A bright, sunny-natured little companion that loves being near its people. It is playful and quick-witted and wants to please, with an occasional stubborn moment from the Shih Tzu side.12
how to spot oneShih-poo coat and colours
thick, curly to straight
A thick, fast-growing coat that can be curly like a Poodle, long and silky like a Shih Tzu, or something in between. It sheds very little.12
A typical home-care rhythm for a Shih-poo. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
how busy a day looksShih-poo exercise needs
Low to moderate. About 20-30 minutes a day, for example two or three short walks or a couple of lively play sessions.12
where they are happiestShih-poo at home
Happy in a flat or small home and prefers a household where someone is around for much of the day.12
who they like aroundShih-poo with people and other pets
Very people-focused and does not like long stretches alone. Usually good with older children and friendly toward other pets, especially if raised with them, and generally gentle with cats.12
the hands-on bitsShih-poo grooming and care
Brush daily, or at least three times a week, to keep the coat free of tangles, and book a professional groom roughly every 4-8 weeks. Regular tooth brushing suits this small breed.12
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Shih-poo, and at what times?
Feed your adult Shih-poo at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Choose consistent times that fit your routine, and always follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts.3
What should a Shih-poo eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Offer a high-quality dog food suited to your Shih-poo's size and age. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA; never give these to your dog.4
How often should I bathe a Shih-poo?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. You can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty, but avoid over-bathing to protect the coat.5Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Shih-poo need brushing?
Brush your Shih-poo daily or at least three times a week to prevent tangles in its thick coat. Pet Wiki's plan suggests weekly brushing, but daily is ideal for this low-shedding breed.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Shih-poo's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small bits at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain.5Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Shih-poo need?
Your Shih-poo needs about 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily, split into two or three short walks or lively play sessions. This low to moderate activity keeps them happy and healthy.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Shih-poo's teeth and ears?
Brush your Shih-poo's teeth daily or at least every other day with dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or odor. Never push anything into the ear canal; use a vet-approved cleaner if needed.5Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Shih-poo live?
Shih-poos typically live between 10 and 17 years, giving you many wonderful years together.12
Is a Shih-poo good with children and other pets?
Yes, Shih-poos are usually good with older children and friendly toward other pets, especially if raised with them. They are generally gentle with cats and make a lovely family companion.12
Can a Shih-poo be left alone?
Shih-poos are very people-focused and do not like long stretches alone. They are happiest in a home where someone is around for most of the day.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
per year, in your countryWhat a Shih-poo costs
Running costs for a Shih-poo, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Shih-poo legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Shih-poo in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
homemade and simpleTreats they will love
Shih-poo tip
Choose small, high-quality dental chews to help with plaque, but remember they don't replace brushing. Because Shih-Poos are prone to sensitive stomachs, introduce any new treat slowly over several days.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Littermates can look strikingly different, from curly to silky.1
2
Their gentle, friendly nature suits many Shih-poos to therapy and assistance work.2
3
The Shih Tzu parent was bred as a companion for Chinese emperors.2
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The name "Shih-poo" is a portmanteau of its parent breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Toy Poodle; it is also sometimes called a "Shoodle."6
This morning I woke up with my nose tucked under the blanket, and I knew it was going to be a good day. I hopped off the bed, did my little tippy-tap dance, and followed my human to the kitchen. After a quick cuddle, we went for our favorite walk around the block. I sniffed every single bush and leaf, and I even made a new friend at the park, a fluffy poodle who wanted to play. Back home, I curled up on the couch with my squeaky toy, and we watched some TV. I love being near my people, and when my human laughed at my silly antics, my tail wagged so hard I almost fell over. Evenings are the best because we snuggle on the sofa, and I fall asleep to the sound of their heartbeat. It's a simple life, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
where it all beganShih-poo history
Nobody has claimed credit for the first Shih-poo; the cross probably appeared by chance in the United States before breeders began pairing the two on purpose. It brings together the Shih Tzu, a companion of Chinese royalty, and the Poodle, first a water-retrieving working dog.12
Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.7
American Kennel Club
Not recognised by the AKC, though designer breed clubs list it.1
Sources (3)
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].
Shih-Poo Dog Breed - Hill's Pethillspet.comused for origin, recognition, size, lifespan, coat, colours, temperament, exercise, grooming, fun fact
Shih Tzu
Poodle (Toy)
Maltipoo
Poochon
Yorkipoo