Shih-poo: all about this breed

The shih-poo can come in a wide range of sizes as it depends on what type of poodle their parent is (standard, medium or toy).

The different breeds of dogs that exist in the world are the product of artificial selection. This process implies human interference in the reproduction of dogs, selecting their most attractive characteristics. Thanks to this, new varieties are created that try to satisfy the needs of tutors.

The easiest way to produce new types of dogs is through hybridization. This process involves encouraging the mating of two different purebreds to generate a new one. An example of this is the shih-poo breed, which is the result of a cross between a shih tzu and a poodle. Read on to find out all about this new breed.

What is the origin of shih-poo?

Most hybrid dogs, also called design dogs, that exist today do not usually have a precise origin. This is because selective breeding is a widely used practice. Therefore, anyone with the necessary knowledge can breed a new breed of dog. In the case of shih-poo, there is no specific date considered for its creation and no one has claimed to be its original creator.

This breed comes from a cross between a shih tzu and a poodle, so it has characteristics of both parents. These types of hybridizations have been the target of much criticism for interfering with the “purity” of the animal. However, according to an article in the journal Plos Genetics , hybrid dogs are less likely to suffer from congenital disorders than purebred dogs .

How is shih poo?

The shih-poo is usually a small breed that measures between 25 and 40 centimeters in height, weighing around 18 pounds. Its body retains the typical curly fur of the poodle, but is more prominent around the eyes and ears, similar to the appearance of the shih tzu. These characteristics are not always the same between the specimens, as it is normal for the traits of one parent to be more evident than the other.

This dog’s head has characteristics of both parents. This includes a not too long snout and amber eyes that make him look really cute. In addition, the color of its coat can present different uniform shades such as gray, brown, white, black or a mixture of these.

One of the great advantages of the shih-poo is that it does not have the typical problems of brachycephalic breeds like the shih tzu . This is because the physical characteristics of the poodle improve the structure of the skull, which benefits the health of the breed. This is one of the reasons why the hybridization process has become famous.

What is the character of shih-poo like?

The shih-poo is an affectionate breed that loves to play with its owners, making it an excellent companion for the whole family. He has an alert personality that makes him a good guardian. However, this in itself can cause problems if the animal is not properly educated.

This dog is not aggressive like other small breeds, but it can have certain conflicts with strangers. The best way to avoid this is through walks, as this is how they get used to living with strangers and even other dogs. Also, don’t leave him alone for too long as you can cause anxiety or behavior problems .

What are the main care of the shih-poo?

The shih-poo breed is best suited to living indoors or in an apartment, although you will need to ensure that it has its own space. That doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to keep it indoors, as it also requires daily walks and games to burn off energy . Generally, it is a type of dog that demands attention from its owners, although it is enough to have it around so that it does not feel isolated.

The upbringing of shih-poo is a little complex and difficult at first, as some dogs have a more stubborn personality. In these cases, the best training is positive reinforcement. This strategy consists of rewarding the dog with a prize when he performs the ordered action. In this way, he is “tricked” into learning to follow orders and stop being stubborn.

Care for this dog should also be focused on protecting the appearance of its coat, otherwise knots are likely to form. Daily brushing should be sufficient to avoid such a complication. In addition, you can take the time to play with the dog and strengthen the relationship.

Is a shih-poo a healthy dog?

As a hybrid breed, the shih-poo is usually exceptionally healthy, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to some pathology. Keep in mind that the purity of some dogs makes them more prone to certain diseases , so it’s always good to get to know them to be alert. The following list contains the most frequent issues:

Hip dysplasia: a congenital problem that causes an unstable union between the hip bones.
Patellar dislocation (kneecap): refers to the slippage (dislocation) of the bone that is responsible for stabilizing the knee joint.
Dermatitis: any skin problem that causes irritation and discomfort to the dog. The shih-poo has a curly coat that increases the likelihood of having infections (fungi or bacteria) that lead to dermatitis.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This is a common congenital disease in poodles and shih tzus. It is characterized by causing progressive degeneration of vision.
Hypothyroidism: refers to the lack of thyroid hormone which is very important during growth. It can be caused by genetic factors or secondary pathologies.

In general, the shih-poo breed is an excellent pet choice for anyone looking for a domestic dog. Its small size makes it perfect for living in small places like apartments, so space won’t be an issue. However, before taking him home , make sure that you can meet all his needs to give him a good quality of life .