Shih Tzu Mixes: A Blend of Charm and a Dash of Diversity

By Molly | Everything Shih Tzu | December 5, 2022

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When it comes to companionship, the Shih Tzu checks all the boxes: cute, friendly, and loyal.  It's no wonder they've become a favorite among dog lovers

But did you know that there are several different Shih Tzu mixed breeds out there?

Shih Tzu mix dog breeds

From the Shihpoo to the Yorkie-Tzu, there are plenty of adorable hybrid breeds out there that would make wonderful pets for the right family.

If you want a small dog that gets along well with people, a Shih Tzu mix might be the best choice for you.

But before you make that choice, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

What to Consider When Choosing a Shih Tzu Mix

There are several things to consider when choosing a Shih Tzu mixed breed.

First, take into account the size of your home and the amount of space you have available for your pup

Since Shih Tzu mixed breeds can come in a variety of sizes, it's important to choose a dog that will fit well into your home and lifestyle.

If you have children in the home, choose a dog that's appropriate for the ages of your kids.

There's also the matter of the dog's coat to think about.

While most of the Shih Tzu mixes will have thick, long, coats, some mixes will have shorter coats that are easier to care for.

Additionally, it's important to think about how much time and energy you have available for grooming your pup.

The long coats of some mixed breeds may require more frequent brushing and trimming than others.

The health of the dog is something else to consider.

A mixed breed dog could be healthier than a purebred due to the variety of genetics the dog comes from. But you should also be prepared for health issues that may come with a mixed-breed dog.

Consider the temperament and personality of the dog.

While a Shih Tzu mixed breed could have the same loving, affectionate temperament as a purebred, it could also have a completely different temperament as well.

Finally, make sure that you're prepared to commit to a long-term relationship with your pup; many mixed breeds can live up to 15 years or more!

7 Common Shih Tzu Mixed Small Breeds

A Shih Tzu mix is not a purebred dog but a cross between two purebred dogs, which can result in many different appearances including long, short, or curly coats.

When a Shih Tzu is mixed with another breed, the result can be a dog that combines the best characteristics of both breeds.

Here are the most common Shih Tzu mixes.

Shi-poo

Shipoo

The Shi poo is a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle.

These dogs are typically friendly, affectionate, and easy-going dogs that love attention from their owners.

They can also be very intelligent and easily trained, making them a good choice for first-time dog owners. These pups usually have soft, curly coats that can range from white to black in color and may need daily brushing.

Shih Poos can grow to 10-25 pounds and 5-10 inches tall.

Yorkie Tzu or Shorkie

Shorkie

The Yorkie Tzu or Shorkie is a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier.

These small dogs usually have short coats that come in various shades of tan or brown and will need frequent brushing and you will typically see some shedding.

Yorkie Shih Tzu mixes are generally loyal, intelligent, and independent.

They are often quite active and energetic but can also be quite cuddly when given enough attention from their owners.

Mal-Shi

Mal-Shi

The Mal-Shi is a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Maltese.

These dogs are gentle, affectionate, and loyal. They tend to be quite intelligent dogs who love playing games with their owners as well as cuddling up for snuggles on the couch!

These pups usually have long, silky coats that come in white or cream colors with some markings on their faces and tails.

Mal-Shis have long coats that require daily brushing and they shed year-round.

Mal-Shis can grow to 5-15 pounds and 8-13 inches tall.

Peke-a-tzu

Peke-a-Tzu Shih Tzu Pekingese Mix

The Peke-a-Tzu or Shinese is a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Pekingese.

These fluffy little dogs have a long, wavy coat that usually comes in shades of white, black, brown, and cream and need frequent brushing to keep their coats looking healthy and free from matting.

Peke-a-Tzu are known for being loyal and affectionate companions who love to cuddle and play.

They are also quite independent and tend to be quite vocal with their owners.

Peke-a-tzus can grow to 10-20 lbs and 10-12 inches tall.

Cava-Tzu

Cava-Tzu, Shih Tzu Cavalier King Charles mix

The Cava-Tzu is a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

This designer hybrid has the long silky coat of the Cavalier King Charles and the playfulness of the Shih Tzu.

These dogs are known for being gentle, loving, and loyal.

They are usually small dogs with sweet temperaments and are often loyal to their owners. They can come in a variety of colors and patterns, including white, black, brown, red, and brindle.

Cava-Tzus can grow to 10-20 lbs and 12-14 inches tall.

Shichon

Shishon.jpg

A Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise mix (also known as a Shichon) is a cross between the two breeds.

This designer breed is often called a Teddy Bear Dog due to its cute, cuddly look.

A Shichon will typically have a white coat with patches of black, brown, and/or red, and a round face with large eyes and floppy ears.

Shichons are known for their friendly and affectionate temperaments, making them great family pets.

Shichons can grow to 10-20 pounds and 12-14 inches tall.

Pug Zu or Shug

Pugzu

When bred together, a Shih Tzu and Pug will result in a designer breed known as the Shug (Shih Tzu/Pug).

