" The Shih-poo is a dog resulting from the cross between the Shih-tzu and the Poodle. This is a crossbreed dog that has become very popular in recent years due to its tender appearance and small size. The Shih-poo is an adorable little ball of hair endowed with extraordinary vitality. This is why the Shih-poo is one of the trending dog breeds in the world."
Do you want to know more about this dog? Continue reading and discover in this PlanèteAnimal sheet all the characteristics of the Shih-poo, how to take care of him and much more!
Origin
- Europe
Physical Characteristics
- Proportional
Size
- Little
Height
- 35-45
Adult Weight
- 3-10
Life expectancy
- 15-20
Recommended physical activity
- Average
Character
- Society
- Smart
- Affectionate
- Docile
Ideal for
- Children
- Apartment
- Allegric people
- Sports
Recommended climate
- Temperate
Hair type
- Short
- Curly
Origins of the Shih-poo
" The Shih-poo&39;s name comes from the combination of the names of its two parents. Thus, it takes the prefix shih from Shih tzu and the suffix poo from Poodle. These two breeds known to all mix equally to give birth to the Shih-poo which draws its characteristics from both in terms of appearance and temperament."
Although the genetic origin of the Shih-poo is well known, we do not know when this hybrid breed was born. There is therefore no concrete date to establish the exact origin of the Shih-poo.
Like other crossbred dog breeds, the Shih-poo does not have an official standard because it is a breed that is not recognized by international cynological organizations.
Characteristics of the Shih-poo
It is quite difficult to talk about the characteristics of the Shih-poo. Indeed, the breed is not yet widespread, therefore we do not have the exact number of specimens nor the studies necessary to establish an average in terms of height and weight. Based on the majority of Shih-poo, we can say that it weighs 3.6 and 8 kilograms, it measures between 20 and 38 centimeters at the height of the withers and it has an average life expectancy of between 15 and 17 years. , making him a small dog with a fairly high longevity.
The Shih-poo has a particular morphology, the result of mixing poodles and Shih-Tzus. His body is very well proportioned preventing him from losing his balance. The head has delicate shapes and is surrounded by a dense coat that increases its adorable appearance. His eyes are close together, are very bright and have a light brown color, characteristics that give him a gentle and affectionate look.The ears are rounded like those of the Poodle and hang slightly on each side of its head. Its muzzle is long and very narrow and its nose is black.
The coat of the Shih-poo is short and dense and has a slightly wavy shape, although it is common for the coat to be longer towards the head and ears. In addition, it is a breed that does not shed or shed very little, so it is recommended for people with allergies.
Shih-poo colors
His coat can be gray, brown, black, fawn, cream or any mixture of these colors.
The Shih-poo Puppy
Even if the Shih-poo is distinguished by its sweet and pleasant character, it is necessary to be very scrupulous in its education when it is small. Otherwise, he will tend to develop a mischievous and capricious character, so it is very common for him to continue biting and destroying objects as an adult.That's why it's best to start education at an early age so that the basics are laid down and learned as early as possible.
Shih-poo character
The Shih-poo is particularly distinguished by its kindness. On the one hand, he is a very cheerful, affectionate and very sensitive dog. On the other hand, it is a restless dog, sometimes mischievous, but very playful. He needs company and does not tolerate loneliness well, so much so that it can cause disorders such as separation anxiety or difficulties in socializing. He takes this character trait from both the Shih Tzu and the Poodle.
The Shih-poo is very attentive to his masters, he is always looking for cuddles and affection and he returns it just as well. However, he tends to be somewhat reluctant around strangers being rather timid and timid, especially if he has not been properly socialized.
It is an ideal breed for families because it loves to play, especially with children, although it is essential that children and the dog are properly educated so that they respect each other and that he there are no scares or damage.
Caring for the Shih-poo
The Shih-poo's coat requires some attention to keep it in good condition, and one of them is regular brushing. For this, it is necessary to use a brush adapted to your hair, because there are brushes for all types of hair on the market. Brushing is fundamental because the Shih-poo does not naturally shed a lot of hair, so it must be helped to get rid of dead hair so that it does not accumulate.
As far as physical activity is concerned, the Shih-poo needs to walk around and play to stay calm and serene. For this, we can use different types of games, such as those to stimulate his intelligence, or circuits of agility which include many exercises that help him to develop his muscles and maintain him in good he alth.
Finally, note that it is essential to offer a balanced and quality diet, both to the Shih-poo puppy and to the adult Shih-poo.It is possible to set up a BARF menu, cook food or buy quality food, such as natural kibble for dogs.
Shih-poo education
One of the main concerns of Shih-poo guardians is to get him used to being alone for more or less long periods of time, something very easy to do with other more independent dog breeds. However, it becomes very complicated in the case of the Shih-poo because he is very dependent and needs contact and affection all the time to feel good. This is why it can be difficult to teach them to tolerate loneliness, but it is possible by using the appropriate techniques such as those you can find in the article: My dog howls at death when I leave, what to do?
Another aspect closely related to the previous one and which requires some training concerns barking. Shih-poos are quite prone to barking, and that's probably something we want to avoid when we have one in the home.For this, there are several activities and instructions that can correct excessive barking.
Finally, we must emphasize the importance of socializing the puppy as well as the adult dog, and of using techniques based on positive reinforcement for all his education.
Shih-poo he alth
Although he is a dog with irreproachable vitality, the Shih-poo remains exposed to pathologies that affect the two parent breeds. On the one hand, he may be predisposed to developing eye problems such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy, typical in both Shih-tzus and Poodles.
Poodles tend to suffer from patellar dislocation, hypothyroidism which is a hormonal condition, and other bone pathologies.
Given that there is a possible risk of developing one of these disorders as well as any bacterial or viral infection, it is of the utmost importance to consult a veterinarian regularly.The latter can, in addition to the necessary examinations, make the appropriate vaccines and deworm your animal so that it remains happy and he althy.
Where to adopt a Shih-poo
Now, who wouldn't want one of these adorable doggies at home? If this is your case, it is essential to reflect and ask yourself the right questions before adopting an animal. Do you feel capable of welcoming an animal into your home and assuming all that that entails?
One of the most important things before adopting is to take into account all the needs and requirements that your future companion may have. This concerns his character as well as his he alth and his physical needs such as food, care, daily exercise Moreover, it is of course essential to be able to take care of your animal, and not (ESPECIALLY ) not resort to abandonment.
Finally, if you decide to adopt a Shih-poo, we recommend that you turn to SPAs and animal shelters near you.Even if they don't have Shih-poo to offer you at the moment, you can wait, or you can increase your search area around you. You will certainly soon find a Shih-poo waiting for affection who will be very happy to join your family!
Shih-poo pictures
