Shih Tzus have been around for over 1,000 years, and they’re here to stay! In fact, newer varieties of these “Lion Dogs” are appearing over time as they are mixed with other breeds. Many of them still retain their trademark big round eyes and luxurious hair but with a fun twist! How many of these mixes do you know?
The Mal Shih, a Maltese-Shih Tzu mix, still has the signature hair color of Shihs but with a dash of white. Other popular mixes include the Shih Chi (Shih Tzu + Chihuahua) and the Bea Tzu (Beagle + Shih Tzu), which possess features of both parents with a strong Shih Tzu influence!
It’s impressive to know that there are 41 of these Shih Tzu mixes – and still growing – that perhaps you’ve never heard of! Let’s take a look at them now and discover all the cool things about each pup.
41. Mal Shih: Shih Tzu + Maltese
This list of Shih Tzu mixes will never be complete without the adorable little Mal Shih. These long-haired pups bear a Shih Tzu’s trademark colors with a dash of white all over. Their eyes are small like a Maltese and with ears flopped down as a Shih Tzu.
These friendly little creatures adore people – even strangers. They make an amazing companion dog but not exactly the best watchdog as they trust everyone!
40. Shih Chi: Shih Tzu + Chihuahua
Sassy and spunky, Shih Chis are 5-pounder pooches that are under 10 inches short. They may either have long or short hair, depending on which parent’s gene is more dominant. Their heads are also apple-shaped, which is a hallmark feature of a purebred Chihuahua.
Shih Chis are naturally sweet and loving canines. However, they need to be trained early on to prevent stubborn tendencies. Socialization is another must as they can be quite suspicious of strangers.
39. Coton Tzu: Coton de Tulear + Shih Tzu
This rare mix is very much like both its parents but with a stronger Shih Tzu look. A Coton Tzu has wavy hair and a round head like its Coton parent but with long mustache-like hair as a Shih. These little guys are tiny, oftentimes weighing about 9 to 11 lbs.
Personality-wise, Coton Tzus are calm and affectionate. They are easy-going and laid-back, which are traits inherited from both parents.
38. Sheltie Tzu: Shetland Sheepdog + Shih Tzu
Sheltie Tzus are spunky and funny and a whole lot of character! These mixed breeds have the color scheme of a Sheltie but a tighter, curlier hair of a Shih. Not quite a teeny tiny pup but hardly a big guy, these crossed canines are about 11 to 15 inches tall.
Taking after a Sheltie’s smarts, these dogs learn tricks and commands easily. They are also quite mellow and patient with kids, making them an excellent family pooch.
37. Aussie Tzu: Australian Shepherd + Shih Tzu
Fluffball Aussie Tzus sport their parents’ double coat in shades of black, white, brown, and red. They do have a LOT of hair, so be prepared to make grooming a daily routine for this tiny fellow.
Towering over a purebred Shih, this mixed breed is more robust for young kids. We’re pretty sure they can match a child’s hyperactivity, too! This pup is active and loves to play, so kiddos and active folks will enjoy having this pooch around.
36. Cairn Tzu: Cairn Terrier + Shih Tzu
Small-framed Cairn Tzus are quite tiny like both parents at about 9 to 16 lbs. They may inherit the Cairn’s wiry and coarse fur or a Shih’s silky and smooth hair. As for their coat color, it may go from cream to tan or even gray with white streaks.
Fun-loving Cairn Tzus love to play and romp around. Fortunately, they are compact enough to fit in an apartment, as long as there’s ample space to run around. These pups get attached easily to their owners, so they can be prone to separation anxiety when left by themselves for a while.
35. Shih Poo: Shih Tzu + Poodle
Curly-coated Poodle meets silky smooth-haired Shih in this fun mixed breed. Shih Poos are small at around 13 lbs but quite sturdy and robust. They often have wavy coats in brown, gold, brindle, silver, white, and sometimes all of these colors in one pooch!
Just like their Poodle parent, Shih Poos are energetic and intelligent. They love to explore, so they are a perfect companion for hiking, camping, or anything outdoorsy! With their intense energy, they are not much of a lap dog but a fun and exciting playmate or travel buddy.
