Are you looking for a cute, small, and fun-loving dog then your wait is over, and you have found the right dog of your choice, yes the Shih Poo? Shih poo is also called Shipoo, Shih-poo, and Shih-doodle. You do not need to be worried about his exercise needs because he always wants to play and run around. Shih poos love to play, and they spend much time with the family members, chasing toys, or with toys. Shih poo is quite adaptable in a small apartment or a large house.
He is the owner of a charming personality, and the people of all the ages are the fan of him. Shih poos are the companion dogs. They love people and want their owner or family members to be around. Shih poo has attracted the people due to his smart and cute personality and energetic nature. Shih poo is a new but the famous breed of the time. The people believe that it will be more popular in the upcoming time.
If you want to welcome this fur baby to your home, in this article we are going to explain the characteristics of the adorable Shih poo and additionally we have described some issues like health problems. So keep reading the article until the end so you can have an idea about this hybrid dog.
Shih Poo – Origin and History
Shih poo is a cross breed between gentle and active Shih Tzu and the faithful, instinctual mini or toy Poodle. They were originated in the United States of America. The spunkiness of the Shih Tzu and the loyalty of the Poodle was mixed to have a better mix breed. The purpose was to gain a small dog that is easy to carry around and sit on its owner’s lap. Due to its size and active nature, this new breed, Shih poo had attracted the people toward himself, and his popularity is still increasing day by day.
Shih Poo dog’s parent breeds
Poodle
According to the Wikipedia
“The origin of the breed is still discussed, with a prominent dispute over whether the poodle descends from Germany as a type of water dog, or from the French Barbet.”
The origin of the Poodle is not confirmed. The poodle was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1887, and the 7th most popular dog breed of 2017.
Poodles are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They can be trained easily because Poodles are intelligent. Poodle wants the family members to be around him, and if ignored, it can develop bad habits. They need early socialization so that they shouldn’t be aggressive to the people outside their families.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is lovable, adorable and affectionate toy dog breed with the long silky coat. He is a spunky, smart and independent dog. It is a toy dog weighing 4 to 7 kilograms full grown. It is known as the “Chinese Lion Dog.” The exact origin of the Shih Tzu is unknown, but it is believed that it was originated in Tibet and then developed in China. Shih Tzus were the companion or watchdogs of the monks.
Recognition
Shih poos are recognized by the DBR (Designer Breed Registry), DDKC (Designer Dogs Kennel Club), DRA (Dog Registry of America), ACHC (American Canine Hybrid Club) and IDCR (International Designer Canine Registry).
PROS.
- They are adaptable and easy to train.
- Can live in a small apartment without any problem.
- He is Dogs and Cats friendly.
- He doesn’t need much exercise.
- Their coats don’t shed much.
- For first time owners, it is a right breed.
CONS.
- Shih poo dogs are quite stubborn sometimes.
- Not small children friendly.
- Do not tolerate if you don’t give enough time.
- They cannot be the best watchdogs.
- They have high grooming needs.
Appearance
The Shih poos appearance depends on the genetics. As they inherit traits from their parents, they may inherit physical characteristics from the Sire or Dam, or equal from each parent. Shih poos are small-sized dogs weighing 12 to 20 pounds and standing 22 -28 cm tall. As both of his parents are cute, their combination will be more adorable and lovable breed. The nose can be black or brown, and the eyes color can be amber. Shih poos coat depends on the traits that he inherits from the Dam or Sire, short or long, cuddly, and curly. If the coat is remained unclipped, it can grow long. They come in various color like their parents. The most common coat colors of the Shih poos are;
- Black
- White
- Brindle
- Dark Brown
- Light Brown
- Blue Belton
- Gold
- Black and White
Temperament of Shıh poo dog
Inheritance and the environment are the factors that affect the mood. Temperament of the Shih poos depends on his dam and sire, his environment and the particular genes he inherited from the parents. Both the parents, Poodle and Shih Tzu are friendly and love to go outside. However, the temperament of the puppy will depend on the genetics, amount of socialization he got, and many more factors.
