Shih Tzus are great dogs to have by your side. Whether you’re looking for a playful, lazy, stubborn, or friendly dog, there is a Shih Tzu mix for you.
Shih Tzus are one of the cutest and most popular dog breeds out there, but they might not be for everyone. However, there is a wide selection of Shih Tzu mixes that have grown in popularity too.
Therefore, even if a purebred Shih Tzu doesn’t seem like the perfect match for you, there are many other cute, fluffy dogs that could appeal to you.
While it is possible to mix a Shih Tzu with almost every dog breed, not every breed is recommended or in high demand.
It is typically not a good idea to mix a Shih Tzu with a large breed dog or another dog with a flat snout because these mixes could cause problems for that mixed breed.
However, there are many Shih Tzu mixes that result in a healthy, adorable dog. So, here are some of the best Shih Tzu mixes that will make great pets.
Top 11 Most Adorable Shih Tzu Mixes
1. Shih Poo (Shih Tzu Toy Poodle Mix)
Shih Poos are a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle, and they can also be referred to as a Shoodle or a Pooshi. Poodles are one of the most common dogs to breed with due to their friendly behavior and low-shedding coats.
They need plenty of attention and love to keep them content. While they have a high energy level, especially when they’re young, they don’t need a ton of exercise.
A few short walks a day can keep them content, but try walking them in new areas now and then because they love to explore.
This mixed breed typically weighs between 8 and 18 pounds, and much like both of their parents, they have a fluffy coat that needs to be maintained often.
They should be taken to the groomer every 4 to 6 weeks, and in between those appointments, they should be brushed often to avoid matts.
Shih Poos can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, or brindle, but they are often a mixture of multiple different colors.
Since they are a smaller breed, they will be happy in any type of household whether it’s an apartment with one person or a large house with a family. However, if you have other dogs, you may need to give your Shih Poo time to adjust to them.
2. Shorkie (Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix)
A Shorkie is a mix of a Yorkshire Terrier and a Shih Tzu. They are a small breed that typically weighs anywhere from 4 to 12 pounds, but they often don’t recognize how small they really are.
They have a large personality and often act very protective over their loved ones, thinking that they are bigger than they actually are. However, this means that they might bark often, so this is a bad habit that needs to be fixed early on.
Shorkies have a soft coat that is typically either brown and black or brown and white, but the colors can vary. They are a low-shedding breed, which means that they need to be groomed every so often to maintain their coats, around every 6 to 8 weeks.
While they are very loyal dogs, they are also very stubborn, which makes them more difficult to train than other breeds.
Also, while they are usually friendly, they often dislike being around young children, so they are more suitable for a home with only adults.
They can get along well with other dogs, but if they are going to live in a household with other pets, you should slowly introduce them to each other.
3. Havashu (Havanese Shih Tzu Mix)
The Havashu is another low-shedding Shih Tzu mix that is combined with a Havanese. With two similar fluffy breeds for parents, this mix is guaranteed to be an adorable companion dog.
Havashus typically weigh between 8 and 15 pounds, and they are a very loving breed that can easily warm up to new people. They get along with nearly everyone, including children and other pets, so they are a great Shih Tzu mix for a larger family.
Their coat can be a mixture of any coat colors that a Shih Tzu or Havanese could have, which includes white, black, brown, and brindle.
Their coat can get matted easily, so they should be brushed often in order to stay properly maintained. About every 6 weeks, you should take them to the groomer as well to ensure that they stay as clean and healthy as possible.
Unlike many other Shih Tzu mixes, Havashus are actually easy to train and can learn commands quickly.
If they get bored or uninterested in training, then they may become a bit stubborn, but with enough positive reinforcement, they should be more than happy to listen.
4. Mal-Shi (Maltese Shih Tzu Mix)
This adorable breed is a mix between a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. They are also commonly referred to as a Malti-zu, Mal-Tzu, and Shih-tese.
They are a friendly and loving breed that is low-shedding and easygoing. They typically only weigh between 6 and 12 pounds, and they are usually either white or tan, but they can also gain some darker black or brown colors.
The Mal-Shi is similar to the Havashu because they are fairly easy to train and they get along with almost everyone, including children. They also have a similar silky coat that needs to be maintained often.
They should be taken to the groomer every 4 to 8 weeks, and they should be brushed often in between appointments.
Mal-Shis typically have low exercise requirements. They are content just lounging around and taking frequent naps.
However, they are usually willing to adjust their routines around yours. Therefore, if you are more active, they might become more playful and outgoing, but if you prefer to sit still, then they will happily rest right beside you.
5. Care-Tzu (Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu Mix)
This cute name is perfect for this adorable mixed breed. Care-Tzus is a mix between a Cairn Terrier and a Shih Tzu.
They are a playful and energetic breed, and they are great in any household, especially with children. They are a bit larger than the other popular Shih Tzu mixes because they are typically between 15 and 20 pounds.
Since Cairn Terriers do shed a little, this breed might shed more than other Shih Tzu mixes, but it will still be very limited.
