Shih Poo
Popular blend of two beloved small breeds
Shih Poos 101
Crossbred groupPoodles always bring intelligence to any mix, and usually curly or wavy coats (but no guarantee on the latter). Combine them with the sweet-natured Shih Tzu, and you have the Shih Poo, a bright, friendly dog who's a good fit for most families, and only minimally bossy. Size will depend on the kind of Poodle (Toy or Miniature) in the mix.
What we love about Shih Poos
Sturdy, good-natured blend of two fine family breeds
Energy level
Energy level: 50% (Moderate)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 9 to 15 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 9 to 15 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 18 years
- Weight
- 9 to 15 lbs
The Shih Poo stands 9 to 15 inches tall and weighs 9 to 15 lbs. Shih Poos 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 Shih Poos get?
- Shih Poos stand 9 to 15 inches tall and typically weigh between 9 and 15 pounds.
- How long do Shih Poos live?
- The average lifespan of a Shih Poo is 10 to 18 years.
- Are Shih Poos good for first-time dog owners?
- Shih Poos have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Shih Poos bark a lot?
- Shih Poos are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Shih Poo 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 Shih Poo
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
Mid-life Shih Poos should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Urinary bladder stones and Luxated patella are at moderate risk.
- Urinary bladder stones
- Moderate Risk
- Luxated patella
- Moderate Risk
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
60% on risk scaleSenior Shih Poo
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
Senior Shih Poos face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Valvular heart disease poses very high risk.
- Valvular heart disease
- Very High Risk
- Kidney failure
- Moderate Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
Shih Poo puppy
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
Shih Poo puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Ear infection pose very high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
Young adult Shih Poo
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
As Shih Poos grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Umbilical hernia is at moderate risk.
- Umbilical hernia
- Moderate Risk
- Constipation
- Above Average Risk
- Toxicity
- Above Average Risk
Mature adult Shih Poo
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
Mid-life Shih Poos should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Urinary bladder stones and Luxated patella are at moderate risk.
- Urinary bladder stones
- Moderate Risk
- Luxated patella
- Moderate Risk
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
Senior Shih Poo
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
Senior Shih Poos face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Valvular heart disease poses very high risk.
- Valvular heart disease
- Very High Risk
- Kidney failure
- Moderate Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
Shih Poo puppy
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
Shih Poo puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Ear infection pose very high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
Young adult Shih Poo
Risk level for common Shih Poo conditions
As Shih Poos grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Umbilical hernia is at moderate risk.
- Umbilical hernia
- Moderate Risk
- Constipation
- Above Average Risk
- Toxicity
- Above Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Shih Poo's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 6 months)
- Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Ear infection: Very High Risk, Dental disease: Above Average Risk
- Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
- Umbilical hernia: Moderate Risk, Constipation: Above Average Risk, Toxicity: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
- Urinary bladder stones: Moderate Risk, Luxated patella: Moderate Risk, Dental disease: Above Average Risk
- Senior (10+ years)
- Valvular heart disease: Very High Risk, Kidney failure: Moderate Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk
Did you know?
Poodle crosses have become popular because some of them may be more easily tolerated by allergy sufferers, as with Poodles themselves.
Shih Poo coat care and colors
Shih Poo coats can be long like the Shih Tzu or curly like the Poodle. 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.
How often should I groom my Shih Poo?
How often should I groom my Shih Poo?
How often should I brush my Shih Poo?
How often should I brush my Shih Poo?
How often should I brush my Shih Poo?
How often should I brush my Shih Poo?
Shih Poo exercise & training
Shih Poo fun facts
Top girl names for Shih Poos
of Shih Poos are female
of Shih Poos are male
Top boy names for Shih Poos
Nationwide loves Shih Poos of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Shih Poos insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Shih Poo statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Shih Poos
Best. Shih Poo insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free