Shih Tzu Poodle Puppies: Everything You Need to Know Before Bringing Home a New Pet

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Posted Oct 2, 2024

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Welcoming a new Shih Tzu Poodle puppy into your family can be a thrilling experience. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, which make great companions.

Shih Tzu Poodle puppies require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. This can be a time-consuming task, but it's essential for their health and appearance.

Their small size, typically weighing between 9-16 pounds, makes them a great fit for city living or small homes. They are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, requiring daily walks and playtime.

Shih Tzu Poodle puppies are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training, making them relatively easy to train.

Mix Characteristics

The Shih Tzu Poodle mix is a lovable companion that thrives on attention and affection.

They have a high affection level, which means they love to cuddle and be around their family members. You can expect them to follow you around the house, always wanting to be near you.

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Their friendly nature makes them great with people, but they may not be the best fit for families with very young children due to their medium kid-friendliness.

Here are some key characteristics of the Shih Tzu Poodle mix:

Overall, they are intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times. Positive reinforcement is key to helping them learn tricks and commands.

Pet Grooming

Shih Tzu Poodle puppies require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their coat. Brushing their coat daily or every other day is essential to keep it untangled and prevent mats from forming.

Their coat type, whether curly, wavy, or straight, will determine the frequency of grooming. Generally, the curlier the coat, the less it will shed.

You'll need to schedule regular haircuts from a professional groomer every four to 12 weeks, depending on the coat type. Trimming the nails every two weeks and checking the ears once a week is also crucial.

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Excessive dirt or redness in the ears requires a veterinary visit. Cleaning the ears with a pet-safe ear cleaner is essential to prevent infections.

Daily teeth brushing is recommended to ensure good dental health, and regular nail trimming will prevent discomfort while walking. Wipe their eyes daily to prevent tear staining, which is common in Shih Tzu Poodle puppies.

Regular veterinary checkups will help detect any health concerns early, and a dietary schedule is essential to prevent overeating and weight gain.

Health and Issues

Shih Tzu Poodle puppies are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions inherited from their parent breeds.

Shih Poos may inherit eye conditions such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy from their parent breeds, which can affect their vision and quality of life if not addressed.

Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred Shih Tzus and Poodles and test them for genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together.

Shih Tzu Poodles are prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and various eye problems, including eyelid abnormalities.

Common Problems

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Shih Poos can inherit eye problems from their parent breeds, such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy, which can affect their vision and quality of life.

Responsible breeders test their adult Shih Poos for genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together, and some even offer a health guarantee on their puppies.

Shih Poos are prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and various eye problems inherited from their Shih Tzu and Poodle parents.

Some Shih Poos may develop skin allergies or food sensitivities, manifesting as itchy skin, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues.

Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred Shih Tzus and Poodles and test them for genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together.

Shih Poos can be susceptible to certain health conditions inherited from their parent breeds, and identifying and avoiding allergens is key to managing skin allergies or food sensitivities.

For more insights, see: Japanese Chin Dog Health Problems

Pet Insurance

As a responsible pet owner, getting pet insurance for your Shih Poo is a crucial step in planning for their long-term health.

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Shih Poos can inherit hereditary conditions from their Shih Tzu and Poodle parents, so it's essential to get insurance that covers breed-specific conditions, excluding pre-existing ones.

The best time to get insurance for your Shih Poo is when they're still a healthy puppy, to avoid pre-existing conditions being excluded from coverage later on.

Early enrollment ensures you won't have to worry about costly health issues down the line, and it's a great way to protect your furry friend's health and your wallet.

Securing pet insurance and a wellness plan can help manage routine expenses like vaccinations, check-ups, and grooming, which is especially important for a breed that requires regular pampering.

Check this out: Shih Tzu Insurance

A Diet

It's essential to keep your shih tzu poodle puppy at a healthy weight to prevent joint disorders like hip dysplasia and luxating patella.

Most shih tzu poodle puppies do well with 2-3 small meals per day, so consider dividing their food into multiple meals.

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Puppies have tiny mouths, so they need special mini-puppy food that contains lots of protein to fuel healthy growth.

Small dogs can easily become overweight if overfed, so be cautious not to overfeed your shih tzu poodle puppy.

High-quality food is recommended for shih tzu poodles, as they tend to have dental issues, and hard biscuits and dental chews can help remove bacteria-causing plaque.

You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your shih tzu poodle's diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs to make a specific recommendation.

Shih tzu poodles need a diet formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy, and high-quality food is essential to achieve firm muscles and overall health.

A daily feeding schedule is ideal, with a minimum of treats, and it's crucial to monitor your puppy's weight to prevent excess weight gain.

