Description: The Zuchon is a cross between the Bichon Frise and the Shih Tzu and this is called a hybrid or designer dog. They are a small dog and the height is about 9- 12 inches and the weight is 7-14 pounds. They tend to have a teddy bear face and this is after the Shih Tzu. The ears are set wide and are downward falling usually reaching just under the cheeks of the dog. The eyes are big and round and dark in color. The muzzle is short and wide. The nose is black and large. The tail is long and well feathered this is often carried up over the back in a curl. The legs are short but they are strong. The coat is low shedding and can grow medium to long in length. Colours are varied and there is no set standard, you can get white and white with soft browns and some have black/ grey marking on the ears and muzzle. The life expectancy is 12-15 years but this is not truly known at this point. Read up on both breeds to have a good understanding of all the looks and personality you maybe getting.

History: As with all new hybrids this dog’s history is very young. For this dogs history to keep going there has to be some breeding standards set and an end to “breeders” who are just in it for the money as it is these breeders that have not got the dog’s health or future at heart. Only get a pup from a breeder that has good knowledge of both breeds used and full health certificates to show that the breeding pair are as healthy as possible to protect the new pups from genetic health issues.

Temperament: As the Zuchon has intelligent parents it is very likely that this dog has a bright nature as well. They are playful and will love to be with the owner. Training needs to be given, as this is a bright dog ,and this helps the dog to not get bored and you can feel happy to take your dog anywhere and they will have good manners. Training needs to be calm, fun but with the air of authority, which works best for this breed. They are good with children more so of school age. The Zuchon gets on with other dogs and it is best to get this dog to socialize well as a pup because this gives the dog confidence and reduces the chance of shyness. Small dog syndrome can be avoided if the owner trains and walks the dog daily and sets house rules for the dog to keep. All dogs need to know were they fit into the family and this has to be below the humans in the home.

Health issues: There are health issues on both sides of this dog’s parents and so you need to make sure you have understanding of these issues. Only buy from a breeder that has full health certificates for the breeding pair. It is not good enough for the breeder to say that in this cross of dogs it stops heath problems as just like with all living things there are things that can be passed on genetically.

Grooming: The Zuchon is medium to high in grooming needs, depending on the length of the coat. They will however need grooming at least every other day. There will be trips to the salon as well.

Living conditions: The Zuchon will be happy in an apartment and as long as you have time to be with them and give them daily mental and physical exercise they get on fine. They would like a small garden but this is not necessary.