Shih-poo

Canis lupus familiaris

Also called Shih Poo, Shoodle, Pooshi

A bright, sunny-natured little companion that loves being near its people.

Size	Small
Weight	3.6 to 9.1 kg (8 to 20 lb)1 2
Height	20 to 46 cm (8 to 18 in)1 2
Lifespan	10 to 17 years1 2
Coat	Thick, curly to straight
Origin	Most likely the United States; no single breeder is credited with starting the cross.1
Last checked	2026-10-01

CrossbreedShort profile

playful and affectionate

smart and eager to please

happy lap dog

1 2

Personality what they are like

A bright, sunny-natured little companion that loves being near its people. It is playful and quick-witted and wants to please, with an occasional stubborn moment from the Shih Tzu side.1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Shih-poo. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year

Coat and looks how to spot one

thick, curly to straight

A thick, fast-growing coat that can be curly like a Poodle, long and silky like a Shih Tzu, or something in between. It sheds very little.1 2

Coloursblackwhitebrowngreybrindleredapricot1 2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low to moderate. About 20-30 minutes a day, for example two or three short walks or a couple of lively play sessions.1 2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush daily, or at least three times a week, to keep the coat free of tangles, and book a professional groom roughly every 4-8 weeks. Regular tooth brushing suits this small breed.1 2

Home where they are happiest

Happy in a flat or small home and prefers a household where someone is around for much of the day.1 2

Company who they like around

Very people-focused and does not like long stretches alone. Usually good with older children and friendly toward other pets, especially if raised with them, and generally gentle with cats.1 2

The story where it all began

Nobody has claimed credit for the first Shih-poo; the cross probably appeared by chance in the United States before breeders began pairing the two on purpose. It brings together the Shih Tzu, a companion of Chinese royalty, and the Poodle, first a water-retrieving working dog.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Littermates can look strikingly different, from curly to silky.1
2
Their gentle, friendly nature suits many Shih-poos to therapy and assistance work.2
3
The Shih Tzu parent was bred as a companion for Chinese emperors.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name "Shih-poo" is a portmanteau of its parent breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Toy Poodle; it is also sometimes called a "Shoodle."3

Name ideas for your new friend

CocoBellaMochiSunnyPippinLunaTeddyRosieCharlieZiggyNalaOliver

A day in the life told by a Shih-poo

This morning I woke up with my nose tucked under the blanket, and I knew it was going to be a good day. I hopped off the bed, did my little tippy-tap dance, and followed my human to the kitchen. After a quick cuddle, we went for our favorite walk around the block. I sniffed every single bush and leaf, and I even made a new friend at the park, a fluffy poodle who wanted to play. Back home, I curled up on the couch with my squeaky toy, and we watched some TV. I love being near my people, and when my human laughed at my silly antics, my tail wagged so hard I almost fell over. Evenings are the best because we snuggle on the sofa, and I fall asleep to the sound of their heartbeat. It's a simple life, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

The Royal Kennel Club: Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.4
American Kennel Club: Not recognised by the AKC, though designer breed clubs list it.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Shih-poo tip

Choose small, high-quality dental chews to help with plaque, but remember they don't replace brushing. Because Shih-Poos are prone to sensitive stomachs, introduce any new treat slowly over several days.

Source: petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Shih-poo, and at what times?

Feed your adult Shih-poo at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Choose consistent times that fit your routine, and always follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts.5

What should a Shih-poo eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Offer a high-quality dog food suited to your Shih-poo's size and age. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA; never give these to your dog.6

How often should I bathe a Shih-poo?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. You can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty, but avoid over-bathing to protect the coat.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Shih-poo need brushing?

Brush your Shih-poo daily or at least three times a week to prevent tangles in its thick coat. Pet Wiki's plan suggests weekly brushing, but daily is ideal for this low-shedding breed.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Shih-poo's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small bits at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Shih-poo need?

Your Shih-poo needs about 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily, split into two or three short walks or lively play sessions. This low to moderate activity keeps them happy and healthy.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Shih-poo's teeth and ears?

Brush your Shih-poo's teeth daily or at least every other day with dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or odor. Never push anything into the ear canal; use a vet-approved cleaner if needed.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Shih-poo live?

Shih-poos typically live between 10 and 17 years, giving you many wonderful years together.1 2

Is a Shih-poo good with children and other pets?

Yes, Shih-poos are usually good with older children and friendly toward other pets, especially if raised with them. They are generally gentle with cats and make a lovely family companion.1 2

Can a Shih-poo be left alone?

Shih-poos are very people-focused and do not like long stretches alone. They are happiest in a home where someone is around for most of the day.1 2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.