The Shih Poo is a small designer dog that blends the outgoing personality of the Shih Tzu with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle (usually Miniature or Toy).
These dogs are loving, gentle, and easy to have around, making them a great choice for families, retirees, or anyone looking for a cuddly, low-shedding pet. They may be compact in size, but their hearts are big—and their love for their people is even bigger.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Companion dog |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 8 to 15 inches (20 to 38 cm) |
| Weight | 8 to 20 pounds (4 to 9 kg) |
| Lifespan | 13–17 years |
| Coat Type | Curly, wavy, or soft and fluffy |
| Colors | White, black, brown, gray, apricot, cream, or multi-color |
| Temperament | Loving, calm, smart |
| Energy Level | Low to moderate |
| Exercise Needs | 30 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Low |
| Trainability | High, especially with positive methods |
| Average Price | $800 to $2,500 |
| Best For | Apartment living, families, allergy-sensitive owners |
Where They Come From
The Shih Poo was bred to combine the best traits of the Shih Tzu and the Toy Poodle. The goal? A smart, friendly, and allergy-friendly companion with a manageable size and coat.
Though not a recognized breed, the Shih Poo has become a popular Doodle mix for those who want a portable, people-focused pup.
What Do They Look Like?
Shih Poos typically have a teddy bear appearance with a soft, rounded face, big expressive eyes, and either floppy or semi-floppy ears. Their coat can be wavy like a Shih Tzu’s or curlier like a Poodle’s, and comes in many beautiful colors.
They have a compact body, short legs, and a cheerful, perky stance. Some may look more like one parent than the other, but most land somewhere in the middle.
If you love dogs with a similar cuddly look, explore other Teddy Bear Dogs in this guide.
Temperament and Personality
This mix is known for being gentle, affectionate, and smart. They’re great lap dogs who love attention, but they’re also playful and alert.
Typical Shih Poo personality traits:
- Loyal and loves being close to their people
- Social with family and visitors when properly socialized
- Playful without being overly energetic
- Sensitive to loud voices or rough treatment
They’re happiest in calm, loving homes where they get plenty of one-on-one time.
If you’re considering a similar mix, check out the Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix for more insights.
Family Friendliness
Shih Poos are generally great with children, especially if raised around them. Because of their small size, they’re better suited to families with older kids who know how to be gentle.
They usually get along with other pets as long as they’re introduced properly. Early socialization helps them feel confident and secure in various situations.
Training and Mental Engagement
Thanks to their Poodle parent, Shih Poos are smart and capable of learning quickly. They also have a touch of stubbornness from the Shih Tzu side, so consistency and gentle training are key.
Training tips:
- Start with basic obedience and socialization early
- Use treats, praise, and patience
- Avoid harsh corrections—they’re sensitive and may shut down
- Keep sessions short and fun
They respond best to structure and thrive when learning new things, even just for fun.
Exercise Needs
Shih Poos don’t need a lot of exercise, but they still enjoy regular activity. About 30 minutes of movement per day is plenty for most of them.
Activity ideas include:
- Walks around the block
- Indoor play with soft toys or puzzle games
- Light fetch or gentle tug
- Short training sessions or scent games
They’re not high-energy dogs, but they still enjoy exploring and playing.
Grooming and Coat Care
The coat of a Shih Poo varies, but most need regular brushing to stay clean and tangle-free. While they’re low shedders, their fur can mat easily if not cared for.
Grooming routine:
- Brush 3–4 times per week
- Trim every 6–8 weeks (especially for curlier coats)
- Bathe every 4–6 weeks
- Clean ears and trim nails regularly
- Brush teeth several times a week
They’re considered low-shedding and can be a good choice for people with mild allergies.
Health and Lifespan
Shih Poos are generally healthy and can live a long life with good care. Potential health concerns include:
- Dental problems (common in small breeds)
- Eye issues like cataracts or tear staining
- Luxating patella
- Skin problems
- Ear infections (especially in floppy-eared dogs)
A healthy diet, regular grooming, and annual vet checkups help prevent many common problems.
Feeding and Nutrition
These dogs need high-quality food suited to small breeds. They don’t eat a lot, but their meals should be well-balanced.
Feeding tips:
- ½ to 1.5 cups of dry food per day, depending on size and age
- Divide into two meals
- Choose food rich in protein, with limited fillers
- Monitor weight and avoid overfeeding
Dental chews and daily brushing also help keep their teeth in good shape.
Cost and Availability
Shih Poo puppies from breeders typically range from $800 to $2,500 depending on location, size, and coat type.
Adoption may be an option through small breed or Doodle rescues, often for $100–$500. Monthly expenses are moderate and include grooming, food, and basic vet care.
Is the Shih Poo Right for You?
This mix is best for people who want a cuddly, low-shedding dog that enjoys being part of everyday life. They fit beautifully into smaller homes and enjoy a balanced mix of play and snuggles.
Best for:
- Apartment or condo living
- Seniors or retirees
- First-time dog owners
- People with allergies or who prefer minimal shedding
Not ideal for:
- Households with rough play or small children
- Those who are away most of the day
- Owners who don’t want to maintain regular grooming
If you’re looking for a sweet, affectionate, and low-fuss companion, the Shih Poo might be your perfect match.
Need help choosing a name for your new pup? Check out these adorable Small Dog Names.