Shihpoos

(ShihTzu X Poodle)

Other names:

Shih-Poo, Shipoo, Shi-Poo, Shi Poo, Shihpooh, Shipooh, Shitzpoo

Introducing the Shihpoo:

The Shihpoo is a hybrid breed that is developed by crossing a Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle and are one of the most popular of the designer breeds due to their friendly temperaments, low activity level and small size. Shihpoos are popular as companions and therapy dogs. This adorable little breed is suitable for all ages and most lifestyles, but do not make good running companions as they will struggle to keep up.

Description of the Shihpoo:

The ideal Shih-poo is sturdy, compact, and solid. They should be well-proportioned in appearance and possess a lively and keen expression.  Shih-poos are very similar in appearance to the Cavoodle (Cavalier x Poodle) but have a shorter snout and are generally shorter in height. Shihpoos have a coat that varies from thick and wavy to very fine and soft but can also be woolly like the Poodle. This adorable breed can be any colour from black, white and apricot with patches of white on a darker colour being common. This colour variation depends on the colours of the parents.

Temperament of the Shihpoo:

The Shih-poo is loyal, loving, and affectionate.  They are outgoing but very wary of strangers. Shih-poos are quick to alert their family to visitors and out of the ordinary sounds. They do best in homes with older, considerate children. Shihpoos do well with dogs, cats, and other household pets, but should be socialised with other pets from a young age. Since one of its parents is a Poodle, it may have a tendency to want a significant amount of attention and special treatment.

Shihpoo activity level:

The Shihpoo adores human companionship and their small size makes them suitable for small homes with little or no yard. The Shih-poo is well suited for apartment living.  Shih-poo’s enjoy family play sessions, securely leashed walks, and off-lead play time in a fenced yard and daily walks are recommended for all dogs to keep them mentally and physically healthy, especially Shihpoos living in apartments. Shihpoo puppies can be quite boisterous while young but tend to settle down quite quickly as they get older. Even though Shihpoos are small you still need to make sure your puppy understands that you are the leader of its new pack.

Shihpoo colours:

Shihpoos can be any colour from black, white and apricot with patches of white on a darker colour being common. This colour variation depends on the colours of the parents.

Grooming your Shihpoo:

The coat of the Shih-poo may be long, straight, and profuse; curly or a combination.  They are very low to no shedding, so Shihpoo puppies should have a regular grooming schedule to get them familiar with grooming from a young age. It is recommended that they be brushed daily in order to prevent their coat from becoming matted if they are left unclipped. Clipping your Shihpoo will greatly reduce the amount of grooming required. Shihpoos need to have their ears properly dried after their bath to avoid infections.

Training your Shihpoo:

Both Poodles and Shih Tzu which make up the Shihpoo are highly intelligent breeds and the Shihpoo is a very quick learner, however the Shih-poo may be difficult to housebreak. The crate training method works best to house train Shihpoos as they prefer to go toilet away from where they sleep, but just be sure to let pups out from their crate as soon as possible. As with many small breeds, the Shihpoo may have a tendency to be stubborn. However, they are intelligent and eager to please their master. Shihpoos do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed training methods and training must be done with reward, firmness, fairness, patience, and consistency. Early socialization and obedience are recommended for all Shihpoos. It can sometimes be difficult to keep your Shihpoo puppy’s attention for long periods of time so try to make training times short and fun.

Shihpoo size:

Shihpoos grow to between 25cm to 30cm at the shoulder as adults, but some individuals can reach 35cm.

Shihpoo Life Span:

12 – 15 years

Finding Shihpoo puppies for sale from Shihpoo breeders

Shihpoos can still be classed as being fairly rare at this stage and locating a Shihpoo breeder can be a little difficult but one of the best ways is to go through a breeders agent. They will have contact with many different breeders and will usually be informed first of when litters are planned or available. A reputable breeders agent will also be able to provide you with further information on the care of your Shihpoo puppy as well as ensuring that the puppy has had the appropriate vaccinations, worming etc and is the right age to go to their new home. We have found Chevromist Kennels to be exemplary in their level of knowledge and service both before and after adopting a puppy and have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone wishing to adopt a Designer breed puppy. You can visit their website with photos of their beautiful puppies at www.chevromist.com