Shih-poo
| Shih-poo | |
|---|---|
 A Shih-poo | |
| Foundation stock | Poodle, Shih Tzu |
| Variety status | Not recognized as a breed by any major kennel club. |
| Dog (domestic dog) | |
The Shih-poo is a small domestic dog. It is a crossbreed between a Poodle and a Shih Tzu.[1][2] 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, with the desirable traits of another breed—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 colours, such as all black, all white, cream, sable, and any mix and combination thereof.
See also
- Poodle hybrid
- Dog hybrid (crossbred dogs, not dogs bred with foxes or other species)
- Designer crossbreed