Shih Tzushave a sophisticated and unagitated personality , whileChihuahuasare bluff and spirit .
What happens when you cross these two breeds ?
You get a Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix , an unpredictable stock that can have just about any personality and show .
From Adobe Stock
Generally , this lovely breed , affectionately known as the Shichi , is a minuscule heel with a soft , wavy coat and big , expressive eyes . But do n’t let its tiny size fool you ; this heel is packed with personality ! It ’s loyal , often tie itself to one peculiar soul in the crime syndicate . What ’s even more surprising is how adaptable it is – whether you ’re in a snug apartment or have a big backyard , this little chum is just content being with its best-loved human being .
In this clause , we will discuss what it takes to care for one of these unpredictable pups and what you could expect if you resolve to bring a lovely Shih Tzu Chihuahua into your home .
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix Quick Summary
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix Parent Breeds
From Adobe Stock
This loan-blend ’s name translates to Lion Dog and it has heaps of nicknames , admit the ShiChi , Chi - Tzu , or Chi - Shi . Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mixes are a relatively young breed . Not much is have sex about their history but both of their parent have foresighted and rich histories . Hence , to sympathize the premix , allow ’s first discuss the two parent breeds .
About Shih Tzus
The Shih Tzu has a history that date back to 10,000 class ago in China .
historian are still diffident as to whether this strain was ab initio developed in China or Tibet , but their importance to Asian cultivation is undeniable . These beautiful meek - mannered bounder were treasured by nobles and royal line due to their majestic nature . Eventually , in the mid-1900s , this beautiful strain ended up in the U.S. But , the Shih Tzu engender almost went nonextant during the first part of the 20th C .
Physical Characteristics
Shih Tzus are modest but sturdy . They have a distinct face with big , glum optic and a light snout . Their coat is one of their main features – long , flow , and often requires regular grooming .
Temperament and Behavior
Shih Tzus are known for their favorable and affectionate nature . They ’re the form of dogs that bonk being around people , always eager for attention and warmness . They ’re generally great with Kyd too , showing patience and playfulness .
Despite their voluptuary feeling , they ’re pretty down - to - earth and dear to play . Shih Tzus are also alert and can be quite protective of their home and family , stool them good little watchdogs . They adjust well to different living environment , as long as they get enough attention and love from their possessor .
About Chihuahuas
The Chihuahua go down from an earlier strain known as the Techichi ( a heel that was used by the Aztecs ) . Techichis hunted minuscule rodents for their owners but they were better know for the unbreakable bonds they form with the people they loved .
During the Spanish conquest , this breed nearly disappeared but these springy pup were rediscovered in Chihuahua , Mexico in the 1800s . These feisty dog were after land over to the U.S. ( with the new name of Chihuahua to reflect their heritage ) and have promptly become a darling stock .
Chihuahuas are tiny frank , one of the smallest breeds . They have Malus pumila - form school principal and lustrous , rattling eyes . They come in two coat types : smooth and long . Despite their sizing , they ’re pretty full-bodied and gumptious .
Chihuahuas have vibrant and active personalities . Despite their small size , they have a bold and positive nature . These dogs are super fast to their owners , often take form a potent bond with one particular individual in the family . They can be quite protective and sometimes territorial , making them astonishingly estimable watchdogs for their size .
Chihuahuas are also known for their high zip and playful nature . They ’re alert , well-informed , and funny , which makes them fun to be around . However , they can be cautious or even a morsel feisty around strangers or other blackguard .
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix at a Glance
This mix breed can inherit the bossy nature of a Chihuahua or the easy - going behaviour of a Shih Tzu . It will all depend on which parent ’s genes are stronger . Regardless of how bossy they are , expect a loyal and loving kinsperson member .
Similar Breeds
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix History
Origin
The Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixture has no document origin like purebred frankfurter . This mixing likely emerged during the designer dog trend , which gained popularity in the previous 20th and early 21st centuries . The precise time and blank space of their first breeding are not open , but it ’s believed to have been within the last few decades .
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix Physical Characteristics
The show of a Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix can motley greatly . These small yet mighty pups are a cross of two breed with very dissimilar appearance .
The soft luscious locks of the glamorous Shih Tzu directly contradict the inadequate and tight fur of the Chihuahua . Shih Tzus have long and thick bodies while Chihuahuas are scrawny and unbelievably little . Because their looks are so strikingly different each Shichi will have a clearly unequalled appearance .
