Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix – Where Fluffy Lapdog Meets Loyal Companion
The Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix combines two popular breeds of dog. Both the silky Shih Tzu, and the athletic Pitbull companion breeds are well-loved.
It is difficult to predict the characteristics of a Shih Tzu Pitbull breed because they behave and look so differently.
They make a unique crossbreed when they are bred together. The mix can make a great family companion.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
Continue reading to learn more about the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix’s appearance, temperament, maintenance, health, and overall health.
From Where Did The Shih Tzu Pitbull Blend Come From?
Both the Pitbull and Shih Tzu have rich histories. Shih Tzus were popular among Chinese royalty since the 17th Century.
They were so valuable that the Chinese wouldn’t sell them or trade them. The American Kennel Club recognized them only in 1969.
The American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize Pitbulls as an independent breed, but they are listed as a type descended from bulldogs or terriers.
The Pitbull breed includes the American Pitbull Terrier, and the Staffordshire Terrier.
All of them can be traced back to 1800s, when they were used in blood sports in the United Kingdom. Later, they were used as companions for family members and hunting dogs.
You can cross the Shih Tzu and a Pitbull to get the perfect mix. They are mutts which means their parents are two breeds.
Mutts are more healthy than purebred dogs (dogs whose parents are the same breed).
Dogs of the same breed can pass genetic information to their offspring, as they are likely to be genetically identical.
Purebred dogs are more susceptible to predisposed health conditions. However, this does not mean that all purebreds are prone to inheriting bad genes. Responsible breeders will take steps to reduce this risk.
Fun Facts about the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
Because of their fluffy hair, the name Shih Tzu is derived from the Chinse word “lion”. They are featured in many ancient Chinese paintings.
Pitbulls were trusted-worthy and gentle Pitbulls were used to guard children in the 1900s.
Their loyal and loving temperaments, despite their fame, are often reflected in their long list celebrity fans like Marc Jacobs and Jennifer Aniston.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Appearance
It is not easy to breed a mixed breed. It is impossible to predict which features the puppy will receive from each parent. Each Shih Tzu Pitbull mix will likely have its own unique characteristics.
They are usually between 10 and 25 inches tall, and weigh approximately 15 to 30 pounds when they reach adulthood.
The face is more like the Pitbull’s rounder features than the Shih Tzu’s. This makes the mix more susceptible to developing health problems, which we will investigate further.
It’s difficult to predict the mix’s body type because the Pitbull is larger and more muscular than the Shih Tzu.
It will be preferable to take more after its Pitbull parent in order to avoid the Shih Tzu’s long spine.
Due to the Shih Tzu gene, the fur is silky and fluffy. However, the Pitbull is a short-coated breed so it is not likely to be long or flowing.
Each breed comes in a variety of colors and markings, including black, yellow and red. The parents determine the color and markings of the mix.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Temperament
A Shi Tzu Pitbull mix is a good choice, as both parents have a pleasant temperament.
Pitbulls love children and make great family companions. They are loyal, enthusiastic and eager to work.
They can inflict severe injuries due to their sharp jaws. However, if they are socialized well, this is not likely.
Shi Tzus make great lapdogs and are very affectionate. They are not as independent as Pitbulls, but they love being pampered.
They are more likely to be fearful or aggressive if they are not socialized well. Their small jaws can cause just as much damage as Pitbull’s.
If socialized properly, a Shi Tzu Pitbull mix will have a great temperament and fit in well with any family.
Pitbulls are bred to be game and may chase or guard other pets. If you have pets, this is something to consider.
Training Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
Positive reinforcement with the use treats should prove to be very effective. It is possible to attend training classes, or you can train it yourself.
Potty Training Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
The Shih Tzu Pitbull mix can be more stubborn than smaller dogs and may prove difficult to housebreak. It’s a good idea to cover any carpeted areas with a rug and to restrict their access to rooms they don’t need.
Potty training can seem like a tedious process. However, our potty-training schedule can help you stay on track.
Crate Training Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
It is important to train your dog how to be comfortable in a crate. This reduces separation anxiety, makes the house cleaner, and helps reduce stress for car trips and vet visits. You can find out more about crate training.
Socializing Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
Socialization refers to the process of socializing dogs when they are young in order to become good companions.
This includes being exposed and handled by new people during the first weeks of life.
Socialization that isn’t done correctly can lead to fearful or aggressive behavior in your dog.
Training is important to minimize injuries because the Pitbull mix can be dangerous due to its powerful jaws.
If you adopt your dog at a young age, make sure you socialize it properly. If your dog is an adult that has been neglected in socialization, you can conduct behavioral training.
Exercising Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
It all depends on the size of your Shih Tzu Pitbull mix. A 30-60 minute walk per day is recommended. Too long spines can cause problems for the mix.
To reduce your risk of back pain or more serious issues like paralysis, do not make the exercise program too intense.
If the Shi Tzu’s flat face is present, the mix could be brachycephalic. It should not swim because it may drown. You should avoid excessive exercise, particularly in hot weather, as it may have difficulty breathing.
