- Fast Facts:
Height: 8-13 inches
Weight: 8-18 lbs.
Life span: 10-15 years
Best suited for: families with children, singles & children, apartments or houses with or without yards
Temperament: Fun-loving, spunky, energetic, playful
The Shihpoo is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. He may have the curly coat of a Poodle or the long, straight coat of a Shih Tzu, but he always has a cute, alert expression and a sturdy body. Like his parent breeds, the Shihpoo can come in a multitude of solid colors or in a particolor pattern (a color plus white).
Allergy suffering tends to be low or non-existent because of the hypoallergenic qualities (comes from the Poodle). There is very little dander or hair loss when compared to other dogs. However, it is important to note that no dog, not even the Poodle, is completely hypoallergenic. Extremely sensitive people may still experience slight discomfort but that isn’t very likely.
Shih-Poos’ coats can be long and silky or short and curly or even somewhere in between. Colors are as various as those in the rainbow. Major differences in coat style and color can occur within the same litter of Shih-Poo puppies.
Brushing is essential and should be done at least twice weekly. The Shih-Poo’s coat might need seasonal trimming; it all depends upon the type of coat the particular dog has. Bathing is necessary each month as the Shih-Poo tends to have skin issues.
Shih-Poos need to be fed a high quality diet of dry dog food. Dry kibble is essential as this crossbreed tends to have dental problems, including premature tooth loss. Dry food can help to prevent this as well as caries, gum disease and bad breath. This crossbreed has the tendency to overeat so careful monitoring of the Shih-Poo’s caloric intake is important to his overall health and well-being.