If you're new to the world of Shih Tzu mutt mixes, you're in for a treat. They're known for being friendly and outgoing, making them a great addition to any family.
One thing to keep in mind is that Shih Tzu mutt mixes can come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to medium. This is due to the influence of various breeds on their physical characteristics.
Shih Tzu mutt mixes are generally low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require regular brushing to prevent matting, but they don't need to be bathed frequently.
A different take: White Mutt Dog
Shih Tzu Mix Breeds
The Shih Tzu mix breed is a popular choice for many dog owners, and for good reason - they're often adorable, friendly, and full of personality. Some Shih Tzu mixes can be quite large, while others are smaller.
One thing to keep in mind when considering a Shih Tzu mix is that they can inherit traits from both parent breeds, so you never know exactly what you'll get. This means you need to be in love with both breeds and all of their characteristics.
Shih Tzu mixes can be found at breeders or even at local rescues, so don't be afraid to look around for the perfect pup.
A fresh viewpoint: Shih Tzu Scratching All the Time
Shi Chi
The Shi Chi is a spunky, sassy, charming, and elegant pup. They love to be the center of attention and are rather spoiled by their owners. They are courageous and will not take rubbish from anyone, so they will protect their owner whatever comes their way. If you are seeking a feisty toy dog, the Shi Chi is a great mix to consider. They likely weigh between 5 to 12 pounds and measure between 7 to 10 inches in height. Their hair will be either short or long but silky and soft, and they come in a wide variety of colors. They can easily squeeze into your handbag, which is just as well, considering they hate to be left alone. They are likely to take after either parent breed, making them an excellent choice for potential small dog owners.
Recommended read: Chi Shih Tzu
Shiranian
The Shiranian is a delightful Shih Tzu mix that's sure to capture your heart. They're a cross between the Pomeranian and the Shih Tzu, and can look like either parent or a combination of both.
These little bundles of joy are confident and alert, and love to show off their dog toys and strut their stuff down the sidewalk. They're also happy to curl up in a snazzy sweater and take a nap in the sun.
You never quite know what you'll get with a Shiranian, as they can weigh anywhere from 4 to 16 pounds as adults. That's right, they can be quite petite, but still pack a big personality punch.
If you're looking for a small yet upbeat companion, the Shiranian is definitely worth considering. They're a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance yet loving pet.
Pug-Zu
The Pug-Zu, a delightful and energetic mix of Pug and Shih Tzu. They're known as the rebel of small dogs, always looking for ways to get your attention. Charming pugs will do anything to get a reaction from you.
While they don't need a lot of exercise, it's essential to keep them entertained with interactive toys to prevent boredom. Ask your vet for a plan to ensure the best health for this special brachycephalic breed, as they have specific needs.
Schweenie: Dachshund
The Schweenie is a lively and outgoing dog that's quick to pick up desired behaviors when trained with treats. They're also very vocal, often barking to notify you about things like people at the door or a leaf on the patio.
Schweenies are low-shedding dogs that enjoy being in the company of companions, whether human or canine. They're adaptable to most homes and are a great choice for families.
Their appearance is a bit of a lottery, but they typically measure between 6 to 12 inches tall and weigh 14 pounds or less. Their coat can be short and shiny or long and wiry, and they often have long, droopy ears.
These little dogs are spunky, playful, and full of attitude, and they'll keep you on your toes. They're also very charismatic and love to beg for treats.
Shorgi
The Shorgi is a designer dog breed that thrives on human attention and affection. They can't be left alone frequently, or they might start to destroy items around the house out of boredom and loneliness.
Their thick fur is more suitable for mild, cooler climates rather than warm or tropical environments. This means they'll need extra care and attention when living in hot or humid areas.
The Shorgi's lowrider looks may pass down from their Corgi parent, leaving their spine at risk of injury during rough play. You'll want to watch their weight to prevent back and joint issues.
Daily walks and a balanced diet will help your Shorgi maintain a healthy waistline. This will ensure they stay happy and healthy.
Training sessions with a Shorgi can be unpredictable, as they inherit traits from both the Corgi and Shih Tzu. The Corgi is eager to please, while the Shih Tzu often sees commands as suggestions.
Patience and praise go a long way when training a Shorgi, particularly if the praise comes with high-value treats like hotdog bits.
