Shih Tzu Mixes: The Complete Guide to Popular Crossbreeds
Shih Tzu mixes including the Shih-Poo, Mal-Shih, and more. Learn about size, temperament, health risks, grooming, and costs for each crossbreed.
What Are Shih Tzu Mixes?
Shih Tzu mixes are designer crossbreeds that pair the ancient Shih Tzu with another small breed, creating companion dogs that aim to blend the Shih Tzu's affectionate, outgoing personality with traits from a second parent breed. These crosses have surged in popularity over the past decade as owners seek small, adaptable dogs suited to apartment living and families alike.
The Shih Tzu itself ranks consistently among the AKC's top 20 most popular breeds, prized for its sturdy build, expressive face, and remarkably friendly disposition. When crossed with breeds like the Poodle, Maltese, Bichon Frisé, or Chihuahua, the result is a range of small companion dogs typically weighing between 6 and 18 pounds (2.7–8.2 kg).
But here's what every prospective owner needs to understand: mixed breeds are inherently variable. Even puppies from the same litter can differ dramatically in coat type, size, temperament, and health predispositions. This guide breaks down the most popular Shih Tzu mixes, what you can reasonably expect, and where surprises are likely.
Parent Breed Breakdown: The Shih Tzu Side of the Equation
Before evaluating any Shih Tzu mix, it helps to understand exactly what the Shih Tzu brings to the genetic table. The second parent breed will contribute its own set of traits, and each puppy inherits a unique combination.
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Tibet/China — bred as royal companion dogs for centuries |
| AKC Weight Standard | 9–16 lb (4.1–7.3 kg) |
| Height | 9–10.5 inches (23–27 cm) at the shoulder |
| Lifespan | 10–18 years |
| Coat | Long, flowing double coat; hair-like rather than fur |
| Shedding | Low — hair grows continuously like human hair |
| Temperament | Affectionate, outgoing, playful, sometimes stubborn |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate — short walks and indoor play suffice |
| Trainability | Moderate — responds to positive reinforcement, can be willful |
| Key Health Concerns | Brachycephalic airway issues, eye conditions, hip dysplasia, renal dysplasia |
The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed, meaning it has a short, flat skull shape. This anatomy affects breathing efficiency, heat tolerance, and dental alignment — factors that can carry over into mixed-breed offspring to varying degrees.
The Most Popular Shih Tzu Mixes at a Glance
Below is a comparison of the most commonly encountered Shih Tzu crossbreeds. Remember: these ranges reflect typical outcomes, but individual dogs can fall outside them.
| Mix Name | Second Parent | Weight Range | Height Range | Coat Type (Typical) | Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shih-Poo (Shoodle) | Toy/Miniature Poodle | 8–18 lb (3.6–8.2 kg) | 8–15 in (20–38 cm) | Wavy to curly, medium-long | Low to moderate |
| Mal-Shih (Malshi) | Maltese | 6–12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg) | 8–12 in (20–30 cm) | Straight to wavy, long, silky | Low |
| Shichon (Zuchon) | Bichon Frisé | 9–16 lb (4.1–7.3 kg) | 9–13 in (23–33 cm) | Soft, fluffy, wavy to curly | Low |
| Shih-Tzu Chi | Chihuahua | 5–12 lb (2.3–5.4 kg) | 7–12 in (18–30 cm) | Short to medium, varies widely | Moderate |
| Shih Tzu Yorkie (Shorkie) | Yorkshire Terrier | 7–15 lb (3.2–6.8 kg) | 6–14 in (15–36 cm) | Long, straight to wavy, silky | Low to moderate |
| Pug-Shih (Pughese variant) | Pug | 10–18 lb (4.5–8.2 kg) | 8–13 in (20–33 cm) | Short, dense double coat | Moderate to high |
Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, F2, and Multigen
Generation Explainer: What the Labels Mean
F1 (First Generation): A direct cross between a purebred Shih Tzu and a purebred second breed (e.g., Shih Tzu × Poodle). F1 puppies have maximum genetic diversity but the highest trait variability — even littermates can look and behave quite differently.
F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Shih Tzu mix bred back to one of the parent breeds. For example, a Shih-Poo (F1) bred to a Poodle produces an F1B Shih-Poo that is 75% Poodle, 25% Shih Tzu. This is often done to increase the likelihood of a low-shedding, curly coat.
F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Shih Tzu mixes bred together. Genetic recombination at this stage produces the widest variation — puppies may strongly resemble either grandparent breed or land somewhere in between.
Multigen (F3+): Multiple generations of the same cross bred together. Over time, multigen lines can produce more predictable traits, but this requires many generations of selective breeding — far more than most designer breed programs have achieved.
