Shih-poo
Shih-poo Overview
Height: 8 – 15 inches
Weight: 8 – 18 lbs
Lifespan: 10 – 16 years
Group: Companion / Toy
Temperament: Affectionate, Intelligent, Playful, Alert
The Shih-Poo is a popular designer crossbreed combining the affectionate Shih Tzu with the intelligent Poodle. This hybrid was developed to create a small companion dog with the Shih Tzu's loving nature and the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat and trainability. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Shih-Poos tend to shed less than purebred Shih Tzus, making them more suitable for allergy sufferers. The appearance and temperament of Shih-Poos can vary considerably depending on which parent they favor, but most exhibit a charming blend of both breeds' best qualities. Their coat can range from wavy to curly and requires regular grooming every 6-8 weeks along with daily brushing to prevent matting. Shih-Poos are highly adaptable dogs that thrive in various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards. They inherit intelligence from their Poodle parent, making them more trainable than purebred Shih Tzus, though they can still display some stubbornness. These dogs form strong bonds with their families and are known for being affectionate lap dogs who also enjoy playtime and short walks. Their small size and moderate energy levels make them suitable for seniors and families alike. Shih-Poos are generally social dogs that get along well with children and other pets when properly introduced. They can be alert watchdogs who bark to announce visitors but aren't typically aggressive. Early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are important to prevent small dog syndrome. Their lifespan and overall health can benefit from hybrid vigor, though potential owners should be aware of health issues common to both parent breeds.
The Shih-Poo's temperament combines affectionate, intelligent, playful, alert qualities that make them appealing companions for appropriate owners. These dogs form strong bonds with their families, demonstrating loyalty and affection that endears them to household members. Their personality reflects breed-typical characteristics including energy levels suited to their size and original purpose, playfulness that provides entertainment and engagement, and behavioral patterns consistent with their breed heritage. With family members, Shih-Poos typically display affectionate behavior while maintaining individual personality variations that make each dog unique. Their interaction with strangers ranges from friendly acceptance to reserved caution, depending on individual temperament and socialization experiences. The breed's intelligence level influences their trainability and ability to learn commands, tasks, and appropriate household behaviors. Energy levels require consideration when matching this breed to potential owners, as daily activity needs must align with owner lifestyle and capabilities. These dogs may display independence or attachment tendencies that affect their behavior when separated from family members. Behavioral characteristics include vocalizations appropriate to their breed type, territorial awareness that may manifest in protective behaviors, and play styles that reflect their size and temperament. Understanding these temperamental qualities helps potential owners determine compatibility between their lifestyle expectations and the breed's typical behavioral patterns, ensuring successful long-term relationships between dogs and their human families.
Training a Shih-Poo requires understanding their learning style, motivation, and typical breed characteristics that influence training success. These dogs respond to positive reinforcement methods emphasizing reward-based techniques that encourage desired behaviors while building strong human-canine bonds. Early socialization during the critical developmental period between 8-16 weeks of age establishes foundational experiences with various people, animals, environments, and situations that shape adult temperament and behavior. Basic obedience training should begin early, establishing household rules, appropriate behaviors, and communication systems between dogs and owners. Training challenges may include breed-specific tendencies toward independence, stubbornness, or distractibility that require patient, consistent approaches. Consistency among all family members ensures clear communication and prevents confusion that undermines training efforts. Housetraining success depends on regular schedules, appropriate management, and positive reinforcement for eliminating in designated areas. Mental stimulation through training exercises, puzzle toys, and interactive games prevents boredom-related behavioral problems while strengthening cognitive abilities. Professional training classes provide structured learning environments and expert guidance particularly valuable for novice owners or dogs presenting training challenges. Realistic expectations based on breed characteristics, individual temperament, and owner commitment determine training outcomes and long-term success.
The Shih-Poo's exercise requirements reflect their size, energy level, and original purpose, requiring daily physical activity to maintain health and behavioral balance. Adult dogs typically need 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, adjustable based on individual energy levels and age considerations. Appropriate activities include leashed walks providing physical exercise and mental stimulation through environmental exploration, play sessions in securely fenced areas allowing safe off-leash activity, and interactive games strengthening human-canine bonds while meeting exercise needs. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys, scent work, training exercises, and problem-solving activities prevents boredom and provides cognitive enrichment essential for intelligent breeds. Without adequate physical and mental exercise, dogs may develop problematic behaviors including destructive chewing, excessive barking, restless pacing, or attention-seeking activities. Exercise intensity and duration should adjust for puppies, senior dogs, and individuals with health conditions requiring modified activity levels. Weather considerations may necessitate indoor exercise alternatives during extreme temperatures or inclement conditions. Meeting these exercise requirements ensures physical fitness, mental well-being, and appropriate behavior management.
