Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle (Shih-Poo): Size, Temperament, Grooming and Health (2026)
What is a Shih Tzu cross breed Poodle? It’s the Shih-poo, a mix of a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle. PetMD describes it as a smart, friendly, confident small dog that usually stays around 10 inches tall and lives about 10 to 18 years. It sheds little but needs daily brushing, and it is not an AKC-recognized breed.
In our experience, the Shih Tzu cross breed Poodle wins people over fast, and it is easy to see why: a teddy-bear face, a soft coat and a big personality in a lap-sized body. This guide covers its size, coat, temperament, exercise, grooming, health risks from both parent breeds, and who the mix suits best, with every fact linked to its source.
Key takeaways
- A Shih-poo is a Shih Tzu crossed with a Toy Poodle; it is not an AKC breed.
- Both parents top out around 10 inches, so the mix stays small.
- PetMD gives an average lifespan of 10 to 18 years.
- Low-shedding does not mean hypoallergenic or low-maintenance.
- Expect daily brushing and a groomer visit every 1 to 2 months.
In this guide
What Is a Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle?
PetMD, in an article by Sarah Mouton Dowdy, MA, reviewed by Veronica Higgs, DVM, defines the Shih-poo as a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle. It calls the Shih-poo a relatively new mix and notes it is not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club. PetMD also mentions another name for it, the “Shoodle.”
You will see the same dog sold or searched under many labels: Shih-poo, Shih Tzu Poodle mix, poodle cross Shih Tzu, “shih poodle” and even “shepoo dog.” Others search for a “dog breed Shih Tzu Poodle,” though it is a mix, not a breed. Each label describes the same thing: a cross breed Poodle and Shih Tzu. As general advice, check which Poodle size a breeder uses, because the name alone will not tell you.
Is the Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle a Purebred?
No. Because it is a mix, there is no breed standard for its size, coat or color, and puppies in the same litter can look quite different, in our experience. That also means no kennel club health-testing rules apply to the mix itself, so it is worth asking about the tests done on each parent, as covered later in this guide.
Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Parent Breeds and Size
Knowing both parents is the best way to predict a mix. The table compares the Shih Tzu and the Toy Poodle using the AKC breed pages, with PetMD’s figures where they differ.
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Toy Poodle |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 9 to 10.5 inches (AKC) | No more than 10 inches (AKC) |
| Weight | 9 to 16 pounds (AKC); PetMD: 8 to 18 | 4 to 6 pounds (AKC) |
| Life expectancy | 10 to 18 years (AKC) | 10 to 18 years (AKC) |
| Bred for | House companion (AKC) | Companion; agile, athletic (AKC) |
| Exercise | Minimal (AKC) | Daily, high energy (AKC) |
| Coat care | Daily brushing for a long coat (AKC) | Daily brushing or a short trim (AKC) |
How Big Does a Shih-Poo Get?
PetMD notes that both parent breeds reach about 10 inches at most, so a full-grown Shih-poo usually stays around that size. There is no set Shih-poo weight range; in our experience, adults usually land somewhere between their two parents. As general advice, ask for both parents’ adult weights for the best estimate.
Shih Tzu Toy Poodle Mix vs Miniature Poodle Shih Tzu Mix
Most Shih-poos use a Toy Poodle, but some breeders use a Miniature. The Poodle Club of America standard puts Miniatures at over 10 and up to 15 inches, so a miniature Poodle Shih Tzu mix may grow larger than a Toy cross. As general advice, confirm the Poodle parent’s size before you put down a deposit.
Comparing small mixes? Read our guides to the Maltese and Shih Tzu mix, the Lhasa Apso Poodle mix and the Cavapoo.
Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Coat and Colors
PetMD says a Shih-poo coat can be medium or long, and straight or curly. Common colors include white, cream, red, brown and black, alone or in combination. PetMD calls the mix low-shedding but stresses that it is not low-maintenance, and that a shorter haircut can make brushing easier.
