The Complete Shih Poo Black and White Owner's Handbook

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Posted Oct 5, 2024

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White and Brown Long Coated Small Dog
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As a Shih Poo Black and White owner, you're probably eager to learn more about your furry friend. The Shih Poo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, and it's known for its low-shedding coat, which makes it a great choice for people with allergies.

The Shih Poo's coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. This can be a daily task, especially if you have a long-haired Shih Poo.

To keep your Shih Poo's coat looking its best, you'll need to brush it frequently, ideally 2-3 times a week. Regular grooming also helps to prevent skin problems and keeps your Shih Poo's coat smelling fresh.

Shih Poos are generally friendly and outgoing dogs, but they can be wary of strangers. Socialization is key to helping your Shih Poo feel confident around new people and environments.

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Care and Maintenance

To keep your Shih Poo happy and healthy, regular grooming is a must. Brush their wavy to curly coat at least twice a week to prevent matting, with special attention to their hindquarters, behind the ears, and beneath the shoulders.

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Feeding your Shih Poo the right amount of food is crucial to prevent weight gain and related health problems. A cup of high-quality dog kibble a day is a good starting point, but adjust the portion according to their age, weight, and health.

To keep their teeth and skin healthy, brush their teeth several times a week and bathe them every month.

Food & Diet

The Shih Poo's diet is a crucial aspect of their care and maintenance.

They are considered a medium-energy dog and should be fed a high-quality dog kibble that meets their nutritional needs.

Shih Poos shouldn't be free-feed as they tend to overeat and gain weight, leading to health problems and joint issues.

Most Shih Poos don't need more than a cup of food a day, and portioning depends on their age, weight, and health.

Exercise

The Shi Poo is a relatively low-maintenance pet when it comes to exercise.

Two short walks each day are ideal for this breed, but playtime can be just as effective at burning off energy.

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Playtime doesn't have to be reserved for the outdoors, as the Shi Poo can easily get a workout indoors.

They're tiny, but they're more than capable of running around and playing with toys to get their energy out.

Long hikes or walks are not suitable for Shi Poos unless you're prepared to carry them, so it's best to keep it short and sweet.

Grooming

Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling, so aim to brush your Shih Poo at least twice a week.

Their coats should be trimmed once or twice a year, especially around their eyes, to keep their vision clear.

Small dogs are prone to dental problems, so brushing their teeth several times a week is crucial.

You can brush their teeth gently but thoroughly, taking care to get all surfaces.

Their long hair can get matted if not brushed regularly, so use a soft brush with special attention to their hindquarters, behind the ears, and beneath the shoulders.

Bathing your Shih Poo every month is recommended to prevent skin problems, just like with Shih Tzus and Poodles.

You can also seek professional help every 3 to 4 months to keep their coat looking its best.

Health and Wellbeing

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As a Shih Poo black and white owner, you'll want to be aware of some potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. Teary eyes can be a common problem, so be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of eye discharge or redness.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent skin sensitivities and rashes. Brushing your Shih Poo's teeth, providing dental chews, and scheduling regular dental checkups will also help prevent dental problems.

Some health issues to watch out for include lung disorders, Von Willebrand's disease, and intervertebral disc disease. It's a good idea to stay on top of preventative care to minimize the risk of these conditions.

Here are some potential health issues to be aware of:

  • Teary eyes
  • Lung disorders
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Intervertebral disc disease

Training

Shih Poo black and white dogs are known to be smart and intelligent, making them relatively easy to train.

They are active and energetic, but don't do well in heat or with long bouts of exercise, so training sessions should be short and fun.

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Shih Poos enjoy being close to their humans and may become a touch clingy or anxious, so it's essential to socialize them regularly and from a young age.

Some Shih Poos can be picky and stubborn, which can make training a bit challenging, but finding the right treats and engaging them in training sessions can make a big difference.

Shih Poos are highly motivated by treats, so using them as a reward can be an effective way to train them.

Crate training is also easy for Shih Poos, as they tend to poop and pee in designated areas away from their sleeping place.

To train a Shih Poo, it's essential to be strict and authoritative, but never harsh, as they don't respond well to negative training techniques.

Shih Poos are ready-to-please dogs, making them easily trainable with the right approach and socialization.

By following these tips and being patient, you can develop a strong bond with your Shih Poo and help them become a well-behaved and loving companion.

