Shichons 101

Crossbred group

The Bichon Frise always brings a sunny outlook to any mix. Combine with the Shih Tzu, and you have the Shichon, a bright, friendly and sweet-natured dog who's a good fit for most family situations.

What we love about Shichons

Cross of two wonderful family breeds has much to recommend

Energy level

50% energy level

Energy level: 50% (Moderate)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • As needed

Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively

Size

9 to 11 inches tall
Small breed size

Size: 9 to 11 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.

Lifespan

10 to 18 years

Lifespan: 10 to 18 years average

Weight

9 to 18 lbs

Weight: 9 to 18 lbs typical range

Energy level
Moderate (50%)
Bark level
Talkative
Height
9 to 11 inches
Lifespan
10 to 18 years
Weight
9 to 18 lbs

The Shichon stands 9 to 11 inches tall and weighs 9 to 18 lbs. Shichons have a lifespan of 10 to 18 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a talkative bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Shichons get?
Shichons stand 9 to 11 inches tall and typically weigh between 9 and 18 pounds.
How long do Shichons live?
The average lifespan of a Shichon is 10 to 18 years.
Are Shichons good for first-time dog owners?
Shichons have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
Do Shichons bark a lot?
Shichons are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.

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My pet’s health plannerSM

This Shichon health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Information based on cats similar to your breed. Learn more about our methodology and sources for this information.

Mature adult Shichon

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

Mid-life Shichons should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.

40% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Urinary tract infection
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Dental disease
Above Average Risk

Senior Shichon

10+ years

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

Senior Shichons face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Dental disease is at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Dental disease
Moderate Risk
40% on risk scale
Skin allergies
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Arthritis
Above Average Risk

Shichon puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

Shichon puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Ear infection and Foreign body ingestion pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Gastroenteritis
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Ear infection
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Foreign body ingestion
Very High Risk

Young adult Shichon

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

As Shichons grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.

40% on risk scale
Toxicity
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Gastroenteritis
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Skin allergies
Above Average Risk

Mature adult Shichon

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

Mid-life Shichons should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.

40% on risk scale
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Urinary tract infection
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Dental disease
Above Average Risk

Senior Shichon

10+ years

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

Senior Shichons face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Dental disease is at moderate risk.

60% on risk scale
Dental disease
Moderate Risk
40% on risk scale
Skin allergies
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Arthritis
Above Average Risk

Shichon puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

Shichon puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Ear infection and Foreign body ingestion pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Gastroenteritis
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Ear infection
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Foreign body ingestion
Very High Risk

Young adult Shichon

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Shichon conditions

As Shichons grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.

40% on risk scale
Toxicity
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Gastroenteritis
Above Average Risk
40% on risk scale
Skin allergies
Above Average Risk

Nationwide can help you save on your Shichon's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Puppy (0 to 6 months)
Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Ear infection: Very High Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Very High Risk
Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
Toxicity: Above Average Risk, Gastroenteritis: Above Average Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Above Average Risk, Urinary tract infection: Above Average Risk, Dental disease: Above Average Risk
Senior (10+ years)
Dental disease: Moderate Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk, Arthritis: Above Average Risk
Nationwide Outline

Did you know?

Bichons and Shih Tzus share traits such as outgoing, playful natures and eagerness to please.

Shichon coat care and colors

Shichon coats can be long like the Shih Tzu or curly and wavy like the Bichon. No matter which kind of coat they have, these dogs tangle easily and are typically kept clipped for ease of maintenance. Start acclimating to nail trims early to make life easier for everyone.

Shichon exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

Bichons tend to be active dogs while Shih Tzus are more laid back. The Shichon may be anywhere along the spectrum, but good news: Because of their small size, their exercise needs can be met with regular walks and indoor play and games.

Trainability

Trainability

The Shichon is bright and willing to please. Trick training is an easy way for both of you to have fun. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid future struggles.

Shichon fun facts

Top girl names for Shichons

100%

of Shichons are female

0%

of Shichons are male

Top boy names for Shichons

Nationwide loves Shichons of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Shichon gender distribution
GenderPercentage
Male0%
Female100%

Among Shichons insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.

Shichon statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.

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Other breeds like Shichons

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