Most Shih Tzu mixes available from breeders today are F1 or F1B. True multigen lines are rare and typically found only through established breeding programs that have been working with the same cross for a decade or more. If a breeder claims their puppies are "multigen," ask for documentation of at least three generations of the same cross.
Temperament: What to Expect (and What Might Surprise You)
Temperament in Shih Tzu mixes falls along a spectrum shaped by both parent breeds, early socialization, and individual personality. Here's how the range typically looks:
| Trait | Best-Case Scenario | Challenging Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Sociability | Warm, outgoing with strangers and other dogs — classic Shih Tzu friendliness | Reserved or wary — possible if second parent is a more aloof breed (e.g., Chihuahua) |
| Energy Level | Calm, content with short walks and lap time | Higher energy and vocal — possible with terrier or Poodle influence |
| Trainability | Eager to please, picks up commands with positive reinforcement | Stubborn or easily distracted — both Shih Tzu and some small breeds can be willful |
| Separation Tolerance | Reasonably independent for a companion breed | Prone to separation anxiety — common in dogs bred purely for companionship |
| Barking | Moderate — alerts to visitors but settles quickly | Frequent barking — especially with Chihuahua, Yorkie, or Poodle influence |
| Child Compatibility | Gentle and patient with respectful, supervised children | Snappish if startled or handled roughly — small size makes them vulnerable |
Early socialization is the single biggest factor you control. The critical socialization window closes around 14–16 weeks of age. Puppies exposed to diverse people, surfaces, sounds, and other animals during this period are significantly more likely to develop stable, confident temperaments regardless of genetic predisposition.
Training should rely exclusively on positive reinforcement methods — treats, praise, and play rewards. Force-free approaches work exceptionally well with Shih Tzu mixes, who are sensitive to harsh corrections and tend to shut down rather than comply when punished.
Size, Coat, and the Hypoallergenic Question
How Big Will a Shih Tzu Mix Get?
Size depends heavily on the second parent breed and which parent the individual puppy takes after more strongly. Here's a practical framework:
| Mix | Minimum Weight | Maximum Weight | Minimum Height | Maximum Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shih-Poo (Toy Poodle) | 6 lb (2.7 kg) | 14 lb (6.4 kg) | 8 in (20 cm) | 13 in (33 cm) |
| Shih-Poo (Mini Poodle) | 10 lb (4.5 kg) | 18 lb (8.2 kg) | 10 in (25 cm) | 15 in (38 cm) |
| Mal-Shih | 5 lb (2.3 kg) | 12 lb (5.4 kg) | 8 in (20 cm) | 12 in (30 cm) |
| Shichon | 8 lb (3.6 kg) | 16 lb (7.3 kg) | 9 in (23 cm) | 13 in (33 cm) |
| Shih-Tzu Chi | 4 lb (1.8 kg) | 12 lb (5.4 kg) | 6 in (15 cm) | 12 in (30 cm) |
| Shorkie | 6 lb (2.7 kg) | 14 lb (6.4 kg) | 6 in (15 cm) | 14 in (36 cm) |
A useful rule of thumb: average the weights of both parents for a rough estimate of adult size, but allow for a ±25% margin. If the Shih Tzu parent weighs 12 lb and the Toy Poodle parent weighs 8 lb, expect puppies around 8–13 lb at maturity — but outliers in either direction are possible, especially in F1 litters.
Is a Shih Tzu Mix Hypoallergenic or Low-Shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. Allergies are triggered by proteins in dander, saliva, and urine — not by hair itself. However, some coat types shed less dander into the environment, which can reduce allergic reactions for some people.
Here's what to expect based on coat inheritance:
- If the puppy inherits a Poodle-type curly coat: Lowest shedding. Hair grows continuously and traps dander close to the skin. Requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
- If the puppy inherits a Shih Tzu-type long coat: Low shedding. Hair-like texture with minimal undercoat. Needs daily brushing to prevent matting and regular grooming every 4–6 weeks.
- If the puppy inherits a Maltese or Bichon-type coat: Low shedding. Silky or cottony texture. Daily brushing and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks.
- If the puppy inherits a Chihuahua or Pug-type short coat: Moderate to high shedding. Short, stiff hairs shed year-round with seasonal increases. Low grooming maintenance but more hair on furniture and clothing.
In F1 litters, coat type is essentially a coin flip. F1B puppies backcrossed to a Poodle have a higher probability of a low-shedding curly coat, but it's still not guaranteed. If you have dog allergies, spend at least two hours with the specific puppy before committing — and understand that allergic reactions can change over time.
Health Considerations: The Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
One of the most persistent claims about designer dogs is that they benefit from "hybrid vigor" — the idea that crossbreeding automatically produces healthier dogs. Let's be precise about what the science actually says.
