The Shih Tzu is regarded as one of the most adorable dogs in existence. They are small and dainty, they have big personalities, and they love to snuggle with their human companions. Shih Tzus also happen to be responsible for a wide variety of crossbreeds that are just as cute and cuddly as they are. Here, we present you with the cutest Shih Tzu mixes in no particular order.
The Top 38 Shih Tzu Mixes
1. Auss Tzu (Shih Tzu and Australian Shepherd)
The Australian Shepherd and Shih Tzu came together to create this little bundle of joy. They have luxuriously silky hair and big attitudes that kids can’t seem to get enough of. They have tons of energy and love nothing more than socializing with other dogs and humans. They can be stubborn, though, which can make training a challenge but not impossible.
2. Shih-Poo (Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle)
The Shih-Poo is the result of breeding the Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle together. These are awesome family pets that can adapt to new situations and surroundings well. This crossbreed is charming, friendly, and easy to get along with. They are considered hypoallergenic due to their Poodle parent, so they do not shed much throughout the year.
3. Affen Tzu (Shih Tzu and Affenpinscher)
The Affen Tzu is a new designer breed that was created by breeding the Affenpinscher and Shih Tzu with one another. They are dainty little dogs with lively personalities that can get them into trouble from time to time. They can weigh anywhere from 8 to 13 pounds when fully grown, making them a great pet choice for singles and families who live in apartment settings.
4. ShiChi (Shih Tzu and Chihuahua)
As the offspring of the Shih Tzu and Chihuahua, you can expect the ShiChi to be small, perky, and full of attitude. They like to bark and never seem to get tired of playing. However, they have a cuddly side that can help make winter nights warmer and more comfortable for their human companions. They love going on rides in the car too.
5. Shih-Mo (American Eskimo and Shih Tzu)
American Eskimos and Shih Tzus happen to make beautiful babies, which are referred to as Shih-Mos. This crossbreed tends to take on the traits of both parents evenly, making them a fun and entertaining animal to spend time around. They can weigh up to 25 pounds when fully grown, but they can still fit happily on a lap at naptime.
6. Weshi (Shih Tzu and West Highland Terrier)
The Weshi is a friendly pooch that was created by breeding the Shih Tzu and West Highland Terrier together. They go by many names, including Westie Tzus and West Highland Tzus. No matter what they are called, they are all the same mixed breed. They mostly take after their West Highland Terrier parents when it comes to physical features, but they can take after either or both parents when it comes to personality.
7. French Bull Tzu (Shih Tzu and French Bull )
The name says it all when it comes to determining the parents of this mixed breed. The French Bull Shih Tzu hybrid is a lively little dog that features a cheerful-looking face and a personality to match. These dogs should be socialized early to ensure that they will get along with other dogs and kids as they grow into adulthood. These dogs do not need much exercise, but they do expect to spend most of their time with a human companion.
8. Pin Tzu (Shih Tzu and Miniature Pinscher)
A cross between the Shih Tzu and the Miniature Pinscher, this is an extremely small dog that seems to love every moment of life, even while sleeping. They put on a brave face when there is a perceived threat, and they make for awesome watch dogs, as they will always let their family members know when someone is on the property and headed toward the house. They are smart and usually easy to train, too.
9. Schnau Tzu (Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer)
This hybrid dog came about by breeding the Shih Tzu and Miniature Schnauzer together. These adorable dogs have big, floppy ears and display goofy yet lovable looks on their faces more often than not. These dogs love children and enjoy playing games like fetch and hide-and-seek. If socialized from a young age, they can spend hours at the dog park.
10. Cava Tzu (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Shih Tzu)
The little but mighty Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Shih Tzu are responsible for creating this magnificent designer crossbreed. These mixed breed dogs have ancient, royal lineage, and they act like they know it. They walk with pride, they hold their tails up high, and they do not put up with much guff. However, they are patient with children, and they are always eager to please their human companions.
11. Blue Tzu Heeler (Shih Tzu and Australian Cattle Dog)
Australian Cattle Dogs and Shih Tzus make cute puppies called Blue Tzu Heelers that are friendly, family-oriented, and highly active. These dogs do not like being left alone at home all day and expect attention from their human family members regularly. This is a new hybrid breed that is not yet recognized by any kennel clubs, but they are becoming popular and are recognized by most designer breed organizations.
12. Coton Tzu (Shih Tzu and Coton de Tulear)
The Coton Tzu is a hybrid dog that’s a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Coton de Tulear. They have super soft coats that feel luxurious to the touch, and they tend to maintain sweet dispositions throughout their lives. They are low-maintenance, and aside from occasional brushing, they rarely require special grooming.
13. Boshih (Shih Tzu and Boston Terrier)
The independence of the Boston Terrier and the friskiness of the Shih Tzu come together to create the scroungy yet cute Boshih designer dog. This is a dog that loves nothing more than to please their human companions. They make awesome companion animals for seniors, and they typically get along well with children of all ages.