Grooming requirements for the Shih-Poo depend on coat type, length, and texture, requiring regular maintenance to preserve health and appearance. Brushing frequency ranges from weekly for short-coated varieties to daily for long-haired dogs prone to matting and tangling. Bathing should occur every 4-8 weeks or as needed, using quality dog shampoo appropriate for their coat type and skin sensitivity. Professional grooming may be necessary for breeds requiring specialized clipping, stripping, or styling to maintain breed-appropriate appearance. Nail trimming every 2-4 weeks prevents overgrowth causing discomfort and gait problems. Dental care including regular brushing with canine toothpaste prevents periodontal disease and associated health complications. Ear cleaning removes debris and prevents infection, particularly important for dogs with pendant ears or those prone to ear problems. Skin care includes checking for parasites, irritations, or abnormalities during grooming sessions. Seasonal considerations may affect grooming needs, with heavier shedding during coat changes requiring increased brushing frequency. Establishing grooming routines from puppyhood creates positive associations and cooperation during grooming procedures. Proper grooming maintains physical health, prevents discomfort, and strengthens human-canine bonds through regular handling and care.
The Shih-Poo typically enjoys a lifespan of 10 – 16 years, though individual longevity depends on genetics, care quality, and health management throughout life. Like all breeds, they may be predisposed to certain health conditions including genetic disorders, structural problems, or age-related diseases requiring awareness and preventive care. Responsible breeders conduct health testing on breeding stock to minimize hereditary condition transmission and improve overall breed health. Regular veterinary examinations including annual checkups and age-appropriate screening tests enable early disease detection and intervention. Preventive care including vaccinations, parasite control, and dental prophylaxis protects against preventable diseases and health problems. Nutrition plays a crucial role in health maintenance, with quality diet appropriate to age, activity level, and individual needs supporting optimal physical condition. Weight management prevents obesity-related complications including joint stress, diabetes, and reduced lifespan. Exercise appropriate to age and health status maintains cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and joint mobility. Prompt attention to health changes including behavioral shifts, appetite changes, or physical symptoms enables timely veterinary intervention. Genetic testing may identify predispositions to hereditary conditions, informing preventive care strategies and breeding decisions.
The ideal home for a Shih-Poo provides appropriate space, activity opportunities, and family dynamics matching breed characteristics and needs. These dogs adapt to various living situations including apartments or houses, provided exercise and mental stimulation requirements are consistently met. Family suitability depends on household composition, with considerations for children's ages, other pets, and household activity levels affecting compatibility. The breed's tolerance for children varies, with some dogs excellent family companions while others better suited to adult households or families with older, respectful children. Compatibility with other pets depends on individual temperament, socialization experiences, and prey drive intensity that may affect relationships with smaller animals. Climate tolerance influences comfort in different geographic regions, with some breeds adapting to various conditions while others prefer specific temperature ranges. First-time dog owners should carefully consider whether breed characteristics, training requirements, and care needs align with their experience level and lifestyle capabilities. The commitment required for grooming, exercise, training, and healthcare must align with owner resources and willingness to meet these responsibilities throughout the dog's lifetime. Successful matches between dogs and families result from honest assessment of breed requirements and family capabilities, ensuring positive long-term relationships benefiting both dogs and their human companions.
Breed Highlights
Listings
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5 Chocolate Shih Poo puppies for sale
Shih-poo Fort Myers (Florida) March 23, 2025 $ 1400.00Hello, my dog has just given birth to her first and only litter of chocolate shihpoo puppies, who will be looking for new homes soon. 1 boy and 4 girls. They were born on July 27 and will be ready to go with their first set of shots by the end of Sep...
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Shih Tzu x Poodle puppies
Shih-poo Atlanta (Georgia) April 2, 2025 $ 1200.00We have fluffy Shih Tzu x Poodle puppies waiting for their forever homes! These little cuties will be ready to go in just two weeks. If you'd like to meet them in person, we're more than happy to arrange a meet-up. If you're interested in a specific ...
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Shih Tzu/Toy Poodle cross
Shih-poo New York (New York) May 11, 2025 $ 1200.00Shih Tzu/Toy Poodle cross... Two boys and two girls. Born 10/23/22. Puppies will be ready in time to make the ideal Christmas gift (12/23/22). The two with mixed white are boys, and the two with solid white are girls. Mom and Dad were on-site and pic...
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Gorgeous blue eyes Shih-poo puppy for sale
Shih-poo Corona (California) June 9, 2025 $ 1200.00Gorgeous Shih-poo puppy born on the 30th of December, will be ready around the 20th of Feb and will come with the first set of vaccinations and deworming! We will provide you with a vaccination record booklet. Puppy's got gorgeous blue eyes and a pla...
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Stunning Shihpoo puppy
Shih-poo (New Jersey) April 15, 2025 $ 1000.00Lilly is a stunning Shih-Poo (mom is a shih tzu, dad is a mini poodle). She's back, beautiful, cuddly, with a great temperament, playful but not too much, and she likes to nap by your side. She is 9 weeks old and in desperate need of a loving home. S...
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Half Shih-Tzu half Poodle puppies for sale
Shih-poo Overland (Missouri) June 4, 2025 $ 1000.00We have half Shih-Tzu half Poodle puppies who were born on July 21st. We are looking for new, loving homes. Mom weighs 12 pounds. Dad weighs 14 pounds. They are very happy, healthy, and friendly puppies. Vet checked, first vaccination, and worming sc...