34. Boshih: Boston Terrier + Shih Tzu
Boshihs are a surprising and unique mix, which brings a ton of adorable features to the table. These pups are a little on the muscular side just like a Boston Terrier and possessing the breed’s signature bar ears. But their hair is a bit longer and wiry, which is a combo of the Shih and the Boston.
These little fellows are charming and affectionate. But they can be a tad stubborn, which can be a little tricky for first-timer owners diving into dog training. When well-trained, however, these canines are one of the sweetest and most affectionate pups, so it’s all worth the time and effort.
33. Cock-A-Tzu: Cocker Spaniel + Shih Tzu
Cock-A-Tzus are a big ball of thick and curly hair – the hallmark of a Cocker Spaniel breed. But since they are small like a Shih Tzu, grooming should not take too long. Daily brushing also needs to be a part of their routine to keep their hair from tangling up.
If what you like in a pooch is one that does not require much activity, the Cock-A-Tzu is for you. They are quite mellow and would rather be on your lap than romping around and getting muddy in the yard.
32. Papastzu: Papillon + Shih Tzu
Sporting a Papillon’s infamous butterfly ears and a Shih’s smooth and thick coat, the Papastzu is a gorgeous mixed toy breed. Their coats are medium-length and with wispy hair around the tail, neck and ears. Combine all that with a cheeky grin, this pooch is a little darling.
Curious and active, this Shih Tzu mix loves to play. They love to play fetch, run around, and basically burn off all that energy. But after each zoomie session, this little sweetheart will want nothing more than to cuddle up with you.
31. Schnau Tzu: Miniature Schnauzer + Shih Tzu
Think of a smaller Schnauzer with a Shih Tzu’s floppy ears, and there’s your Schnau Tzu! Their coats come in brown and dark silver and a bit on the shaggy and coarse side. They are also bigger than most Shihs at around 18 lbs or so.
Schnau Tzus love to please their owners. This is why they are great for newbies since it should not be difficult to train these fellows. They are also fairly active but will never say no to snuggle sessions with you.
30. Shiffon: Shih Tzu + Brussels Griffon
This gorgeous tiny pup features the Shih’s smooth coat and a Griffon’s long beard and trademark overbite. Their coats are often in shades of brown but a little darker around the muzzle and ears. With their compact frame not exceeding 10 inches, these pups are amazing lap dogs.
When not on your lap, Shiffons are always up and romping around. They are bouncy and agile, with a ton of energy to burn. But they can be calm and laid-back as a Shih, making them a suitable match for older folks.
29. Skip Tzu: Schipperke + Shih Tzu
Covered in a thick black coat with streaks of brown or white, the Skip Tzu is a fun mix of the Schipperke and Shih Tzu breeds. Their coats are silky and low-maintenance, which makes them a breeze to groom. They also have their characteristic tall and erect ears that give them an alert appearance.
Skip Tzus are a ball of energy. They enjoy running up the walls and playing with their favorite humans. But at the end of the day, these tiny guys demand some snuggle sessions and take it easy.
28. Shiranian: Shih Tzu + Pomeranian
Shiranians have the bright and cheery face of a Pomeranian with the floppy, rounded ears of a Shih. Their coats are long and fluffy but with a bit of a kink, which is typical with Shihs. These are little fluffballs at 7 inches short and under 13 lbs.
Just like a Pom, the Shiranian is a bit on the barky side. They need early training to overcome this behavior, which is a product of their overprotective nature. When well-trained, they can be calm and relaxed – an excellent lap dog feature.
27. Shih Mo: Shih Tzu + American Eskimo
A little bigger than most Shih Tzu mixes, the Shih Mo is a robust and sturdy pup. They look like a larger Shih Tzu but with longer white locks like an American Eskimo. These canines usually weigh about 13 lbs and no more than a foot tall.
Shih Mos are generally calm fellows but they can play hard, too! As they are not delicate canines, they can get along well with smaller kids. A romp around the yard makes for a fun adventure for these active creatures, as long as they get a lot of cuddles, too.
26. Crested Tzu: Chinese Crested + Shih Tzu
Quirky-looking Crested Tzus look more like a Chinese Crested but with a much thicker hair just like a Shih Tzu. But then again, looks tend to vary even within pups in the same litter. But overall, they have fluffier coats instead of the wispy hair of a purebred Crested.