Is a Shih-Poo Hypoallergenic?
Not fully. PetMD states that no dog is truly hypoallergenic and suggests that people with allergies spend time with the breed before bringing one home. As general advice, meet the parents and, if possible, an adult Shih-poo from the same breeder.
Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Temperament and Training
PetMD describes Shih-poos as smart, friendly and confident. When properly socialized and trained, they can bond closely with people and other animals, do well with family members of all ages and are generally friendly with other dogs and cats. Their confidence, PetMD adds, can lead to a bit of willfulness at times.
Training Tips
PetMD recommends positive reinforcement. The AKC calls the Toy Poodle extremely intelligent and easily trained, so many Shih-poos learn quickly, in our experience. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) says puppy classes can start at 7 to 8 weeks, after first vaccines. As general advice, keep sessions short, fun and reward-based.
Exercise Needs
PetMD puts the Shih-poo’s energy level at moderate, with about 30 minutes of mental and physical activity a day. The AKC says the Shih Tzu needs only minimal exercise while Poodles of all sizes are very active, so your dog may lean either way. As general advice, mix short walks with indoor games and puzzle toys.
Is a Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Good for Apartments?
Usually, yes, in our experience. Its small size and moderate energy level suit apartment life, as long as it gets daily walks and play. As general advice, start alone-time training early, because a Shih Tzu and Poodle mix that bonds closely with its people may struggle when left for long hours.
Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Health
A mix can inherit problems from either parent. PetMD lists the following conditions for the Shih-poo, and the AKC notes several of the same issues in each parent breed.
| Condition | What to know | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Patellar luxation | A kneecap that slips out of place | PetMD, AKC |
| Hip dysplasia | Abnormal hip joint development | PetMD, AKC |
| Eye problems | Cataracts, dry eye and progressive retinal atrophy | PetMD, AKC |
| Periodontal disease | Gum disease; brush teeth often | PetMD |
| Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease | A hip problem; the AKC says it is more likely in Toy and Miniature Poodles | PetMD, AKC |
| von Willebrand disease | An inherited bleeding disorder | PetMD, AKC |
| Puppy hypoglycemia | Low blood sugar; feed 3 to 4 meals a day | PetMD |
| Tear stains and ear infections | Care-related; keep face and ears clean | PetMD |
Heat and Breathing
The AKC Shih Tzu breed page says Shih Tzus do not tolerate heat well because of their heavy coats and short faces, and are not good swimmers. VCA Animal Hospitals lists both Shih Tzus and Toy Poodles among breeds often affected by tracheal collapse, and advises a harness instead of a collar. As general advice, avoid hot midday walks.
Health Tests to Ask For
The AKC Toy Poodle breed page lists the Poodle club’s recommended tests: a patella evaluation, an eye exam by a veterinary ophthalmologist and a PRA-prcd DNA test. The AKC Shih Tzu page lists no club-recommended tests but says responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and eye problems. As general advice, ask to see results for both parents.
Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Puppies
PetMD notes that Shih-poo puppies can be at risk of low blood sugar and should eat three or four meals a day. As general advice, keep a Shih Tzu cross breed Poodle puppy on the breeder’s food at first, switch slowly, and ask your vet how much to feed. Shihpoo puppies also need gentle handling, since a fall from a sofa can injure a small dog.
Grooming and Daily Care for a Shih-Poo
| Care task | How often | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily | PetMD, AKC |
| Professional grooming | Every 1 to 2 months | PetMD |
| Bathing | About every 3 to 4 weeks (Shih Tzu guidance) | AKC |
| Face and eye care | Comb face hair daily and gently clean the eye corners | AKC (Shih Tzu) |
| Puppy meals | 3 to 4 a day | PetMD |
| Exercise | About 30 minutes a day | PetMD |
White and cream Shih-poos often show tear stains; our guide on how to clean tear stains on white dogs walks you through it. Small dogs gain weight fast, so see how to help your dog lose weight if needed.
