• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Shih-Poo Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Shih-Poo so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
Popularity Rank562
Reviews2
User Ratings
Compare the Shih-Poo With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Shih-Poo dog profile picture
OriginChina flagChina Tibet flagTibet
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Shih-Poo known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
PooshiShoodle
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Shih-Poo? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Poodle and Shih Tzu mix

Shih-Poo Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Shih-Poo? Learn how big the Shih-Poo breed typically grows.
Small
Weight Statistics
How much does a Shih-Poo weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Shih-Poo breed.
8-15 pounds (4-7 kg)7-9 pounds (3-4 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Shih-Poo?
11.5 pounds (5.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Shih-Poo? Shih-Poo height:
8-15 inches (20-38 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Shih-Poo?
11.5 inches (29 cm)

Shih-Poo Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Shih-Poo puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Shih-Poo costs.
$800-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Shih-Poo, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Shih-Poo for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Shih-Poo gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Shih-Poo? How many Shih-Poo are there in the world?
Frequent: The Shih-Poo is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Shih-Poo Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Shih-Poo? Discover the Shih-Poo's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Smart: The Shih-Poo dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Shih-Poo is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Shih-Poo? Learn about the Shih-Poo's trainability and response to training methods.
Shih-Poo dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Shih-Poo as a watchdog? Learn about the Shih-Poo's alertness and guarding instincts.
Shih-Poo dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Shih-Poo protective of its territory? Learn about the Shih-Poo's guarding instincts and behavior.
Shih-Poo dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

Shih-Poo Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Shih-Poo have? Learn about characteristic Shih-Poo temperament and behavior traits.
IntelligentLoyalSweetCompanionable
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Shih-Poo sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Shih-Poo dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Shih-Poo a good family dog?
High: Shih-Poo dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Pooshi need? Shih-Poo social needs:
Shih-Poo dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Shih-Poo to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Shih-Poo roam?
Shih-Poo dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Shih-Poo have high prey drive?
Shih-Poo dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals.

Shih-Poo Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Shih-Poo bark a lot? Learn about typical Shih-Poo vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Shih-Poo rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Shih-Poo? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Shih-Poo breed.
The Shih-Poo is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Shih-Poo live in an apartment? Learn about the Shih-Poo's suitability for apartment living.
Very house-friendly dog the Shih-Poo breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Shih-Poo Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Shih-Poo to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Shih-Poo's flexibility to new situations.
Shih-Poo dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Shih-Poo be left alone? Learn about the Shih-Poo's tolerance to solitude.
Shih-Poo dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Shih-Poo Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Shih-Poo biting potential? Learn about the Shih-Poo's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Shih-Poo has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Shih-Poo mouthy? Learn about the Shih-Poo's tendency to use mouth during play.
Shih-Poo dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Shih-Poo dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Shih-Poo bite? Learn about the Shih-Poo's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih-Poo bite force: Weak. The Shih-Poo bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Shih-Poo measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Shih-Poo may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Shih-Poo being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Shih-Poo bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Shih-Poo puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Shih-Poo can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Shih-Poo Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Shih-Poo live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Shih-Poo breed.
14-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih-Poo: 15 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Shih-Poo handle different weather? Learn about the Shih-Poo's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Shih-Poo can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Shih-Poo? Discover typical conditions affecting the Shih-Poo breed.
The Shih-Poo is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Shih-Poo need vet visits? Learn about the Shih-Poo's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Shih-Poo should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Shih-Poo breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Shih-Poo breed? Most common health risks of Shih-Poo:
HeatstrokeDental Problems

Shih-Poo Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Shih-Poo? Understand daily activity needs of the Shih-Poo breed.
Shih-Poo dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Shih-Poo need? How much exercise do Shih-Poo dogs require per day?

Do Shih-Poo dogs need a lot of exercises?

Shih-Poo dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Shih-Poo breed need?
Shih-Poo dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Shih-Poo Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Shih-Poo prone to weight gain? Learn about the Shih-Poo's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih-Poo's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Shih-Poo weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Shih-Poo need daily? Learn about the Shih-Poo's feeding requirements.
1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Shih-Poo Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Shih-Poo hypoallergenic? Learn about the Shih-Poo's suitability for allergy sufferers.
Yes
Shih-Poo dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction. However there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs in the world, there are a variety of breeds that are considered to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Shih-Poo come in? Discover all possible Shih-Poo color variations.
Black White Brown Brindle Various combinations
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Shih-Poo need? Learn about Shih-Poo coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Shih-Poo doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Shih-Poo is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Shih-Poo drool a lot? Learn about the Shih-Poo's drooling habits.
The Shih-Poo is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Shih-Poo could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Shih-Poo.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Shih-Poo smell bad? Learn about the Shih-Poo's natural odor levels.

Low 🔽

The Shih-Poo has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Shih-Poo have? Learn about the Shih-Poo's fur characteristics.
CurlyStraightCurly & Straight
Bathing Needs
How often does a Shih-Poo need baths? Learn about the Shih-Poo's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do Shih-Poo dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Pooshi? Do Shih-Poo dogs shed a lot?
Shih-Poo dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Shih-Poo dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.