What hybrid vigor can do: Crossbreeding can reduce the risk of recessive genetic disorders that are common within a single closed gene pool. If the Shih Tzu parent carries a gene for renal dysplasia and the Poodle parent does not, the puppy is less likely to express that condition.
What hybrid vigor cannot do: It does not eliminate health risks. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit conditions from either parent breed, and some conditions (like hip dysplasia or patellar luxation) are common across many small breeds regardless of pedigree. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that while mixed-breed dogs had lower rates of some inherited disorders, they had comparable or higher rates of others, including cranial cruciate ligament rupture and certain cancers.
Always consult your veterinarian about breed-specific screening and preventive care for your individual dog.
Conditions to Screen For in Shih Tzu Mixes
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence Notes | Screening Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | Shih Tzu, Pug | High in brachycephalic parents; variable in mixes depending on muzzle length inherited | Veterinary airway assessment; avoid breeding affected dogs |
| Patellar Luxation | Both parents (common in all small breeds) | Affects an estimated 5–8% of small breed dogs | Orthopedic exam at annual wellness visit |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Shih Tzu, Poodle | Recessive — both parents must carry the gene for puppies to be affected | DNA test (Optigen or equivalent); ask breeder for results |
| Hip Dysplasia | Both parents | Lower prevalence in toy breeds than large breeds, but still present | OFA or PennHIP evaluation if symptoms arise |
| Dental Disease | Both parents | Extremely common in all small breeds — up to 80% show signs by age 3 | Annual dental exams; daily tooth brushing from puppyhood |
| Renal Dysplasia | Shih Tzu | Known hereditary condition in Shih Tzus; prevalence varies by line | Ask breeder about family history; urinalysis at annual exams |
| Addison's Disease | Poodle | Higher prevalence in Poodles; can appear in Shih-Poo mixes | ACTH stimulation test if symptoms (lethargy, vomiting, weight loss) appear |
| Collapsing Trachea | Shih Tzu, Chihuahua, Yorkie | Common in toy breeds with tracheal cartilage weakness | Use harness instead of collar; veterinary diagnosis via radiograph if chronic cough develops |
Responsible breeders of Shih Tzu mixes should provide: OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) health clearances for both parent dogs, DNA test results for known genetic conditions, and documentation of regular veterinary exams. A breeder who cannot produce these should be approached with caution.
Grooming and Daily Care Requirements
Grooming needs vary dramatically depending on which coat type the dog inherits. Here's a practical breakdown:
Curly or Wavy Coat (Poodle or Bichon Influence)
- Brushing: Every 1–2 days with a slicker brush and metal comb to prevent matting at the skin level
- Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks; expect to pay $50–$90 per session depending on your area
- Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks with a dog-specific moisturizing shampoo
- Annual grooming budget estimate: $400–$720
Long, Straight or Silky Coat (Shih Tzu, Maltese, or Yorkie Influence)
- Brushing: Daily with a pin brush and detangling spray; pay special attention to behind the ears, under the legs, and around the hindquarters
- Professional grooming: Every 4–6 weeks if kept in a longer style; every 8–10 weeks if clipped short
- Face cleaning: Daily wiping of facial folds (if brachycephalic features are inherited) to prevent yeast and bacterial infections
- Annual grooming budget estimate: $450–$780
Short Coat (Chihuahua or Pug Influence)
- Brushing: Once or twice weekly with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush
- Professional grooming: Rarely needed — occasional baths at home suffice
- Shedding management: Invest in a good lint roller and vacuum; expect more hair on clothing and furniture
- Annual grooming budget estimate: $50–$150
Regardless of coat type, all Shih Tzu mixes need:
- Nail trims every 2–4 weeks (overgrown nails alter gait and can cause joint pain)
- Ear cleaning weekly — especially floppy-eared individuals prone to yeast infections
- Daily tooth brushing with enzymatic dog toothpaste (dental disease is the #1 health issue in small breeds)
- Eye cleaning as needed — brachycephalic-influenced dogs may have tear staining that requires daily wiping
Cost: What You'll Actually Spend
Purchase or Adoption Price
| Source | Price Range | What's Typically Included |
|---|---|---|
| Responsible breeder (health-tested parents) | $800–$2,500 | Health clearances, first vaccinations, deworming, microchip, spay/neuter contract, take-back clause |
| Casual/backyard breeder | $300–$800 | Often minimal health screening; variable veterinary care |
| Puppy mill (online or pet store) | $400–$1,200 | Little to no health testing; high risk of behavioral and medical issues |
| Breed-specific rescue | $200–$500 | Spay/neuter, vaccinations, basic veterinary screening, behavioral assessment |
| General shelter | $50–$300 | Spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip |
Shih Tzu mixes do appear in rescues, though less frequently than purebreds. Organizations like AKC Rescue Network affiliates and small-breed-specific rescues occasionally have Shih Tzu crosses available. Patience and setting up adoption alerts on Petfinder can pay off.
