Shichis are a cross between Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas, and due to their parent’s genes, they’re tiny canines. However, they’re energetic and affectionate, and they act like much larger dogs.

Breed Overview

The ShiChis, or Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix, is a toy hybrid, making them ideal for apartment living. They are loyal animals that make great companions for singles or seniors, and though they can be stubborn, they can be great candidates for obedience competitions with the right trainer. Keep reading our guide to learn everything you need to know about Shichis and whether or not they are the right dog for you and your family.

Shichi Characteristics

Shichi Puppies

Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas can be expensive breeds, so you should expect more of the same from a crossbreed. Always research your options thoroughly before purchasing a Shichi puppy from a breeder to ensure you avoid buying from a puppy mill or a breeder that treats their dogs poorly. Ask them the necessary questions about the puppy’s health and the parents’ background, and try to visit the breeder’s installations before paying anything

When you welcome a Shichi into your home, be ready for a vocal and energetic pup asking for playtime.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Shichi

Shichis are energetic, affectionate, and highly intelligent. However, some Shichis have a stubborn streak inherited from their parent, the Chihuahua, that could interfere with training efforts. You are probably familiar with the stereotype of the “yappy” toy dog, and the Shichi is no exception. They bark frequently, especially when they encounter strangers or otherwise feel threatened.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

Shichis are generally great family dogs that get along and enjoy playing with children. However, they may not be the best choice if your children are very young. As a toy dog, the Shichis cannot tolerate rough play. They can also take after their Chihuahua parent and snap at the children.

If you have children, it’s important to teach them how to handle and interact with your Shichi properly to prevent harm.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets? 🐶 😽 

The extent to which your Shichi will accept other pets ultimately comes down to which of the parents they take after the most. While Shih Tzus are usually friendly with other pets, including other dogs, Chihuahuas don’t like to share the attention of their owners. No matter what, you should socialize your Shichi with your other pets from an early age.

Things to Know When Owning a Shichi

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

When choosing what to feed your Shichi, make sure to choose high-quality kibble formulated for small breeds. In terms of how much you should be feeding your Shichi, you should keep in mind that small breeds need more calories per pound than larger breeds due to their high metabolism.

Still, your Shichi will only require about a cup of food daily, spread out over multiple meals throughout the day. You can use calculators such as this one to determine how much food your dog needs based on their current and ideal weight.

Exercise 🐕

Shichis are very energetic dogs, but because they are so small, they don’t need a lot of extra exercise. If you are looking for a dog that you can take on long walks and runs, the Shichi may not be the best choice; about 20–30 minutes of exercise per day should suffice.

The benefit of having a dog with relatively low exercise needs is that they don’t require a lot of space and are okay without a yard. It also means that they are great companion dogs for seniors, who are likely to have some physical limitations and may be unable to take larger pets out for long walks.

Training 🎾

Your Shichi’s particular blend of Shih Tzu and Chihuahua will determine how difficult they are to train. On one hand, Shih Tzus are very intelligent and docile, making them easy to train. On the other hand, Chihuahuas can be independent and stubborn, which can lead to more difficulty in training.

Using positive reinforcement should make training your Shichi relatively easy. You should also remember that it may take time to house-train your Shichi, but with the help of a crate and plenty of patience, the process shouldn’t be too painful.

Grooming ✂️

Your Shichi should have a low-shedding, short coat. As a result, grooming your Shichi will be fairly low-maintenance. If your dog’s coat is longer, invest in a comb and bristle brush and plan to brush them about once per week.

You shouldn’t worry about bathing your Shichi unless it’s needed; bathing too often can strip their fur of necessary oils. However, you should plan to brush your Shichi’s teeth about three times per week, as they are prone to dental problems.

Health and Conditions 🏥

The Shichi is a relatively healthy dog that can live up to 15 years. However, there is always a chance that your dog could inherit health problems from either parent. It is crucial to ask your breeder about your dog’s parental health history so that you have a complete picture of the types of health issues your dog might face down the line.

Male vs Female

There are no known differences between male and female Shichis regarding personality or physical size. However, you may gain some insight into the differences between males and females by learning about their parents. Male Chihuahuas can be more aggressive than female Chihuahuas and will try to assert their dominance by barking, growling, or even nipping. Male Chihuahuas also happen to be more affectionate than their female counterparts.

Ultimately, no particular personality trait can always be applied to one sex or the other. However, if you can spend time with your puppy’s parents, you can get a feel for the type of behavior you can expect from your dog, whether male or female.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Shichi

1. Shichis Are Known By Many Names

If you have never heard of the Shichi before, it could be because you know them by another name. They are also commonly known as Chitzus or Chi-Shis.

2. The Shichi Is a Relatively New Breed

The Shichi is thought to have been developed within the last 10 years or so, so they don’t have much of a history.

3. The Shichi’s Parent Breeds Have Much More Ancient Roots

Although Chihuahuas were first recognized in the 19th century, it is speculated that the Chihuahua derives from the Techichi, a dog whose origins date as far back as the 9th century AD. The Shih Tzu is an Asian breed that has origins in Tibet. The Shih Tzu is thought to be about 2,000 years old.

Conclusion

Overall, Shichis can make excellent pets, but they may not be for everyone. If you have young children, don’t have a lot of experience training dogs, or are easily annoyed by dogs that tend to bark, you may want to consider other breeds. Then again, if you are a single or senior adult looking for companionship or living in a relatively small space, the Shichi could be the perfect dog for you. If you bring a Shichi home, you will be rewarded with many years of affection and companionship.

• Related Read: Mi-ki Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Facts, Traits & Care

Featured Image Credit: Hornfinger, Shutterstock