Since both breeds are laid-back and placid, you can expect the Crested Tzu to be just like that. They enjoy sitting on your lap just as much as they love to play with you. These canines are versatile and can go both ways, which is a great plus about them.
25. Shih Apso: Shih Tzu + Lhasa Apso
Shih Apsos look like both parents – with silky, dense coats that demand to be touched and petted as often as possible. Their trademark colors vary from brown, white, and light silver or gray. With their compact frame, you can simply slip them into your backpack or purse – and they’d be in cloud nine.
This fluffy pooch requires regular grooming, which should not be a hassle because of its little frame. They are also eager to please, affectionate and sweet – great qualities of a perfect family pet.
24. Weshi: West Highland Terrier + Shih Tzu
This adorable tiny pooch takes after its Westie parent with its tiny dark eyes and a short mustache around the muzzle. But they do have a typical Shih Tzu’s coat in black and white, sometimes with streaks of silver and light brown.
As for their personality, they are a little like a Westie, as well, as they do fancy chasing small animals in the yard. Because of their strong prey drive, they need to be kept in a fenced yard to prevent them from wandering about.
23. Tzu Basset: Shih Tzu + Basset Hound
Long and low, that’s a Tzu Basset for you! This mix between a Basset Hound and a Shih Tzu has wiry medium-length hair often in shades of brown, white, and tan. They have a Basset’s long, saggy ears but a Shih’s hair length and texture. These canines are a bit hefty at 20 to as much as 40 lbs.
Just like a typical Basset, this mixed breed loves to take it easy. They are couch potatoes and would love nothing more than to be on your lap. If you want a cuddle bug for a pup, the Tzu Basset is for you.
22. Schweenie: Shih Tzu + Dachshund
Schweenies are like a little Dachshund but with a hint of Shih Tzu. They have a long body and short legs with short and sheer coats or wiry and long. Their ears are longer than a Shih’s and droopy.
These are spunky and charismatic pups that adore being with their families. They can be pretty active but it is all part of their appeal. After all that burst of energy, they are always eager to get on your lap for some cuddle sessions.
21. Jatzu: Japanese Chin + Shih Tzu
A mix between a Japanese Chin and a Shih Tzu, Jatzus have silky smooth, flowing hair, which they take after their Japanese Chin parents. These pups also have huge eyes like a Shih Tzu, along with their long and floppy ears.
One unique trait of the Jatzu is their cat-like habits. They enjoy climbing up the shelves and trees, which aren’t something you normally can expect from a pooch! But when not busy taking on new heights (literally!), this mixed breed loves being a lap dog, which it also does best!
20. Hava Shih: Havanese + Shih Tzu
Considering the huge similarity between the Havanese and Shih Tzu’s looks, no wonder the Hava Shih is like a mash up of both parents! They are small and light with a long, dense coat in tan and white. These adorable darlings also sport that cute grin to make you smile each time.
Everything about this Shih Tzu mix is light… Especially its personality. These are friendly and loving pups that just want to be pals with everyone. They can easily get along with all members of the family – humans and animals alike.
19. Pug Tzu: Pug + Shih Tzu
More like a hairy version of a Pug, this cute little guy is a perfect mix of both parents. They have large, wide-set eyes like a Pug and fuzzy or smooth, medium-length hair like a Shih Tzu. Pug Tzus are also a little smaller than a purebred Pug.
A typical day with this pooch is anything but dull. They are comical fellows that can easily put a grin on your face.
18. Fo-Tzu: Toy Fox Terrier + Shih Tzu
Famous for its scruffy and somewhat wiry coat of brown, black, and white, this tiny fellow can either take after its Shih Tzu or Toy Fox Terrier parent. Fo-Tzus are barely a foot tall, somewhere between 9 and 11 inches tall.
Terriers like this guy enjoy chasing small animals. They are great comedians but also just as amazing as lap dogs. Be sure to give this pooch ample exercise a day to eliminate negative behaviors caused by boredom and anxiety.
17. Pin Tzu: Mini Pinscher + Shih Tzu
Imagine a Mini Pin with the usual rusty coat color but with a Shih Tzu’s white streaks here and there, and that’s a Pin Tzu at a glance. They have those adorable large eyes and erect ears sticking out of their head.