These dogs have a unique look that combines the features of both parent breeds.

A Shug will generally have a compact body with short legs and a wide, flat face. They typically have short, silky fur that is either black and white or brown and white.

The ears are floppy like the Shih Tzu, but may be slightly shorter than those of a purebred Shih Tzu.

The eyes are round like the Pug's, but may be slightly larger than those of a purebred Pug.

Shugs can grow to 10-20 lbs and 12-14 inches tall.

Other Shih Tzu mixes include the Shiffon, a combination of Shih Tzu and Brussels Griffon, the Papastzu, a combination of Shih Tzu and Papillon, and the Shiranian, a combination of Shih Tzu and Pomeranian.

There are numerous breeds that can be combined with a Shih Tzu to create a designer breed.

Crossbreeding dogs is an age-old practice that has been around for quite some time. Mainly to create a unique dog with specific characteristics that they find desirable.

Whatever the reason, mixing two different breeds of dogs is becoming more and more popular.

But before you jump on the bandwagon of breeding dogs of different breeds together, you should educate yourself on the advantages and disadvantages of doing so.

Advantages of Shih Tzu Mixed Breeds

There are several advantages to choosing a Shih Tzu mixed breed.

  1. They are generally smaller in size and therefore require less space than larger breeds.
  2. They tend to be more adaptable and easy-going than many purebreds, making them great companions for families with children or other pets.
  3. Many of these mixes have long coats that require daily brushing, however if you don't want the long, flowing coat of a Shih Tzu but like everything else about the breed, you might consider a mix that has a shorter coat like the Pug-Zu.
  4. You can also choose a mixed breed that has a coat type you like, such as curly, smooth, or straight.
  5. Shih Tzu mixed breeds can also come in a variety of solid and multi color combinations than purebreds, which can make them more appealing to some pet owners.
  6. Another advantage of choosing a mixed breed is that these dogs are often healthier than purebreds. They have the best of both parent breeds, which means that they have a variety of genetics. This can be good for the dog because it means that the dog has a higher chance of being healthy
  7. These mixes often have a combination of traits from both parents, giving you the best of both worlds – intelligence, affectionate temperaments, and a low-maintenance coat in one package!

Disadvantages of Shih Tzu Mixed Breeds

There are several potential disadvantages of choosing a Shih Tzu mixed breed.

  1. You won't know exactly what traits the dog will inherit. While certain dogs have a reputation for being good with children, or having a certain level of intelligence, you won't know for sure if a mixed breed will have those traits.
  2. The potential for health problems due to the mixed genetic makeup. Since these dogs are not purebreds, they can have unknown genetic issues that could cause health problems down the line.
  3. You also won't know what the dog's coat type and length will be, so you won't be able to select exactly what type of coat you want.
  4. And while mixed breeds often have the best traits of both parent breeds, they can also inherit some of the negative traits as well.
  5. Mixed breeds may also not have the same temperaments as purebreds, so it is important to research both parent breeds before making a decision.
  6. In addition, some Shih Tzu mixed breeds may be harder to train than purebreds because they may have more energy or a more stubborn personality.
  7. Finally, some mixed breeds can be more expensive than purebreds, so it is important to factor this into your budget when deciding which type of dog you would like to purchase.

Training and Socializing Shih Tzu Mixes

It is important to provide your Shih Tzu mix with consistent training and socialization, as this will help ensure that they are well-adjusted and happy.

Early socialization is especially important as it will help your dog become comfortable in a variety of situations.

Training should focus on teaching basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it.

Additionally, positive reinforcement can be used to encourage desired behaviors.

Tips for Adopting a Shih Tzu Mixed Breed

If you are considering adopting a Shih Tzu mixed breed, there are a few tips you should keep in mind.

  • First, be sure to research the parent breeds of the dog and understand what traits they may have inherited from them.
  • Next, make sure you know what type of coat and size the dog will have when it is fully grown.
  • Finally, be prepared to spend more time training and socializing your pet than you would with a purebred Shih Tzu. Mixed breeds are often more energetic than purebreds and require more attention and exercise.
  • Make sure that the dog is spayed or neutered.
  • You'll also need to make sure that the dog gets proper and is treated for any potential illnesses.
  • You'll also want to be sure that the dog is microchipped and that you have a careful adoption contract drawn up. A contract will protect both you and the dog and will make sure that the dog goes to the right home.

Final Thoughts on Shih Tzu Mixes

If you're looking for a cute and cuddly companion, you may want to consider a Shih Tzu mix.

A Shih Tzu mix is a combination of a Shih Tzu and another breed, which can result in a wide variety of looks, personalities, and temperaments.

These hybrid dogs combine the best of two different breeds, creating a unique and loyal pet.

Common Shih Tzu mixes include the Mal-Shih, the Yorkie Tzu, the Pug-Zu, the Shichon and the Shih Poo.

Each hybrid breed has its own unique characteristics and temperament, so it's important to research and learn about each one before making a decision.

With so many different possible combinations, you’re sure to find the perfect Shih Tzu mix to bring joy to your family.