Pet Ownership

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The Shih Poo is an adaptable dog that fits into various living situations.

They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur, so owners should be prepared to commit time and effort to their coat care.

With proper care and attention, Shih Poo's can thrive in a variety of living situations, making them a great fit for many families.

Pet Ownership Essentials

When buying a Shih Poo, it's essential to purchase from a reputable breeder who can provide information about the parents' temperament, personality, and health history.

Your Shih Poo's lineage isn't crucial if you're looking for a family pet or companion animal, but knowing the parents' traits can give you a good idea of what to expect.

Shih Poos can inherit some common health problems, but regular grooming and dental cleaning can help prevent some issues.

These playful pups are easily trainable and will enjoy the company of their owners during play sessions.

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If you have other pets in the home, introduce your Shih Poo to them at a young age so they consider other animals as part of the family.

Shih Poos don't cope well with being alone for long periods, so it can be helpful to have a companion dog to alleviate boredom and loneliness.

Designer Dog Breeds

Designer dog breeds are often a mix of two purebred parents, like the Shih Poo which is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle.

These breeds are usually bred to combine the best traits of their parent breeds, such as the low-shedding coat of a Poodle.

The Shih Poo, for example, can inherit a curly or straight coat from its Poodle parent, and can display various colors and coat lengths depending on its genetics.

Designer dog breeds can make fantastic companion dogs, like the Shih Poo which is loyal, affectionate, and easy to train.

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Some designer breeds, like the Shih Poo, are also suitable for urban living and apartment dwellers due to their small size.

They require little maintenance besides regular grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners or those with allergies.

The Shih Poo is a good example of a hypoallergenic breed, making it a great choice for individuals with allergies.

These breeds are often a good fit for families, seniors, and first-time owners due to their gentle and playful nature.

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Basic Info

Shih-Poos are adorable, but let's talk about what life with one is really like. They are a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, making them a low-shedding breed.

Shih-Poos are relatively small, weighing between 9-16 pounds and standing about 8-10 inches tall.

They are known for being friendly and outgoing, making great companions for families with children.

Shih-Poos are relatively easy to train, but consistency and patience are key.

They are a relatively long-lived breed, with an average lifespan of 10-16 years.

Shih-Poos can be prone to certain health issues, such as eye problems and dental issues, so regular check-ups with a vet are a must.

Interesting Facts

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The Shih Poo is a unique and lovable breed. They're primarily a mix of a Shih Tzu and a Mini Poodle.

These small dogs come in three adorable variations: Mini, Toy, and Standard. I've seen some owners get creative with their Shih Poo's coat colors, but the classic black and white combo is always a winner.

Shih Poo's are naturally talented in dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally. With proper training, they can excel in these activities and have a blast doing it.

If you're considering bringing a Shih Poo into your family, keep in mind that they can thrive in a variety of living situations. However, it's worth noting that a standard Poodle is extremely uncommon in Shih Poo breeding.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shih Poo a good dog?

The Shihpoo makes a great companion for many, offering a friendly, playful, and affectionate nature that's perfect for urban living or retirement. They bond strongly with owners, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a loyal and loving pet.

What is the life expectancy of a Shih Poo?

The life expectancy of a Shih Poo is typically 13-18 years, inheriting the longevity of its parent breeds. With proper care, a Shih Poo can live a long and healthy life.

What does a full grown Shih Poo look like?

A full-grown Shih Poo can weigh between 7-20 pounds and have a curly or straight coat. Their small size and varied coat types make them a unique and adorable breed.

How rare is a black and white Shih Tzu?

A black and white Shih Tzu is extremely rare, as white markings on a black coat are virtually unheard of in the breed. If you're interested in learning more about this unique color combination, keep reading for more information.

What are the disadvantages of Shih Poo?

Shihpoos can be prone to health issues such as luxating patellas, hip dysplasia, and eye problems due to inherited genetic traits. Choosing a reputable breeder who screens their dogs can help minimize these risks

Patricia Kreiger

Writer

Patricia Kreiger is a passionate writer with a focus on canine-related topics. She has established herself as a knowledgeable and engaging voice in the pet care community, with a portfolio that showcases her expertise in covering various breeds and their characteristics. Patricia's writing often delves into the intricacies of specific breeds, such as the Ridgeback and German Shepherd, as well as the complexities of breed comparisons and the FCI breed standard.