See what others are reading: Shih Tzu Dog Training
Crested
The Crested Tzu is a unique and quirky-looking mix. They typically inherit a love for sitting on laps and chasing vermin around the garden. Their looks can vary wildly, even within the same litter mix, but they usually resemble a Chinese Crested pooch with a slightly shorter and wider build like the Shih Tzu. They can weigh between 8 to 14 pounds. He will measure 10 to 12 inches in height.
Havashu
Havashu is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Siberian Husky. They're often referred to as a designer breed, but it's essential to note that they're not recognized by traditional kennel clubs.
Their unique appearance can vary greatly, but they often inherit the Husky's striking blue eyes and the Shih Tzu's fluffy coat. They can weigh anywhere from 9 to 18 pounds and stand between 8 and 14 inches tall.
These dogs are known for being intelligent and active, requiring regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They thrive on daily walks and playtime, making them a great fit for families with yards or those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Their grooming needs are relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing to prevent matting. However, they do shed heavily during shedding season, so be prepared for regular vacuuming and lint rolling.
Havashu are often described as loyal and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their family members. They're generally good with children, but as with any breed, it's essential to socialize them properly to ensure they're comfortable around kids.
Bosih: Boston
The Bosih, a mix of Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu, is a loving and charming companion. He's intelligent and lively, thanks to his Boston Terrier parent side.
He can be a bit stubborn, but with discipline and patience, he'll thrive. His terrier genes give him a cheeky side that's hard to resist.
This mix has longer legs than some other Shih Tzu mixes, weighing between 11 to 20 pounds. He measures between 13 to 16 inches in height, making him a relatively small but sturdy breed.
His shorter, smoother haircut showcases his muscular frame, and his bat ears are a distinctive feature inherited from the Boston Terrier.
Recommended read: Boston Terrier and Pit Bull Mix
Bea: Beagle
The Beagle is a great breed, but it's not exactly known for being a low-maintenance pet. They have a super sense of smell, which can be both a blessing and a curse.
Beagles are bred for hunting and tracking, so they need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. If you don't give them enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become destructive.
One thing to keep in mind is that Beagles are prone to howling, which can be a problem if you live in an apartment.
Havashu: Havanese
The Havashu is a friendly mix that loves everyone he comes into contact with, which is perfect for families with kids or social butterflies. He's adaptable and easy to care for.
He will typically stand between 9 and 11 inches tall.
You can expect his weight to range between 8 and 14 pounds.
His long coat will sport light brown and white hues, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting.
Zuchon: Bichon Frise
The Zuchon, also known as the Snichon, is a delightful dog breed that's becoming increasingly popular. This little fellow is playful, peppy, and outgoing, but he loves to cuddle just like his Shih Tzu parent.
He needs a fair bit of grooming, which can be a challenge for some owners. His silky, wavy locks will often fall to the floor if you let them grow out.
The Zuchon's coat typically features white with brown and silver accents. He will weigh between 10 and 17 pounds.
He measures between 9 and 11 ½ inches tall, making him a compact companion. With his button eyes and curly hair, he'll look a lot like a teddy bear.
The Top 38
The Shih Tzu is a popular breed that's been crossed with many others to create unique and lovable mixes.
The Shih Tzu Poodle Mix, also known as the Shihpoo, is a great choice for those with allergies, as it's hypoallergenic.
Shih Tzus are friendly dogs that thrive on human interaction, making them a great fit for families with children.
The Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix, or Chizer, is a small dog that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
The Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix, or Shorkie, is a spunky dog that's perfect for active owners who want a companion that can keep up.
Shih Tzus are known for their outgoing personalities, which makes them a great fit for owners who want a social dog.
The Shih Tzu Corgi Mix, or Shorgi, is a unique dog that's a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Corgi.
Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training.
The Shih Tzu Beagle Mix, or Shagle, is a friendly dog that's great with children and other pets.
Shih Tzus are adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.
The Shih Tzu Maltese Mix, or Shihmaltese, is a sweet dog that's perfect for owners who want a low-shedding companion.
Shih Tzus are loyal dogs that bond strongly with their owners, making them a great fit for families.
The Shih Tzu Pug Mix, or Shug, is a playful dog that's perfect for owners who want a companion that's always up for an adventure.
Shih Tzus are relatively low-maintenance dogs that require regular grooming but don't need a lot of exercise.
The Shih Tzu Boxer Mix, or Shoxer, is a fun-loving dog that's great for owners who want a companion that's always up for a game.
Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues like eye problems and patellar luxation.
The Shih Tzu Cocker Spaniel Mix, or Shcock Spaniel, is a friendly dog that's great with children and other pets.