Pet Care Tip: Our suggestion is to ask your groomer for a short “puppy cut.” In our experience, it cuts daily brushing time in half and makes it much easier to spot mats, skin issues and ticks.
When to call a vet right away: As general advice, call your vet or a 24/7 emergency animal hospital if your dog is weak, trembling or has a seizure (especially a puppy), struggles to breathe or overheats, has a honking cough that will not stop, or suddenly holds up a back leg.
Adopting or Buying a Shih-Poo
As general advice, check local shelters and small-breed rescues first, since mixes like the Shih-poo are often listed as “Shih Tzu mix” or “Poodle mix.” If you buy a puppy, choose a breeder who lets you meet a parent and shares health results. We do not list prices, because they vary widely by region and breeder.
7 questions to ask a breeder
- Is the Poodle parent a Toy or a Miniature?
- How much do both parents weigh?
- Do the parents have patella and eye exam results?
- Has the Poodle parent had the PRA-prcd DNA test?
- What coat type do the parents and past puppies have?
- How many meals a day is the puppy eating now?
- Will you take the dog back if it does not work out?
Example Scenario (illustrative)
Linda in Columbus brought home a cream Shih-poo whose coat matted within weeks. She switched to a short puppy cut every six weeks, five minutes of brushing each evening and a daily face wipe. The mats stopped, and the tear stains faded.
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| “Shih-poos are hypoallergenic.” | PetMD says no dog is truly hypoallergenic. |
| “Low-shedding means low-maintenance.” | PetMD says daily brushing and regular grooming are needed. |
| “A Shih-poo is an AKC breed.” | PetMD says the AKC does not recognize the mix. |
| “Small dogs need no exercise.” | PetMD suggests about 30 minutes of activity a day. |
What most owners get wrong
In our experience, many owners let the coat grow long and fluffy, then discover mats down to the skin. Book the first groomer visit early, keep the coat a manageable length and brush a little every day.
Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle FAQs
What is a Shih Tzu Poodle mix called?
Most often a Shih-poo; PetMD also mentions the name Shoodle.
How big does a Shih Tzu cross breed Poodle get?
PetMD says it usually stays around 10 inches, like both parents.
How long do Shih-poos live?
PetMD gives an average of 10 to 18 years.
Do Shih-poos shed?
PetMD calls them low-shedding, but they need daily brushing.
Are Shih-poos good with kids?
PetMD says they can do well with family members of all ages when socialized.
How much exercise does a Shih-poo need?
About 30 minutes of mental and physical activity a day, per PetMD.
Is the Shih-poo recognized by the AKC?
No. PetMD notes it is a relatively new mix, not an official breed.
Final Verdict: Is a Shih Tzu Cross Breed Poodle Right for You?
A Shih Tzu cross breed Poodle is a small, friendly and clever companion that, in our experience, suits many homes, including apartments. The trade-off is grooming: the coat needs daily attention and regular professional trims. If you can commit to that, pick a breeder who health-tests both parents, and you may enjoy many years with this affectionate little dog.
Your next steps
- Confirm whether the Poodle parent is a Toy or a Miniature.
- Ask for patella, eye and PRA-prcd results on the parents.
- Book a groomer and a vet visit before your puppy comes home.
Share your Shih-poo on the Pets Store Home Facebook page, and find more breed guides in our Dogs section.
About the author: Written and reviewed by the Pets Store Home Editorial Team, pet owners who check every guide against trusted sources.
How we checked this guide: Shih-poo size, lifespan, coat, temperament, exercise, grooming and health come from PetMD (Sarah Mouton Dowdy, MA; reviewed by Veronica Higgs, DVM). Parent breed data and health tests come from the AKC Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle pages and the Poodle Club of America standard, tracheal collapse from VCA, and socialization timing from AVSAB.
Where sources differ, such as Shih Tzu weight, we show both figures. This guide was written in November 2026 and is reviewed every 12 months.
Last reviewed: November 2026.
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