
Shih-poo Feeding Chart
Dog Age | Dog Weight | Food Type | Amount | Frequency |
6 Weeks | 1 lb | Dry (Puppy formula) | >0.1 cups | 3x/day |
3 Months | 2 lbs | Dry | 0.1 cups | 3x/day |
6 Months | 4 lbs | Dry | 0.2 cups | 3x/day |
9 Months | 7 lbs | Dry* (Puppy/Adult) | 0.4 cups | 2x/day |
Full Answer
What is the best dog food for a Shih poo?
Another reason premium dry food is best: a Shih Poo's dental issues. More than most breeds, these dogs are prone to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss--and dry food is the best type of food for promoting dental health in a dog.
What do you feed a Shih poo crossbreed?
Food/Diet. Shih-Poos need to be fed a high quality diet of dry dog food. Dry kibble is essential as this crossbreed tends to have dental problems, including premature tooth loss. Dry food can help to prevent this as well as caries, gum disease and bad breath.
How to take care of a Shih poo puppy?
Bathe your shih-poo when it becomes dirty or has a flea outbreak. Use a dog tear stain remover with a soft cloth to clean around its eyes at least once a week. Play with your shih-poo often because this is how it gets most of its exercise.
How much protein should a shihpoo Puppy have?
Many puppy nutritionists and veterinarians even recommend providing your Shihpoo puppy with food containing as much as twice the amount of protein of adult small dog food. When it comes to nutrient analysis, protein amounts of “dry matter content” typically range from 25% to 32% in puppy food.

What is the best food to feed a Shihpoo puppy?
The Best Dog Foods For Shih PooTop PicksRatings1. ACANA Red Meat Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Editor's Choice)4.92. Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Recipe4.93. Nulo Freestyle For Small Dogs4.84. Merrick Classic Small Breed Dog Food4.71 more row
How do you feed a Shihpoo puppy?
These dogs should be fed according to their size and age, using small dog kibble for adults and puppy kibble for puppies. They are prone to eating as much as you will let them, so their intake, including treats, needs to be monitored, particularly when they are no longer puppies.
How much should Shihpoo puppies eat?
Try feeding your dog 1/4 cup each feeding at first. Adjust the amount if it is not finishing the food between feedings. Pay attention to your dog's eating and drinking habits. Shih-poos can become picky eaters.
What human food can Shihpoo puppies eat?
What's safePeanut butter. This is a great source of added protein and fiber for your pup and a tablespoon on their dry food is a surefire way to get them to eat it! ... Yogurt. ... Lean proteins (like chicken, turkey and beef). ... Salmon. ... Pumpkin and sweet potatoes. ... Rice and pasta. ... Apples. ... Peas and green beans.
What should I feed my 8 week old Shihpoo?
11 Food Tips to Raising a Healthy Shihpoo PuppyFind a food that includes lots of proteins from meat. ... Feed your puppy food containing fatty acids from meat, seeds and vegetable oils.Be sure to provide plenty of water in you puppy's bowl.More items...•
Can Shihpoo eat rice?
The short answer is yes, dogs can eat rice. In fact, in some circumstances, veterinarians have recommended rice as a great food for dogs suffering from common gastrointestinal issues. Although, it is worth noting that white rice is usually recommended over brown rice for dogs.
How do you potty train a Shihpoo puppy?
1:5310:14ShihPoo Potty Training Tips | How to Potty Train a Shihpoo? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you plan on training your pup to eliminate indoors consistently bring your little pup to herMoreIf you plan on training your pup to eliminate indoors consistently bring your little pup to her litter box or potty pad for outdoor potty. Training pick one spot outdoors.
Can a Shihpoo be left alone?
Shih-Poos can be left alone for short periods of time, but a second dog could be ideal for them, especially in their later years.
At what age are Shih Poos full grown?
like their Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, Shihpoos typically reach full adult size around twelve months of age.
What should I not feed my puppy?
Do not ever feed the following substances as they are toxic to dogs (note this is not a complete list): alcohol, onions, onion powder, garlic, chocolate, coffee or caffeine products, mouldy or spoiled foods or compost, avocado, bread dough, yeast dough, grapes, raisins, sultanas (including in Christmas cakes etc), ...
What foods should Shih Tzus not eat?
Here's the most dangerous foods for Shih Tzus, followed by things that they eat that are not poisonous as such, but are still bad.Chocolate. ... Onions, garlic, leeks and chives. ... Artificial sweetener (xylitol) in gum and mints. ... Candy and sweets. ... Certain peanut butter brands. ... Corn on the cob. ... Cooked bones. ... Avocado.More items...