Training and Behavior

Shih tzu poodle puppies are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This means using treats and praise to encourage good behavior.

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They can be a bit stubborn at times, a trait they may inherit from their Shih Tzu parent, but patience and consistency will yield great results. Early training is key to developing good habits and preventing unwanted behaviors.

These little dogs are often described as confident and adaptable, making them great pets for various households. They thrive on interaction and attention, and with consistency and positive reinforcement, they can learn to behave well in a variety of situations.

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 and the Poodle's intelligence, making them both cuddly and smart. They're confident and adaptable, making them great pets for various households.

Friendly and playful, most Shih-Poos are sized like typical lap dogs, and their moderate energy levels make them prone to extended napping sessions in your lap. They thrive on interaction and attention.

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While they may not be overly eager to learn new tricks, early training and socialization are crucial. Consistency and positive reinforcement prove effective methods for fostering well-behaved Shih-Poos.

The breed enjoys attention and exhibits this certain eagerness to entertain as well as please. However, they can be shy with strangers, warming up to a new face is quite difficult and takes a long time.

Shih Poos can be somewhat vocal, a trait often inherited from their Shih Tzu parent. Early training can help manage excessive barking.

Positive reinforcement methods like clicker training using tasty treat rewards get great results from any dog.

Training

Training is an essential part of raising a Shih Poo. They can be smart, but their trainability depends on whether they inherited the poodle's eager-to-please personality or the Shih Tzu's more stubborn nature.

Positive reinforcement methods like clicker training using tasty treat rewards get great results from any Shih Poo. This method is effective because Shih Poos are intelligent and love to please their people.

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Shih Poos can be a bit stubborn at times, a trait they may inherit from their Shih Tzu parent. However, patience and consistency will yield great results.

Shih Poos are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They can inherit some stubbornness from their Shih Tzu parent, but this doesn't mean they can't learn.

The Poodle's intelligence doesn't necessarily mean that Shih Poos are easily trainable. They may inherit the Shih Tzu's stubborn streak, which can impede training.

Early training is crucial, especially for potty training, which can be a challenge due to their potential stubbornness. Socialization is also key to shaping your Shih Poo's adult personality.

Shih Poos can make good watchdogs, alerting their owners to newcomers, but they can be somewhat vocal, a trait often inherited from their Shih Tzu parent. Early training can help manage excessive barking.

Recommended read: Shiba Inu Stubborn

Exercise and Living Needs

Exercise and living needs are essential for shih tzu poodle puppies. They need daily exercise to stay healthy and fit.

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Shih tzu poodle puppies can thrive in various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. They don't require a lot of space, but do need daily exercise and mental stimulation.

A couple of short walks each day, combined with playtime, is usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs. You can also consider training for fun dog sports like agility or flyball if your puppy is energetic and trainable.

Shih tzu poodles have a high energy level, so half an hour of daily exercise is a good starting point. This can include a brief game in your backyard and some basic obedience training.

Size

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.

As a cross between Shih-Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, the general expectation is for the Shih-Poo to be on the smaller side.

Most individuals within this breed typically weigh between eight to 18 pounds.

Their height ranges from eight to 18 inches, with some variation depending on their Poodle parent's size.

Their weight can vary accordingly, just like their Poodle and Shih Tzu parents, with categories like teacup, miniature, and standard.

Exercise

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Shih Poo mixes still need some exercise despite being indoor dogs. Aim for two walks a day or one walk and one play session in a safely enclosed space.

They don't require a lot of space but do need daily exercise and mental stimulation. A couple of short walks each day, combined with playtime, is usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs.

Shih Poos have moderate exercise needs. A couple of short walks daily, combined with playtime, is usually sufficient.

Their small size means they don't need massive amounts of exercise. However, they do have a high energy level, so your pet must have half an hour of daily exercise to keep him healthy and fit.

A brief game in your backyard and some basic obedience training can be all your Shih-Poo needs every day to keep him happy.

Broaden your view: Shih Tzu Day

Considering a Pet?

Considering a pet? First, check your local animal shelters and rescue organizations to see if you can find a Shih Tzu-Poodle mix looking for a new home.

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You can also do some research to look for a responsible Shih Tzu-Poodle mix breeder who tests their breeding dogs for health issues common to both the Shih Tzu and Poodle.

The average Shih Tzu-Poodle mix will cost you around $1200-$4000.

Finding a reputable breeder is crucial, as they should provide health clearances for both parent breeds and raise puppies in a clean, loving environment.

Adopting an adult Shih Poo can be a great option, as their personality is already developed, and you can often get a clearer picture of their health status.

