Shih Tzu Weiner Dog Mix: Everything You Need to Know

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The Shih Tzu Weiner Dog Mix is a unique and lovable breed that's perfect for families or individuals who want a small, affectionate companion. This mix is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Weiner Dog, resulting in a dog that's both playful and adaptable.

The Shih Tzu Weiner Dog Mix typically weighs between 9-16 pounds and stands between 8-11 inches tall. They have a short, smooth coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

In terms of temperament, the Shih Tzu Weiner Dog Mix is known for being friendly, outgoing, and energetic. They make great family pets and are often described as " Velcro dogs" because of their strong attachment to their owners.

Temperament & Intelligence

The Schweenie is a people-pleaser, always eager to make their owners happy. They're intelligent dogs that can pick up on commands quickly, but they can also be stubborn at times.

Their larger-than-life personalities mean they're not your typical quiet lap dog. They're happiest when they're involved in whatever their owners are doing.

Credit: youtube.com, Shih Tzu Dachshund Mix aka Schweenie

With their clever nature comes a bit of sass - they'll let you know if they want to be left alone or if someone is sitting too close to their bed. They're a little snappier than other breeds, so be prepared for some assertive behavior.

Despite their occasional stubbornness, Schweenies love their owners and thrive on attention. They're natural performers who'll soak up the praise and affection.

Owning a Dog

Owning a dog can be a handful, even for the smallest breeds. Many people believe that smaller dogs mean less work, but it's not always true.

The Schweenie, a Shih Tzu Wiener dog mix, can be a low-maintenance canine, but don't let their size fool you. They require regular care and attention to stay happy and healthy.

They can be stubborn at times, so be prepared for some challenges.

Feeding

Feeding your Schweenie requires some thought and attention to its specific needs. Give your Schweenie quality dry foods that are prepared for smaller breeds.

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To prevent overeating, feed your Schweenie 2-3 times a day in proper amounts to take care of its energy requirements. This helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of back problems.

Human food contains more calories and fat than your dog needs, so it's best to stick to their regular diet if you can. Resist the temptation to feed them table scraps!

Using food as a reward when training is an excellent way to motivate your Schweenie, but be sure to adjust their regular meals accordingly.

Training

Training a Schweenie can be a challenge, especially for new dog owners. They are intelligent and people-pleasing, but also stubborn and willful at times.

You'll need to experiment with different training methods to find what works best for your Schweenie. Dachshund and Shih Tzu traits may influence their behavior, so be prepared for some trial and error.

Signing up for puppy classes is a great way to discover the most effective training methods for your Schweenie. This will help you establish a strong bond with your dog and prevent unwanted behaviors.

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Schweenies can be easily distracted, so it's essential to keep training sessions short and engaging. They'll appreciate the attention and interaction, and you'll see progress in no time.

Remember, consistency and patience are key when training a Schweenie. With the right approach, you can develop a well-behaved and loving companion that will be by your side for years to come.

Health and Conditions

The Schweenie, a Shih Tzu Weiner dog mix, can be a hardy companion, but like any breed, they're not immune to health issues. Allergies are a common concern, and it's essential to monitor their environment and diet to prevent reactions.

Some Schweenies may be prone to bladder problems, including infections and stones. Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch these issues early.

Eye problems and reverse sneezing are also potential health concerns for the Schweenie breed. These issues can be distressing for both the dog and the owner, so it's crucial to stay on top of their health.

Here are some potential health issues to watch out for:

  • Allergies
  • Bladder infections
  • Bladder stones
  • Eye problems
  • Reverse sneezing

Health

Shih Tzu Dog Lying Near the Glass Window
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The Schweenie's health is a topic worth exploring. They are generally hardier than their parent breeds, but like any dog, they can be prone to certain issues.

Allergies are a common problem for Schweenies, as well as their parent breeds, the Shih Tzu and Dachshund. They can cause a range of symptoms, from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Bladder infections and bladder stones are two other health issues that can affect Schweenies. These can be painful and uncomfortable for your dog, so it's essential to monitor their urinary health.

Eye problems are also a concern for Schweenies, as they can inherit eye issues from their parent breeds. Regular eye exams can help catch any problems early on.

Reverse sneezing is a common issue in small breeds like the Schweenie. It's usually harmless, but it can be alarming if you've never seen it before.

Some Schweenies may be at risk of brachycephalic syndrome, a breathing problem that can make it hard for them to breathe. This is especially true if they have a short, flat face.

A Close-Up Shot of a Shih Tzu Puppy
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Hip dysplasia is another potential issue for Schweenies, as it can cause arthritis and mobility problems later in life. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent this.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, is a condition that can cause eye irritation and discomfort in Schweenies. It's often treated with medication and eye drops.

Patellar luxation, or kneecap dislocation, can be a painful problem for Schweenies. It's usually caused by a genetic issue, so it's essential to work with a reputable breeder.

Portosystemic shunt is a rare condition that can affect Schweenies, causing liver problems and other issues. It's usually diagnosed with a liver function test.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Schweenies:

  • Allergies
  • Bladder infections
  • Bladder stones
  • Eye problems
  • Reverse sneezing
  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
  • Patellar luxation
  • Portosystemic shunt

24

24 is a critical number when it comes to heart health, as it's the recommended daily intake of vitamin D to maintain healthy blood pressure.

Research shows that people with low vitamin D levels are more likely to experience hypertension.

Selective Focus Photography of White and Tan Shih Tzu Puppy Carrying by Smiling Woman
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For individuals with type 2 diabetes, maintaining a blood sugar level below 140 mg/dL is crucial to prevent complications.