Their coat is soft, but it often appears scruffy as opposed to the silky coat of other Shih Tzu mixes. They are typically either brown or white, but their colors can vary based on the coloring of their parents.
Care-Tzus do not need their coat trimmed as a Shih Tzu would because they will shed some of their fur.
However, they do need to be bathed and brushed whenever it’s necessary. Since this breed is part terrier, they may require extra patience when it comes to training since they get distracted easily.
However, once they learn new commands, they are very intelligent and learn to listen well. They also have higher exercise requirements than other Shih Tzu mixes, so you should be prepared to take them on longer walks throughout the day.
6. Shiranian (Pomeranian Shih Tzu Mix)
The Shiranian is a small, fluffy dog that is a mix between a Pomeranian and a Shih Tzu. They can weigh anywhere from 4 to 16 pounds. Shiranians are a friendly breed that typically gets along with everyone, including children and other pets.
However, they can become very attached to their loved ones, which can cause them to become needy and stubborn.
Shiranians come in a range of colors such as black, brown, orange, and gold. Compared to other Shih Tzu hybrids, their coat requires more upkeep, necessitating daily grooming and regular bathing.
Although they shed more than some other Shih Tzu crossbreeds, attentive care can minimize this shedding. While grooming services can be utilized, it’s essential to ensure their fur isn’t trimmed too short, as this can be detrimental. Their charming fluffy coats demand commitment to maintenance.
Since Shiranians are a small breed, their exercise requirements are not very high. They enjoy running around and exploring, but they can get tired easily. They would prefer a few short walks throughout the day or a yard to run around in.
7. Bea-Tzu (Beagle Shih Tzu Mix)
The Bea-Tzu is another Shih Tzu mix that is a bit larger than the others because it is mixed with a Beagle.
They typically weigh between 15 and 25 pounds. This Shih Tzu mix is much more energetic and playful than some of the other popular breeds.
They get along with adults, children, and other pets, so they are suitable for all different types of homes.
Bea-Tzus have soft, silky coats that typically share the brown and white pattern that a Beagle’s coat has. However, they differ from Beagles because they are smaller, they have a shorter snout, and they are generally fluffier.
However, since Beagles do shed, there is a chance that your Bea-Tzu will shed too, but it likely won’t be too much. They also have long, floppy ears, so their ears must be cleaned often to help avoid any infections.
Even though Bea-Tzus are more energetic than other Shih Tzu mixes, they do not have any crazy exercise requirements.
A few regular walks each day should keep them content. Just make sure you play with them often and keep them entertained as much as you can.
8. ShiChi (Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix)
ShiChis are a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Chihuahua, and they typically only weight between 3 and 9 pounds, making them one of the smallest Shih Tzu mixes. They can also be referred to as a Chi-Shi or a Chi-Tzu.
They are adorable little dogs with a big personality. They are generally good around everyone, but they may be hesitant around unfamiliar children and dogs.
Their appearance can vary based on what their parents look like, so they can have a coat of any length. If they do shed, it will only be a small amount.
Their coat can come in a variety of colors, including white, black, cream, or brown. They do not need their hair cut as a Shih Tzu would, but instead, they should be brushed and bathed often in order to keep them clean and healthy.
ShiChis are very playful, but they have a high-pitched bark, so they will bark frequently if not properly trained.
They can be stubborn when it comes to training, but with plenty of positive reinforcements, they should be able to learn new tricks and behaviors easily. They enjoy playing and walking, but can get tired easily, so they don’t need much daily exercise.
9. Shichon (Shih Tzu Bichon Frise Mix)
Also known as a Zuchon or Tzu Frise, the Shichon is a mix between a Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise. They typically weigh between 10 and 15 pounds, and they are a popular breed due to their soft and cuddly appearance.
Shichons are friendly little dogs that love to be around both adults and children. They can bond quickly with new people and will typically get along with other pets as well.
They are often a white color with patches of brown, black, or gray, but this can vary between each Shichon.
They are another low-shedding breed that needs to be groomed often, likely every 4 to 8 weeks. Make sure to brush them as much as you can in between grooming appointments in order to keep their coat as fluffy as possible.
Shichons can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, so you will need to be patient and consistent when trying to teach them new things. They do not require a large amount of exercise each day.
In fact, they would often prefer to run around and play with you instead of going on frequent walks. However, as loving as they are, they might grow too attached to you, causing them to get separation anxiety every time you leave.
10. Bo Shih (Boston Terrier Shih Tzu Mix)
A Bo Shih is a mix between a Boston Terrier and a Shih Tzu. They typically weigh between 12 and 18 pounds, and they are sweet little dogs that are full of energy. They are extremely loyal family members that love attention.
While this may seem sweet, it means that they can develop separation anxiety if they ever have to be away from you for longer periods of time. They can get along with both children and other pets, but they should be slowly introduced to them at first to help them better adjust.
Bo Shihs are typically colored similarly to a Boston Terrier, meaning that they almost always have a black and white or red and white pattern.
They have a longer coat that is soft, but unlike most other Shih Tzu mixes, Bo Shihs shed often. Therefore, they will need to be brushed daily and bathed often to stay clean.