This pup may be little but it’s got a huge personality. Pin Tzus can be feisty and overprotective of their owner. So, if you want a loyal four-legged friend who’s always by your side, this guy will never let you down.
16. Italian Tzu: Italian Greyhound + Shih Tzu
Combine a leggy and lean Italian Greyhound with a compact and hairy Shih Tzu, and you have one of the most unique crossed pups there is. The Italian Tzu has the face of a Shih but with a longer muzzle and limbs. They have denser coats, as well, which makes grooming a little challenging.
As both parents love being with their owners, this mixed breed strongly demands your attention and presence. They want nothing more than to cuddle with you and just be by your side for hours on end.
15. Shorgi: Corgi + Shih Tzu
Shorgis are your short-legged, pudgy pup that has the thick butt of a Corgi and a Shih Tzus fluffy coat. They have the trademark coat colors of a Corgi in light brown and white but with some silver streaks like a Shih.
This agile creature loves to move! Daily exercise and playtime are a must to raise a happy and healthy Shorgi. Make sure you give this guy some snuggles, too, as they’re just as affectionate as you want them to be.
14. Tibetan Tzu: Tibetan Terrier + Shih Tzu
Weighing about 25 lbs on average and over a foot tall, the Tibetan Tzu is one of the biggest Shih Tzu mixes. These dogs have long and flowing hair like a Shih Tzu, which means daily grooming is a necessity to keep it looking nice and tangle-free.
Tibetan Tzus are well-balanced canines. They can go from being energetic to mellow and laid-back, which are both natural traits of this crossed pup’s parents. If a calm and adaptable pooch is what you want, Tibetan Tzus fit the bill.
13. Jack Tzu: Jack Russell + Shih Tzu
A designer dog that’s a mix between the Shih Tzu and Jack Russel, the Jack Tzu is a stocky, yet relatively lightweight pooch. They often weigh up to 16 lbs while smaller varieties are as light as 9 lbs. They have medium-length, wiry hair that requires moderate grooming.
Jack Tzus are intelligent pups that can benefit from ample mental stimulation. A typical day for them should also include a brisk walk and playtime, as these are high-strung and energetic canines.
12. Sco-Shi: Scottish Terrier + Shih Tzu
Sco-Shis are teddy bear-looking canines with a scruffy coat often in shades of chocolate or dark brown. They are a little on the short side, usually about 10 inches and about 20 lbs.
Independent, yet affectionate, a Sco-Shi is your four-legged BFF who will love to be by your side while also enjoying some alone time. They have a moderate prey drive, which can be satisfied by a romp around the yard and playtime with their favorite humans.
11. German Tzu: German Shepherd + Shih Tzu
An unlikely combo, the German Tzu is the offspring of a mighty German Shepherd and a compact Shih Tzu. They often have the coat colors of a GSD in shades of brown, black, and tan, but a little on the wavy side.
German Tzus are fiercely loyal pups. They are athletic and eager to please their owners, which make them a great lap dog and adventure buddy at the same time.
10. Zuchon: Shih Tzu + Bichon Frise
A delightful and sweet doggo, Zuchons have fluffy hair like a Bichon Frise but with a Shih Tzu’s colors – brown with silver streaks. They have small eyes, tiny muzzle, and curly locks, giving them the appearance of a little teddy bear.
What’s great about the Zuchon is they don’t shed as much. Their coats also require very minimal grooming and these pups don’t need much exercise, which are excellent for elderly and not-so-active canine owners.
9. Shorkie Tzu: Yorkshire Terrier + Shih Tzu
Shorkie Tzus are another teddy bear-looking pups – tight, dark brown coats, large round eyes, and small ears. Some mixes do have a longer coat like a Shih Tzu while others have wiry fur that’s typical of a Yorkie. They are usually under a foot tall and under 20 lbs in weight.
A bouncy and spirited fellow, Shorkie Tzus find delight in chasing a ball or playing fetch with their owners. But when not in an active mode, they love to catch some snooze while on your lap or in your arms.
8. Peki Tzu: Pekingese + Shih Tzu
Taking after the flat face of its Pekingese parent and a Shih Tzu’s body shape and wavy coat, Peki Tzus are as adorable as they can be. These compact fellows are independent and can keep themselves entertained. If you want a pup that won’t mind being by themselves while you are out at work, this mixed breed is for you.