14. Shiranian (Shih Tzu and Pomeranian)
Those looking for a small yet upbeat dog should consider the Shiranian, which is a crossbreed between the Pomeranian and the Shih Tzu. They can look like either parents or a mixture of both. They can weigh anywhere from 4 to 16 pounds as adults, so you never know what you are going to get until the puppy grows into adolescence.
15. Crested Tzu (Shih Tzu and Chinese Crested dog)
As the offspring of Shih Tzus and Chinese Crested dogs, the Crested Tzu is talented and smart. These dogs can be hypoallergenic if they take after their Chinese Crested parent the most, but it is not guaranteed. These are cheerful dogs that would rather play and explore than cuddle and nap.
16. Papastzu (Shih Tzu and Papillon)
This is a unique-looking mixed breed that has fluffy, upright ears and bright eyes that always seem to be on alert. With a spunky attitude and plenty of energy, this mixed breed will keep you on your toes throughout the day. These are dogs that need to be supervised when in social situations because they tend to forget how small they are, which could get them injured when interacting with kids and other dogs.
17. Sheltie Tzu (Shih Tzu and Shetland Sheepdog)
Weighing in at somewhere between 15 and 25 pounds, the Sheltie Tzu is the offspring of the Shetland Sheepdog and the Shih Tzu. They are popular among families of all shapes and sizes due to their even temperament and ability to take on training easily. However, their dense coats tend to get matted when grooming is not made a priority.
18. Cock-a-Tzu (Shih Tzu and Cocker Spaniel)
The Cocker Spaniel and Shih Tzu come together to create the hardy and excitable Cock-a-Tzu. With lean bodies and agile limbs, this is a mixed breed that can do extremely well on the agility course. Their coats are soft and easy to care for, and their floppy ears give them an endearing look that makes them seem easily approachable.
19. Jatzu (Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin)
This mixed breed comes from the Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin, both of which are regarded as excellent companion animals across Asia. They have garnered a reputation for being polite and restrained, but they know how to have fun when the time is right. They can make great watchdogs by letting owners know whenever someone is coming to the door.
20. Care Tzu (Shih Tzu and Cairn Terrier)
The Care Tzu is a fluffy, vibrant hybrid dog that is known for excelling in the obedience and agility world. They are patient, intelligent, and lovable dogs that enjoy spending time outdoors when the sun is shining. They also like going on adventures in the car with their human companions. These social dogs can live up to 15 years.
21. Peki Tzu (Shih Tzu and Pekingese)
This is a mixed breed that takes on the dignified personality of their Pekingese parent and the playful attitude of their Shih Tzu parent, resulting in a dog that can be unpredictable at times. This is a new hybrid dog, so there is not much known about possible genetic health conditions that they could be prone to. Still, they seem to live just as happy and healthy lives as their parent breeds do.
22. Shih Apso (Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso)
The Shih Apso is considered the ideal lap dog due to their gentle nature and soft, fluffy coat that can help keep a human family member warm on winter evenings. Their long hair may need to be trimmed, especially around the face, where hair growth can impede eyesight. They do not have much energy and need little exercise, which makes them great pets for seniors and singles who don’t have much time for outdoor walks.
23. Shorkie Tzu (Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier)
Those looking for a small, calm dog that is easy to manage should consider introducing a Shorkie Tzu to their household. They were developed by breeding the Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu together, and they tend to take on the physical characteristics of both parents. They can happily reside in apartment and house settings without the need for much outdoor time, making this Shih Tzu Terrier mix extremely popular.
24. Shorgi (Shih Tzu and Corgi)
This is a designer dog breed that thrives on human attention and affection. They cannot be left at home alone frequently, or they may start to destroy items around the house out of boredom and loneliness. As the offspring of the Corgi and Shih Tzu, the Shorgi has thick fur that is more suitable for mild, cooler climates rather than warm or tropical environments.
25. Tzu Basset (Shih Tzu and Basset Hound)
The Tzu Basset is a goofy-looking dog with a carefree personality to match. In addition to the Shih Tzu, the Basset Hound is responsible for bringing the Tzu Basset into existence. They can weigh up to 40 pounds as adults, so they do not make the best lap dogs. However, they are great companions that will stick near their owner’s sides whenever possible.
26. Pug Tzu (Shih Tzu and Pug)
While perhaps not the cutest dog on this list, the Pug Tzu is a happy-go-lucky dog that any family would feel grateful to spend their lives with. These are sweet dogs that rarely show aggression to other dogs or strangers, yet they always show loyalty to their family members. Their Shih Tzu and Pug parents seem to equally share the responsibility for their personalities.