Shih-Poo Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Shih-Poo good with children? Learn about the Shih-Poo's behavior around kids of different ages.
Shih-Poo dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Shih-Poo get along with other pets? Discover the Shih-Poo's compatibility with other animals.
Shih-Poo dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Shih-Poo temperament with other people:
Shih-Poo dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Shih-Poo dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Shih-Poo breed live with a cat?
Shih-Poo dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Shih-Poo good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Shih-Poo dogs get along with other dogs?
Shih-Poo dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Shih-Poo is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Shih-Poo breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Shih-Poo breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Shih-Poo dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Shih-Poo dogs good office canines? Do Shih-Poo dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Shih-Poo is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Shih-Poo dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Pooshi temperament with senior people? Are Shih-Poo dogs good for elderly owners?
Shih-Poos are commonly okay with elderly people.

Shih-Poo As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Shih-Poo be a service dog? Learn about the Shih-Poo's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Shih-Poo is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Shih-Poo good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Shih-Poo's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Shih-Poo is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Shih-Poo good at detection work? Learn about the Shih-Poo's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Shih-Poo is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Shih-Poo do search and rescue? Learn about the Shih-Poo's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Shih-Poo is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Shih-Poo good on boats? Learn about the Shih-Poo's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Shih-Poo breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Shih-Poo pull carts? Learn about the Shih-Poo's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Shih-Poo is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Shih-Poo used in military service? Learn about the Shih-Poo's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shih-Poo Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Shih-Poo usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
3-4 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Shih-Poo pregnant? Learn about the Shih-Poo's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Shih-Poo: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Shih-Poo have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Shih-Poo Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Shih-Poo in? Learn about the Shih-Poo's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Shih-Poo in? Learn about the Shih-Poo's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Shih-Poo? Learn about the Shih-Poo's official recognition.
Not recognized by any clubs.

Shih-Poo Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Shih-Poo dogs have great intelligence.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Shih-Poo dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Very house-friendly dog the Shih-Poo breed.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Shih-Poo doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Shedding Level: Shih-Poo dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Shih-Poo is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness Rating: The Shih-Poo has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Shih-Poo dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Shih-Poo dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Shih-Poo dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih-Poo's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Shih-Poo dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Dog Friendly: Shih-Poo dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Shih-Poo is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Shih-Poo History

The Shih-Poo, or in its other names, the Pooshi, or the Shoodle, is a new designer dog breed, the result of cross-breeding the Poodle">Toy Poodle and the Shih Tzu with each other. New hybrid dogs partly from the Poodle have been popular since the middle of the 20th century when the Cockapoo stole everyone’s hearts with its low-shedding coat, loving personality, and intelligence. This is the reason why, since then, breeders always go back to the Poodles, in order to involve them in the creation of a whole new breed.

The exact origin of the hybrid breeds is always surrounded by a lot of mystery. The trend of creating new hybrid breeds started around the 1980s, in North America, with crossbreeding purebred dogs with each other, in order to create new breeds. These hybrid dogs were an instant hit because they always inherited the best and most desirable qualities and traits of their ancestors. Even though there are always disadvantages to these new hybrid breeds, designer dogs became insanely popular in the last 30 years. Unfortunately, this popularity does not mean, that we are certain about every detail of these hybrid breed’s ancestry, and the intention which led the breeder to develop these dogs.

The Shih-Poo is a result of two breeds, each with long and detailed histories, going back to several hundred years. The Shih-Tzu is considered to be one of the 14 oldest dog breeds in the world, originating from China. Whereas, the Poodle">Toy Poodle finds its origins in Germany, also dating back to hundreds of years. Even though it is not totally clear when the breed was created, or by whom, but it is considered to be true, that there were many reasons to create the Shih-Poo. This hybrid breed was developed in order to make the perfect companion in the city and also in the countryside, with the added benefit of their hypoallergenic coats. Shih-Poos inherited the Shih Tzu’s loyalty and their cute physical appearance. From the Poodle">Toy Poodle, the breed got their sophisticated looks and their outstanding intelligence.

Being a relatively new breed, the dogs can come in a variety of sizes and colors even from one litter, thus each individual specimen’s uniqueness is unpredictable. Moreover, most of the Shih-Poos are first-generation specimens, which means, that both of their parents were purebreds, one was a Poodle">Toy Poodle and the other was a Shih Tzu. The breeding cycle did not reach the stage when breeders could make the second generation, “pure” Shih-Poos just yet. Mainly, this is the reason why this hybrid breed, did not get recognition from any of the major kennel clubs.

Rate The Shih-Poo Breed

Shih-Poo Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Elsie

    Jun 21, 2023, 4:47:15 AM:

    Very loyal and loving. Elsie is good with children but does not like to be teased. Elsie loves to go shopping and expects people to notice her. She is a lot of fun.

  • Todd Christensen

    Mar 1, 2020, 12:10:57 AM:

    We loved our first Shihpoo boy so much we now have two. We wanted a dog that would not cause our son's allergies to flare up, an indoor dog that does not demand an hour of exercise a day, and a dog that does not shed. They are great cuddlebugs!