• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Determine if a Shih-Poo is your dream dog

Posted May 20, 2021

The Shih-Poo gives you the best of the Shih-Tzu and Poodle. The dogs can be stubborn and fearful. But they also are smart, sweet, and cuddly.
The Shih-Poo gives you the best of the Shih-Tzu and Poodle. The dogs can be stubborn and fearful. But they also are smart, sweet, and cuddly.

The Shih-Poo is an adaptable dog that loves to cuddle and hug. They are the perfect puppy companions for any dog lover. If you’re looking to adopt a Shih-Poo, or if you already have one at home, here’s our comprehensive breed guide to help you learn more about your special pooch.

Shih-Poos: The basics

Contents

The Shih-Poo is a recent dog breed from two purebreds: the intelligent and sophisticated Poodle that hails from Germany and the adorable Shih-Tzu, which comes from Chinese Royalty.

It is hard to tell which genes are more visible or influential. Sometimes, the puppies could be strikingly similar to one parent. In other cases, they could be a perfect blend of the two.

As for the coat, it may vary between the Poodle’s curly fur and straight Shih-Tzu fur. Sometimes they can be a perfect blend of the two coats — and this is the most common look.

Most Shih-Poos are the first-generation of their kind (immediate descendants of a purebred Shih-Tzu and a Poodle). Therefore, like other hybrids, many well-established kennel clubs are yet to recognize it.

Here are other quick facts about Shih-Poos:

  • Weight: 8-18 pounds.
  • Height: 8-13 inches.
  • Life expectancy: 10-15 years
  • Temperament: Spunky, playful, energetic.
  • Purpose: Lapdog

Adorable qualities

The shih tzu is considered a non-shedding dog breed.
The Shih-Tzu is known for its long, flowing hair.

Looks: Shih-Poos can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, or the gorgeous mane-like coat from their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two — which is more common. They also come in various colors and color combinations.

Apart from their adorable coats, Shih-Poos also have the cutest, alert expression. With his looks and energy, he is perfect for the home and the dog park.

Personality: Predicting how a pup’s personality will turn out is hard. But you can learn a great deal from his Shih-Tzu and Poodle parents.

Shih-Tzus are known for their stubbornness and disinterest in learning. But their friendliness and adorable looks would make you instantly forget this shortcoming in trainability. On the other hand, Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and active.

Shih-Poos give you the best of both worlds: cute, friendly, adorable, active, intelligent, and playful four-legged buddy. Being intelligent and loyal, Shih-Poos can be prone to periods of fear and anxiety in certain situations.

Is your Shih-Poo hypoallergenic?

Most marketers portray the Shih-Poo as a breed with a hypoallergenic coat. But this could be misleading. No dog (or pet for that matter) is 100% hypoallergenic. The term “hypoallergenic breed” is often used to mean that the breed has a reputation of triggering fewer allergic reactions. Nevertheless, the concept is relative. Your Shih-Poo could be hypoallergenic to you, but that might not be the case for a friend who visits and comes into contact with him.

Temperament

Like the personality, you could consider the parents’ temperaments as a way to predict the pups’. Both the Poodle and Shih-Tzu are energetic. They like to play around and are extremely friendly.

Dog lovers say that Shih-Poos have more of the Poodles’ temperament. They love to yap like their Poodle parents and are stubborn like their Shih-Tzu parents.

What a Shih-Poo loves most

Company: Shih-Poos prefer to be around adults or older kids who can cuddle and gently play with them. That said, the Shih-Poo is an excellent companion to children who know how to handle small dogs and treat them with respect.

Concerning adults, Shih-Poos can be the perfect companions. The cuddly little fellows want to be by your side all the time.

Shih-Poos also have no problem getting along with other pets. But introduce them gradually. Better still, start building his socialization skills early — while he is still a pup — and let them get used to being around other pets.

Play and exercise: Shih-Poos will keep you running and playing throughout the day. They are full of energy. But, unlike other dogs, they do not require lots of vigorous exercises to stay fit. Brief, but brisk walks, twice a day, are all that this enthusiastic dog needs to stay fit.

For the outdoor enthusiasts, unfortunately, Shih-Poos don’t appreciate a 10-mile jog or an all-day hike. It would just exhaust the little guy, and it could harm his health.

Caring For Your Shih-Poo

The Shi Tzu Poodle mix is a popular crossbreed. Poodles are a popular crossbreeding choice.
Shih-Poos tend to have dental issues, such as premature tooth loss, gum disease, and cavities.