Shih Tzus are social dogs that require regular interaction with their owners to stay happy and healthy.
The Shih Tzu Dachshund Mix, or Shihdach, is a unique dog that's a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Dachshund.
Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training and consistent boundaries.
The Shih Tzu French Bulldog Mix, or Shihbulldog, is a playful dog that's perfect for owners who want a companion that's always up for an adventure.
Shih Tzus are adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.
The Shih Tzu German Shepherd Mix, or Shgerman, is a intelligent dog that's perfect for owners who want a companion that's always up for a challenge.
Shih Tzus are generally low-shedding dogs that require regular grooming to stay healthy and looking their best.
The Shih Tzu Havanese Mix, or Shihavanese, is a sweet dog that's perfect for owners who want a low-shedding companion.
Shih Tzus are loyal dogs that bond strongly with their owners, making them a great fit for families.
The Shih Tzu Husky Mix, or Shihusky, is a fun-loving dog that's great for owners who want a companion that's always up for an adventure.
Shih Tzus are relatively low-maintenance dogs that require regular grooming but don't need a lot of exercise.
The Shih Tzu Labrador Mix, or Shilab, is a friendly dog that's great with children and other pets.
Shih Tzus are social dogs that require regular interaction with their owners to stay happy and healthy.
The Shih Tzu Maltese Mix, or Shihmaltese, is a sweet dog that's perfect for owners who want a low-shedding companion.
Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training and consistent boundaries.
The Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix, or Shihpom, is a playful dog that's perfect for owners who want a companion that's always up for an adventure.
Shih Tzus are adaptable dogs that can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.
The Shih Tzu Pug Mix, or Shug, is a playful dog that's perfect for owners who want a companion that's always up for a game.
Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but they
The Cava
The Cava is a wonderful mix breed that's perfect for families looking for a companion with a little more energy. It's a mix between King Charles Spaniels and Shih Tzus.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are beloved for their adorable puppy-dog looks and athletic nature. This breed is a great combination of playfulness and affection.
The Cava needs to be socialized young to be a good family dog, making early training and interaction with others a must.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Australian Shepherd Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Mix
Other Small Dog Breeds
If you're looking for other small dog breeds that are similar to the Shih Tzu Mutt, there's the Affenpinscher, which weighs between 6-13 pounds and stands 9-11 inches tall.
The Affenpinscher is known for its playful and curious nature, making it a great companion for active owners. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
The Bichon Frise is another small breed that weighs between 7-12 pounds and stands 9-12 inches tall. They are friendly, gentle, and adaptable, making them a great choice for families with children.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a delightful breed that pairs well with the Shih Tzu, creating adorable mixes like the Zuchon.
They're known for their playful, peppy, and outgoing personalities, making them a great companion for families or the elderly.
Their coats can be a challenge to maintain, requiring regular grooming, but it's worth it for their silky, wavy locks.
As a Bichon Frise mix, you can expect them to be relatively small, weighing between 10 and 17 pounds and measuring between 9 and 11 ½ inches.
Their button eyes and curly hair make them look like a teddy bear, and they'll shower you with kisses.
If you're an apartment dweller, the Bichon Frise mix is a great choice, as they don't require a lot of exercise and are happy to curl up in your lap.
Explore further: Welsh Corgi Bichon Mix
Cavalier Spaniel
The Cavalier Spaniel is a delightful mix of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Shih Tzu. They're known to be highly intelligent and enjoy training sessions to keep their clever brains ticking.
You might like: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cross Yorkshire Terrier
These dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, preferring a leisurely stroll or two to a high-energy workout. They'll typically weigh between 11 and 16 pounds and measure between 10 and 12 inches tall.
Their gentle nature makes them an excellent choice for families with children, who will adore their affectionate and loving personality. They're also quite social and will thrive in households with plenty of interaction and attention.
One thing to keep in mind is that they can be a bit sensitive, so it's essential to provide a calm and stable environment for them to feel comfortable. With proper care and attention, the Cavalier Spaniel will be a loyal and loving companion for years to come.
Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is a small dog breed that's perfect for families or individuals who want a low-maintenance companion.
They typically weigh between 6-14 pounds, which makes them easy to handle and care for.
Toy Poodles are intelligent and easy to train, which is a bonus for first-time dog owners.
Their coats can come in a variety of colors, including brown, white, silver, gold, blue, red, and brindle, or a mixture of any of them.
