Shih Poo

Breed Type: Crossbreed
Common nicknames: Shoodle, Pooshi
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Color & patterns: White
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Shih Poo
Shih Poo
Shih Tzus and Poodles come from very different backgrounds. Shih Tzus were pampered dogs bred to live in palaces and provide affection and companionship to emperors in Chinese Royalty. Poodles, on the other hand, were bred for less of a cushy lifestyle: Their job was to hunt birds and retrieve them from the water. Crossing a working dog with a companion pup led to the Shih Poo, a dog who embodies the best of both breeds. Shih Poos, also known as Shoodles and Pooshis, have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. These dogs are smart, playful, and affectionate. Although Shih Poos are active and energetic, their favorite thing to do is spend time with their families. They have a strong willingness to please and get along with other people and pets — traits that make them well suited to being trained as assistance and therapy dogs.

Shih Poo characteristics

Learn about about Shih Poo basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Shih Poo facts.

Average height

8-18 inches (20.3-45.7cm)

Average weight

10-20 pounds (4.5-9.1 kg)

Average lifespan

10-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny TinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
What size is a full grown Shih Poo?

Most full-grown Shih Poos weigh between 10 and 20 pounds and stand eight to 18 inches tall. At first glance, a Shih Poo looks like a small dog, but looks can be deceiving. The breed has short legs, but these dogs can weigh up to 28 pounds. Shih Poos with a Miniature Poodle parent are larger than those with a Toy Poodle parent.

Is a Shih Poo a teddy bear dog?

Shih poos are energetic pups who have fluffy coats that make them look like sweet little teddy bears with coloring in shades of black, brown, white, and gray. Being mixed-breed dogs, their coat and appearance vary depending on the genes passed down by their parents. Some pups may have more characteristics of their Poodle parent breed, while others may appear to have more Shih Tzu-like coats.

How long does a Shih Poo live?

Like many mixed-breed dogs, Shih Poos have a long lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

What colors do Shih Poos come in?

Shih Poos come in a range of different colors, including black, white, brown, brindle, gray, red, and apricot and may be solid in color or bi-or tri-colored.

Do Shih Poos shed?

Shih Poos are low-shedding. Some Shih-Poos have short, curly coats that make them look more like Poodles while others have the long, silken hair that is the hallmark of the Shih Tzu breed.

Shih Poo temperament

Learn about about the Shih Poo temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Shih Poos friendly?

When Shih Poos aren’t snuggled up beside you, they will likely be charming others with their friendly dispositions; the extroverted dogs make terrible watch dogs because they want to make friends with everyone they meet. Shih Poos are the perfect dogs for those who want small dogs with big-dog personalities.

Do Shih Poo dogs bark a lot?

All dogs bark, but Shih Poos bark a little more than average. Early socialization and a positive approach to training can promote favorable behaviors and curb excessive barking.

Are Shih Poos good with cats?

Shih Poos don’t have a strong prey drive and should peacefully coexist with cats. It’s helpful if Shih Poos are introduced to cats at a young age and properly socialized.

Are Shih Poos affectionate dogs?

Looking for a little shadow? Shih Poos fit the bill. They are sweet, affectionate dogs who cherish their roles as adorable lap-dogs. Like their Poodle parent, Shih Poos are sensitive; they love people and form tight bonds with their families. The fact that Shih Poos would prefer to spend as little time alone as possible means that they are prone to separation anxiety and can become anxious if they spend too much time alone.

Are Shih Poo easy to train?

Shih Poos are smart and eager to please and can be easy to train, but they also have stubborn streaks and may use their charm to get their own way. A consistent, structured training program can help them learn basic commands and new tricks. Shih Poos are also sensitive dogs who respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Stock up on treats and toys to make it easier to teach them new things.

Are Shih Poos good family dogs?

Yes, Shih Poos are great family dogs. The petite, quiet dogs make excellent companions; they are outgoing, affectionate, and friendly. They’re just as happy in an apartment as they are in a house with a big backyard — as long as they are with their families most of the time. Shih Poos are true lap-dogs and can become unhappy or anxious if left alone for long periods.

