The Shih-poo is a small domestic dog. It is a crossbreed between a Poodle and a Shih Tzu. The name Shih-poo is a portmanteau of the two breed names.
Legitimate breed associations such as the AKC, the UKC, and the CKC, do not recognize the Shih-poo, or any other designer cross, as a breed in its own right. However, some major kennel clubs do accept registration of crossbreed and mixed-breed dogs for performance events such as agility and obedience.
Appearance
The Shih-poo is one of many named Poodle crossbreeds, bred in an attempt to combine the characteristics of the Poodle, such as its high intelligence and low-shed coat (desirable for people with pet allergies), with the desirable traits of another breedâ€"in this case, the Shih Tzu. However, it is equally likely that undesirable traits from the parents will be produced as well, so puppies must be carefully selected. Some Shih-poos may have a longer, more Poodle-like muzzle than their Shih-Tzu parent, alleviating many breathing problems that Shih-Tzus can experience, such as Brachycephalic syndrome.
Size
The size varies, and depends on whether the Poodle parent is of the teacup, miniature, or standard breed. Typically, a shih-tzu and a miniature poodle are chosen for the parents, which results in average adult weights of 8-18 pounds. A shih-tzu and standard Poodle mix is extremely uncommon.
Colour
Shih-poos come in a wide variety of colors, such as all black, all white, cream, sable, and any mix and combination there of.
See also
- Poodle hybrid
- Dog hybrid (crossbred dogs, not dogs bred with foxes or other species)
- Designer crossbreed
References