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Two Shi-poo pups for adoption
Shih-poo Colorado Springs (Colorado) March 30, 2025 $ 950.00Two Shi-poo pups are up for adoption. They are raised in our home alongside their family dogs, dad (an 11-pound mini poodle) and mom (an 11-pound shih-tzu). We still have two sweet girls available. These adorable babies are cuddly, playful, and fuzzy...
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Shih-Tzu poodle cross puppy
Shih-poo Kentwood (Michigan) April 14, 2025 $ 900.001 male Shih-Tzu poodle cross puppy, hypoallergenic and non-shedding! He is current on shots and worming. Every three months, this puppy will require grooming (a haircut). The puppy will be 8 weeks, on February 20th, and he will be ready to go. He has...
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9 weeks old Shihpoo puppies for rehoming
Shih-poo West Sacramento (California) April 23, 2025 $ 875.009 weeks old Shihpoo puppies for rehoming. 2 males left. They ae Shih tzu mix the poodle puppies. They've got their first vaccine and they've got the wormer. $875 of each allergen free. They're not shed. The tails are docked. Pups are so charming and...
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Shi-poo puppies born Sept. 2nd
Shih-poo Alexandria (Minnesota) April 13, 2025 $ 800.00Shi-poo puppies born Sept. 2nd and ready because there new forever homes Oct. 28th! Both mom and dad are on sight and puppies is going to be non-shedding. Am asking $800 for your males, and $850 to the one female. Will be five to seven lbs. full grow...
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Adorable and cuddly Shihpoo puppy
Shih-poo Eau Claire (Wisconsin) April 22, 2025 $ 800.00I'm looking for a forever home for my 12-week-old shihpoo puppy. Excellent with children and other pets. Very adorable, cuddly, and playful. He's had his first shots and has been dewormed. For more information, please call or text.
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Shih-poo puppies for sale
Shih-poo Youngstown (Ohio) March 20, 2025 $ 800.00Shih-Poo puppies were born on 12/11 and will be ready for adoption on 2/5/2022. Two females and three males are available. Males come in three collars: dark blue, light blue, and light green. Females are red and pink in collar. Each homing fee is $80...
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Shih Tzu Chihuahua Poodle Cross
Shih-poo Boise (Idaho) April 22, 2025 $ 750.00These little girls are very nice, intelligent, affectionate, and playful! The mother is a mix of Shih-Tzu and Chihuahua, while the father is a Miniature Poodle. Both parents weigh 15 pounds. You can find pictures of the parents at the end of this pos...
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3 Shih-Poo puppies looking for a new home
Shih-poo Little Rock (Arkansas) March 24, 2025 $ 750.003 Shih-Poo puppies are looking for a new home. Dad: 8-9 pounds miniature poodle. Mom: Shih Tzu, 8 lbs. In 2-3 weeks, the puppies will be ready. Registered, social, happy and up-to-date on all shots and deworming, vet checked and a health guarantee of...
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Beautiful Shihtzu/Poodle male 4 months old
Shih-poo Belzoni (Mississippi) June 16, 2025 $ 650.00There exists a beautiful Shihtzu/Poodle that needs rehoming. He or she is 4 months old, extremely nice, and it is great with kids. Extremely smart puppy, already learning ways to use the puppy pad and house broken. Will Simply rehome with a good home...
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9 weeks old Shihpoo Puppies for sale
Shih-poo Phoenix (Arizona) April 18, 2025 $ 600.00I have one male and one female 9 weeks old Shih-poo puppies that are ready to go home! They're great, and amazing family dogs. They come with records of shots and kennel traineed. All puppies are dewormed, too, and eat hard food. The weight of Full G...
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Shih-poo designer hybrid puppies available
Shih-poo Lubbock (Texas) May 10, 2025 $ 500.00Shihtzu Poo Puppies 3/4 Shih tzu 1/4 Poodle the designer hybrid is made for a fluffy very Smart Hypoallergenic Small Dog using a great loving personality playful although not extremely hyper just a wonder family lap dog these beautiful babies were bo...
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Cute Shihpoo pups
Shih-poo Riverside (California) April 13, 2025 $ 500.00Cute Shihpoo pups looking for forever homes. Are groomed, toilet trained, and have had their first vaccines and deworming. They are currently 9 weeks old.
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2 adorable male Shih-Poo puppies ready to be adopted
Shih-poo Chicago (Illinois) May 2, 2025 $ 500.00Hi all I have 2 adorable male Shih-Poo puppies ready to be adopted by families looking for a new little friend to keep for life. D.O.B 3. Ready to go home on 5/16. Please feel free to contact us for more information. And thank you for looking for.
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12 weeks old Shihpoo puppy
Shih-poo Houston (Texas) June 2, 2025 $ 500.00Hello, I have for sale a beautiful Shihpoo puppy, she's 12 weeks old. This baby is already learned to go to fields and on puppy pads.she's super smart, her dad is a toy poodle and mom is a shihpoo which makes her almost total toy poodle but she's a t...