This can be achieved through a combination of diet and exercise, with a goal of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day.

A 2019 study found that individuals who consumed a diet high in fiber had a lower risk of developing heart disease.

Fiber intake should be at least 25 grams per day for optimal health benefits.

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher, as it can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Schweenie Facts

Schweenies are generally small to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 7-18 pounds and standing between 8-10 inches tall.

They can be prone to obesity, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they get regular exercise.

The lifespan of a Schweenie is around 10-16 years.

Their coats can be a combination of the Shih Tzu's long, flowing coat and the Dachshund's short, smooth coat, requiring regular grooming.

Schweenies are often described as friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, making them great family pets.

Their intelligence and trainability can make them responsive to commands and housebreaking.

Breed Information

Credit: youtube.com, All About the Shih-Tzu Dachshund Mix (Schweenie) | Should you get a Schweenie?

The Shih Tzu Weiner Dog mix, also known as a Shih Tzu Dachshund mix, is a unique breed that combines the friendly and outgoing nature of the Shih Tzu with the playful and energetic personality of the Dachshund.

They typically weigh between 8-18 pounds and stand between 6-10 inches tall at the shoulder, making them a compact and adorable companion.

Shih Tzu Weiner Dog mixes are generally considered to be good with children and make excellent family pets, but they can be wary of strangers and may require some time to warm up to new people.

Has Royal Blood

The Schweenie's royal heritage is a fascinating aspect of its breed history.

The Shih Tzu, one of the Schweenie's parent breeds, was highly valued by the Chinese ruling class before the Chinese Revolution.

Their regal appearance and association with nobility almost led to the breed's downfall, but fortunately, their royal blood lives on.

Your Schweenie puppy inherits this regal lineage from its Shih Tzu parent.

Shorgi

Credit: youtube.com, Shorgi Dog breed

The Shorgi is a designer dog breed that thrives on human attention and affection. They need regular interaction and can't be left alone for long periods.

They have thick fur, which is more suitable for mild, cooler climates rather than warm or tropical environments.

Family and Lifestyle

Schweenies, being a mix of Shih Tzu and Wiener dog, can make good family dogs as long as everyone in the household is aware of their quirks.

They like their own space and won't appreciate pets or people invading what they see as their personal space. Training your Schweenie to use a crate where they can be on their own is a good idea.

Schweenies are usually better suited for families with slightly older children who can understand and respect the Schweenie's need for personal space. Good training will also go a long way to ensuring that your Schweenie feels safe and secure as part of a family unit.

Exercise

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Exercise is a crucial part of a Schweenie's life.

Schweenies need regular walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy, but the amount of exercise needed depends on their parents' traits.

A short walk or indoor playtime should be enough for a relatively inactive Schweenie.

However, if your Schweenie has more energetic parents, they'll need more exercise to burn off their excess energy.

Expect two short daily walks and playtime to be sufficient for a Schweenie that falls somewhere in the middle.

This will keep them happy and healthy without overdoing it.

Be mindful of your Schweenie's long back and avoid letting them jump off furniture or climb stairs.

Special ramps can be a great solution to protect them from injury.

Good Family Dogs?

Schweenies can make great family dogs, but they have some specific needs that must be met. They like their own space and can be protective of it.

To ensure a harmonious household, it's essential to train your Schweenie to use a crate where they can have some alone time. This will help them feel secure and reduce the risk of unwanted behavior.

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Younger children may not always understand when a Schweenie is tired of attention, so families with younger kids need to be extra vigilant. If they don't pick up on warning signs, a Schweenie might growl, bite, or snap to get their point across.

Good training for both dogs and children is crucial in a Schweenie family. It will help everyone in the household understand and respect each other's boundaries.

Grooming and Care

You'll need to brush your Schweenie's coat once a week to remove tangles and keep their coat in good condition.

Their grooming needs can vary depending on whether they inherit the short coat of the Daschund or the longer coat of the Shih Tzu.

If your Schweenie has longer hair, regular trims at a professional groomer will keep them looking tidy.

Grooming

Grooming is an essential part of your Schweenie's care, and the frequency depends on their coat type. If your puppy inherits the short coat of the Daschund, you can get away with minimal grooming.

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You'll need to brush your Schweenie once a week to remove tangles and keep their coat in good condition. This will help prevent matting and keep their fur looking healthy.

If your puppy has longer hair, a professional trim from a groomer can keep them looking tidy. Regular grooming sessions can also help your Schweenie get used to being handled.

It's also a good idea to get your Schweenie used to having their teeth and ears checked regularly. This will help them become more comfortable with the process.

Trimming their nails around once a month is also a must to prevent overgrowth.

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Schweenies, like the Shih Tzu and Dachshund, are low-shedding dogs.

They enjoy being in the company of companions, whether human or canine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a Schweenie?

A Schweenie's lifespan typically ranges from 12 to 15 years. With proper care, they can live a long and healthy life.

How big does a shorkie get?

A Shorkie typically grows to be 7-10 inches tall and weighs 7-16 pounds. Due to their small size, they require careful handling and attention.

Are Schweenie good dogs?

Schweenies are loyal, loving, and intelligent dogs that make great companions, but like any breed, they can have a stubborn streak. They thrive on human interaction and are happiest when surrounded by their favorite people

What is the personality of a Schweenie dog?

Schweenies are loyal, loving, and intelligent dogs with a strong desire to please, but can also be stubborn at times. They thrive on human companionship and are happiest when surrounded by their favorite people.

What is the life expectancy of a ShiChi dog?

A ShiChi dog's average lifespan is around 15 years, but individual longevity can vary depending on inherited health factors.

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.

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