Understanding the Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise Mix

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Posted Oct 9, 2024

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Couple Hugging Adult Tan and White Shih Tzu on Focus Photography
Credit: pexels.com, Couple Hugging Adult Tan and White Shih Tzu on Focus Photography

The Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise mix is a delightful crossbreed that combines the best qualities of its parent breeds. This adorable mix is known for its gentle and affectionate nature.

The Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise mix typically weighs between 7-12 pounds and stands about 9-10 inches tall. Their small size makes them a perfect companion for apartment dwellers.

Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. This can be a challenge for some owners, but with the right tools and techniques, it's definitely manageable.

Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them a great addition to families with children.

Breed Characteristics

Shichon dogs are relatively small, weighing between 9-15 pounds and standing 9-12 inches tall. They can inherit a range of coat types from their parent breeds, including curly and silky.

Their coats can come in a variety of colors, including brown, red, gold, cream, black, white, silver, and more. Some shichons may have solid coats while others may have a mix of colors.

Shichons don't shed much, making them a good option for people who tend to sniffle around dogs.

Curious to learn more? Check out: What Colors Are Maltese Dogs

Appearance

Credit: youtube.com, What is Breed Type and How Do Breed Standards Change for Dogs?

Shichons are small dogs that typically weigh between 9-15 pounds and stand 9-12 inches tall. Their height can vary slightly depending on their lineage and other factors.

These dogs often have a medium-length tail and brown or black button eyes. Their coats can be a variety of colors, including brown, red, gold, cream, black, white, silver, and more.

Some shichons inherit a curly snow white coat from the bichon frise side of the family, while others get silky coats from the shih tzu parent. Others may have a mix of both.

Shichons don't shed much, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Their teddy-bear fur is soft and cuddly, but not entirely hypoallergenic.

Males tend to be larger than females, with some shichons weighing up to 18 pounds. However, their exact size can depend on factors like their diet and activity level.

For more insights, see: Thai Ridgeback Brown

Are Intelligent?

The intelligence of your furry friend is a topic of interest for many dog owners. Unfortunately, the Shih Tzu Bichon Mix isn't exactly the sharpest tool in the shed when it comes to intelligence.

Credit: youtube.com, Smartest Small Dogs: Top 10 Small But Highly Intelligent Dog Breeds

They have average intelligence, which means they can learn and understand some things, but might not be the best at complex tasks. With that said, they make up for their lack of brainpower with their enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

Their intelligence can be a bit of a mixed bag, but with proper training and socialization, they can still become well-behaved and loving companions.

Care and Feeding

The Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise is an adaptable dog who can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to homes with small yards. He requires daily exercise, but this can be as simple as a leisurely walk or a game of fetch.

To keep your Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise in good shape, measure his food and feed him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. A daily food allowance is 1/4 to 1/2 cup of high-quality dry food, divided into two meals.

Here's a quick reference for feeding your Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise:

Care

Photo of a Shih Tzu Dog on the Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Photo of a Shih Tzu Dog on the Grass

The Maltese Shih Tzu mix is a relatively low-maintenance breed, but they do require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

To keep their coat in good condition, brush your Maltese Shih Tzu mix two to three times a week, paying special attention to their ears and undercarriage. Regular grooming appointments with a professional are also necessary to keep their coat looking its best.

Their eyes need to be regularly cleaned to prevent tear staining, and gently wiping around their eyes with a moist cloth will do the trick. Daily tooth brushing is also a must to prevent dental disease, which is common in small breeds like the Maltese Shih Tzu mix.

A daily exercise routine is essential to keep your Maltese Shih Tzu mix happy and healthy. A 30-45 minute walk every day is plenty, and they'll also enjoy playing indoors to burn off energy.

Here's a quick rundown of the daily care needs for a Maltese Shih Tzu mix:

Remember, every dog is different, and the specific care needs of your Maltese Shih Tzu mix may vary. Be sure to consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice on caring for your furry friend.

What Size Is a Mix?

Adult Brown and White Shih Tzu
Credit: pexels.com, Adult Brown and White Shih Tzu

A mix of breeds can be a wonderful thing, but it can also make it tricky to predict what size your furry friend will be. The Maltese Shih Tzu, for example, is roughly 10 inches tall and weighs between 6 and 12 pounds.

The size of a mix can vary depending on its lineage, but some mixes are more predictable than others. The Shih Tzu Bichon mix, for instance, reaches 9 to 11.5 inches tall and weighs between 9 and 18 pounds.

Males tend to be larger than females in many breeds, and this is also true for the Shih Tzu Bichon mix.

Mix Overview

The Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise mix is a wonderful companion breed. They're intelligent and happy, making them a breeze to train.

Their temperament is playful, affectionate, and cheerful, with a gentle and curious nature. They're outgoing and social, getting along well with children of all ages and other dogs and pets.

Credit: youtube.com, Shih Tzu Bichon Frise Mix aka Zuchon

They do require some exercise each day, but they can adapt to quieter living if needed. A daily walk or play session in the yard is perfect for this breed.

In terms of grooming, they have a double coat with curly or straight outer fur, but they don't shed much. However, they do need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Here's a quick rundown of their physical characteristics:

They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so they're best suited for homes with a family member or two who can spend time with them.