Shih Tzu mix dogs should not be tied to leashes that wrap around their necks due to their breathing difficulties. To relieve additional pressure, attach the leash and harness to the body.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Health
The expected lifespan of a Shih Tzu is between 10-16 and that of a Pitbull is between 8-15 years. However, a mix should live for the same amount of time as a Pitbull. This depends on their health.
Conformation refers to a dog’s overall structure, including its exterior appearance. Health issues and disabilities can be caused by exaggerations or defects in the dog’s conformation.
Let’s look at the health issues of each breed parent that could be passed on to your Shih Tzu Pitbull mix
Pitbull Health
Pitbulls, despite being a sturdy breed, are genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia and heart disease. These issues could also affect your Pitbull mix.
Shih Tzu Health
Shih Tzus are vulnerable because of their flat faces long spines. These problems include difficulty breathing, overheating, dental issues, epilepsy and intervertebral disk disease.
Shih Tzu mix dogs are more susceptible to dental problems because of their small skulls that cause overcrowding. It is recommended to take steps to prevent decay.
Dental treats can be purchased or used to brush your teeth with special toothpaste and brushes.
These problems may affect your mix, but because it is crossbred with Pitbull, the chances of it being successful are lower than those of purebreds.
Genetic Health and Testing
It is highly recommended that you examine the dog’s genetic history to reduce the chance of him having health issues. You can have tests done by yourself if you don’t have access to a breeder.
Visit the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals’ Canine Health Information Center for more information on choosing the best health tests and current disease statistics by breed.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Grooming
It will depend on the parent that the mix is being raised by. Because of their silky and long coats, Shih Tzus are more difficult to groom than Pitbulls.
It is recommended to comb your hair with a slickerbrush a few times per week.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Feeding
A Shih Tzu Pitbull mix’s nutritional needs will depend on its age, health, and level of activity.
You have a variety of options for commercial food, or you might prefer to make your own.
Adults can usually survive on two meals per day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. This can lead to obesity in your dog, which could worsen pre-existing health problems.
Are Shih Tzu Pitbull and Pitbull mixes good family dogs?
They are great pets for families because they have both parents of a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix.
The Shih Tzu parent will likely pass on a lot of predisposed issues, which can lead to a poor quality of life.
You might consider adopting an adult animal from a shelter rather than buying one from a breeder if you are determined to get one.
Rescue a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix
Reach out to your local rescues to inquire about the Shih Tzu Pitbull combination.
You can also look into rescues that specialize in Pitbulls or Shih Tzus, and inquire if they have the breed. Below is a link to Pitbull and Shih Tzu rescue shelters.
Finding a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix puppy
Due to their stronger genetic makeup, mixes like the Shih Tzu Pitbull have been growing in popularity. Shih Tzu Pitbull puppies may be available from local rescues and breed-specific rescues.
You can find a reliable breeder online, or contact local breed clubs if they don’t. Responsible breeders will welcome you to their home and be open about the dogs’ genetic history.
As poor genes can lead to health problems later in life, it is important that the breeder can prove proper testing.
Avoid puppy mills and pet shops that mass-produce puppies. These puppies are often kept in horrible conditions and more likely to be bred recklessly.
Keep in mind that breeding or owning an American Pitbull Terrier in certain countries, such as the UK, is illegal. You can search for Pit Bull Terrier mixes in these situations.
For more information about finding the perfect puppy, you can use our puppy guide.
Raising A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Puppy
It can be difficult to raise a puppy of any breed. You are setting up your puppy for a happy and healthy adulthood by providing high-quality care. To learn more and to become a responsible pet owner, check out our puppy guide.
For the best results, it is important to start training puppies as soon as possible. Our puppy-training guide has a lot of information.
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mixed Products and Accessories
You should prepare in advance for your new family member to make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
These products may be suitable for Pitbulls and Shih Tzus. When purchasing supplies, think about which parent it is most attached to.
- Best Shampoo For Shih Tzus
- Best Brush For Shih Tzus
- Puppy Toys
- Pitbull Gifts
- Best Dog Food For Pitbulls
The Pros and Cons Of Getting A Shihtzu Pitbull Mix
Cons
- Potential health issues They can cause expensive vet bills due to their long spines, small legs, and flat faces.
- If they are not socialized properly, they can be hostile to humans and can bite.
- They can be stubborn and make housebreaking difficult
Pros
- They will be able to socialize well and have a wonderful temperament which makes them great family friends.
- Don’t require intense exercise
- They are quite independent
Similar Shih Tzu Pitbull Mixes & Breeds
It’s worth looking at other Pitbull mixes, due to the many health consequences that the Shih Tzu parent has.
- Labrador Pitbull mix
- German Shepherd Pitbull mix
- Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix
Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Rescues
If you’re interested in joining these listings, please comment below.
Is A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Right For Me?
If you have young children, it is worth reconsidering as the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix could cause serious injuries if provoked.
A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix might be right for you if you aren’t worried about potential health issues.
Because of their affectionate nature, they need a lot love and attention.
Be a responsible dog owner. Get genetic testing done to ensure you are able to provide the best care for your dog.