What is a Shih-Poo?
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A Shih-Poo is a type of mixed-breed dog. It is a mix of Shih-Tzu and Poodle. The Shih–Poo is not recognized as a breed of dog. However, they are crossed intentionally for the purpose of obtaining cute dogs that have hypoallergenic qualities and a desirable level of intelligence and vigor.
As with any mixED-breed dog, the appearance of the Shih-Poo can vary. The Shih-Poo can inherit any combination of characteristics from its parents. The Shih-Poo typically has a long coat, but its hair may be straight, wavy, or poodle-like curly. The Shih-Poo’s body is structured much like it parents; usually, its build is somewhat of a happy medium between the two. The dog normally weighs about 10 pounds.
Shih-Poos can be any color or any combination of colors. The Shih-Poo doesn’t shed much and should be trimmed on a monthly basis. This helps to keep its long coat from matting. Regular brushing is also a good idea, as it helps to keep the dog’s hair clean and free from unsightly tangles. The Shih-Poo is said to require little bathing, as it is naturally clean.
The Shih-Poo, like other hybrids, is generally healthier than pure breed dogs. More vigorous as well, the Shih-Poo is less likely to have genetic diseases. With pure breeds and inbred dogs, the opposite is true and these dogs are more frequently stricken with genetic ailments. When in good health, Shih-Poos can live to be about 14 years old.
The Shih-Poo is typically happy, playful, and gentle. These dogs crave and enjoy attention and affection from humans. They usually coexist well with other household pets, including cats and other dogs. In most cases, Shih-Poos get along well with children. However, they are known to become snappy if they are teased.
The Shih-Poo tends to do well with obedience training. These dogs are also able to learn tricks with ease. Thanks to the intelligence of the Shih-Poo, housebreaking is fairly simple.
Shih-Poos, like other hybrids, are not currently recognized by well-known kennel clubs. However, some believe they may be recognized one day because of their popularity. This lack of recognition hasn’t stopped people from buying them, however, as Shih-Poos are a favorite among many dog lovers.
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New: Discuss this ArticlePosted by: awittmer
I just picked up my shih-poo yesterday. He is great and I love him already. I am a teacher and am planning on paper training him so that it is easier when I go back to work. Any advice for me? We just got home last night and he he's not eaten much yet. Any advice on helping me get him acclimated to his new home?
Thanks Posted by: anon14022
My little shih poo is now 1 year old. She is incredible! I got her at 6 weeks and it took one week for her to be housebroken. Now she uses the doggy doors and hangs out in our back yard whenever she feels like it. She knows numerous tricks and is eager to learn more. She is my 5 year old daughter's best friend. What a joy!!! Sherri
Posted by: anon13966
Hello, I don't know when the other posts were posted :) but I got my little shih-poo boy (Bobby)about two months ago. He is now 16 weeks. I thought he would never get the hang of doing his business outside. I would take him out every half hour on the dot and walk around the backyard for a long time. The second he walked into the kitchen he would pee or poop, looking right at me like you said :)
I tried crate training, but he would, against everything I've heard, pee under himself. So that didn't work. After about 6 weeks, I've heard him bark in a high voice. I took him out, and low and behold, pee and poop! I don't know what clicked. No accidents now. Perfect potty trained puppy. Posted by: anon13197
My girl shihpoo is now 24 weeks old and I've had her for 8 weeks. She learned some bad habits with her former owners and only goes outside when she feels like it. We regulate her food/water intake, but she doesn't have a set schedule for going to the bathroom. It ranges from 15 min-1.5 hour. She stares at us as she pees in the middle of the kitchen. She doesn't respond to scolding or sharp tones. Like the previous post, I feel like I've made no progress since I've gotten her. Help!
Editor's reply: hope our articles, what is crate training? and what is the best way to house train a dog? have some useful information on getting your shih-poo housetrained! good luck!
Posted by: anon9711
my 16 week old shihpoo female does not like to go outside to relieve herself. we spend 10 minutes at a time outside with her every 45 minutes to one hour and she will still run inside after that and go on the floor. it is very frustrating. any one have any ideas what we are doing wrong? We've had her 5 weeks and feel as though we have made no progress in this matter.
Posted by: anon5440
I just purchased a shih-poo a few days ago (cutest dog ever!!) & we've been having a tough time paper training. I have two other dogs (bigger dogs) who are trained to go outside, but our shih-poo can barely get down the porch steps to follow the other dogs. We're trying to paper train, but he seems to want to go on the carpet (not in bed, thank goodness). How did you two (anonymous writers) so quickly potty train your shih-poos? help :-)
Posted by: anon4838
I just recently bought a shih poo. She is very smart. she is 7 weeks old. and has not had but two accidents in the house. She comes to us and whimpers when she needs to go out. If we do not hear her right off, she barks at us. she is a very smart little girl.
Posted by: anon411
This article is extremley helpful.
I just got a Shih Poo a few days ago. It's extremley adorable, and is 10 weeks old. I knew Shih Poo's were hypo-allergenic, but I never knew that they had so many other benifits too! Not only are they adorable,they are intelligent too! (My little puppy was paper trained in less than 3 days!) This was a real help! Thanks.
Editor's reply: You're welcome! So glad to be helpful!
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