If you have never had the delightful experience of encountering a Shih Tzu poodle mix, you haven’t seen one of the cutest dogs ever to exist. What do you call a Shih Tzu Poodle mix? This crossbreed is called a Shih Poo, and there is no doubt that you will fall in love with them the very first time you set eyes on this cute dog.
They are a comparatively new crossbreed that did not gain much traction until 2004. Although Shih Tzu and Poodle crosses existed before that, many people considered them mutts.
People considered them accidents more so than the deliberate, legitimate crossbreeding that we see today. Occasionally, Shih Poos are called mutts or designer dogs. However, this is how many of the other breeds came to be.
The main difference between the Shih Tzu Poodle mix and the other breeds developed within the last two hundred years is that this breed is newer.
Shih Tzu poodle mix Appearance
There are several possible variations in this particular mix. They can either have the familiar curly coat from the poodle. Or the more extended, straighter coat of the Shih Tzu.
Their body is generally rather sturdy for a small breed of dog. The Shih Poo also come in various color mixes, and the potential for several patterns, just adding to the array.
However, no matter which one you buy, you can guarantee that they will have such a cute face and will be full of character that will be a joy to have in your family.
The Size of the Shih Poo
As this breed is a mix between the Shih Tzu and the miniature, or toy, poodle, it is a relatively small dog to own.
The height to the shoulder can vary anywhere from 8 to 15 inches (38.1 cm), and it will generally weigh somewhere between 7 and 20 pounds (9.07 kg). As you can see, the Shih Poo is small, cuddly, and of course, very, very cute.
Shih Poo Temperament
Whenever someone thinks about purchasing a dog, there is always a need to understand more about its temperament. The Shih Poo is not only very warm, but it also loves people and is extremely friendly, even to strangers.
It is no surprise that both the Shih Tzu and the Poodle are both very human-friendly breeds. So this mix is always going to come from two parents that are relatively peaceful by nature.
The Shih Poo is always looking for fun, and the puppies are extremely playful as they grow up. This part of their nature never leaves them. So you need to be able to devote a lot of attention to them since their average life span is 15 years.
Training them is straightforward, as they are certainly not stupid either. Therefore, owning one is an absolute delight.
Shih Tzu Poodle Mix Price
As is the apparent norm with mixed breeds, there is a premium on owning a Shih Tzu poodle mix puppy.
Generally speaking, a puppy with a good pedigree will cost you in the region of $1,200. However, some breeders will charge even more.
The main thing is that you will be fortunate to find a Shih Tzu Poodle mix for sale under $1000. But this is certainly not a very high price to pay when you consider the cost of other breeds on the market.
A Shih Poo is a beautiful dog to own, and you are going to have countless hours of fun with them in your life. They are a joy to be around. Shih Poos are great with all family members as well as other dogs. Also, health-wise, they do not tend to have too many issues.
All you need to do now is to see how cute they are because you are going to fall for them immediately.