Toy Poodles are known to be friendly and loving, making them great companions for people of all ages.
They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur, but this can be done at home with the right tools.
Toy Poodles are relatively low-energy dogs, which means they don't require a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Their small size makes them a great choice for people who live in apartments or have limited space.
Toy Poodles are generally quiet dogs and don't bark much, which is a plus for people who value a peaceful living environment.
Maltese
The Maltese is a people-pleasing pup, accustomed to the adoration of ancient Greeks from its family tree. He's a low-shedding dog, but you'll still want to brush his silky fur daily.
They're friendly and loving, extending their affection to children, retirees, and even cats. They'll capture the hearts of everyone they meet.
The Maltese weighs between 6 to 12 pounds and measures between 8 to 10 inches.
A unique perspective: Maltese and Japanese Chin Mix
Yorkie
Yorkies are known for their spirited attention, making them completely captivating companions. They're a toy dog breed that requires positive reinforcement training to enhance their best qualities and feel secure.
Like Shorkies, Yorkies are tiny but mighty, so it's essential to keep them engaged with activities and exercises that stimulate their minds and bodies.
Papillon
The Papillon is a toy spaniel mix that's alert, curious, and loves to play fetch.
They're agile and athletic, so they need more exercise than the average toy dog. This means several 'zoomie' sessions throughout the day are a must to keep them happy and healthy.
Their elegant appearance is due to their Papillon parent, which was bred as a companion dog for noblewomen in Europe. This heritage has given them a charming and charismatic look.
The Papillon weighs 7 to 13 pounds and stands 8 to 11 inches tall, making them a tiny but mighty companion. Their medium-length hair is a delight to behold, with wispier longer hair around their ears, neck, and tail.
See what others are reading: Welsh Corgi Papillon Mix
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a small dog breed that's known for its flat face, which can lead to breathing issues.
They're also quite stubborn, so don't expect them to be super obedient.
This breed is relatively small, measuring between 8 and 12 inches in height.
Pekingese dogs typically weigh between 10 to 16 pounds, making them a great option for those who live in small spaces.
Expand your knowledge: Shih Tzu Pekingese
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a feisty pooch who likes the sound of his own voice when there is trouble.
He's likely to weigh no more than 15 pounds and measure between 10 and 12 inches in height.
With his short hair, big, round puppy eyes, and tall, erect ears, he's a charming companion.
As a Pinscher mix, he'll likely inherit the rusty hues of the breed, with flashes of white from the Shih Tzu.
Socialization from a young age is crucial to prevent him from becoming overprotective.
Despite his tiny size, he's a brave bodyguard who'll stand up for his family.
Suggestion: Chiwawa Mixed with Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a great breed for those who want a small but energetic companion. They typically weigh between 10 to 18 pounds and measure between 11 to 13 inches.
They have a rugged shaggy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent tangles. Their coat will take on darker silver and brown hues, making them a stylish addition to any family.
These little dogs are intelligent and eager to please, picking up commands and tricks quickly. They're perfect for owners who want a dog that's both playful and trainable.
Their high energy level means they need plenty of exercise, but they'll reward you with plenty of cuddles and doggy kisses.
Here's an interesting read: Shih Tzu Coat Type
Schipperke
The Schipperke is a small dog breed known for its energetic personality. They can be quite hyper and love to run around.
Their high energy levels make them perfect for owners who enjoy active lifestyles. They'll keep you on your toes and ensure you get enough exercise.
Schipperkes are also known to be quite intelligent and trainable. With patience and consistency, they can learn a variety of commands and tricks.
Despite their energetic nature, Schipperkes are also happy to snuggle up and provide their owners with a warm welcome when they come home.
Coton De Tulear
The Coton De Tulear is a rare breed that's often overlooked, but it's a great option for those who want a lovable and affectionate companion.
It's a parent breed of the Coton Tzu mix, and its temperament is quite similar, producing a pup that's easygoing and adaptable.
The Coton De Tulear is known for its thick and fluffy exterior, which requires regular grooming to prevent knots.
Daily combing can help keep its coat under control, but many owners opt for a short clip for easier maintenance.
This breed can be sensitive, so it's essential to socialize it early on and build its confidence through basic obedience training.
Reward-based methods are the best approach, as harsh corrections can easily break this breed's spirit.
The Coton De Tulear is a small breed, weighing between 9 and 11 pounds, and measuring between 8 and 16 inches in height.