Diet and feeding: All meals should be high-quality and served in small portions. Shih-Poos tend to have dental issues, such as premature tooth loss, gum disease, and cavities. Therefore, dry foods are better since they minimize or prevent a host of dental issues.

Make sure that the servings are just the right quantity, and follow a consistent schedule. These little guys are ravenous feeders. If you allow them to free-feed, they could gain lots of weight.

Health: Chances are, your Shih-Pooh could have a similar health profile as the parents. But it would be hard to predict if, when, and how these health issues manifest. So, take it one day at a time.

Shih-Tzus are prone to eye infections, hip and kidney problems, and respiratory issues, including brachycephalic syndrome due to their short noses.

Poodles often have to deal with bladder stones and skin issues such as tumors and Cushing’s disease.

As for the Shih-Poo, dental, eye, and skin issues could be frequent.

Plan to regularly visit the vet so that you could nip off any issues before they hurt your little buddy. You could also do quick temperature checks to avoid surprises.

Grooming

It is crucial to brush your Shih-Poo’s coat every day and groom him at least monthly.

Shih-Poos, enjoy a lovely bath. But keep it to once a week. Too many baths could dry and irritate their skins and coats.

Training

Poodle rests on a bed. The poodle is easy to train, loads of fun, and quite energetic.They like to be with people most of the time and definitely hate being in a kennel.
The poodle is easy to train, loads of fun, and quite energetic.They like to be with people most of the time and definitely hate being in a kennel.

Shih-Poos are generally smart. They get it from their Poodle parents. But they also inherit a fair portion of stubbornness from their Shih-Tzu parents.

Training is essential. Your Shih-Poo should learn how to behave when outdoors or when close to other pets. He will also need to know when to use the bathrooms.

It may take longer than other breeds. So be patient, consistent, and firm. Crate training has proven results and works well for little guys who stay at home. Consider using this approach.

Remember to use positive reinforcement all the time. Praise and tasty rewards will work better than harsh tones.

Shih-Poos also have a short attention span. At best, you will have a few minutes to teach him good behavior. So keep the sessions short, frequent, and sweet. Most importantly, be patient and consistent. He will get there eventually.

Final thoughts

Shih-Poos can thrive as family pets. They live comfortably in most homes, whether an apartment or if you have a yard. But these adorable little guys will need regular grooming, TLC, and exercise.

While at home, they are playful and energetic. They can make even the grumpiest person smile. Keep this guide around. It will come in handy if you want to give the best possible care to your Shih-Poo buddy.

Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

 

Related Posts

  • Shih Tzu mom with puppy. Shih Tzus don’t need a daily mile run to keep fit. A few runs in the house are enough. But they enjoy outdoor walks.
    Is a tiny, friendly, sometimes shy Shih Tzu your dream dog?

    The most prominent feature of the Shih Tzu is their…

  • Boy hugs miniature poodle. Are poodles good with kids? Yes, their natural easy-going temperament makes them ideal companion animals. .
    Are poodles good with kids?

    Are poodles good with kids? The simple answer is yes…

  • Poodle rests on a bed. The poodle is easy to train, loads of fun, and quite energetic.They like to be with people most of the time and definitely hate being in a kennel.
    Is a smart, attentive poodle the right dog for you?

    The poodle is easy to train, loads of fun, and…

  • The Shi Tzu Poodle mix is a popular crossbreed. Poodles are a popular crossbreeding choice.
    Why are poodles the most popular choice for crossbreeding?

    Poodles are a popular crossbreeding choice because the dogs are…

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Breeds Tagged With: Petfinder.com, Small dogs

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

Sheddingtraining tipsPet parentsPotty trainingValentine's DayPetfinder.comYorkshire terrierPuppy kindergartenOld dogsPit bullOutdoor activitiesPuppy-proofVeterinarianSeparation anxietyPoodlePomeranianWaterVacation dog careWorking dogsRottweilerPandemicTicksSocializationRescue dogService dogsThanksgivingPawTwo dogsPet sitterSmall dogs

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • 5 benefits of canine massage therapy
    Canine massage therapy helps keep your pup happy, healthy, and relaxed. It can improve digestion, reduce anxiety, and more. […]
  • Sleeping with your dog? Strengthen your bond with cuddle time
    Sleeping with your dog provides comfort, but it's important to consider the potential risks and benefits. Explore both sides of the debate. […]
  • Does my dog show love? Understand 12 signs of affection from dogs
    But how do dogs show their love? Let's take a closer look at some of the most common signs of affection from dogs. […]
  • Is a smart, loyal, hard-working wolf dog your dream dog?
    Wolf-dog breeds like Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are loyal, smart companions that make ideal family dogs. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.OkRead more