What can I feed my 4 week old puppy without mom?
Puppy milk replacer should be the sole source of nutrition until 3-4 weeks of age at which time the weaning process may begin. The transition from formula to solid food is a gradual process, so be patient. Use a high-quality food formulated to support growth and reproduction.
How do you potty train a Shihpoo puppy?
1:5310:14ShihPoo Potty Training Tips | How to Potty Train a Shihpoo? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you plan on training your pup to eliminate indoors consistently bring your little pup to herMoreIf you plan on training your pup to eliminate indoors consistently bring your little pup to her litter box or potty pad for outdoor potty. Training pick one spot outdoors.
How long can a Shihpoo be left alone?
Four hours is the maximum amount of time you should leave your Shihpoo alone in a crate, and even then, pay attention to cues your puppy is giving you about how he or she feels about being alone.
How often should a Shihpoo be bathed?
Typically, a shih tzu should be bathed every three weeks to keep its skin and hair healthy and to avoid bad smells from developing.
At what age are Shih Poos full grown?
like their Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, Shihpoos typically reach full adult size around twelve months of age.
How many times a day should a Shihpoo eat?
As an adult, your Shihpoo will likely eat just one or two meals per day. We have done free feeding in the past with our dogs, and we notice that they eat just twice a day: briefly after we have our own breakfast, and then a little more heartily while we’re eating our dinner.
How many meals can you order for a Shihpoo?
Customizable: order two meals a day, one a day, three a week or any other combination. Honestly, food delivery is not the most affordable way to go. Not even close. But if you can afford it, food delivery sure makes feeding your Shihpoo a whole lot more convenient.
How long does it take for a dog to empty their stomach?
As a daily approach to feeding, a single meal a day can lead to anxiety and aggression in dogs due to hunger since their stomachs typically empty themselves within a matter of six to eight hours. Additionally, a single meal a day can increase the chances of hypoglycemia in small breeds like Shihpoos.
How long does it take for a dog to walk away from a bowl?
And stick to it. If the dog walks away after five minutes without having eaten anything, pick up the bowl and put it away. Don’t give in to the whining or to the puppy-dog eyes at your own mealtime. Give in, and you’ve lost both the battle and the war.
How to train a puppy to pee on the floor?
If you hang a bell from your door handle or attach it to the floorboard, help your puppy jingle the bell with a paw, and then open the door to head outside. Take a training treat with you and stand next to your puppy on the grass. The moment he or she pees or poops, offer praise with the treat.
How long does it take for a puppy to pee?
Rain or shine, whether your puppy wants to or not, take them outside (or, if absolutely necessary because you have no outdoor option, to a pee pad) within those five to ten minutes after mealtime.
Why do Shihpoos worry about their families?
Some adolescent Shihpoos worry their families because they can suddenly stop eating for a day or two. While it would not hurt to talk to your veterinarian, think of your Shihpoo as a fussy child at this age. She or he is beginning to develop preferences and changing tastes.
What is the best food for a dog with sensitive stomachs?
Nature’s Recipe Grain-free Salmon Sweet Potato and Pumpkin diet helps promote healthy digestion with easily digestible proteins for sensitive stomachs! Nurture your pup with antioxidant and probiotic-rich fruits and vegetables that support a healthy immune system — there’s nutrition in every bite!
How much should a Shih Poo weigh?
First thing’s first: weigh your dog and determine an ideal weight goal. An adult Shih Poo should weigh between 13-20 pounds.
What is American Journey dog food?
From the experts at American Journey comes this delicious protein-rich formula that nourishes your dog from the inside out with lean beef protein. It contains essential amino acids, and plenty of omega fatty acids served in a beef broth that’ll have your pup coming back for seconds.
How to transition a puppy to a new diet?
Begin by mixing about 20% of the new diet into 80% of the old. Then, slowly increase that amount to a full 100% over 8-9 days.
Is Diamond Natural dog food grain free?
Whether you’re worried about preservatives and allergens or just looking to broaden your pup’s dietary horizons — Diamond Natural’s grain-free kibble will delight your dog with its rich meaty flavor and your vet with its balanced nutrient profile! Wild-caught salmon and fish meal pack a protein-rich punch while fruits and veggies like blueberries and papaya provide plenty of fiber and minerals. Proprietary probiotics make it highly digestible and ensure even the most sensitive-stomached pups can chow down without fear!
Is lamb meal good for dogs?