It's a great option for families who want a small but lively companion that will fit happily into their lifestyle.
Toy Fox
The Toy Fox Terrier is a great addition to any family, especially those with kids. They have boundless energy and love to play.
These little dogs are fearless and daring, making them a joy to have around. They're perfect for a farm dog, as they'll chase those rodents away in no time.
The Fo-Tzu, a Toy Fox Terrier Shih Tzu Mix, is a true comedian and a recipe for fun and cuddles. They have a scruffy coat with a mixture of white, brown, and black patches.
You'll need to walk your Toy Fox several times a day to keep them happy and healthy. This will also help prevent them from getting frustrated and ruining your furniture.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a unique breed that's often a bit quirky. He thinks of himself as a cat, and you may even find him climbing up trees or shelving units in search of higher ground.
This breed is known for its affectionate nature, and it craves comfort from its master. They're an equal mix of fun and affection, making them a great companion for many dog owners.
The Japanese Chin has a charming appearance, with long flowing silky locks, long ears, and large bug-like eyes.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a compact canine that weighs 12 to 16 pounds.
He measures 8 to 10 inches in height, making him a great companion for apartment living.
The Lhasa Apso has a fluffy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
Light silvers, browns, and white are favored coat colors for this breed.
He's a self-assured and confident dog who loves to bounce around after a long snooze on his master's lap.
Carrying him is often a preferred option over walking, thanks to his compact frame.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds, weighing between 2-8 pounds and standing about 6-10 inches tall.
They are known for their large eyes and small ears, which can be erect or floppy.
Chihuahuas are often considered to be one of the oldest dog breeds, with a history dating back over 2,000 years.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
Chihuahuas are highly intelligent and can be trained with positive reinforcement, but they can also be stubborn at times.
They are generally quiet dogs, but some may bark more than others.
Chihuahuas are loyal and attached to their owners, making them great companions for those who live in small spaces or have limited time for exercise.
They are also known to be relatively long-lived, with an average lifespan of 12-18 years.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a parent breed to the Blue Tzu Heeler, a mix of an Australian Cattle Dog and a Shih Tzu. This mix is known to be friendly and affectionate, but can be quite intense.
They inherit strong herding instincts from their Australian parent, but are likely to be calmer. This breed will still need a lot of exercise, making it perfect for an active owner.
If this caught your attention, see: Golden Retriever Australian Cattle Dog Mix
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a breed that's known for its size, with typical adults reaching 20-23 inches in height. They can weigh up to 65 pounds, depending on their sex.
These dogs are quite energetic and may have a strong instinct to "herd" their people, which is great for families who are looking for a dog that will keep them active.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a parent breed of the Cock-A-Tzu, a mix that requires constant attention to avoid anxiety.
They tend to be people pleasers, which makes them loyal companions with a little training.
Daily grooming is a must due to their curly, dense hair, but they require little exercise, making it manageable for most families.
They typically measure between 10 and 14 inches in height and weigh between 14 and 24 pounds.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Little Shih Tzu
Cairn
The Cairn is a small dog breed that originated in Scotland. They were originally bred to hunt and flush out small game.
Cairns are known for their distinctive beards and eyebrows, which are a result of their genetics. Their coats are usually rough and dense, with a variety of colors including brown, gray, and red.
Cairns are a relatively small breed, weighing in at around 10-13 pounds. They are also a relatively short breed, with an average height of 10-14 inches.
Cairns are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are highly social dogs that thrive on interaction with their owners and other dogs.
Beagle
The Beagle is a small dog breed that weighs between 18-30 pounds and stands 10-15 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires only occasional brushing.
Beagles are known for their friendly and curious nature, which makes them great family pets. They are relatively low-maintenance and don't require a lot of exercise, but they do need regular walks to stay happy and healthy.
One of the best things about Beagles is their small size, which makes them perfect for apartment living or for families with small children. They are also relatively quiet, which is a plus for those who live in close proximity to their neighbors.
Dachshund
Meet the Dachshund, a small dog breed that's big on personality. The Dachshund's origins date back to Germany in the 16th century.
They were bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals, which is reflected in their long, narrow body shape. This unique shape allows them to fit into tight spaces.
Dachshunds are available in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Their coats come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Their short stature can make them prone to back problems, so regular exercise and a healthy diet are essential for maintaining their health.
Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei is a unique breed that can make a great companion for the right owner. They are known to be quite protective of their pack and slightly suspicious of strangers.
