Shih Poo Dog Breed Information

Group

Unrecognized

Weight

5.2-8 kg

Height

33.1-40.6 cm

Lifespan

10 -15 years

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About the Shih Poo

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

Cute, loving, small, funfilled balls of fun – Shih Poos are one of the best companion dogs around. If you are looking for a four-legged friend that’s easy-going, low energy, and loveable, then a Shih Poo is your next best friend!

Our guide tells you all you need to know (and more) about these beautiful dogs. Knowing if they’re the dog for you or not will be the easiest decision you’ll ever make when you’re done with this guide!

What is the history & origin of the Shih Poo?

Shih Poos are quite a new breed; they originated in America and are unfortunately not recognised by the American Kennel Club. They come from the Shih Tzu and the Poodle, so it is best to consider their history.

The Shih Tzu originates from China and has been known as the lion dog and is said to be one of the oldest dog breeds. In 1930 they came to Europe and made it to America a few years later. In 1969, the American Kennel Club recognised them as a breed, and they were put in the Toy group.

Poodles either originated in Germany or France. Artists loved them, and they can be seen in numerous paintings. In 1887, they were recognised as an official breed.

What is a Shih Poo breed?

The Shih poo breed is a mix between the toy poodle and the Shih Tzu; they are hypoallergenic and small dogs. The Shih poo is also known as a Pooshie or a Shoodle.

Shih Poos are a designer dog breed. They fall into the category of mixed-breed dogs and are small and fun-sized.

They inherit many of their traits from their parents, so getting a Shih Poo can be a bit of a gamble. They’ll either take after their Shih Tzu parent or their Poodle parent. This will affect their personality, looks, and health issues they may be prone to.

Who is a Shih Poo best for?

Shih Poos are great companion animals and get along well with everyone, but they are an excellent match for senior citizens as they love to be pampered and doted on.

They are versatile little dogs and will be happy in an apartment, family home, or a little house with just about anyone. They are perfect for families or those living alone, as long as they receive tons of attention and love.

They should not be kept outside, though, so ensure that you have a good indoor space for them to thrive in. Shih Poos do prefer being around older kids and adults, and they can get along well with other dogs and pets if they are socialised correctly

Shih Poo Grooming & Shedding

A Shih Poo should have a regular vet check-up, and you should brush their coat daily. Groom them at least once per month; this will keep them looking and feeling great. It is also best to trim their coat every month to avoid matting.

They also need a weekly bath but don’t bathe them too often; otherwise, their coat and skin will get very irritated and dry. They are low shedding dogs and are hypoallergenic. It would help if you clipped their nails during the trim season.

Take your pup for regular teeth cleaning; they will also need teeth brushings and systematic dental chews. Ensure that your little Shih Poos ears are kept dry and clean. Otherwise, they are more prone to infection.

Do Shih Poos bark a lot?

Shih Poos are not big barkers, but they will bark if they are unhappy and are looking for attention. They are a bit more vocal than their parental Shih Tzu but are not nearly as yappy as a poodle is.

It is normal for your Shih Poo to bark, but if it is excessive, you have a slight problem on your hands. If your Shih Poo puppy barks a lot, it is likely because it wants to play or needs some exercise. It may be scared, bored, hungry, or thirsty.

It would help if you learned how to read your puppy and identify what it wants and needs. You can also stop barking through some good training; with consistency and discipline, your dog will not bark all of the time!

What is the average weight & height of a Shih Poo dog?

Shih Poos are small dogs, and they can weigh between 5.2 kg to 8 kg. Shih Poos also range from around 33.1 to 40.6 cm in height.

They come from the Poodle, and the Shih Tzu, both of these breeds come in a teacup, miniature, and standard sizes. So the size of a Shih Poo can easily vary. Poodles are usually about 25-38 cm tall and weigh around 6.5 and 7.5 kg.

While the Shih Tzu is about 23-27 cm tall and weighs around 4 to 7.3 kg. So, it is likely that a Shih Poo will be a good mix between its two parents.

Are Shih Poos easy to train?

It is best to socialise and train a Shih Poo in their early stages, and they learn best through positive reinforcement and consistency. Never use punishment-based training. This can lead to many problems.

How do Shih Poos behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Shih Poos will get their personality and characteristics from both of their parent breeds. Shih Tzu can lack trainability and be incredibly stubborn, but they are also cute, attentive, and friendly. A Poodle is very active, trainable, and intelligent.

The personality of a Shih Poo usually falls in the middle of their parent’s traits. They are playful, friendly, love attention and interaction, and they also really enjoy being watchdogs – they may be tiny, but they will want to be your biggest protector!

Does the Shih Poo have any common health issues?

Crossbreeds generally have good overall health, but they can inherit specific health issues that their parents tend to suffer from. They can suffer from breathing problems, dental issues, brachycephalic syndrome, eye problems, and kidney and hip issues.

They may also be prone to bladder stones, Cushing’s disease, and skin tumours. The health issues your Shih Poo may get all depend on which parent they take after, as Poodles and Shih Tzus have very different health issues, but they can all affect a Shih Poo!

What is the lifespan of a Shih Poo?

Shih Poos can live for approximately 10 to 15 years. This does depend on their diet, lifestyle, and living environment. Ensuring that your pooch gets regular exercise will better their overall well-being and is essential for a healthy and long lifespan.

How much does a Shih Poo need to be fed?

It is best to keep your Shih Poo on a strict dietary schedule. Otherwise, they may become obese and overeat. You should only feed them high-quality food, and it should be appropriate to their energy level, health, weight, and age.

The way they eat changes during each stage of their life, from puppyhood to adulthood and when they are senior dogs.

How much can you expect to pay for a Shih Poo in Australia?

If you buy Shih Poo puppies from a breeder, you can expect to pay $500 to $1,000 per puppy. Remember, it is essential that you ask the breeder about the puppy’s family history. Avoid puppy mills. These pups are not well looked after and generally have very low health.

Shih Poo FAQs

What do Shih poos like to do?

Shih poos are not very athletic dogs, but they do enjoy going for a daily walk and love roaming and playing in the yard or at the park. They do like and need a good amount of exercise.

Do Shih Poos like to cuddle?

Shih Poos make the best cuddle buddies. Their soft coat alone is cuddly enough. They inherit a strong love for cuddles and are very loyal and loving dogs. They will love cuddling you no matter where you are.

Can Shih Poos swim?

Depending on the dog’s personality, they may enjoy being in the pool or in a body of water, but they certainly cannot go for a swim or endure long distances. A Shih Poo will either inherit the standard Poodle’s athleticism or Shih Tzu’s lack of ability when it comes to swimming.

Are Shih-Poos clingy?

Shih Poos are lap dogs. They love being close to their owners and lounging about. However, this does not make them clingy at all. They still love playing, running around, and being independent. But they sure are affectionate and loving dogs!