Regardless of where you get your Shih Poo, schedule a veterinary check-up soon after bringing them home to ensure they start their life with you on a healthy note.

General Information

The Shih Tzu Poodle puppies are a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Miniature or Toy Poodle, making them a hybrid breed.

Their size varies depending on the size of the Poodle parent, typically ranging from 8-13 inches tall and 7-20 pounds.

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

These adorable puppies are known for their cute teddy bear looks and sturdy bodies.

Their lifespan is relatively long, with a typical range of 10-15 years.

The American Kennel Club doesn't recognize the Shih Poo as an official breed, but they're still a popular and desirable crossbreed.

Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind:

History

The Shih-Poo's history is a fascinating blend of two ancient breeds. The Shih-Poo is a relatively new designer dog breed in North America.

It's believed that interest in these dogs sparked-off late in the 1990s, but the exact origin of the Shih-Poo is unknown. The Shih-Poo is an intriguing blend of the German-origin Poodle and the Chinese Royalty-associated Shih Tzu.

The Shih-Poo's creator remains a mystery, but it's clear that the breed was developed to address some issues in the Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu may have been chosen for its friendly, gentle, and adorable nature.

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Adorable Shih Tzu Puppy Looking Up in Sunny Garden
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The Shih-Poo has inherited the intelligence and sophistication of the Poodle, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a furry friend. The Shih-Poo makes excellent hypoallergenic pets, providing an ideal choice for those seeking a furry friend to shower with attention and affection.

Unfortunately, like other breeds, Shih-Poos may find themselves in shelters due to individuals not ready for a long-term commitment. Those keen on adopting a Shih-Poo can explore local Shih Tzu or Poodle rescues, as these hybrids may be awaiting adoption there.

Quick Facts

The Shih-Poo is a hybrid breed created by crossing a purebred Shih Tzu and a Miniature or Toy Poodle. They're easily recognizable due to their cute teddy bear looks and sturdy bodies.

The American Kennel Club doesn't recognize the Shih-Poo as an official breed, but as a desirable crossbreed, they can sometimes cost as much as or more than a pedigree pup!

The Shih-Poo's popularity has made them a favorite of puppy mills, so if you see one of these pups advertised for a very cheap price, beware.

Brown Shih Tzu Puppy
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Here are some key facts about the Shih-Poo:

  • Name: Shih Poo, Shihpoo, Shipoo, Shih-Poo
  • Origin: United States (late 20th century)
  • Size: 8-13 inches tall, 7-20 pounds
  • Lifespan: 10-15 years
  • Appearance: Varies, often with a fluffy coat in various colors
  • Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, playful
  • Compatibility: Great for families, seniors, and apartment dwellers
  • Intelligence: Smart and trainable
  • Exercise & Energy: Moderate energy levels
  • Grooming Needs: High maintenance, regular grooming required
  • Training: Responsive to positive reinforcement
  • Health: Generally healthy, but prone to some inherited conditions
  • Highlights: Adaptable, loving companion with a teddy bear appearance

The Shih-Poo's size varies depending on the size of the Poodle used in the breeding project. For example, if the parent Poodle is a Miniature, the height is unlikely to exceed 15 inches, and the weight should be around 20 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Shih Tzu poodle?

The cost of a Shih Poo can range from $50 to $4,500, depending on the breeder or seller. Prices vary widely, so it's essential to research and understand the factors that affect the cost.

How big do Shih Tzu Poodles get?

Shih-Poos typically grow between 8-18 inches tall and weigh 8-18 pounds, making them a great fit for small living spaces. Their size can vary depending on whether they inherit traits from a Toy or Miniature Poodle parent.

What is the lifespan of a Shih Tzu poodle mix?

A Shih Tzu Poodle mix typically lives for 13-18 years, inheriting the long lifespan of its parent breeds. With proper care, your Shih-poo can enjoy a happy and healthy life for many years.

Are Shih Poos a good dog?

Yes, Shih Poos make excellent companions for those seeking a friendly, playful, and affectionate pet. They're well-suited for urban living and bonding with owners.

What are the disadvantages of Shih Poo?

Shih Poo owners should be aware of potential health issues, including allergies, joint problems, and endocrine disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced lifestyle can help mitigate these risks.

Terry Williamson

Junior Writer

Terry Williamson is a rising star in the world of writing, bringing a fresh perspective to the topics she covers. With a passion for animal welfare and education, Terry has established herself as a go-to expert on canine companions. Her articles on the standard poodle and poodle breeds have been widely read and appreciated for their engaging style and informative content.

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