Home

/

Dog Breeds

/

Shih-Poo

Origin

🇨🇳

China

🇩🇪

Germany

Size

Small Breed

Ideal Space

Apartment

Ideal Weather

10º-25ºC

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹3,300

Basic Lifestyle

₹5,400

Premium Lifestyle

Top 5 Traits

Intelligent

Playful

Energetic

Friendly

Loyal

Shih-Poo

Quick Information

The Shih-Poo, a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, is a delightful and affectionate companion dog. These dogs are small in size but have a big personality. They are playful, energetic, and love to be around their human family members, making them ideal pets for families or individuals looking for a lively dog that thrives on attention. With their hypoallergenic coats, they can be a good choice for people with allergies. Their social nature makes them friendly with strangers and good with other pets and children.


Temperament-wise, Shih-Poos are known for being friendly and affectionate. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and can be a bit clingy, craving human companionship. While they are generally not aggressive, they can be vocal when they want attention or alert their owners of unfamiliar situations. Their trainability is excellent due to their high intelligence and the Poodle’s eager-to-please nature. However, they can sometimes be a little stubborn, so consistent training and socialization are necessary.The Shih-Poo requires moderate grooming and maintenance. Their coat, which may be wavy or curly like the Poodle's, needs regular brushing to prevent matting. They are generally healthy, but like all hybrid breeds, they can inherit some health issues from their parent breeds. With the right care, they can be wonderful companions who provide affection and joy to their families.



 

Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

about image

Nutrition

Monthly Food Expenses

₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800

Calories per day

Puppies400 kcal

Adults500 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Protein

Fats

Carbohydrates

Fibre

Vitamins

List of foods

Chicken

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Fresh Fish

Fruits

Home made meals

The Shih-Poo requires a balanced diet to support its active and energetic lifestyle. High-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, and fish are essential for maintaining muscle mass and energy levels. Carbohydrates from vegetables like carrots and peas help provide necessary fiber and energy. Fruits like apples and blueberries are excellent for added vitamins and antioxidants. A nutritious dry dog food with quality ingredients also supports their overall health, but it’s important to avoid fillers such as corn or soy.

Proper hydration is also crucial for the Shih-Poo. Fresh water should always be available, especially if they are consuming dry kibble. Depending on their energy level and size, the amount of food may vary, but typically, this breed requires around 400-500 kcal/day for an adult.

 

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Selecting Good Quality Food

For the Shih-Poo, a high-quality dog food that contains real meat as the first ingredient is ideal. Look for foods that are rich in omega fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. Additionally, food with a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber ensures that their nutritional needs are met while supporting their digestive health. Avoid foods with artificial additives and preservatives, as they can cause allergies or digestive issues. Homemade meals prepared with lean meats, rice, and vegetables are a great option as long as they are balanced with the right nutrients.

 

Never feed these foods to Shih-Poo

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Garlic

Onions

Chocolate

Grapes

Xylitol

Alcohol

Avoid foods that contain artificial flavors, preservatives, or fillers such as corn, soy, or wheat. These ingredients offer little nutritional value and may lead to allergies or digestive upset. Additionally, it’s essential to avoid onions, garlic, and chocolate, as they are toxic to dogs. High-fat foods should also be avoided, as they can lead to obesity, a common concern for Shih-Poos due to their small size and low activity level.

 
about image

Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 900 - ₹ 1,800

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia

Eye Disorders

Bloat

Kennel Cough

Eye problems

Leptospirosis

Allergies

Well being

Exercise

Bonding

Agility Training

Games

Socialization

Energy Level

Medium

Exercise routine

20 - 40 minutes

Recognising Stress

Changes in appetite

Excessive Barking

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Reluctance to move

Medical Care

Shih-Poos are generally healthy but can inherit certain health issues from their parent breeds. Common problems include hip dysplasia, heart disease, and eye problems such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy. These dogs also have sensitive skin, making them prone to allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to catch any potential health issues early, especially as the breed ages.

Routine exercise is necessary to keep them fit and healthy, but excessive physical strain should be avoided, especially as they can be prone to joint issues. Maintaining a balanced diet and a good grooming routine helps prevent skin conditions and promotes overall well-being.

