Shih-Poo — Breed Profile
"Affectionate, playful, intelligent, social, eager to please"
Portable Companion
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Apartment dwellers, families with children, allergy-conscious owners, first-time dog owners, individuals seeking affectionate lap companion
Not Ideal For
Owners seeking highly independent dogs, those unable to commit to regular grooming, homes without time for socialization, people wanting minimal shedding
Health Considerations
Patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, ear infections, dental issues
Estimated annual vet cost: $800-$1,200
Breed History
Deliberately crossed Shih Tzu and Poodle breeds beginning in the 1980s-1990s to create a hypoallergenic, low-shedding companion dog with playful temperament
Fun Facts
- Shih-Poos often inherit the Poodle's intelligence with the Shih Tzu's affectionate nature
- Their teddy bear appearance makes them Instagram-popular designer dogs
- Despite small size, they require significant grooming maintenance to prevent matting
- Some Shih-Poos can be stubborn trainers despite good intelligence
Famous Shih-Poos
Various social media Shih-Poo influencers and celebrity-owned examples
Shih-Poo products coming soon.
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