Whichever traits your pup inherits they will doubtlessly be endearing . Your furry booster might have the adorable floppy ears of a Shih Tzu or may have vertical pointed ear like the alert Chihuahua . It all depends on which factor are more dominant within the breeding twain .
On average , a Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix stands between 9 and 12 inches in stature and count around 9 to 16 British pound , a reflection of the small stature of the Shih Tzu and Chihuahua parent breeds .
The most common gloss combination for this assorted breed is tan and white . However , these pups can also be dark-brown , black , cream , tan , white , red , or any combination of these colors . Their coat texture and duration are hard to predict .
If the genes from the Shih Tzu parent are more prevailing you will in all probability end up with a pup with prospicient fur that flows to the flooring . A whelp produced from a dominant Chihuahua parent will have very myopic pelt . You may also end up with a whelp that is an adequate mix and has medium - length hair .
It is almost impossible to predict what your puppy will look like until they are born . The texture of their fur is also determine by which parent ’s genes are more prevailing . Some puppy will have wavy fur while others will have pin - consecutive pelt . Regardless of the duration or texture of their pelt , you may rest promise that these mixes arehypoallergenic dogs .
Each Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix will have their unique temperament . This is because their parent ’s personalities could not be any more different .
Shih Tzus are very loving dogs that are be intimate for their easy - sledding and position - back nature . Whereas Chihuahuas are have a go at it for their sassy and territorial nature . If your pup inherits the mild manners of a Shih Tzu then you will have a favorable and outgoing dog . They will have a very kind heart and soul and will make acquaintance with everyone they meet .
However , if your dog takes after their Chihuahua parent then you are in for a bit of a challenge . These pup are intensely protective of their beloved house members and this nature can lead to aggression .
Although these breeds have very unlike personalities there are some traits they have in vulgar . Both of these breed are very playful and use their vigor in short bursts . Their small body limit the amount of exercising they can do each day . however , this does not stop them from happily playing with toys indoors and running around to keep up with you wherever you go .
unluckily , this premix is know for make out the sound of their voices . They skin at just about everything so you will want to train them to stop this ( more on this afterwards ) . Both strain are intensely firm and affectionate with their families . So you may expect this intermixture would much rather cuddle up on the lounge than expend hour playing outside .
They love to be the center of attention and thirst affection at all time . These precious whelp will dish out as much passion as they get . However , this desire to be always loved can make detachment anxiety .
What It’s Like Living with a Shichi
A day with the Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix can be pretty irregular .
Daily Routine
These puppy have such a assortment of personality that you do not know how your pup will act each day . Some days they can wake up on the wrong side of the bed whereas other days they are full of profitableness with exuberance for life ! disregarding of their attitude , they will be glue to your side at all times . These Velcro dogs will want to be with you at all times and will cry if you leave them for too long . If you leave to go to work for a duo of hours they will not be felicitous – these whelp are not self - sufficient in any means .
Playtime
This is not a gamey - DOE bounder however they will likely bounce around a bit . They may inquire you to throw around a toy , play a small tug of war , or they might go off on their own and chew on a miniature to hold themselves . More often than not they will tire themselves out for the solar day pretty apace and will need to take a nap in your lap
When they are not napping or espouse you around , you will get wind them yipping at passing people and cars . These pup arefierceprotectors and will alert you to anything wrong . If a leaf falls from a Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree they will promptly alarm you .
How to Care for a Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix
The expectant job with keeping a Shih Tzu Chihuahua is training . Here are somepuppy grooming tipsfor your Shih Tzu Chihuahua commixture . Once trained these pups are quite prosperous to care for .
This mix only needs a picayune exercise , does not exhaust much food and hardly sheds . Their grooming is very depressed maintenance so providing you practise responsible best-loved ownership your doggie will thrive .
Exercise
Because this strain is so small they do not needmuch exercise . They can overexert themselves if you assay to exercise them too hard while playing . These pup are very contented with 1 - 2 short walkway each twenty-four hours and a total of 15 - 20 minutes of playday .
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mixes delight spending sentence alfresco but they would much rather play inwardly . They love squeaky toy , bouncy balls , and any plaything they can chew on . These puppy get laid to manducate and will quickly resort to masticate on your belongings if you do not give them enough toy to keep them busy .
Whatever exert you and your finespun whelp decide to participate in make trusted that you always keep a leash on them . Their short attending span create them potential to play off after small animal or other dogs , so keep them on a troika .
Grooming
The grooming of this mix will depart depending on which coat distance they inherit . As such , your puppy will need grooming once a week if it has the unretentive straight fur of a Chihuahua .