27. Shar Tzu (Shih Tzu and Shar Pei)
As a Shar Pei Shih Tzu mix, this hybrid dog is independent, adventurous, and territorial. These small yet hefty dogs are refined and picky, but once they bond with their family members, they are loyal to the end. The Shar Tzu loves outdoor adventures and trips to the dog park. Their territorial nature can be problematic when interacting with other dogs and children in their homes, so supervision is always recommended.
28. Shiffon (Shih Tzu and Brussels Griffon)
The Shiffon is a scruffy-looking dog with plenty of energy to burn throughout the day. They are smart yet stubborn, which can make training tough on first-time dog owners. However, they are excellent with kids, and they usually get along well with other pets. With Shih Tzu and Brussels Griffon as parents, this mixed breed should be socialized from a young age to ensure proper behavior in social settings later in life.
29. Schweenie (Shih Tzu and Dachshund)
The Dachshund and the Shih Tzu seem like an unlikely match when it comes to making babies, but these dogs happen to produce lively, outgoing, adorable dogs called Schweenies that everyone should have an opportunity to get to know. These are low-shedding dogs that enjoy being in the company of companions, whether human or canine. Time to run and play indoors or in a small yard is all they need for daily exercise.
30. Sco-Shi (Shih Tzu and Scottish Terrier)
The smarts of the Sco-Shi make this mixed breed easy to train and integrate into dynamic family situations. Their parents are the Shih Tzu and Scottish Terrier, which means that they will not get any heavier than 20 pounds upon maturity. These are independent dogs that can be standoffish when first meeting strangers, but they do not take long to warm up to new friends.
31. Bea-Tzu (Shih Tzu and Beagle)
The Bea-Tzu can be a handy hunting companion or a fun family dog, depending on the needs of their family. They are especially good at tracking due to the genes that they inherit from their Beagle parent. Their Shih Tzu parent typically passes on a loving attitude and a penchant for playing that makes them perfect companions for kids and adults alike.
32. Mal-Shih (Shih Tzu and Maltese)
This fluffy little dog has a large amount of wavy or curly hair that makes their heads look a little like mops but in an endearing way. They do not shed much, even during the summer months, which makes them great dogs for those who do not have much time for grooming or cleaning up after a pet. They have bold attitudes and playful personalities, which makes them fun and easy to get along with.
33. Silky Tzu (Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier)
Weighing in at between 8 and 13 pounds, the Silky Tzu is an adorable pooch that is always inquisitive and social. The Shih Tzu and Silky Terrier are this mixed breed’s parents, and they both play an equal role when it comes to the looks and behaviors of their offspring. These dogs are easily injured, so they are not ideal for families with young children.
34. Jack Tzu (Shih Tzu and Jack Russell Terrier)
The Jack Tzu is a jack of all trades. This hybrid dog has all the watchdog and hunting skills that their Jack Russell Terrier parent possesses, and they have the sociable personalities and gentle temperaments that their Shih Tzu parent tends to display. This dog is easy to groom and can live up to 15 years, making them a great addition to any farm or family household that is looking for a longtime companion.
35. Havashu (Shih Tzu and Havanese)
The Shih Tzu and Havanese create the Havashu, a small yet mighty hybrid dog that is great at many things, including obedience, tricks, and agility training. They will let everyone in the household know when someone or something is lurking outside, yet they will also happily cuddle up and ignore everything that is going on around them.
36. Fo-Tzu (Shih Tzu and Toy Fox Terrier)
Considered a hybrid toy breed, the Fo-Tzu stands at only about 13 inches tall and weighs in at less than 12 pounds once fully grown. Their medium-length coat is easy to maintain—just a couple of brushings each week should be necessary. They are snappy at times, though, which may not mix well with the company of young kids.
37. Italian Tzu (Shih Tzu and Italian Greyhound)
As the name suggests, this is a mixed dog produced by the Italian Greyhound and the Shih Tzu. These dogs like daily walks, but they are not excessively active, which makes them great indoor pets. They do not mind staying at home alone, yet they will never turn down an opportunity to take a ride in the car. However, they are susceptible to overheating, so they should never be left alone in a car or allowed to play for too long under the direct sunlight.
38. Zuchon (Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise)
The Zuchon has an odd name, but this mixed breed’s personality and temperament are completely reminiscent of their parents: the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise. They can weigh between a measly 5 pounds and a hefty 15 pounds as adults, but no matter their weight, they can easily curl up in the lap of any human in the household.
Conclusion
There are many different Shih Tzu mixes out there today, all with different attributes, personalities, and temperaments to consider when deciding which mixed breed to take on as a pet. It is a good idea to do serious research and even talk to a veterinarian before choosing a Shih Tzu mix to adopt. That said, which of the mixed breeds on our list interests you the most? Let us and our community know by leaving a comment!
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Featured Image Credit: Tanya Consaul Photography, Shutterstock
The Top 38 Shih Tzu Mixes
