The Complete Guide to Shih Poo Weight and Health

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Posted Oct 16, 2024

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Adult Brown and White Shih Tzu
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The Shih Poo is a crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, and as such, their weight can vary significantly. On average, a Shih Poo typically weighs between 9 and 16 pounds.

To determine the ideal weight for your Shih Poo, consider their height, which can range from 8 to 10 inches. Generally, the smaller the dog, the smaller their weight range.

While some Shih Poos can be prone to obesity, regular exercise and a balanced diet can help maintain a healthy weight. This is especially crucial for Shih Poos, as they can be susceptible to joint issues due to their compact body structure.

Size and Growth

Shih poos are small dogs, making them perfect for apartment living or for those who prefer a lap-sized companion.

Adult shih poos typically stand between 8 to 13 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 7 to 20 pounds, depending on the size of their Poodle parent. Their size can vary depending on which of its parents' genes it inherits.

Credit: youtube.com, Shih Poo - Top 10 Facts about the Shih Poo Dog

On average, a small shih poo will be between 6 and 10 inches tall, measuring from shoulder to. They can weigh up to 18 pounds and grow up to 15 inches tall.

Standard shih poos are still small enough to travel without much struggle or fuss. Shih poos grow rapidly between the ages of three and twelve.

The average shih poo adult weight is 13 lbs, with the most common weight being 10 lbs. Remember that a Toy Poodle parent will usually produce a slightly larger puppy than a Miniature Poodle Parent.

Full-grown adult shih poos typically grow between 8 and 18 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 8 and 18 pounds.

See what others are reading: Weight Miniature Poodle

Health

The health of Shih Poos is a top priority, and it's great that you're thinking about their weight. Regular veterinary check-ups can help detect any health concerns early, and your vet can develop a care routine to keep your dog healthy.

Credit: youtube.com, Blizzard 10 weeks Shihpoo 2.1 lbs estimated adult weight 8 lbs too sweet not to take home with you!

Shih Poos are prone to dental issues, including tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Regular dental care, including brushing, dental chews, and veterinary check-ups, is essential to prevent and address these issues.

Their floppy ears make them susceptible to ear infections, which can be prevented by regular cleaning and inspection, as well as keeping them dry. Veterinary attention is necessary if signs of infection, such as redness or discharge, are observed.

Patellar luxation, or kneecap dislocation, can lead to limping or lameness in Shih Poos. Small breeds like Shih Poos may be predisposed to this condition, and surgical intervention may be necessary in severe cases.

Respiratory issues can also be a concern, especially in hot or humid conditions. This can be mitigated by avoiding overexertion and exposure to extreme temperatures, and seeking veterinary care if respiratory issues are pronounced.

To keep your Shih Poo healthy, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet, provide regular exercise, and practice good dental care. A good rule of thumb is to keep your Shih Poo on a dietary schedule, rather than free-feeding, to prevent overeating and weight gain.

Credit: youtube.com, Shih Poo - Top 10 Facts about the Shih Poo Dog

Here are some key health concerns to be aware of:

  • Dental issues: tartar buildup, gum disease, tooth decay
  • Ear infections: redness, discharge, ear cleaning
  • Patellar luxation: kneecap dislocation, limping, lameness
  • Respiratory issues: snorting, snoring, difficulty breathing

By being aware of these potential health concerns and taking preventative measures, you can help your Shih Poo live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Diet and Nutrition

A high-quality dog food is essential for your Shih Poo's diet, and it should be formulated for their age, size, and activity level.

Most Shih Poos do well with 2-3 small meals per day, but be cautious not to overfeed, as small dogs can easily become overweight.

Shih-Poos have tiny teeth that tend to be closely packed, which can lead to gingivitis and canine periodontal disease in later life if plaque is allowed to accumulate.

Hard biscuits and dental chews can help remove bacteria-causing plaque, and daily dental cleaning is also recommended.

You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Shih-Poo's diet, as there is too much variation among individual dogs to make a specific recommendation.

A fresh viewpoint: Shih Tzu Favorite Food

Credit: youtube.com, How to Choose Healthy Foods for a Happy Shihpoo

A Shih Poo's daily caloric intake can be estimated between 470 to 480 calories for a 15-lb unneutered male that is moderately active.

You can divide this amount into 2-3 meals per day, targeting 235 calories for a single meal or 160 calories for each meal if you prefer to feed three times daily.

Including veggies and fruits in your Shih Poo's diet can provide essential antioxidants and other beneficial substances.

A high-protein and moderately low-calorie diet can help your Shih Poo achieve firm muscles.

Exercise and Obesity

Shih Poos need moderate exercise, which is usually met with a couple of short walks daily, combined with playtime.