Shih Poos also do well with children and make great pint-sized playmates — however, as with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your dog to keep both the child and dog safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

Shih Poo health

Learn about about the Shih Poo health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Shih Poo have health problems?

While Shih Poos are a generally healthy breed, they can have some of the same health problems as their Poodle and Shih Tzu parents, including:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a genetic disease that affects the retina and will eventually cause blindness in both eyes. There is no effective treatment to stop PRA.

Legg-Calve-Perthes: This condition causes the head of the femur (located in the hind legs) to degenerate. It leads to the erosion of the hip joint over time, causing arthritis, pain, lameness, and limping. Surgery is the most effective treatment.

Congenital Dyshormonogenetic Hypothyroidism (CDH): CDH is a rare condition that causes a defect in the transport of iodine through the system, reducing the synthesis of thyroid hormones. It causes hypothyroidism and can cause a goiter, an abnormal growth on the neck (near the thyroid gland).

It’s important to remember that even though this breed might have an increased risk for certain health conditions, they won’t necessarily develop them. Mixed-breed dogs are often healthier than purebred dogs because of greater genetic diversity. Your veterinarian can help you watch for health problems with regular checkups.

Are Shih Poos hypoallergenic?

Because they are low-shedding pups, Shih Poos are considered a hypoallergenic breed and may be suitable for mild allergy sufferers. But they require extensive grooming. Their coats need to be brushed at least three times a week to keep their hair free from mats and tangles; professional grooming every six to eight weeks can also help keep Shih Poos looking their best.

Find Shih Poo puppies near you

Adopting a Shih Poo

We don't see any Shih Poos available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

Photo of Teddy

Teddy

Shih Tzu

Male, young

Westerville, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn - with White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
I adopted him from a shelter that won’t take him back due to full capacity. The woman who surrendered him said that the breeder gave him to her as a gift but could not maintain his grooming and hygiene (which I do). He is completely up to date on all his vaccinations and takes monthly flea/tick/ heartworm prevention. He is completely house broken and crate trained and sleeps through the night. His snoring is the cutest! He is very loyal and loves to be around people. He follows me everywhere and loves attention. He is wonderful in the car and loves the outdoors. He is energetic and loves to play with toys and play fetch. He would do best in a house without cats where he has plenty of room to play and explore. He loves his healthy dog treats and rawhide free bones. My daughter has many activities and I have a demanding job and he needs the attention that he deserves as a loyal companion. I have a 4 year old cat that he is not fond of and it is not getting better unfortunately
Photo of Barry

Barry

Shih Tzu Bichon Frise

Male, 5 yrs 8 mos

Westerville, OH

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Story
Meet Barry. He is a 5 years old Shih Tzu/Bichon mix. He doesn't shed. Barry is sweet and loves to kiss and cuddle. He stands up with his rear legs when wanting a treat. He is good with dogs. Barry is protective and doesn't like kids. Teenagers are ok. He is fully vaccinated, microchipped, and neutered. Barry is not house trained. Barry weighs 23 lbs. Barry's adoption fee is $250. Please submit an adoption application at https://charlieswishanimalrescue.org. We have to have your application to schedule a meet and greed.
Photo of Joan (Joan and Sylvia)

Joan (Joan and Sylvia)