This is just enough brush to prevent any sluttish hair from falling around your house . If your puppy has the long fur of a Shi Tzu then they will need to be brushed 2 - 3 times each calendar week to foreclose any tangles or lustrelessness from forming . They will also in all likelihood need to be trimmed by a groomer every couple of months to keep their pelt at a achievable distance .
Regardless of their coat distance , they will not shed much . Shih Tzus are debate hypoallergenic and Chihuahuas have very small fur to spill so you will not have to vex about fur constantly covering your home if you institute one of these delightful hybrids home .
disregardless of the pelt they inherit , there are some canonic grooming steps you will require to watch over . bath your pup monthly , pick their ears weekly , sweep their tooth daily , and trim their nails each month . In addition , you will want to wipe the arena around their eye daily to prevent unreasonable tear discoloration .
Nutrition
As these blackguard are so humble they do not need much food each Clarence Shepard Day Jr. . you could expect to feed them ½-1 cup of belittled frump food each day spaced out over two meal . Any more than this could promptly get them to put on extra pound as this breed is prone to becoming fleshy . They need a dieting that only has a moderate amount of fat .
You do not want so much rich that they become obese but you want enough to keep their pelage burnished and healthy . They also require nutrient that is abject in carbohydrates ( to prevent weight gain ) and high in protein ( to promote stiff and healthy joints ) .
Training
Training a Shih Tzu chihuahua mixture is often tough , so here are somepuppy training tipsfor your Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix . Both parent strain are known for having a stubborn attitude and a short attention twain . You should expect training Roger Sessions to be curt and you will require lot of patience .
Because these pups are so sensitive to harsh parole you should use confirming reward when train them . They are very motivated by food so kickshaw can be your hush-hush weapon during training . check that to feed in them very low break - up treats though because these petite pooch tend to gain weighting apace .
Toy breeds lean to be more stubborn during potty training . They will most in all likelihood test your forbearance but be consistent and project out a routine that knead best for you and your puppy . After enamored training , the unruffled command should be your next precedence . These pups bark a lot so you will want to teach them early on how to limit their barking .
socialisation is important for any breed but specially vital if your mixed strain takes after its Chihuahua parent . Shih Tzus are friendly and an easydog to socializeso hopefully , your whelp will inherit this . If your puppy is thin-skinned ( like a Chihuahua ) then you will desire to display them to Lot of masses from a young age . Introduce them to citizenry of all age and various firedog to teach them proper manner when interact with others .
Just because these dogs are small does not have in mind they will not destroy your household if they are bored . These pups need mental stimulation to ride out occupied and will start manducate when they have nothing to keep them harbour . Hence , replete your home with fun and exciting toys to keep them occupy .
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix Health Issues
Mixed breeds are known for being healthier than pedigrees . However , they can still inherit health complicatedness from their dissimilar parent breeds . Here are some of the business concern for this mix .
Dental Issues
Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mixes , like their parent breeds , are prone to dental trouble . This is due to their low mouths , which can lead to overcrowding of teeth and a higher risk of dental diseases . Regular dental check - ups and proficient oral hygienics practices are of the essence to foreclose such issues .
Respiratory Problems
Due to the little nose of the Shih Tzu and sometimes the Chihuahua , the Shichi may inherit respiratory difficulties . This condition can regard their respiration , especially in hot or stressful environment . It ’s important to be aware of this and ensure they have a comfortable and stress - free living space .
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia , or low blood sugar , is a condition that can occur in modest dog breed , include the Shichi . This can happen if the click does n’t eat regularly or exerts too much energy . monitor their diet and alimentation agenda is crucial to prevent such episodes .
Luxating Patellas
This condition involve the dislocation of the patella , which is vulgar in small breed . Luxating patellas can cause pain in the neck and impress the dog ’s power to walk . veritable vet check - ups can help oneself in early diagnosing and discourse .
Eye Problems
Both Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas are prone to various center problems , which can be inherit by the Shichi . These may admit issue like dry eyes , cataracts , or progressive retinal wasting . Keeping an center on their optic health and regular veterinary centre examination are crucial .
Heart Issues
Heart problem can also be a concern for Shichis , inherited from either of the parent stock . Regular veterinary check - ups are essential to monitor heart health and detect any early signs of marrow disease .
Tracheal Collapse
This stipulation is where the trachea , or windpipe , collapses and can cause cough and difficulty ventilation . It ’s more vulgar in low breeds , so it ’s something to be mindful of in Shichis .