Their size ranges from 20 to 40 pounds and 12 to 17 inches in height, making them a sturdy breed despite their toy mix status. This robust build also allows them to enjoy a good playfight.
Early socialization is crucial for Shar-Pei puppies, as they can be stubborn and a handful to train. With patience and consistency, they can become loving and loyal companions.
Their short to medium-length hair gives them a softer appearance, but don't let that fool you - they are robust and full of energy.
The Cutest
French Bull-Tzus are one of the most adorable mixes, with a face that's hard to resist. They're a great match for urban environments since they only require occasional walks.
These dogs are intelligent for their size, but they can be stubborn if faced with a task they don't like. Socialization is key to ensure they get along with other dogs and kids as they grow.
French Bull-Tzus are not high-maintenance when it comes to exercise, but they do expect to spend most of their time with a human companion. They're likely to appreciate couch cuddles and naps more than anything else.
Bully-Tzus, another popular mix, can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and skin problems. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and veterinary checkups are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
French Bull-Tzus are great companions for people who want a low-maintenance yet loving pet. They're perfect for city living, and with the right care, they can thrive in any environment.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are often paired with smaller breeds, resulting in larger mixed-breed dogs.
This mix may be a heavier shedder, so be prepared for regular grooming sessions.
Their love for attention means they can't tolerate long periods alone and may be prone to separation anxiety.
They need daily exercise, which can include rounds of fetch and plenty of walks, to keep them happy and healthy.
A family with a busy schedule may not be the best fit for this breed, as they require regular attention and interaction.
Aussie: Miniature Shepherd
The Miniature Shepherd is a great companion for active owners. They require a lot of living space to run around and get their energy out.
This breed is a mix of the Shih Tzu and the Australian Shepherd, making them a friendly and well-balanced dog. They are bigger than the Shih Tzu and much more energetic.
Daily grooming is a must for the Miniature Shepherd due to their thick double coat. They will sport any of their parent's colors and may even have bright blue or mismatched colored eyes.
They typically measure 10 to 14 inches in height and weigh 15 to 25 pounds.
Care: Cairn
The Cairn Terrier is a feisty and friendly breed that's perfect for city living. They weigh between 9 and 16 pounds.
Their short stature, measuring between 9 and 10 ½ inches tall, makes them a great choice for apartment dwellers.
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a popular breed known for its calm and affectionate nature. It's a great companion for families with smaller children, as it's playful and gentle.
This breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. The Shih Mo, a mix of the American Eskimo Dog and the Shih Tzu, is a popular variation that weighs between 8 and 13 pounds.
Intriguing read: American Eskimo Australian Shepherd Mix
Care
The Care of Small Dog Breeds is just as important as their cuteness.
Daily grooming is a must for breeds like the Coton Tzu, who can resemble a floating cotton ball due to their excessive hair.
For breeds with wavy coats, such as the Shih Apso, clipping their coat short is a must if you can't commit to daily combing.
Socialization is key for sensitive breeds like the Coton Tzu, who need early socialization and basic obedience training to build their confidence.
Reward-based methods are the way to go when training these delicate dogs, as harsh corrections can break their spirit.
Grooming needs can vary depending on the breed, but regular toothbrushing and nail clipping are essential for overall health, as seen in the Coton Tzu example.
The Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is a great breed to consider if you're looking for a small dog that's active but not too demanding. They max out at around 10 inches in height and 10 pounds in weight.
Their small size makes them a great fit for apartment living, but be prepared for some extra fluff in your life. Toy Poodles, like their Shih-Poo mixes, require regular grooming to prevent health issues like dry skin and ear problems.
Taking care of a Toy Poodle's grooming needs can be a big responsibility, but it's worth it to keep them happy and healthy. With regular bathing and hair cutting, you can help prevent these problems from becoming major issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the personality of a Shih Tzu mix?
Shih Tzu mixes are known for being playful, affectionate, and intelligent, making them a great fit for families. They thrive on human interaction and are often easy to train
Sources
- 10 Shih Tzu Mixes Who Will Make Your Heart Skip a Beat (dailypaws.com)
- A post shared by Sir Cookie 쿠키 🐶🦮 🇸🇬 (@sircookiethejatz) (instagram.com)
- Facebook (facebook.com)
- socialize (avma.org)
- 27 Shih Tzu Mixes: Marvelous Cuties! (k9ofmine.com)
- The 6 Cutest Shih Tzu Mixes You Need to See (thefairytaletraveler.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com