Bo Shihs require some extra patience when it comes to training, especially if you get them as a puppy. They need lots of positive reinforcements in order to properly teach them new commands.
Also, despite being very playful and energetic, Bo Shihs do not need a crazy amount of exercise each day. Just some walks and playtime should be more than enough to keep them happy and healthy.
11. Schweenie (Shih Tzu Dachshund Mix)
The Schweenie is a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Dachshund. They have the same long body and short legs as a Dachshund, but they are often fluffier like a Shih Tzu. They typically weigh between 10 and 18 pounds, and they can come in a variety of colors, including brown, black, white, and brindle.
This Shih Tzu mix is energetic and loves to play. They can easily get along with new people, especially children. However, they might be hesitant around other dogs if not properly introduced.
Despite being a more energetic Shih Tzu mix, Schweenies do not have high exercise requirements. They enjoy going for short daily walks and having plenty of playtime with you, but their short legs can only handle so much exercise at a time.
Schweenies can either have a longer, softer coat like a Shih Tzu or a shorter, smoother coat like a Dachshund. It really depends on the parents of that particular mixed breed. However, regardless of how their coat is, they will end up shedding at least a little bit.
Therefore, haircuts are not needed, but frequent bathing and brushing is recommended. Also, their floppy ears can get infected easily, so be sure to clean their ears often.
How to Choose the Best Shih Tzu Mix
Just because the breeds listed above are some of the cutest and most popular doesn’t mean that they are the right fit for everyone.
Luckily, different Shih Tzu mixes provide different characteristics than others, so here are some Shih Tzu mixes sorted based on specific preferences.
Best Low-Shedding Shih Tzu Mixes
Shih Tzus are a very low-shedding breed of dog due to the fact that they have hair instead of fur.
This means that they shed about the same as a human would, so some owners greatly prefer this over a dog that sheds frequently. These are the best low-shedding Shih Tzu mixes:
- Crested Tzu (Chinese Crested)
- Havashu (Havanese)
- Mal-Shi (Maltese)
- Shichon (Bichon Frise)
- Shih Poo (Toy Poodle)
Fluffiest Shih Tzu Mixes
One of the most lovable parts of a Shih Tzu is their soft, cuddly coat.
So, if you breed them with another fluffy dog, you may get an even cuddlier breed. Here are some of the fluffiest and most cuddly Shih Tzu mixes:
- Bolo Tzu (Bolognese)
- Havashu (Havanese)
Best Shih Tzu Mixes for Families
Not all Shih Tzus are happy to be around small children, so if you are looking for a family dog, you need to be careful with which breed you select.
The following Shih Tzu mixes are known to be great options for families:
- Bo Shih (Boston Terrier)
- Care-Tzu (Cairn Terrier)
- Havashu (Havanese)
- Shichon (Bichon Frise)
- Shorgi (Pembroke Welsh Corgi)
Friendliest Shih Tzu Mixes
Just because all Shih Tzu mixes have one Shih Tzu for a parent doesn’t mean that they will all have the same personalities and behaviors.
Here are some of the Shih Tzu mixes that are known for being friendly:
- Bea-Tzu (Beagle)
- Cava Tzu (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)
- Coton Tzu (Coton De Tulear)
- Shih Poo (Toy Poodle)
- Shorkie (Yorkshire Terrier)
Most Energetic Shih Tzu Mixes
For some families, a lazy dog might be just what they need, but for others, an energetic dog is much more exciting.
Here are some Shih Tzu mixes that are the most energetic and playful:
- Auss-Tzu (Miniature Australian Shepherd)
- Bea-Tzu (Beagle)
- Bo Shih (Boston Terrier)
- Care-Tzu (Cairn Terrier)
- Jack Tzu (Jack Russell Terrier)
Most Stubborn Shih Tzu Mixes
Shih Tzus are generally a stubborn breed, but it adds to their unique personality. They are very set in their ways and will try to train you if possible.
Here are some Shih Tzu mixes that share this stubborn trait:
- Affen Tzu (Affenpinscher)
- Jack Tzu (Jack Russell Terrier)
- Schweenie (Dachshund)
- ShiChi (Chihuahua)
- Shorkie (Yorkshire Terrier)
Easiest Shih Tzu Mixes to Train
Since Shih Tzus are a stubborn dog breed, they are often more difficult to train. However, when mixed with certain breeds, they can become more obedient and easier to teach.
Here are some of the easiest Shih Tzu mixes to train:
- Auss-Tzu (Miniature Australian Shepherd)
- Havashu (Havanese)
- Papastzu (Papillon)
- Schnau-Tzu (Schnauzer)
- Sheltie Tzu (Shetland Sheepdog)
Final Thoughts
When it comes to dog breeds, there are so many different dogs to choose from.
If you are interested in a Shih Tzu, then there are lots of mixes that could be a good choice for you if you are uncertain about a purebred Shih Tzu.
However, before you bring a dog home, make sure that they are the perfect companion for you because they will become a part of your family in no time.