This fully balanced, grain-free recipe contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it an excellent alternative to some of the more questionable mass-produced diets out there. Fresh venison and lamb meal provide your pup with the animal protein it needs to thrive while nutritious, high-fiber lentils keep his digestive system in tip-top shape.
Is Zignature good for dogs?
Your dog will lap up every last bit of this wet canned food! Lamb is the first ingredient in this thoughtfully balanced formula, which also features peas and iron-rich lamb liver, which aids healing and makes this diet particularly well-suited to pups recovering from an injury. Zignature’s high moisture content ensures your dog remains well-hydrated throughout the day.
What to feed a puppy to keep it healthy?
We like foods whose first ingredient is an unprocessed meat, like IAMS Proactive. Feed your puppy food containing fatty acids from meat, seeds and vegetable oils. Be sure to provide plenty of water in you puppy’s bowl. Offer food with sufficient calcium and phosphorus from meats, bone meal or egg shells.
How much water should a Shihpoo drink?
The general rule of thumb is that dogs need one ounce of water per day per pound of body weight.
What are the minerals in puppy food?
In addition to foods mentioned elsewhere, those to look for on your puppy food label that can be Good sources of these minerals include nuts, molasses, poultry, legumes, liver, lamb and kelp. As with all puppy diets, the right balance of these vitamins and minerals is not just help but critical to your puppy’s health.
What are the nutritional labels on dog food?
Like human foods, nutritional labels on dog foods that contain ingredients you do not recognize or cannot pronounce can be a strong indication of food containing unhealthy fillers and unnecessary additives. 2. Fatty Acids for Your Shihpoo Puppy’s Healthy Skin, Organs and Joint Tissues.
What percentage of dog food has dry matter?
When it comes to nutrient analysis, protein amounts of “dry matter content” typically range from 25% to 32% in puppy food. If the protein is listed as “crude protein,” look to ensure that the first ingredient is an actual meat, such as salmon, chicken, or lamb.
How long does it take for a Shihpoo to grow?
Instead of taking two years, Shihpoos will reach their full-size by twelve months. During their growing puppy months, Shihpoos will need to eat a diet designed for their specific needs.
What is the best food for a puppy with diabetes?
Good sources of fiber to look for in your puppy’s food include oat bran, whole brown rice hulls, and even peanut hulls.
How to feed a Shih Poo?
Don’t let them free-feed. They will definitely go overboard and fill their cute little faces with every morsel of food put in front of them. Instead, take their daily dose of kibble and split it into two separate meals. The exact amount will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but it’s usually no more than a cup of kibble per day. Again, make sure to consult your vet about the proper amount of food for your pup as they will have a more valuable opinion about your specific dog than any kibble manufacturer.
What do Shih Poos eat?
Shih-Poos need to be fed a high quality diet of dry dog food. Dry kibble is essential as this crossbreed tends to have dental problems, including premature tooth loss. Dry food can help to prevent this as well as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Make sure that the kibble that you chose suits your Shih-Poo’s age (ex: puppy, adult, senior), as well as their size and activity level. Usually, premium small breed dog formula is a perfect choice for these petite pooches, but that will change as they age into different needs. This is why it’s always wise to keep your vet up to date with your dog’s diet. They will have an educated and expert opinion on what kibble is best suited to your pup throughout their lifespan. It will change over time, so make sure to check in at every appointment and especially after milestone doggo birthdays.
What is the best dog for shedding?
Shih Poos are low shedders and have fine, thin, relatively short hair. They are a good choice for people with mild dog allergies as there won’t be as much dander and hair to provoke an allergic reaction. One of the parent breeds, the Shih Tzu, is well known for their beautiful coat and their winning streaks at beauty contests. When combined with the Poodle, the fine and thin hairs are transferred to the Shih-Poo. This means that shedding will be at an absolute minimum, and only regular grooming and brushing will be required, as well as trims from time to time. In general, these unique dogs will make a great choice for anyone that would like to avoid pet shedding.
Why does my Shih Poo bark?
Despite being a small dog breed, the Shih Poo doesn’t bark a lot. Of course, to prevent them from becoming a barker, you should train and socialize them on time. Another thing to do in order to minimize a chance of your pet barking a lot is to avoid leaving them on their own for long periods of time, as they could develop social anxiety and start barking and howling as a result. Fear and insecurity will often lead to excess barking as well. If a pet is neglected and left alone cooped up in an apartment, they will resort to barking – constantly. Excess barking can also occur when a dog is not properly socialized, which can be another result of constant time indoors. They can bark when they spot a stranger outside. Besides barking, separation anxiety and fear can result in shred furniture and other accidents around the house.
