Shih Poos are a popular designer dog breed known for their loving, friendly nature and ability to be excellent companion dogs. They are known for their low-shedding, low-maintenance nature, making them ideal for families with older children. Shih Poos are also known for their intelligence and adaptability, making them suitable for city or apartment living.
However, the origin of individual designer dog breeds is difficult to determine, as breeders have been intentionally crossbreeding purebreds for decades. The majority of mixed breed Shih Poos are known for their adaptability, affection, and social nature, making them an ideal choice for families, seniors, couples, or retirees.
Sih Poos are generally patient and gentle with children, but due to their small size, interactions should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury. They are best suited for families with older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Their friendly, outgoing demeanor means they can do well with family members of all ages, including children and older adults.
When properly socialized, Shih Poos can be an excellent family dog, but they may not be the best choice for families with young children. Younger kids often play too rough, and Shih Poos may not be the best choice for families with younger children.
Despite their adaptability, affection, and social nature, Shih Poos can be quite needy dogs. They are usually friendly with their family and trusting of strangers. They are known for their friendliness and loyalty to their family members, making them a great choice for families with older children.
In conclusion, Shih Poos are a versatile and adaptable mixed-breed dog that makes excellent companions for families, seniors, couples, or retirees. However, they may not be the best choice for families with young children due to their rough nature and need for regular grooming.
| Article | Description | Site |
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| Shih-Poo Dog Breed Health and Care | Their friendly, outgoing demeanor means the breed can do well with family members of all ages (including children and older adults) and even … | petmd.com |
| Shih Poo Dog Breed-Temperament, Personality and … | While friendly and great at getting along well with other pets, especially if introduced as puppies, older shih poos might not love having other dogs around. | hillspet.com |
| Shih-poo – Dog Breeds | Shih-poos, in general, are versatile dogs and tend to be ideal for families, seniors, couples, or retirees, says Jen Jones, a professional dog … | dailypaws.com |
📹 Shih Poo – Top 10 Facts
Shih-Poo is a mixed breed dog — a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle. Small, hypoallergenic, and cuddly companions, …
Are Shihpoo Poodles A Good Family Dog?
The Shih Poo is a mixed breed dog, combining the traits of the Shih Tzu and Poodle, making them suitable for family environments. Known for their friendly, gentle, and outgoing personalities, Shih Poos typically thrive with family members of all ages, including children and older adults, as well as pets like cats and dogs. Their calm demeanor, inherited from the Shih Tzu, combined with the robustness from their Poodle lineage, enhances their ability to adapt to homes with kids. However, it's essential for families with young children to teach kids how to interact gently with these small dogs to prevent accidental injuries.
Shih Poos are also hypoallergenic and often have low-shedding coats, appealing to those with allergies. They don’t require excessive space or exercise, making them fitting for different living situations. Their playful, affectionate nature transforms them into delightful companions, although interactions with small children should be supervised. Shih Poos generally flourish in environments where they receive plenty of companionship but might struggle with situations involving rough play. Ultimately, Shih Poos are charming, adaptable dogs that, when properly socialized, can become loyal family members, lending joy and warmth to households they inhabit.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Shih-Poo?
Typically, Shih Poos have a life expectancy ranging from 10 to 17 years, closely mirroring that of their parent breeds, Miniature and Toy Poodles (14-17 years) and Shih Tzus (11-17 years). Generally, Shih Poos enjoy one of the highest lifespans among Poodle mixes. Life expectancy is influenced by various factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. Small dog breeds like Shih Poos often have longer lifespans, with some living into their late teens.
The breed’s average lifespan is about 10 to 16 years, and while many fall within this range, some may live beyond 17 years with proper care. Both Shih Tzus and Poodles face health challenges typical to their breeds, which can affect longevity. The Shih Poo’s coat is non-shedding, requiring regular grooming to maintain its medium-length, soft, curly texture. Overall, by providing a healthy lifestyle through exercise and regular veterinary care, owners can significantly enhance the longevity of their Shih Poos.
The size of Shih Poos typically ranges from 7 to 20 pounds and their height from 8 to 15 inches. While they benefit from longevity, awareness of potential health issues related to the parent breeds is essential for ensuring a long and healthy life.