Just one word about the Peki Tzu – this pooch has a stubborn streak. Training them may be a bit of work for owners but once trained properly, they are some of the most affectionate canines there are.
7. Cava Tzu: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel + Shih Tzu
A gorgeous lap dog with smooth and wavy hair in brown and white, the Cava Tzu is one good-looking pooch. They do look a lot like their Shih Tzu parent but with a King Charles’ wavy ears.
Cava Tzus are famous for their agreeable and laid-back personality. They don’t require a ton of exercise, which makes them low-maintenance pets.
6. Shar Tzu: Shar Pei + Shih Tzu
Chunky and pudgy, Shar Tzus are muscular pups famous for those adorable rolls all over their body. Their coat may vary between medium- or short-length, which can either be from their Shih Tzu or Shar Pei parent.
An overly protective pooch, Shar Tzus do not easily trust strangers and anyone outside of their family. Early training and socialization are a must to reel them in. Once well-trained, these canines are amazingly friendly and affectionate.
5. Silky Tzu: Silky Terrier + Shih Tzu
With hair smooth as silk nearly concealing their round, dark eyes, Silky Tzus are lovely toy dogs. Their bodies often have a blanket of brown and black fur but with streaks of white, which they take after their Shih Tzu parent.
Daily grooming is necessary to keep their beautiful locks under control. Fortunately, it should not be tough brushing them as these fellows are small – only about 10 inches at the shoulder.
4. French Bull Tzu: French Bulldog + Shih Tzu
One of the most well-loved Shih Tzu mixes, the French Bull Tzu is a muscular little guy with wispy hair all over. They have a Frenchie’s bat ears and short muzzle combined with a Shih Tzu’s medium-length coat.
Calm, friendly, and devoted, these are just some of the shining traits of this mixed breed. They are versatile and can live harmoniously with their owner and everyone else in the household.
3. Bea Tzu: Beagle + Shih Tzu
A little over a foot tall and weighing up to 20 lbs, the Bea Tzu is a compact Shih Tzu mix. They have a Beagle’s short and sheer coat in brown, black and white plus a Shih Tzu’s large dark eyes.
Unlike its Beagle parent, Bea Tzus are not designed for tracking or hunting. They are more of a watchdog that’s keen to protect their families no matter what. However, they still do the trademark howl of a Beagle, which makes them not quite apt for apartment living.
2. Blue Tzu Heeler: Blue Heeler + Shih Tzu
A cross between an Australian Cattle and a Shih Tzu, the Blue Tzu Heeler is not exactly blue for the most part. They may have the black, brown, or white colors of a Shih, or an Aussie Cattle’s typical red and white coat. These pups are fairly average-sized with some of them tipping the scale at 40 lbs.
If you prefer a calm, yet agile pooch, the Blue Tzu Heeler is a great match for you. They’re not as intense as an Aussie Cattle but with a touch of playfulness that Shihs are known for.
1. Affen Tzu: Affenpinscher + Shih Tzu
Sweet little Affen Tzus are pretty compact, at 9 to 11 inches short at the shoulder and roughly weighing about 13 lbs. These little monkey pups have their signature large eyes but with a cute Shih Tzu overbite. Their coats are often black with gray or white streaks.
Fur parents need to brush these canines’ hair regularly to prevent tangles, though. Grooming should not take too much time since Affen Tzus are quite small, so brushing their coat won’t take forever!
Related Questions
Are Shih Tzu Mixes Hypoallergenic? Yes, they are. Shih Tzus are low-shedders and instead of a typical canine’s fur, these pups have hair-like coats that are suitable for allergy sufferers. This makes them hypoallergenic who are unlikely to trigger any allergy reactions.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of A Shih Tzu Mix? Shih Tzu mixes can live between 10 and over 15 years. In fact, Shih Tzus are among a few dog breeds with a long lifespan, sometimes going up to 18 years. They are generally healthy pups and with a balanced diet, daily exercise, and a wholesome lifestyle, they can live well and long.
How Big Does A Shih Tzu Mix Get? Shih Tzus mixed with a toy breed are likely to grow between 8 and 15 lbs. However, when bred with a miniature, they can be up to 18 lbs. This is much closer to the average weight of a purebred Shih Tzu, which is 18 lbs or under.