What breed of dog is a Shih Poo?
The Shih-Poo was developed by breeding a Toy Poodle with a Shih-Tzu. These are first generation mixes who are known for their uniqueness and unpredictability. You see, when you cross two purebred dogs, you can never be certain which dog’s genes will be more influential in the mix. It’s a crapshoot every time.
What is the temperament of a Shih Poo?
Temperament/Behavior. Shih-Poos are playful and energetic dogs. They love to chase after balls, play with squeaky toys, or drag stuffed animals around the house with them. Generally, the Shih-Poo makes a great playmate for older and respectful children but they won’t tolerate harsh handling or hair pulling.
Do Shih Poos need grooming?
Shih Poos are not high maintenance dogs but they are not low maintenance, either. These designer dogs will still require brushing almost every day, to avoid their fine hair from tangling and matting. Similarly, most Shih Poos will need regular trims, so many pet parents opt for grooming salons to minimize the hassle. However, with all things considered, it becomes clear that these dogs are fairly easy to care for. With a little attention to their diet, regular vet checkups, and some moderate walking and exercise, your Shih Poo will be a happy and content dog!
What is the best food for a Shih Poo puppy?
Though opinions differ over what's the best dog food for Shih Poo puppies and adults, the most popular and sensible choice is premium dry food, particularly the kind formulated for small breeds. Two recommended brands: Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed.
What is the Shih Poo diet?
Shih Poo Diet. Like all breeds, a Shih Poo's diet is vital to keeping it happy, healthy, and long-living. Shih Poo food will need to have animal proteins and carbohydrates for energy, vitamins and minerals for digestive and immune health, and omega fatty acids for coat and skin wellness.
How old should a Shih Poo be to run?
Some precautions to consider when exercising a Shih Poo: first, puppies younger than eight months old shouldn't participate in activities that include a lot of jumping, running, and navigating of stairs, as doing so can injure their still-developing bones and joints, leading to more problems once they mature. And regardless of age, Shih Poos are social, fairly needy little dogs, and will benefit more from activities in which their humans also take part. (Simply letting the dog out to play by itself in the backyard, in other words, simply won't do any good; the poor dog will be miserable, and will spend the entire time barking and scratching at the door to be let back in.) It's also recommended that your Shih Poo be leashed when in public. These dogs are curious and confident, and may run off if given the chance; they could also be viewed as actual prey by larger dogs and other predators. For both these reasons, a Shih Poo will need to be carefully controlled when you're out and about.
How much exercise does a Shih Poo need?
But specifically how much exercise does a Shih Poo need? An adult Shih Poo, depending on its age and overall activity level, will need 30-45 minutes of proper exercise each day. You can begin exercising your Shih Poo puppy at three months of age by taking it on short (5- to 10-minute) walks, then increasing the walks' length and frequency as the puppy grows.
How long does it take for a Shih Poo puppy to grow?
As a small-sized crossbreed, Shih Poo puppy development typically spans 12-15 months from birth to full maturity. Physically, Shih Poo puppies grow quickly in height and length for the first 5-6 months, then those growth rates slow somewhat while the adolescent gains muscle mass and fat; a Shih Poo is usually at or near its full adult size by 10-11 months of age.
What is a Shih Tzu and a Poodle?
The Shih Poo, as a hybrid of a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, is an energetic, playful, sometimes stubborn little crossbreed that's beloved by owners everywhere. These companion dogs are nearly always toy-sized; though technically they can be bred from larger Standard Poodles, practically all Shih Poos come from Mini or Toy Poodles to keep their size small. And one of this hybrid's best attributes: Shih Poo care doesn't take a lot of work. Below you'll find plenty of details on how to take care of your Shih Tzu-Poodle mix: puppy development, exercise needs, diet and nutrition, and more. For answers to all your questions about raising a Shih Poo, read on!
Why does my Shih Poo drool?
If your Shih Poo is drooling excessively, it may be a sign of a medical issue, in which case a veterinarian's care may be necessary.
What is Shih Poo's favorite food?
Shih Poo parents, who bought is sensitive stomach blend food for their dogs, liked that it used sweet potatoes and pumpkin instead of grains, and they also liked that they got three lean protein source choices. It does have a lot of beans and chicken meal to bulk up the formula and add flavor.
What are the best foods for dogs to keep their coat shiny?