First-Year Total Cost Estimate
Beyond the purchase price, budget for these first-year expenses:
- Veterinary care (initial exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter if not included): $400–$900
- Grooming: $50–$780 (depending on coat type)
- Food (high-quality small-breed formula): $180–$360/year
- Supplies (crate, harness, bed, toys, bowls): $150–$350
- Pet insurance (recommended for mixed breeds with dual-breed health risks): $300–$600/year
- Training (puppy socialization class): $100–$250
Realistic first-year total: $1,500–$5,000+ depending on source, coat type, and your area's cost of living.
Who Is a Shih Tzu Mix Best Suited For?
Shih Tzu mixes are not one-size-fits-all. Here's a decision framework to help you assess fit:
Ideal Owner Profile:
- Living situation: Apartments, condos, or homes with small yards — these dogs don't need large spaces
- Activity level: Low to moderate — a 20–30 minute daily walk plus indoor play is sufficient
- Time at home: Significant — these are companion dogs that struggle with long daily absences (8+ hours alone is not ideal)
- Experience level: Suitable for first-time owners, but patience is needed for house training (small breeds are notoriously slower to house train)
- Family composition: Best with older children (8+) who understand how to handle small dogs gently; not recommended for households with toddlers who may accidentally injure a 6–10 lb dog
- Grooming commitment: Willing to brush daily or every other day and maintain regular grooming appointments
- Climate: Brachycephalic-influenced mixes should not live in hot climates without air conditioning — they are prone to heat exhaustion at temperatures above 80°F (27°C)
Less ideal for: Highly active owners seeking a hiking or jogging partner, households that are empty for 10+ hours daily, families with very young children who haven't been taught gentle handling, or anyone unwilling to commit to regular grooming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up a Shih Tzu mix?
A Shih Tzu mix always includes one purebred Shih Tzu parent and one parent from another breed. The most common pairings are with the Poodle (Shih-Poo), Maltese (Mal-Shih), Bichon Frisé (Shichon), Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier (Shorkie), or Pug. The specific mix determines the puppy's likely size, coat type, and temperament tendencies.
How big will my Shih Tzu mix get?
Most Shih Tzu mixes fall between 5 and 18 pounds (2.3–8.2 kg) and stand 6 to 15 inches (15–38 cm) at the shoulder. The exact size depends on the second parent breed and which parent the individual puppy favors. If both parents are toy-sized, expect a smaller dog; if the second parent is a Miniature Poodle or larger Bichon, expect a dog on the higher end of the range.
What will the temperament be like?
Most Shih Tzu mixes are affectionate, people-oriented companion dogs that enjoy being near their owners. They tend to be friendly with familiar people but can be reserved with strangers depending on the second breed's influence. Energy levels range from very low (Maltese influence) to moderately active (Poodle or terrier influence). Early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are the most reliable ways to shape a well-adjusted temperament.
Is a Shih Tzu mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. However, Shih Tzu mixes that inherit a curly Poodle-type coat or a silky Shih Tzu/Maltese-type coat tend to shed very little, which can reduce allergic reactions for some people. Mixes with Chihuahua or Pug influence will shed more. If allergies are a concern, spend extended time with the specific puppy before committing and consult with an allergist.
What health issues might a Shih Tzu mix inherit?
Shih Tzu mixes can inherit conditions from either parent breed, including brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS), patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, dental disease, hip dysplasia, renal dysplasia, and collapsing trachea. While crossbreeding may reduce the risk of some breed-specific recessive disorders, it does not guarantee better health. Work with a breeder who provides OFA health clearances and DNA test results for both parent dogs, and schedule regular veterinary wellness exams.
How much does a Shih Tzu mix cost?
From a responsible breeder with health-tested parents, expect to pay $800–$2,500. Adoption from a rescue typically costs $200–$500 and often includes spay/neuter and vaccinations. First-year expenses including veterinary care, grooming, food, and supplies typically total $1,500–$5,000 depending on coat type and your location. Pet insurance averaging $25–$50/month is strongly recommended given the dual-breed health risk profile.
Are Shih Tzu mixes good with children?
They can be wonderful with respectful, gentle children aged 8 and older. Their small size (often under 12 pounds) makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from rough handling, so they are not recommended for households with toddlers or very young children who haven't learned appropriate dog interaction. Always supervise interactions between any dog and children under 12.
Robin Maitland
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
