Description: The Shih Poo is a small dog that has been created for the modern needs of pet owners. The Shih-Poo is a hybrid dog that is a cross between the Poodle and the Shih Tzu. In looks they seem to have followed the Shih Tzu and have a round fairly flat face with big eyes and a small but wide muzzle, though there are some that have the narrower muzzle with the length of the Poodle. The nose is black and medium in size. The eyes are wide set and are almond in shape these are normally dark in color. The size will depend on the size of the breeding pair and they can be toy or miniature. The coat is one of the main features of this new breed and this tends to be long as both breeds used have long coats. Then it can be long and straight or it can be wavy to curly. Coat colours vary and it is best to read up on the breeds used to get the best picture. Colours are more commonly to be white, cream and then blacks in various shades.

History: As a new breed the Shih-Poo has little history but the breeds used to create this new dog have a vast history. It is best to support the dogs history by only getting your dog from a breeder that has good understanding of both breeds and is breeding from dogs that are both of good health and have certificates to show this. You should only use a breeder that has an understanding of the blood lines and temperament. This way you know that not just your pup is getting the best start but so is the breed and you are not putting money into the hands of “breeders” who are just out to make quick money and do not care about the dogs health later down the line.

Temperament: If you use a good breeder then the temperament is going to be easier to know and they will steer away from the dog that is bad tempered or an over timid dog. The mix if done well is a wonderful mix and you get the intelligence of the Poodle with the added playfulness of the Shih Tzu. All dogs need basic training to have good manners and this breed is no exception. They are bright and can learn well, keep training fun but with an air of firmness but this must not be harsh as this only brings out the stubbornness and or timid side of the dog. The owner needs to be a good pack leader and set house rules to help the dog know their boundaries as to what is acceptable and what is not. The Shih-Poo can get small dog syndrome and this is where through the owners not setting rules the dog gets to be in charge and they are not happy trying to keep the house in line, this can lead to obsessive barking, snapping and over protectiveness of people and things. They need walks daily and they also need mental exercise. This dog is loyal and loves the owner, they are better with children that they have been raised with. They make a great watchdog and like to keep an eye on all that is going on.

Health issues: There are health issues in both pure breed lines and it is best to get a dog from a breeder that is able to show you good health certificates for the breeding pair.

Grooming: The Shih-Poo will need a deep grooming weekly and then day to bi-daily brushing to keep the coat looking good.

Living conditions: The Shih-Poo is fine for apartment living but it is best to remember this dog needs walks daily and does not like to be left on their own for hours. They need a small garden as well.