Shih poo is an energetic dog that always ready to run and play. Also, he wants the family embers to be around. They want to be your partner on the bed and cuddle. Due to its small size, it is not ideal for the young children but can have the company of the children who know how to handle a dog.
Also, read about the Mini bernedoodle
Shih Poo’s Health
Hybrid dog breeds like Shih poo are generally healthy breeds. However, sometimes with cross-breeding, we cannot get the breed that is not suffering from any health concerns, because all the dog breeds have the potential to receive a genetic problem. Always buy the puppy from the reputable breeder, who has all the records of the vaccines and the health concerns with proofs. If the breeder is saying that our mix breeds are 100% healthy, don’t trust them. The Shih poo can have the same health concerns as his parents. The diseases that are found in Shih poos are the following;
- Dental disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
- Von Willebrand’s disease (vWD)
- Breathing issues
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hernias
- Eye Problems
- Allergies
The health tests that are available for Shih poos are Breed Club – Sebaceous Adenitis (SA), BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme, BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (prcd-PRA), and von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD).
Taking care of Shih poo dog
Grooming
Depending on the genetics, Shih-poos can have a coat that ranges from curly to straight. They need to be groomed every 4 to 6 months. Brush them every day as they have a moderately long coat. Brushing does not take much time. Shih poo loves being brushed, and he enjoys. It is better to brush with the metal pin brush having a rubber tip on the top. They need a bath every two weeks.
Their fur needs to be trimmed every six to seven weeks. Trimmer will be best for it, but if you do not want to spend money, you need blunt-nosed scissors. Shih poos are prone to dental diseases. For their dental care, toothbrushes and toothpaste are available just for the doggies. Brush your Shih poo every day if you can, but the brush once a week is necessary to avoid tooth decay and overcrowded teeth. Their nails also need to be trimmed, if needed. You should check Shih poos eyes and ears regularly, and hair should be clipped if required.
Exercise Needs
As Shih poo is a spunky and energetic dog, he doesn’t need much exercise because he is always running and playing around with a ball. The daily 30 minutes outside walk is recommended for the Shih poos. It will help them socializing with the outside world. Too much exercise or exercise in the hot weather will is not advised for the Shih poos.
Diet
This breed is a food lover mean if you put much food in front of him, he will try to eat all. That is not good for him, so it is good to monitor what and how much is your Shihpoo eating. The dry food such as dry kibble is recommended for them as they are prone to dental problems.
It is better to discuss and ask your vet about the diet of your Shih Poo. When he gives you the schedule of their food, try to follow I and do not make changes in it.
Trainability
Shih poo is an intelligent dog that can be trained very quickly by a little effort and can be taught good habits. However, on the other side, he is quite stubborn. Generally, he doesn’t think that he needs to do tricks or learn new things. All the dogs can learn something, but you have to show patience if the dog is not interested and stubborn. You must use the positive methods to motivate the dog to learn. If you motivate and reward the dog with praise and excitement, it will increase their interest.
Make their training exciting and keep training sessions short so Shih poo puppies stay focused on what is being taught. Teach your dog with proper positive techniques, when he does show interest, try rewarding him with a treat, praise, and sweet rewards. You can teach him the commands like Come, Go, Sit, Stay, and Quiet.
Living with Shih Poos
The Shih poo dogs are the excellent choice for the families with older children. They do not tolerate the pushing and pulling of the young children unless they are guided by the parents how to handle and behave with the dogs. They are the companion dogs that need you to be around, so you have to give them enough time. Otherwise, you can a slight change in their attitude. The favorite place to sit for Shih Poos is your lap.
Faqs
Is Shih Poo is the right dog for me?
If you love a small dog, can manage enough time for his maintenance and grooming needs, and you don’t mind if he shows some stubbornness, then you can choose this dog.
What is the Lifespan of Shih poo dogs?
The lifespan of the Shih poo is 12 to 15 years. It is a new breed, so not enough information is available about their lifespan. Regular exercise, healthy food and regular visits to the veterinarian are crucial steps for the fit and longer lifespan of your Shihpoo.