What Are The Cons Of A Shih Poo?
Shih Poos, a cross between Shih Tzus and Poodles, tend to live long lives, often exceeding 17 years. However, they may inherit health issues from their parent breeds, such as allergies, patellar luxation, vision problems, and endocrine disorders like Addison's disease and hypothyroidism. While known for being hypoallergenic due to their Poodle genes, Shih Poos can still experience various health concerns, including renal dysplasia and Invertebral Disk Disease.
Their affectionate nature makes them popular pets, but potential owners should be aware of challenges. Shih Poos can be stubborn, making training commands and potty training tougher, and they are prone to separation anxiety, as they prefer being around their owners. They adapt well to different living situations and are described as quiet and obedient, though they are not typical barkers like Shih Tzus. Overall, Shih Poos are small, low-shedding dogs with moderate energy needs.
Pros include their intelligence and friendly demeanor, while cons involve their high maintenance, potential anxiety, and training difficulties. Being proactive about their health with routine vet check-ups is recommended, especially in their first year.
What Is The Personality Of A Shih Poo?
Shih Poos, a delightful crossbreed of Shih Tzus and miniature or toy Poodles, are renowned for their charming personalities and affectionate nature. These small, energetic dogs combine the best traits of both parent breeds, resulting in playful, loving companions who enjoy pleasing their families. With alert expressions and sturdy builds, Shih Poos stand out as loving pets that thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention. Generally friendly and outgoing, they adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, and can get along with children and other pets.
Shih Poos boast moderate energy levels, making them suitable for relaxed home environments. They benefit from mental stimulation and enjoy engaging in playful activities, including fetch. Their temperament is typically described as affectionate, clever, and slightly willful, displaying loyalty and an eagerness for companionship. While Shih Poos may bark more than Shih Tzus, they are not excessive barkers.
Overall, Shih Poos make excellent companions, blending joy, energy, and love into their relationships with owners, ensuring they remain delightful additions to any family. With their unique personalities, Shih Poos embody the perfect blend of charm and loyalty.
Are Shih Poos High Maintenance?
Shih-poos, small and intelligent hybrids of Shih Tzus and Poodles, are ideal for new pet owners and apartment living due to their low shedding and moderate exercise needs, requiring about 30 minutes of daily activity. Originating from crossbreeding, their traits and grooming needs can vary. While they shed minimally, grooming can be time-consuming due to their coat's texture and potential double layers. Regular brushing is essential to prevent tangles and matting, and many owners choose professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.
Shih-poo puppies need frequent meals to avoid hypoglycemia, while adults typically eat two to three times daily. They are excellent family dogs, demonstrating a friendly temperament and a tendency toward separation anxiety. Shih-poos thrive on human companionship and exercise, performing well in agility and rally sports if maintained properly. Although considered low-maintenance compared to other breeds, they still require significant grooming efforts.
Owners must be diligent with brushing and trimming to keep their coats healthy. Overall, the Shih Poo is a delightful companion for those who prioritize grooming and care, boasting a lifespan of 12 to 17 years, attributed to hybrid vigor. Before adopting this breed, it's crucial to understand their specific needs, health issues, and maintenance costs to ensure a happy and healthy pet experience.
Can Shih Poos Be Left Alone?
Shih Poos, a mix of Shih Tzu and Miniature Poodle, are known for their affectionate nature but generally do not cope well with being left alone. They are prone to separation anxiety, leading to behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and signs of depression or lethargy when left unattended for extended periods. It is generally advised to keep their alone time to a minimum; adult Shih Poos can typically manage alone for about 4-6 hours, whereas puppies may only be comfortable alone for around 2 hours.
Their low-shedding coat makes them a good choice for those concerned about dog hair at home. However, due to their clingy disposition, Shih Poos thrive on human interaction and do not tolerate long separations. They can be trained to handle short alone periods, but this requires gradual acclimation and positive reinforcement.