Regular exercise is crucial to prevent obesity in Shih Poos. Obesity is the most commonly seen health problem for Shih-Poos.

Overfeeding and lack of exercise can lead to obesity, which can cause joint problems, diabetes, breathing difficulties, and heart problems.

How Much Exercise Does a Person Need?

People need regular physical activity to stay healthy. A couple of short walks daily, combined with playtime, is usually sufficient for most adults. Exercise can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. However, some individuals may need more active lifestyles if they have specific health goals or requirements.

Obesity

Credit: youtube.com, Seated Exercise for Obesity and Limited Mobility - Stage.1 Ep.1

Obesity is a common health problem for Shih-Poos, typically caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise.

Overweight dogs can suffer from joint problems, diabetes, breathing difficulties, and heart problems.

So, be sure to give your pup plenty of exercise to help prevent these issues.

If your Shih-Poo is overweight, it's essential to take care not to overfeed him to avoid exacerbating the problem.

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues in Shih-Poos.

General Information

The Shih Poo is a popular hybrid breed resulting from the crossbreeding of a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. They typically inherit the friendly and affectionate nature of both parent breeds, making them wonderful family pets that get along well with children and other animals.

Shih Poos are small to medium-sized dogs, inheriting traits from both parent breeds. Their size makes them adaptable to various living environments, from apartments to houses with yards.

Here are some key characteristics of the Shih Poo breed:

Overall, the Shih Poo is a lovable and adaptable breed that brings joy and companionship to households of all sizes.

Overview

Small Dog in Grooming Salon
Credit: pexels.com, Small Dog in Grooming Salon

The Shih-Poo is a delightful hybrid breed resulting from the crossbreeding of a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. This mix combines the charming personality of the Shih Tzu with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle.

Shih-Poos typically inherit the friendly and affectionate nature of both parent breeds, making them wonderful family pets that get along well with children and other animals. Their size makes them adaptable to various living environments, from apartments to houses with yards.

The Shih-Poo's hypoallergenic coat is inherited from the Poodle parent, making them suitable for individuals with allergies. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat health and prevent matting.

Here are some key characteristics of the Shih-Poo breed:

Overall, the Shih-Poo is a lovable and adaptable breed that brings joy and companionship to households of all sizes.

History

The Shih-Poo's history is a fascinating blend of two purebred breeds. The German-origin Poodle and the Chinese Royalty-associated Shih Tzu came together to create this unique hybrid.

Small purebred dogs standing near small colorful balls and looking away in bright room on white background
Credit: pexels.com, Small purebred dogs standing near small colorful balls and looking away in bright room on white background

This crossbreed is more recently developed in North America, making it a relatively new addition to the world of designer dogs. The Shih-Poo has yet to gain official recognition as a distinct breed at this time.

The Shih-Poo inherits loyalty and adorableness from the Shih Tzu, coupled with the intelligence and sophistication of the Poodle.

Behavior and Lifestyle

Shih Poos are known for their delightful personalities, combining the best traits of both parent breeds. They're playful, loving, and love to please their people.

These little dogs are often described as confident and adaptable, making them great pets for various households. They inherit the Shih Tzu's love for companionship and the Poodle's intelligence, making them both cuddly and smart.

Their intelligence also means they can learn quickly, which is a great asset for training and exercise routines.

Pets

Your Shih Poo will likely be under ten inches tall and weigh between eight and ten pounds.

Small Dog Walking in Snow
Credit: pexels.com, Small Dog Walking in Snow

They don't shed much, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer low-maintenance grooming.

Standard Shih Poos are small dogs, but they are the largest Shih Poo you'll find.

Their compact size makes them perfect for city living or small homes, where space is limited.

This breed is relatively easy to care for, with simple feeding needs and minimal exercise requirements.

Behavior and Personality

Shih Poos are known for their delightful personalities, combining the best traits of both parent breeds.

They're playful, loving, and love to please their people.

These pups inherit the Shih Tzu's love for companionship, making them great socializers.

Shih Poos are confident and adaptable, making them great pets for various households.

Their intelligence, inherited from the Poodle parent, makes them smart and trainable.

They're often described as cuddly, which is perfect for families who want a snuggle buddy.

Shih Poos are loving and love to be around their people, making them great companions for anyone.

Mary Steuber

Assigning Editor

Mary Steuber is a seasoned assigning editor with a passion for crafting compelling stories that engage and inform readers. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what resonates with audiences, she has successfully managed a diverse range of article topics, from in-depth breed profiles like "Cockapoo Breed Information" to more lighthearted and entertaining features. Mary's expertise lies in assigning talented writers to tackle complex and nuanced subjects, ensuring that every piece meets the highest standards of quality and accuracy.

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