Living with a Mix

Living with a Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise can be a wonderful experience, especially for first-time owners. They are relatively low-maintenance pets, making them a great fit for busy households.

Their grooming needs are a consideration, but it's not a deal-breaker. Regular grooming sessions can help keep their coat looking its best.

Credit: youtube.com, Bichon Frise Shih Tzu Mix (Shichon) : Should you get this Cross Breed? Shichon Facts, Size and Info

One of the best things about this mix is their friendly and affectionate nature. They thrive on attention and love to cuddle and play.

Their size is another advantage, making them suitable for apartment living. They are happy to adapt to smaller spaces as long as they get regular exercise and attention.

Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frises are generally good with other animals, including dogs and cats. With proper socialization, they can even live harmoniously with small animals like rabbits.

Their even-tempered nature makes them a great pet for families with children. They are patient and gentle, but also playful and fun-loving.

Overall, living with a Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise is a joyous experience that can bring lots of love and companionship into your life.

Health

Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

Their lifespan can range from 12 to 16 years, making them a long-lived companion.

Credit: youtube.com, 10 Mistakes Every Shih Tzu Owner SHOULD AVOID!

Patellar luxation, a common problem in small dogs, can cause pain and discomfort in the knee joint.

White Shaker Syndrome is another condition that can affect young to middle-aged dogs, causing uncontrollable shaking and an inability to walk.

Shih Tzu Bichon mixes are prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can cause breathing problems and other health issues.

Luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap dislocates, can be treated with rest, physiotherapy, and surgery.

Here's a list of common health issues that can affect Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise:

  • Patellar luxation
  • White Shaker Syndrome
  • Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
  • Luxating patella
  • Cataracts
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Patellar luxation
  • Respiratory problems
  • Portosystemic shunt

Regular exercise and grooming can help prevent some of these health issues, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help catch any problems early.

Grooming a Mix

Grooming a mix can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and techniques, you'll be a pro in no time. The Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise mix has a double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

Credit: youtube.com, Grooming a Maltese Bichon Mix

Their fur can get stuck in their ears and eyes, causing irritation, so regular cleaning is a must. You should brush their fur two to three times a week to keep it in good condition.

Their nails need to be trimmed every four to six weeks, or whenever you hear them clicking on the floor. This will prevent painful tears and other problems.

To keep their ears clean, use ear-cleaning products designed for dogs and avoid using Q-tips, which can push debris down further and cause irritation.

Here's a quick rundown of their grooming needs:

By following these simple grooming tips, you'll be able to keep your Shih Tzu Maltese Bichon Frise mix looking and feeling its best. Regular grooming will also help you spot potential health problems early on, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection.

Special Considerations

These adorable hybrids can be prone to dental issues, requiring regular brushing and check-ups with a veterinarian to prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Credit: youtube.com, Grooming A Maltese And Shi Tzu Mix- I Got Monetized!

Their small size means they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it's essential to keep them indoors during hot summer days and cold winter nights.

Their long, flowing coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, which can be time-consuming but is crucial for their overall health and hygiene.

Are Aggressive?

Shih Tzu Bichon mixes are rarely aggressive, they're more likely to respond to conflict by retreating and hiding away.

Their calm nature is a result of proper care, so make sure to exercise, feed, and play with them daily to keep them happy and healthy.

Service Dogs: Good or Not?

Some breeds can make great service dogs, especially those that are gentle, affectionate, and attuned to their owners' emotions. This is because they can provide a reassuring presence for people with anxiety.

However, not all service tasks are suitable for every breed. Shih Tzu Bichon mixes, for example, are ill-suited to physically demanding tasks like deep pressure therapy.

Credit: youtube.com, Can My Pet Dog Be A Service Dog? What Makes A Good Service Dog Candidate?

Their small size can also make it difficult for them to pick up complex service commands. This can be a challenge for owners who need assistance with tasks that require multiple steps or precise timing.

Despite these limitations, many breeds can excel as service dogs with the right training and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big will a Shih Tzu Bichon Mix get?

A Shih Tzu Bichon Mix typically weighs between 9-15 pounds and stands 9-12 inches tall. They are a compact breed with a medium-length tail and button eyes.

Are Shih Tzu bichons good dogs?

The Shichon is a friendly and social breed that thrives on interaction and affection, making them a great fit for families who want a loyal companion. They're perfect for households that want a playful, yet snuggly, addition to their family.

What is a Bichon Frise Shih Tzu mix called?

A Bichon Frise Shih Tzu mix is commonly known as a Shichon, also referred to as a Zuchon or Teddy Bear dog. This adorable mix inherits the best qualities from both parent breeds.

Sources

  1. Tzu Zoo Rescue (tzuzoorescue.com)
  2. Shih Tzu Rescue, Inc. (shihtzurescue.org)
  3. Shih Tzu and Furbabies Rescue (shihtzuandfurbabyrescue.com)
  4. BOAS (vcahospitals.com)
  5. Maltichon Dog Breed Health, Temperament, Feeding ... (petguide.com)
  6. American Kennel Club (akc.org)
  7. Shih Tzu Club (theshihtzuclub.co.uk)
  8. even Cleopatra fancied bichon frises (akc.org)
  9. Breeds - Shichon – Zuchon – Bichon Shih Tzu Mix (spiritdogtraining.com)

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.