Though Shih Poos do not require high-intensity exercise due to their short legs, they do require regular walks. Owners should avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, ensuring they have a comfortable and safe environment. Proper socialization and training can mitigate some issues associated with their separation anxiety. Overall, Shih Poos make excellent companions for families but should not be left alone for too long, as they need consistent human companionship.
Do Shih Poo Bark A Lot?
Shih Poos, a mixed breed of Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle, are often dubbed "designer dogs." They typically have a low tendency to bark, making them suitable for apartment living. While they can become bored and bark excessively if left unengaged, they are not constant barkers and usually only vocalize for specific reasons, such as excitement or alerting their owners to strangers.
A well-socialized and trained Shih Poo tends to be confident, friendly, and playful, and can thrive as a companion for active families and older children. While they are generally quiet, they may exhibit vocal behavior derived from their Shih Tzu parent when alerting to newcomers or unusual noises. Early training is crucial to manage any potential excessive barking and to ensure they remain well-adjusted.
Despite their ability to be left alone for substantial periods, boredom can lead to behaviors like barking and chewing. To mitigate this, it's essential to provide toys, water, and a comfortable environment. Although they possess a louder bark than Shih Tzus, they are not typically seen as "yappers." In sum, Shih Poos are generally quiet, affectionate dogs that can make great companions, provided they receive proper training and socialization to foster positive behaviors.
Are Shih Poos Hard To Train?
Training a Shih Poo can be a rewarding experience, especially since these dogs are intelligent and eager to please. However, early training is essential due to their potential stubbornness, which can become a challenge if training is delayed. Initiate a routine focusing on housebreaking, including frequent potty breaks and positive reinforcement. Crate training should also start early, as it aids in preventing messes and behavioral problems. Teaching basic commands like "sit" and "stay" is recommended, and maintaining consistency and patience will enhance training effectiveness.
Shih Poos, a mix of Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle, require a structured routine since they thrive on predictability. Training sessions should be brief, lasting around 5 to 10 minutes for optimal focus. Although some may find them tricky to train due to inherited stubbornness, proper guidance can lead to successful outcomes.
Socialization from a young age is crucial, and addressing specific challenges with tailored solutions can further ease the process. Keep in mind that while Shih Poos are affectionate and playful, their training may demand a patient but firm approach. First-time dog owners may find this breed a bit challenging, but with expert advice and effective techniques, training can become manageable.
Are Shih Poos Aggressive?
Shih Poo pups should ideally display neither aggression nor excessive shyness. If the parents exhibit fearful behaviors like running away, growling, or showing reluctance to approach you, it’s wise to consider seeking another litter. Such reactions may indicate underlying triggers such as fear, anxiety, a history of abuse, or territorial behavior. Despite their generally friendly disposition, Shih Poos can show aggression when feeling threatened. Prompt intervention is essential to curb this behavior.
Extended alone time can also lead to destructive tendencies like excessive barking and separation anxiety. Socialization and training from a young age significantly mitigate risks of aggression. While not inherently aggressive, they can exhibit fear aggression in response to unfamiliar stimuli or environments. Additionally, Shih Poos may display territorial behavior, particularly towards other dogs. It’s crucial for prospective owners to engage in positive reinforcement training to foster a stable temperament.
Shih Poos are typically well-behaved companions, with a gentle temperament, yet they may react defensively if threatened. Addressing fear aggression is imperative to prevent biting incidents. Shih Poos thrive as companion animals, displaying increased calmness and friendliness as they mature, making them excellent pets overall.
Do Shih Poos Like To Cuddle?
Shih Poos, a mix of Shih Tzu and Miniature Poodle, are ideal for small living spaces due to their compact size and adaptability to apartment life. These small, affectionate dogs form strong bonds with their owners, thriving on cuddles and companionship. Known for their low-shedding coat, Shih Poos require less grooming and contribute minimally to household dog hair. Often seen as a designer breed, they can be bred with unrelated Shih Tzus or Poodles to develop distinct traits.
Shih Poos enjoy spending time snuggled under blankets or enjoying cuddles in their owner's lap. With a playful and friendly temperament, they often follow their humans around the house, seeking closeness and attention. They typically have a round head, floppy ears, and a short muzzle, with varied coloring, including white, tawny, or black. Despite their small size, they have a hearty appetite and need regular exercise to keep them active.
