If you’re looking for a friendly and playful dog, you may want to consider a Cockapoo mixed with Shih Tzu. This unique crossbreed is known for being outgoing and always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war. Plus, because both the Shih Tzu and the Cockapoo are relatively small dogs, this crossbreed is perfect for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of space. Ready to learn more? Keep reading!
History of the Cockapoo Mix with Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu Cockapoo mix is a relatively new crossbreed, only becoming popular in the last few decades. However, both the Shih Tzu and the Cockapoo have long and storied histories.
History of the Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a Chinese breed that was once reserved for royalty. In fact, the name “Shih Tzu” actually means “lion dog” in Chinese. These dogs were bred to resemble lions, which is considered to be a powerful and noble animal in Chinese culture.
The Shih Tzu was first brought to Europe in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until after World War II that the breed began to gain popularity in the West. In 1969, the Shih Tzu was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.
History of the Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a cross between the American Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. While there is some debate about when exactly the Cockapoo was first bred, most agree that this hybrid dates back to the 1960s.
The Cockapoo was originally bred as a hypoallergenic alternative to the Cocker Spaniel. However, this crossbreed quickly gained popularity for its intelligence, friendly personality, and low-shedding coat.
Nowadays, the Cockapoo is one of the most popular hybrid dogs in the United States. In fact, this crossbreed has been steadily increasing in popularity for the last few years.
Appearance of the Cockapoo Shih Tzu
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is a small dog, typically weighing between 10 and 20 pounds. This crossbreed can inherit the physical features of either parent breed, but most have the long, flowing coat of the Shih Tzu.
The coat of the Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix can be any color or combination of colors. However, the most common colors are black, white, brown, and tan.
This crossbreed has a compact body and a short snout. The ears are typically long and floppy, and the eyes are round and expressive.
Size of the Cockapoo Shih Tzu Mix
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is a small to medium-sized dog. Most adults weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. However, some may be larger or smaller depending on the size of the parents.Height-wise, this crossbreed typically ranges from 10 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
Personality of the Cockapoo Shih Tzu
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is a friendly and outgoing dog. This crossbreed loves to play and has a lot of energy. However, because the Shih Tzu mix with Cocker Spaniel is also a very laid-back breed, this crossbreed is easy to train and doesn’t require a lot of exercise.
This crossbreed is also known for being intelligent and quick to learn new tricks. In fact, the Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is often used in therapy dog programs because of their gentle and loving nature.
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix loves to be around people and gets along well with children and other animals. However, because this crossbreed is so friendly, they may not make the best guard dogs.
Care of the Cockapoo Shih Tzu
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is a relatively low-maintenance dog. This crossbreed only needs to be brushed a few times a week and doesn’t require professional grooming.
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu is also a relatively healthy breed. However, like all dogs, this crossbreed is susceptible to certain health conditions. Some of the most common health problems seen in the Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and von Willebrand’s disease.
If you’re thinking about adding a Cockapoo Shih Tzu to your family, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. This crossbreed is still relatively rare, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting a healthy puppy.
Grooming Requirements and Maintenance
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is a low-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. This crossbreed only needs to be brushed a few times a week and doesn’t require professional grooming.
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu also doesn’t need to be bathed very often. In fact, bathing this crossbreed too often can strip the natural oils from their coat and cause skin irritation.
When it comes to exercise, the Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is a relatively low-energy dog. This crossbreed doesn’t need a lot of exercise and can be content with a daily walk or playtime in the yard.
Training Tips for a Cockapoo Shih Tzu Mix Breed
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu is an intelligent breed that is quick to learn new tricks. However, this crossbreed can also be a bit stubborn at times.
To train a Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix, it’s important to be consistent and use positive reinforcement techniques. treats or praise. It’s also important to keep training sessions short and fun so that your dog doesn’t become bored.
This crossbreed is also known for being intelligent and quick to learn new tricks. In fact, the Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is often used in therapy dog programs because of their gentle and loving nature.
How to Train Your Dog to Become a Therapy Dog
If you’re interested in training your Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix to become a therapy dog, there are a few things you’ll need to do.
First, you’ll need to make sure your dog is well-socialized and comfortable around people. This means taking them to different places and exposing them to different types of people and situations.
You’ll also need to start training your dog basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Once your dog has a solid foundation of obedience training, you can begin working on specific therapy dog tasks.
Some of the most common tasks that therapy dogs perform include providing comfort and companionship to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Therapy dogs also often visit schools and libraries to help children learn to read.
Pros and Cons of the Cockapoo Shih Tzu Cross
Pros:
– Friendly and outgoing personality
– Easy to train
– Low-maintenance grooming needs
– Relatively healthy breed
Cons:
– Not the best guard dog because of their friendly nature
– Still a rare breed, so it can be difficult to find a reputable breeder
– May inherit health problems from parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia or patellar luxation
How to Prepare for a Cockapoo Shih Tzu Puppy
If you’re thinking about adding a Cockapoo Shih Tzu to your family, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. This crossbreed is still relatively rare, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting a healthy puppy.
When you bring your new Cockapoo Shih Tzu puppy home, it’s important to have everything you need to make sure they’re comfortable and happy. This includes a safe place for them to sleep, food and water bowls, a collar and leash, toys, and grooming supplies.
You should also have a plan for potty training your new puppy. Cockapoo Shih Tzus are relatively easy to potty train, but it’s still important to be patient and consistent with your training.
Cockapoo Shih Tzu Mix Health Issues
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix is generally a healthy breed. However, like all crossbreeds, they can inherit health problems from their parent breeds.
Some of the most common health problems seen in Cockapoo Shih Tzus include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and congenital heart defects.
To help ensure your Cockapoo Shih Tzu stays healthy, it’s important to take them to the vet for regular checkups and to have them vaccinated according to the recommended schedule.
How to Find a Reputable Cockapoo Shih Tzu Breeder
If you’re interested in adding a Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix to your family, the best place to start your search is with a reputable breeder.
When looking for a reputable breeder, make sure you ask lots of questions and do your research. A reputable breeder will be able to answer all of your questions and will be happy to provide you with references.
A reputable breeder will also be honest about any health problems the parents of the puppy have. Be wary of any breeder who isn’t willing to answer your questions or provide you with references.
If you’re having difficulty finding a reputable Cockapoo Shih Tzu breeder, you can also check with your local animal shelter or rescue group. While you may not be able to find a Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix at a shelter, you may be able to find another crossbreed that would make a great addition to your family.
Other Things to Know About the Cockapoo Shih Tzu
The Cockapoo Shih Tzu is a great breed for people who are looking for a friendly and outgoing dog. They’re easy to train and have low-maintenance grooming needs. However, they’re still a relatively rare breed, so it can be difficult to find a reputable breeder.
If you’re thinking about adding a Cockapoo Shih Tzu mix to your family, make sure you do your research and find a reputable breeder. Once you bring your new puppy home, be prepared to potty train them and provide them with everything they need to be comfortable and happy.