Fatty Acids - Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can help to keep your dog's coat and skin healthy and shiny, and it can help ward off breakage and dry or flaky skin. Flaxseed and fish are rich in fatty acids, and they can also help boost your dog's organ health and how they function.
What is kibble for dogs?
The kibble size is ideal for smaller dogs, and it comes packed with LifeSource Bits that have a blend of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals picked out by veterinarians to support your dog's life stage requirements, immune health, and oxidative balance.
What is the best food for a senior dog?
Chicken is the first ingredient with this dog food, and the chicken helps your dog build lean muscle mass well into their senior years with support from garden veggies, fruit, and whole grains. It has a slightly higher amount of chondroitin and glucosamine in each serving, and this helps support mobility and joint health with carbohydrates and protein to increase your dog's energy levels.#N#The kibble size is ideal for smaller dogs, and it comes packed with LifeSource Bits that have a blend of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals picked out by veterinarians to support your dog's life stage requirements, immune health, and oxidative balance. There are no poultry by-product meals, soy, wheat, corn, artificial preservatives, or flavors that could present problems for your dog, and it supports strong bones and teeth in your senior dog.
Why should dog food be rounded?
Ideally, you'll get dog food that is a smaller size for your smaller breed dog, and it should be rounded instead of flat to help your dog pick it out of the bowl at mealtimes. If it's hard, it can help clean your dog's teeth since this breed is prone to plaque buildup and dental problems that can lead to tooth extractions or decay.
Why is it important to match dog food?
It's important that you can match your dog's food to their life stage to ensure they get all of the supporting nutrients they need to grow or stay healthy and strong. Puppy food usually has higher DHA levels for brain development and higher calories to support growth, while senior food has ingredients that support bone and joint health. Adult food is slightly fewer calories and focuses on maintaining a healthy weight with strong muscles.
What is the best food for dogs with stomach issues?
Healthy Carbohydrates - A lot of low-quality dog food uses carbohydrates like grains, by-product meals, wheat, corn, or soy for filler agents to bulk up the formula that is hard for your dog to digest and can lead to stomach issues. Healthy carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and whole grains are better for your dog's health.
How to train a Shih Poo to go to the bathroom?
Step 1. Housebreak your shih-poo. Set a schedule to take your shih-poo outside to go to the bathroom. Take your dog outside and praise it each time it goes potty. Give the dog a treat when it's done to let it know that it did a good job. Remember to be repetitive so the dog will learn.
What color is a Shih Poo?
A shih-poo's fur can be a variety of colors such as white, black, grey, brown and apricot. A shih-poo is a mix between a shih-tzu and a poodle. These dogs are very intelligent so ...
How to get rid of shih poo ear stains?
Brush your dog's fur often to keep it from getting tangled. Clip the toenails to keep them short. Squirt a few drops of a pet ear cleaning solution into the dog's ear. Rub out the debris carefully with a cotton swab. Wipe the excess debris from the outer ears with a paper towel. Bathe your shih-poo when it becomes dirty or has a flea outbreak. Use a dog tear stain remover with a soft cloth to clean around its eyes at least once a week.
Why do Shih Poos need attention?
A shih-poo can become depressed easily and become destructive if left alone too much. Shih-poos are well tempered and loyal, so they make great watchdogs.
How to keep a dog's ears clean?
Brush your dog's fur often to keep it from getting tangled. Clip the toenails to keep them short. Squirt a few drops of a pet ear cleaning solution into the dog's ear. Rub out the debris carefully with a cotton swab. Wipe the excess debris from the outer ears with a paper towel.
How to prevent dog from losing teeth?
Have your vet check your dog for ear infections, spinal disc disease, anemia, heart disease and epilepsy because these issues are most common with this breed. Pay close attention to your dog's teeth and brush them with dog toothpaste and a toothbrush as much as possible to prevent tooth loss.
What is the best food for a Shih Tzu puppy?
Best for: Adult shih tzus as well as puppies. Little Bites gets the better part of its meat protein from fresh deboned chicken, chicken meal, and lamb meal . Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 20% fat and 45% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
How many dry recipes are there for Shih Tzu puppies?
Shih Tzu Puppy is one of 16 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Royal Canin product line.
How old do Shih Tzus have to be to be considered senior?
According to VCA Hospitals, small breed dogs tend to live longer than large breeds. Shih tzus aren’t considered “senior” until they reach 11 years of age. So, if your shih tzu is 11 years (or older), you may wish to visit The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Senior Dog Foods page here.