Although they are generally friendly with other pets, older Shih Poos may take time to adjust to new dogs. Shih Poos are intelligent, obedient, and easily trainable, making them great companions for dog lovers. Altogether, they are sweet, loyal, and devoted, perfect for those looking for a loving lapdog.
📹 Owning a Shih Tzu: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
In this video, we will go over the good, the bad, and the ugly of owning a Shih Tzu. ✓✓ Develop your dog’s hidden intelligence to …
They are so different to other dogs, my girl is very conscious of my emotions, her devotion and constant affection is so lovely in my senior years, if I sneeze she puts her paws around my neck and licks my face, she notices everything.. out walking perusal till people are out of sight, spends a lot of time on my bed, barks in fun to let me know if she pulls the pillows out 🥰😀 the stubbornness actually makes me smile at times cause I had that trait when I was young, she looks and has more poodle behaviour s but a little Shizu side too, Definitely the ideal dog for seniors, entertaining, protective and clingy❤ great article thank you
We found ours at the local humane society. For the life of me, I can’t fathom how anyone could let this little cutie go!! He’s intelligent and easy to train because of the poodle in him. Playful, cuddly, and friendly. He’s the perfect dog. But he is expensive. Food allergies, skin allergies. We’ve got pet insurance, however and thank goodness for that. Love this little guy.
When our Shih Poo finished her meal she goes hyper with zoomies and love nips! She also welcome us with pure affection and immediately lay down for belly rubs. At 3 months old she can climb up or down the stairs. She’s already toilet trained at 3 months old. Such an intelligent and adorable pup! We are so glad we have her as part of our family!
Such amazing dogs. I raised 2 of them who r sisters. Both have had 1 litter of pups. They all look so different. One has the smushed shitzu face and long poodle legs and the other has a poodle shaped head and stubby Little thick legs. I took one of the puppies and named him Bucky. Trying to train him for rabbit and squirrel hunting just like I did with his mom and Aunt. Amazing rabbit dogs and loyal as heck. They’ll rip someone’s Achilles heel out for u if ur being attacked.
My first ever dog and a shih-poo finally got home just a day ago and he’s already the sweetest! I was a lil afraid at first bcs he’s trying to recognize me n the people on the house and he’s super active, running around and nipping us at first and am so afraid. I watched yt and learned some trainings and how to manage it, now we’re trying to get him on the most essential part which is the potty but overall he eats and loves cuddle so much while he’s nipping ofc and when I joined him on bed after my worksheets he’ll softly lay on my stomach or beside me asking for a petting and he’ll eventually fall asleep.^^
I just figured out my adopted pooch Benji is probably a Shih Poo. I knew he was part Toy Poodle but after researching, I figured out this is what he must be. He is my shadow and LOVES people, is SUPER smart but just as stubborn (like me so I’m proud lol), and lays all day with me when I’m sick. I’ve only had him for two months, but he sticks to me like glue. He is the best thing that’s happened to my life in a long time. 💙🐾
My experience with a shih poo… I have a shih poo which me and my GF named “Cake”. She has curly hair, she loves children, but due to us introducing her to different kinds of children, some children can really tend to hurt them, thus our shih poo tends to be cautious to other children.. however, she can easily recognize the children that are gentle towards her, so she easily runs after them, and exposes her belly and wabts to be petted. However I do experience introducing her to some people which are ok with dogs, but for some reason she absolutely detests…. i even told them to try and let them smell their fists, but she still acts cautiously towards them… I don’t know, there are dogs I guess which does not like certain kinds of people… One of my main problems with shih poos is that, you really can’t get your chores done… in my experience, she often tries to bite the broom, tries to get the rag that you are trying to wipe the floor with, etc… They really are loveable breeds, but they really do suffer from separtion anxiety… I’ve had many experiences where, I just wanted to train outside when it’s raining, so there are some puddles, I dont want to get her wet, my shih poo keeps on barking, and scratching the door. We have a glass door in our house so we both can see each other, but everytime I try to leave her indoors, she would always look at me with those puppy dog eyes, scratching the glass door, and bark in a very sad way that all you can do is just say “AWWWWWWW” My shih poo, I admit I have spoiled but, being as cute as she is, whenever she looks at you, you can’t help but feel sorry and just want to hug and love her.