 

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6-8 Weeks

DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)

10-12 Weeks

Leptospirosis, Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

12-16 Weeks

Rabies

Recommendations to care for senior Shih-Poo dogs

As Shih-Poos age, they may develop arthritis, heart problems, or vision issues. Regular vet check-ups are essential, with a focus on maintaining mobility and comfort. Senior dogs may also need a special diet that supports joint health and heart function. Keeping their weight in check is crucial to avoid added strain on their joints and cardiovascular system.

Ensure that they continue to get regular, low-impact exercise such as short walks or gentle play sessions to help maintain muscle tone and mental stimulation. Be mindful of their changing needs and adjust their care routine accordingly.

 
about image

Grooming

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800

Shedding Level

Low Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Ear Cleaning

Brushing

Eye Care

Benefits of Grooming

Prevents Bad Breath

Odourless

Low Shedding

Cleanliness

Prevents infections

The Shih-Poo has a coat that requires regular maintenance. Brushing their coat 2-3 times a week helps prevent matting and tangling. They do not shed much, making them a good choice for those with allergies. Regular baths, typically every 4-6 weeks, will help maintain their hygiene and keep their skin and coat healthy. Regular nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear cleaning are also important for overall health.

 
about image

Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!

Cost of buying

₹ 25,000 - ₹ 50,000

Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Shih-Poo for your house.


Buying: Selecting a reliable breeder is crucial when purchasing a pet. Make sure the breeder gives the dogs the care they need and adheres to moral breeding procedures.


To confirm the dog's health and pedigree, request health certificates and lineage documentation.


Cost of a Shih-Poo depends on a number of variables including ancestry, potential for show quality, and breeder reputation.


Adopting: Offering a needy pet a loving home through adoption is a fantastic choice. See if any breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or rescue organizations have a Shih-Poo up for adoption.


Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and initial medical care are usually included in adoption fees. These charges differ, but they are typically less than what it would cost to purchase from a breeder.`

 

Prerequisites to pet a Shih-Poo

Access to Groomer

Access to Veterinary

Appropriate Climate

Lifestyle Compatibility

Financial Capability

Shih-Poo breeders in India

Chiku Petshop

Chiku Petshop

Chiku Pet Shop Madan Mahal

Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh

Listing Soon

Now that you know what it takes to raise a undefined, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?

Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Shih-Poo breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.


Find Reputable Sources: When purchasing from breeders, look out for trustworthy breeders who have an emphasis on the temperament and well-being of the dogs. If you're thinking about adopting, check out the local rescue or animal shelters.


Visit the Breeder/Adoption Center: Make plans to meet the dogs or pups by scheduling a visit to the breeder or adoption center. Inquire about their health, immunization history, and socializing while keeping an eye on their living conditions.


Ask for documentation: Ask the breeder for vaccination records, health certificates, and any other relevant paperwork. If the dog is being adopted, find out about its past, present health, and behavior.


Prepare your home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Prepare your house for a puppy if you're adopting a young dog. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.

 

Compare with similar breeds

Poodle_breed

Poodle

Pomeranian_breed

Pomeranian

Maltese_breed

Maltese

Chihuahua_breed

Chihuahua

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Shih-Poos shed a lot?

Shih-Poos have a low-shedding coat, especially compared to many other breeds. However, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They are often considered hypoallergenic, making them suitable for people with mild allergies.

How often should a Shih-Poo be groomed?

Shih-Poos require regular grooming due to their non-shedding, curly coat. They should be brushed 2-3 times a week to prevent tangles and matting. They also require periodic baths (every 4-6 weeks), nail trimming, and dental care.

Are Shih-Poos good with kids and other pets?

Yes, Shih-Poos are typically great with children and other pets. Their gentle and friendly nature makes them an ideal family companion. However, early socialization is important to ensure they develop good relationships with other animals.

For your daily dose of happiness, follow us on

vectorvectorvector

Stay updated with the pet industry

Subscribe Now

Download our pet-parent app

dog
dog

© Excitado Innovations Pvt Ltd