Obesity
Due to their small size , Shichis are prostrate to obesity , especially if they do not get enough recitation or if they are overfed . Maintaining a right diet and regular exercise is key to preventing obesity and its associated wellness endangerment .
Allergies
Shichis can inherit a propensity for allergy , which could be environmental or food - related . Symptoms can include itch , hide infections , and GI problems . Identifying and managing allergy early is of the essence for their comfort and wellness .
Liver Problems
Liver emergence are another health concern to be aware of in Shichis , potentially inherited from the parent strain . steady health check - ups are significant to monitor liver function and allow them withnutritious food for liver diseasemanagement .
Ear Infections
Due to their auricle structure , Shichis can be prostrate to ear transmission . veritable cleaning and halt - ups can assist prevent infection and ensure any outlet are address right away .
It ’s significant to consult with a veterinarian for personalized care and health management for a Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix , considering these likely health worry . Regular stay - ups , a balanced diet , and right grooming can help assure a sizable and happy life-time for these adorable mixed - breed dog-iron .
How Much Does a Shichi Cost?
These pup are desirable because of their small size of it and endearing tone . Because of this breeders will charge more for them than other mixes . Hence , you should expect to pay around $ 750 for a Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix pup .
Buying Tips
Always check the stock breeder ’s credentials before buying your pup because these pups can sometimes inherit the respiratory issues of the brachycephalic Shih Tzu you should examine the nose social system of your pup before buying to verify that they can take a breath easily .
If you have very low children then you should think adopting a bombastic and more broad stock . Buy lot of durable toys to channel their beloved of chewing positively . This will protect your belongings from becoming a new wad toy for your puppy .
compensate close care to their diet . The ShiChi can quickly become fleshy so make certain you do not overfeed them . This strain has an irregular show and personality due to the drastic departure between the parent breed .
FAQs on ShiChis
How long does a Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix live?
The small and mighty Shih Tzu Chihuahua can last a long fill biography of 12 - 15 long time . Like all dogs , their seniority depends on factors such as genetic science , diet , exercise , and the lineament of care they receive throughout their lives .
Are Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixes good with children?
Yes , Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixes can be good with children , particularly if they are raised with them or socialized from a young age . However , due to their small size , it ’s important to supervise interaction with immature children to ensure the dog is n’t accidentally injured .
How big do Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixes get?
Shichis are generally small dogs . They typically weigh between 9 to 16 pounds and stand about 9 to 12 in improbable at the articulatio humeri . However , the precise size can alter depending on the predominant cistron inherited from their parent breed .
Does a Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix require a lot of grooming?
The groom requirements of a Shih Tzu Chihuahua commixture depend for the most part on their coating type , which can vary . If they inherit the long pelage of the Shih Tzu , they will need regular brushing to foreclose matting . If they have a shorter pelage like a Chihuahua , their grooming needs will be less intensive . Regular ear cleaning , nail trimming , and dental tending are also important for their overall wellness .
Are Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixes easy to train?
Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix in can be moderately leisurely to train . They respond well to positive reinforcement technique such as treat and congratulations . However , they can inherit a obstinate streak from their Chihuahua lineage , so patience and consistence are key in their training .
Do Shih Tzu Chihuahuas have any common health problems?
Shih Tzu Chihuahuas can inherithealth issuescommon to their parent breeds . These may let in dental problems , respiratory difficulty , luxating patellas ( knee problems ) , eye problems , and heart issue . Regular veterinary check - ups and a healthy lifestyle can help get by these risk of exposure .
Can Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixes live in apartments?
Yes , Shichis mixes can adapt well to flat living . They are lowly in size of it and do n’t require overweening blank space . However , they do necessitate veritable exercise and mental arousal to continue good for you and happy .
Last Words on the Lovable Shichi
It is impossible to predict the personality and appearance of any Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix . So be prepared for a life full of screwball surprisal !
They are a great breed for first - prison term dog owner who have the longanimity and skill to condition a pooch with a refractory posture . These dogs are low criminal maintenance in price of grooming , utilization , and dieting but ask extra attention to their preparation and socialization .
At times these pups can be difficult to housetrain and may turn out to be wary with strangers but with patience and consistency , these pups can make lovable fellow traveller . Whichever way your puppy turns out you’re able to be certain they will be loyal to you for living and spend their years loving you and make you express mirth with their larger - than - life personality .
Other Shih Tzu and Chihuahua Mixes
If you ’re concerned in learning about other Shih Tzu mixes orChihuahua admixture , check out the hybrid dog breed below .