Shih Tzu

Female, 5 yrs 2 mos

Lewis Center, OH

Color
Brown/Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Story
Mama Joan and her babies got off to a rough start. This family was passed through a couple of homes before they were surrendered to Rico with Parvo. They were all treated, and they all recovered!Joan weighs 18 lbs and her estimated age is about 3 years old. Joan is crate-trained, gets along with the foster's resident dogs and seems to have been loved by someone at one time. She would love her own human to snuggle with on the couch and live her best life! Joan is especially fond of women. Joan LOVES her puppies and was the perfect protective Mama as she was passed through homes and treated at vets. Joan has attached herself to her foster mom so we know that she can form meaningful attachments with people. Joan is very friendly and just wants to be near her people.When Joan was placed on a trial adoption, it became evident that she was extremely attached to her puppies and would not do well separated from all of them. Therefore, Rico would prefer for Joan to be adopted together with her daughter, Sylvia.Sylvia is tiny (8.5 lbs.), and very agile. She has made progress trusting humans; however, she still has a way to go. Sylvia initially squirmed away from her fosters as far as she could go and would not take food from their hands. Now she checks each finger for a treat, curls up next to her fosters to sleep on the couch, plays with her fosters, and lets her fosters rub her belly or scratch her back. Sylvia is not a fan of being picked up, but she will tolerate it since she knows a treat will follow. Her date of birth is 12.7.24.Both Joan and Sylvia are making great progress at potty training with scheduled potty times outside and a pocketful of treats. Both dogs make eye contact with their foster mom to make sure she is watching while they do their business and then run to her for a treat after.A fence is a must for these pups. They are not comfortable going potty while on leash.These pups would be the perfect addition to the right home. Until then, her foster parents will love them to pieces. You can apply to meet Joan and her daughter Sylvia at ricopetrecovery.org.
Photo of Sylvia (Joan and Sylvia)

Sylvia (Joan and Sylvia)

Shih Tzu Pug

Female, 4 mos

Lewis Center, OH

Color
Brown/Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Story
Sylvia (brindle pug mix) is hanging with her fosters while she waits for the perfect home that will meet her where she is at. Sylvia, her Mama, and siblings got off to a rough start. This family was passed through a couple of homes before they were surrendered to Rico with Parvo. Sylvia was the only pup not diagnosed with Parvo, but she was treated anyway since it was just a matter of time before she also would have parvo.Sylvia is tiny (8.5 lbs.), and very agile. She has made progress trusting humans; however, she still has a way to go. Sylvia initially squirmed away from her fosters as far as she could go and would not take food from their hands. Now she checks each finger for a treat, curls up next to her fosters to sleep on the couch, plays with her fosters, and lets her fosters rub her belly or scratch her back. Sylvia is not a fan of being picked up, but she will tolerate it since she knows a treat will follow. Her date of birth is 12.7.24.It would probably be best for Sylvia to be adopted with her Mama (Joan). Joan weighs in at 18 lbs and is especially fond of women. Joan LOVES her puppies and was the perfect protective Mama as she was passed through homes and treated at vets. Joan has attached herself to her foster mom so we know that she can form meaningful attachments with people. Joan's estimated age is about 3 years old. Both dogs are making great progress at potty training with scheduled potty times outside and a pocketful of treats. Both dogs make eye contact with their foster mom to make sure she is watching while they do their business and then run to her for a treat after.A fence is a must for these pups. A trial adoption for Joan taught her foster parents that she was too busy watching out for other people or animals to relax and potty while on leash. These pups would be the perfect addition to the right home. Until then, her foster parents will love them to pieces. You can apply to meet Sylvia and her mama, Joan at ricopetrecovery.org.
Photo of ISSAC

ISSAC

Shih Tzu Cairn Terrier

Male, 2 mos

Columbus, OH

Color
White - with Black
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Let’s meet ISSAC AND IZZY! Ready for cuteness and cuddle overload? These adorable pups will give you and or family life. They are feisty and full of life. Wonderful with all other dogs and people. They are excited and ready to take in the big old world and everything someone or some family has to offer. They have a wonderful outgoing personality but also just adores cuddles and treats by the fireside and on the couch. Goofy, playful, and energetic. Wonderful puppy temperament, and adorable face and warm eyes just light up the whole house. Anyone would be lucky to make them part of your life. Will have you wrapped around little paw the minute you meet them. Guaranteed to bring numerous smiles to your life every day. If you’re ready to give this them a lifetime of belly rubs, treats, and a cozy bed, please reach out! Let’s find this sweet pup their forever home and they are overly excited. Once adopted she will travel via the Rescue Transport to her new family. They travel each and every weekend from Memphis, Tennessee to the northeast, delivering pups along the way as far north as West Greenwich, Rhode Island (transport is an additional $185.00). Gets your apps in fast she won’t be available long. Link to the application below. https://forms.gle/APKvbgFJcaRvgKgk9
Photo of Quinn-ARR