I feel bad for our shih poo. He was a good boy but my dad always beat him up and bully him, causing him to be anxious daily. I couldnt do much back then since I was still young and scared, now our shih poo is very aggressive at people, especially strangers. My dad’s currently abroad for work, so i am really taking this chance to train him to be cool when i take him outside. He’s three years old now.
We have a shih poo, She is more poo than shih, Longer legs and curly apricot coat. She is everything you say. Totally loyal to my wife, follows her everywnere and never happier that sitting beside her on the sofa and sleeping beside her legs in bed. If my wife goes out she will sit on a chair looking out of the window for her to come back. Also surprisingly intelligent. Excellent with our grandchildren. You should add that they also need to be professionally groomed so you should be aware that they are not a cheap dog to keep. We also have a Jug, Jack Russell/Pug cross. Again ours is far more pug that jack, they are real characters but high maintenance.
I have a Shih tzu she’s 4 years old now she’s in Excellent! Health I take her to regular vet visits she’s very playful so energetic 😂 she’s getting much better with toilet training I’ve had her over a year now a friend of mine had Muffy for 3 years but my friend was home bound and could take Muffy outside Muffy became depressed but she was very healthy cause my friends daughter would come and take Muffy for regular vet visits and to the groomers regularly until my friend became hospitalized and had to be in a nursing home 😢 her daughter tried but Muffy couldn’t get along with her own sister or any other dogs and was destructive in every-way so her daughter wanted to put Muffy in the ASPCA so I rescued and moved away with her Muffy loved going outside but she would and still does bully other dogs she can’t have any doggie friends it’s almost 2 years that I’ve had her she’s got spayed at 3 years old but she doesn’t allow any male or female dogs around her I can never take her to a dog park she loves humans she wants the attention and she’s doesn’t like any dog foods I’ve tried so I gave her home cooked foods my friend gave her dog food with processed meats I broke her out of that The homemade foods I gave her made her fat so her vet told me the best for her is dry foods so now she fast sometimes for days but I reade that it’s okay for them to fast so let them her vet says she’s playing me too feel sorry let her get used to plain dry foods it’s better for her health in the long run 😊when she’s hungry enough she does eat it.
I have lost all of my family members like dominos. Some extremely tragically. I just moved to a new area and am so lonely sometimes… I just happened to be out walking around in my new neighborhood and there toddling down the street was just the type of shihpoo I have been trying to find in my area. The woman said her brother got the dog in Pennsylvania somewhere. Anyone who may know of a breeder could you please reach out? I will be perusal the comments for a possibility!!!!❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
I have a four month old, he was eating fine and I live in a condo. I came to visit my mom at her house w a yes and he barfed a beige color lump that looks like un digested food. He tried to poop and I picked him up and moved him so he wouldn’t poop on the pavement, but then couldn’t finish and he was trying, and then five minutes later the barf happened. I wonder if that has happened to anyone? When the article says to regularly visit the vet, how many times a year? And for what? Do you say a checkup at the vet
My brother is very rude with my shih poo and he never listens I love my shih poo but my brother keeps hurting him 🙁 Because my brother is so crazy with my dog my dog is very crazy and aggressive to him. Every time my brother just walks my dog barks at him and tries to bite him. This is not a good thing and it needs to stop. My brother and my dog are very rude and crazy to each other but my dog is not crazy to anyone else
This designer dog thing is a complete scam… it’s an effing mutt. lol “OhNo! you let my little poodle run the neighbodrhood, and it looks like she hooked up with bubba next door’s hunting dog…” “No, We will call it a Golden Doodle, and idiots will line up to give us $400 each for the puppies!” ” but, I saw mutts just like these down at the pound, and no one wanted them.” “That is because the pound does not understand MARKETING to Stupid People!” “So, it is just another mutt, and the only difference is MARKETING???!!!??” “YUP… =D”