancy. For example, ensuring they have access to plenty of walks or playtime in the backyard will help keep them active and engaged socially with other animals or people. Additionally, keeping them away from hazards like busy roads or harsh chemicals will help keep them safe and healthy over time.

Common Health Issues of Shih Tzu Poodle Mix

Hip Dysplasia

This condition affects many breeds of dogs but is particularly common in larger breeds such as the Shih Poo. It occurs when the hip joint does not fit properly into its socket and can cause pain and discomfort for your pup. If you suspect hip dysplasia, get your pup checked out by a vet immediately. Treatment for this condition usually involves anti-inflammatory medication or surgery.

Eye Problems

Shih Poos are prone to eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to vision loss, so if you notice any changes in your pup’s eyesight or read up on these conditions, you can recognize the signs early on. Your vet can provide treatment options to help manage these conditions.

Skin Allergies

Similar to other small breeds, Shih Poos are prone to skin allergies which can lead to itching and inflammation. To prevent skin allergies from developing or worsening, ensure you feed your pup a healthy diet with plenty of Omega-3 fatty acids and avoid exposing them to sources of allergens such as pollen or mold spores. You should also consult a veterinarian about possible treatments for allergies if necessary.

Ear Infections

Shi Poo’s have long floppy ears that often trap moisture and debris, leading to ear infections. Therefore, keeping their ears clean with a gentle cleaning solution is important. This will help reduce the risk of infection and keep your pup’s ears free from irritation. If your pup is prone to ear infections, it may be worth considering having their ears checked by a vet before symptoms appear.

Skin Conditions

Shi Poos can also be prone to skin conditions such as allergies, eczema, and dry skin. These skin conditions can cause itching, redness, rashes, and hair loss. Keeping an eye on your pup’s fur quality will help you determine if they are suffering from any skin issues early on so that treatment can be provided quickly. Treatments usually involve medicated shampoos or ointments prescribed by your vet.

Dental Problems

Like many small dogs, Shi Poos tend to suffer from dental issues such as bad breath, gum disease, tartar buildup, and tooth decay. To prevent these problems, brush your pup’s teeth regularly with toothpaste designed specifically for pets—never use human toothpaste! Regular trips to the groomer or vet for professional cleanings are also recommended for preventing dental problems in this breed of dog.

Where Can I Purchase a Shih Tzu Poodle Mix?

Animal Shelters and Rescues

When searching for your new pup, the first place to look should be animal shelters and rescues near you. You may not find a Shih Tzu Poodle mix specifically in a shelter or rescue, but many of these organizations will have similar mixes available for adoption. Furthermore, adopting from a shelter or rescue is often cheaper than purchasing from another source.

Breeders

Breeders may be the best option if you are looking for a purebred puppy with specific characteristics (such as color or size). However, you must do your research before purchasing from any breeder. Please ensure they are reputable and have good reviews before buying from them; this way, you know that the puppy has been bred responsibly and humanely.

Pet Stores

You can also purchase puppies at pet stores; however, this should be done with caution since the puppies may come from puppy mills—large-scale breeding operations that prioritize profit over the health and welfare of the animals. If possible, try to visit the store in person to get an idea of how the puppies are treated and cared for before making any decisions. Also, if possible, try contacting the breeder to get further information about the puppy’s lineage and parents before purchasing.

Shih Tzu Poodle Mix Puppy Cost

The price of a Shih Tzu Poodle Mix puppy can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as where you purchase it and how rare the breed is in your area. Some puppies may come with additional costs outside of just the purchase price, such as vet check-ups or vaccinations. Additionally, some breeders may offer more expensive puppies due to their lineage or if they have been trained before adoption.

Generally speaking, you should expect to pay around $500-$2,000 for a Shih Tzu Poodle Mix puppy from a reputable breeder or pet store. However, the cost will be significantly lower if you choose to adopt from an animal shelter or rescue organization. Many shelters have adoption fees starting at around $50-$200 per pup, which includes vaccinations and other medical treatments that may have been administered before adoption.

Do Kennel Clubs Recognize Shih Tzu Poodle Mix?

American Kennel Club Recognition

The AKC recognizes the Shih Tzu Poodle mix as part of its Miscellaneous Class. This class includes breeds under consideration for full recognition or those not yet eligible for full credit. To qualify for full recognition, a breed must have enough fanciers and breeders to ensure its continuity in numbers and quality. In addition, it must demonstrate its ability to conform to AKC standards.

There aren’t enough Shih Tzus and Poodles registered with the AKC to meet their criteria. However, this will likely change as more people become aware of this hybrid breed and register their dogs with the AKC.

United Kennel Club Recognition

The UKC does recognize the Shih Tzu Poodle mix as an official breed. This means owners can enter their dogs into UKC-sanctioned events such as agility trials, obedience trials, or confirmation shows. The UKC also offers other services, such as DNA testing and parentage verification for this hybrid breed. Your dog must be registered with the UKC Parent Club Registry program to qualify for these services.

This process requires submitting documents such as pedigrees and photographs showing proof of ownership of your dog. Once accepted into the registry program, your dog can participate in all UKC-sanctioned events and activities.

Is Shih Tzu Poodle Mix Right for Me?

A Shih Tzu and Poodle mix could be a perfect choice for dog owners who want the advantages of a Shih Tzu Poodle. This designer dog has many appealing characteristics from both breeds, allowing potential owners to determine if this pup is right for them. Physically, these dogs are naturally small but come in various colors with unique fur patterns, allowing for a distinct look that stands out from other hybrids.

The personality of a Shih Tzu Poodle mix can lean more towards one breed than another; nonetheless, these dogs have gained notoriety for being friendly yet independent companions that tend to bark less than average. As such, they make excellent family pets and watchdogs who guard the home without excessive yapping or bothersome behavior.

Most importantly, though, there is no guarantee when it comes to determining which features a Shih Tzu Poodle mix will take on since the development of each pup is highly varied and somewhat unpredictable. Thus, those looking into getting one should be prepared to explore all unknowns when deciding if they are up for such an exciting challenge!

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Shih Tzu Poodle mixes are an increasingly popular and charming breed. They have a long history of being smart, friendly, and loyal companions that make great family pets. With their distinctive looks and playful personalities, Shih Tzu Poodles will bring joy to any home they enter.

However, potential owners should be sure to research the breed and consider all the pros and cons before deciding. Lastly, Shih Tzu Poodle mixes need regular exercise, socialization, and grooming to stay healthy and happy. However, with dedication and proper care, Shih Tzu Poodles can be excellent additions to the family!

Frequently Asked Questions