Shih-Poo Puppies

Shih-Poos are active dogs that love to play. They make good playmates for older kids, but younger children may be too rough or boisterous for the Shih-Poo. In terms of friendliness, the Shih-Poo is sort of a mixed bag. Some are social and love everyone they meet, while other Shih-Poos are timid and take a while to warm up to someone. Regardless, Shih-Poos love their owners and have a tendency to follow them around the house. One thing to note about Shih-Poos is that they love to bark, so they may not be the best choice for apartment living. However, it is possible to train a Shih-Poo to bark less. In the right home, the Shih-Poo is an easygoing and devoted companion for all.

They are considered to be healthy dogs, but can be prone to conditions common with its parent breeds. These conditions can include hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, and eye problems.

The Shih Poos energy levels depend on the traits inherited from parent breeds, but they should typically receive 30-45 minutes of exercise every day. They love playing, so time with toys in the house or in a fenced in yard is a great way to get their energy out. They also enjoy walks around the neighborhood with their owners.

While Shih-Poos are low shedding, their coat requires regular maintenance to prevent it from matting and knotting. We recommend that you brush them daily, especially behind their ears and hindquarters. Most owners will take their Shih-Poos to the groomer 3-4 times per year to trim their long coat.

Shih-Poos shed very little, a trait inherited from both parent breeds. Both parent breeds are hypoallergenic, so you can expect your Shih-Poo to be hypoallergenic as well.

Their appearance can vary slightly based on their inherited traits, but you can expect these pups to be very cute. Their coat can be curly, sily, and anywhere from short to long in length. Their coat should be brushed daily to minimize knotting and matting.

The Shih-Poo was developed by crossing a Shih Tzu with either a Toy or Miniature Poodle. Like most designer dogs, the Shih-Poo doesn't have a very clear history. That said, there isn't any one person or breeder that can be credited with being the "creator" of the Shih-Poo. However, it is assumed that the Shih-Poo originated around the same time as most other designer dogs: the 1980s or 90s. This is when breeders began to intentionally crossbreed purebred dogs in attempt to combine the best traits of both breeds. Most of the hybrids that we know today were developed in this manner, and the Shih-Poo was likely one of them. The Shih-Poo is registered by several clubs for hybrid and designer dogs, like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Designer Breed Registry (DBR).