Shihpoo

The Shihpoo is a crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. Opening your heart and home to a crossbreed is like opening a beautifully wrapped package on your birthday: you never know what’s going to be inside. It’s often assumed that a crossbreed will combine the best of two or more breeds, but genetics doesn’t always work that way. The way genes combine and express themselves is not always subject to a breeder’s control, even less so when two different breeds are crossed. That’s something to keep in mind before you lay down lots of money for a dog that you have been assured will be hypoallergenic or healthier than a purebred.

Choose a Shihpoo if you have older children who understand how to handle a dog carefully. Toddlers can be clumsy and may hurt a Shihpoo unless you can always be there to supervise their interactions.

Shihpoos are smart but may be stubborn. To train them effectively, you’ll need to figure out how to motivate them. Often, this involves food rewards or somehow inspiring the dog to believe that what you want him to do is his own idea.

At their best, Shihpoos are playful, friendly and affectionate, always happy to sit in a lap and give a little love. They generally weigh 7 to 20 pounds, depending on the size of their parent breeds. For their size, they are courageous and make excellent watchdogs, but they can be on the yappy side.

Other Quick Facts

• Shihpoos are companion dogs. They love their people and need to live in the house, never outdoors.
• Shihpoos have a moderate activity level that is adaptable to their owner’s lifestyle. They will enjoy a walk or active indoor playtime each day. Some Shihpoos love being in the limelight, and (health permitting) they do well in such dog sports as agility, obedience and rally.

Learn More About the Shihpoo on Vetstreet.com:

• History of the Breed
• Personality & Temperament
• Grooming