How much histidine does a Shih Tzu need?
A shih tzu puppy needs 0.44% histidine (an essential amino acid)… while an adult requires less than half that amount… just 0.19% of the same nutrient. In contrast…. A senior shih tzu benefits from a dog food containing more protein … and fewer calories per serving. Here’s the point….
How to determine the serving size of Shih Tzu?
Since every shih tzu is different, it’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “ideal” for every animal. So, start with the feeding amount printed on the package. Then, over time, adjust that amount up or down… to reach and then maintain your shih tzu at ideal body weight.
What is the protein content of Whole Earth Farms Small Breed?
Whole Earth Farms Small Breed derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
When do Shih Tzu puppies stop growing?
Shih tzu puppies don’t stop growing and aren’t ready for adult food until they reach 9 to 12 months of age. 2 3 That’s because adult dog foods can be deficient in protein as well as histidine and other essential nutrients. And why it’s SO important not to switch to regular dog food too soon.
What is a Shih Poo puppy?
If adorable dogs are your thing, a Shih Poo pup could be your dream come true. With their huge brown eyes, sweet natures, and fuzzy coats, they’re the very definition of cute. But be warned: behind their cutie-pie exteriors lurks a stubborn nature. Although they’re highly intelligent, training can be a challenge… and the less said about the struggles of housebreaking the better! They also come with some very specific care requirements. If you’ve recently welcomed a new little friend into the fold, be sure to check out our 10 tips for taking care of Shih Poo puppies.
How big is a Shih Poo?
Shih Poo’s are tiny. A fully grown adult will typically reach a maximum height of 8-13 inches and a maximum weight of 8-18lbs. A Shih Poo pup is even smaller. Although they might be eager enough to take any table scraps or treats off your hands, don’t let them. A fat Shih Poo may still be cute, but obesity comes with the kind of lifelong problems no conscientious pet owner wants for their dog. As per dog-learn.com, stick to about ½ cup of premium dry food spread over three meals a day until the pup is around six months of age. If you’ve any concerns about how much or what type of food your pup should be getting, don’t be afraid to speak to you vet – it’s what they’re there for, after all.
How old should a Shih Poo be to be spayed?
As Wikihow notes, the recommended age for de-sexing a dog varies according to the vet you speak to, but most recommend females are neutered from four to six months of age, and males are spayed between six to ten months of age.
Origin
Breeding
- The Shih-Poo was developed by breeding a Toy Poodle with a Shih-Tzu. These are first generation mixes who are known for their uniqueness and unpredictability. You see, when you cross two purebred dogs, you can know with certainty which dogs genes will be more influential in the mix. Sometimes, puppies will look like one parent more than the other or end up being a perfect blen…
Diet
- Shih-Poos need to be fed a high quality diet of dry dog food. Dry kibble is essential as this crossbreed tends to have dental problems, including premature tooth loss. Dry food can help to prevent this as well as caries, gum disease and bad breath. Make sure that the kibble you chose suits their age (puppy, adult, senior), as well as their size and...
Health
- This crossbreed has the tendency to overeat so careful monitoring of the Shih-Poos caloric intake is important to his overall health and well-being. Dont let them free-feed as theyre definitely going to go overboard. Instead, take their daily dose of kibble and split it into two separate meals. The exact amount will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but its usually not more than a cup o…
Behavior
- Although generally bright, the Shih-Poo is quite stubborn, especially when it comes to training. He doesnt feel the need to learn how to behave, do tricks or even go outdoors to use the bathroom. In order for the Shih-poo to become reliable in the house, it may take as long as one year of stringently bringing him outside until he does his business. Crate training may help cut down on …
Miscellaneous
- The Shih-Poo loves to hear himself bark. He could listen to his own voice all day and all night long. Training the dog to quiet on command can be difficult however; it is essential if youd like to keep your sanity and avoid problems with your neighbors.
Recognition
- The American Kennel Club does not recognize the Shih-Poo as a true breed of purebred dog. The registry organizations that do recognize the Shih-Poo as a crossbreed are the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, Inc., International Designer Canine Registry and the Designer Breed Registry.
Appearance
- Shih-Poos coats can be long and silky or short and curly or even somewhere in between. Colors are as various as those in the rainbow. Major differences in coat style and color can occur within the same litter of Shih-Poo puppies.
Prevention
- Brushing is essential and should be done at least twice weekly. The Shih-Poos coat might need seasonal trimming; it all depends upon the type of coat the particular dog has. Bathing is necessary each month as he may develop skin issues.