Quinn-ARR

Shih Tzu

Female, adult

Pataskala, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn - with White
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Spayed or Neutered
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.Quinn’s adoption donation is $475 and she is being fostered in Central Ohio. She has been spayed, microchipped, received her rabies, distemper/parvo, bivalent canine influenza and Bordetella vaccines, tested negative for heartworms and started on prevention, as well as flea prevention. She has also had a dental cleaning. Meet Quinn – Your Future Snuggle Buddy! With her soulful eyes and heart full of love, Quinn is a typical shih tzu who’s ready to find her forever person. This little sweetheart is a total cuddlebug who wants nothing more than to be by your side—whether you're watching TV, going for a walk, or sneaking her a bite of your snack (yes, she's always down to share your meal!). Quinn lives for love and affection. She’s happiest being held, doted on, and included in everything you do. She's playful in a gentle, quirky way—she adores toys (especially tearing them apart!) and will adorably stand on her back legs to paw at you when she wants attention. Trust us, it’s impossible to resist. She’s low energy, content to snooze the day away between short walks and cuddle sessions. While she’s not super into other dogs, she coexists peacefully with them and is also good with cats. Older, calm kids would likely be a good match too. That said, Quinn’s journey hasn’t been easy—she’s a puppy mill survivor, so she’s still learning to trust. Strangers make her nervous at first, and she’s not a fan of crates. But with patience, love, and a gentle hand, she blossoms into a loyal, loving companion who will follow you anywhere. Her ideal home? Quiet, calm, and filled with love. She’d do best with someone who’s home often, enjoys daily walks, and can help her continue to build confidence. She has dry eye and will need daily eye drops (she’s a bit squirmy about it—but we’re working on it!). Potty training is a work in progress; she uses puppy pads but sometimes has accidents if left unsupervised. A patient adopter who can support her routine will help her thrive. Quinn may have had a rough start, but she has so much love to give. If you're looking for a sweet, silly, and devoted little shadow who just wants to be loved—Quinn is your girl.Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.PLEASE NOTE: If you are viewing this biography on a website other than the Ohio Fuzzy Pawz website like Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet, or another search engine (the OFP website is www.ohiofuzzypawz.com), not all information transfers to partner websites in some instances. If you go to the individual webpage of our dogs , you will be able to get more information each dog. Visual breed identification in dogs can be unreliable so, in many cases, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. Our Adoption Process The adoption process has several steps involved. Please review prior to submitting an application. Our adoption process is detailed here: http://www.ohiofuzzypawz.com/info/adoption Our volunteers work very diligently to process each application and we try to ensure that we are making the best match possible for each dog. We do not schedule meetings with dogs until an application has been approved. It can take up to a few weeks to process an application or as little time as a few days, from the time you submit an application, please be prepared to adopt as we cannot hold dogs. Special Requirements Some dogs may have special requirements (for example, medications, a fence) -- if you apply for a dog, please be sure to read over the biography completely to see if there are any special needs and if you're home would be suitable. If we indicate on the dog's biography that a fence is required, this means your home must have a physical fence. Other dogs may require a "strong vet reference" which indicates that we are looking for a home that has a documented history of veterinary care with previous pets. The first step in our process is to submit an online adoption application at www.ohiofuzzypawz.com/forms. The application MUST include the personal references and veterinary, grooming, and landlord references (if applicable) and their respective contact information. If you do not include the references and the contact information, your application will be delayed as it CANNOT be processed. Once the references have been successfully completed, a home visit is then scheduled when a rescue representative can meet all members of the family or residents of the home. No application is approved prior to the home visit being done. At that point, the Directors will discuss any and all applications on a foster dog and make a selection--in many cases, there are multiple applications for each dog, so please be understanding that our only priority is the successful placement of each of our foster dogs. Out of State Adoptions We do adopt out of state to outstanding applicants, however, our process requires a home visit, so out of state adoptions can take longer. We do not ship our dogs, adopters should be prepared to pick up the dog in Central Ohio. April 2, 2025, 10:06 am