The Ultimate Guide to Shih Tzu Pitbull Mixes

Updated: 02/17/2023

Have you heard about the latest designer dog breed that’s got everyone wagging their tails in excitement? It’s none other than the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix, also known as the Pitshih. We know what you’re thinking – a Shih Tzu and a Pitbull? That’s like mixing peanut butter and pickles, right? But trust us, this adorable little pup will steal your heart faster than you can say “woof”!

The Pitshih is the perfect size for those who want a dog that’s not too big, not too small, but just right. And with its lovable and friendly nature, this mixed breed is the perfect addition to any family. This dog is so friendly it’ll probably make you question why you ever bothered with human friends in the first place.

So, if you’re considering getting a dog, why not go for the Pitshih? In this article, we’ve gathered all the information you need to decide if this mixed breed is the one for you. Let’s dive in and see if the Pitshih is the dog of your dreams or just another one of those designer dog fads that will soon be forgotten like yesterday’s kibble.

Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix History

No one really knows when this breed first came into existence. It could have been a spontaneous creation that happened by accident, or maybe someone just thought, “Hey, let’s mix a tiny lap dog with a massive powerhouse of a pup and see what happens!

But let’s not forget about the proud heritage of the parent breeds. On the one hand, we have the Shih Tzu, a dog once the cherished companion of Chinese royalty. And on the other, we have the Pitbull, a dog bred for bull-baiting and later became a symbol of American strength and resilience. Put them together, and what do you get? A feisty and loyal little dog with a whole lot of personality.

Shih Tzu

This little lion dog has been around for ages, dating back to ancient China when they were the companions of royals, like the emperor. And let me tell you, these dogs were the OG lapdogs. They were so good at it, they were nicknamed the “lapdog extraordinaire.” It’s like they invented the art of snuggling.

Getting your hands on a Shih Tzu wasn’t easy back in the day. You had to be gifted one! It was like winning the lottery, but instead of money, you got a furry companion who was always down for a good belly rub. But eventually, the breed made its way to other parts of the world through trade ships, and let’s just say, the rest is history.

Fast forward to today, and the Shih Tzu is one popular pup. I mean, who wouldn’t want one? They’ve got an adorable appearance that’s just too cute for words. It’s like the world’s best dog designer crafted them. And it’s not just me saying it – the American Kennel Club (AKC) thought so too, accepting the Shih Tzu dog breed into their club in 1969. Now, that’s what I call a stamp of approval!

American Pitbull Terrier

You might be surprised that the American Pitbull Terrier is a relatively new breed compared to the ancient Shih Tzu. The Pitbull was first bred in the 1800s in England by mixing Old English Terriers and Old English Bulldogges. Unfortunately, these dogs had a rough start, as they were used for the barbaric task of baiting bulls and bears. Thankfully, that’s all behind them now, as that job is illegal.

The Pitbull didn’t stay in England for long, as immigrants brought them to the United States for a dog to help them on their farms. From there, the breed grew in popularity and found its way into various professions, from service dogs to police dogs to therapy dogs. Some people love the Pitbull so much that they’ve mixed it with other breeds, like the Shih Tzu, to create the fearsome and adorable Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix.

Just remember, if you’re looking to adopt a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix, make sure you do your research and find a reputable breeder. And don’t forget to give your new furry friend lots of love and treats because they deserve it! (Sources: American Kennel Club, Pitbullinfo.org)

Pitshih Appearance

A dog can either have the body type of a Shih Tzu but slightly larger but still with those cute short legs, or it may inherit a more muscular body type from the Pitbull parent. It’s like a genetic grab bag; you never know what you’ll get! Will it be muscular and fierce or fluffy and adorable?

And let’s not forget about the face – your dog could inherit the flat look from the Shih Tzu parent. Many people in the dog world love this trait, and the Pitshih could inherit it.

But we need to talk about the elephant in the room. That cute little smashed-in face can cause breathing issues, also known as brachycephalic syndrome. So, keep an eye on your furry friend’s breathing, and get them to the vet if you notice any problems.

Overall, your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix will have some good traits from both parents, and who knows what kind of unique characteristics your dog will have.

So, if you’re the proud owner of a Pitshih, let us know what your furry friend looks like in the comments below. We’d love to see some pics of these mixed-breed cuties! Don’t forget to cite your sources because we all want to know the secrets of the Pitshih.

Pitbull Shih Tzu Mix Coat

When it comes to your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix, you’re going to have to roll the dice a bit on what kind of coat they’re going to end up with. It’s like playing genetic roulette, except you’re betting on your dog’s fur instead of money.

If your pup inherits the Shih Tzu’s genes, you’re in luck – you’ll get a silky, smooth coat that’s long enough to double as a scarf. Just make sure to keep a lint roller handy for your black pants.

On the other hand, if your pooch takes after its Pitbull parent, you might have to invest in a Roomba. Pitbulls tend to shed a lot, leaving little fur tumbleweeds everywhere. But don’t worry; your furry friend won’t be a complete hairball. They’ll likely end up with a coat between the Shih Tzu’s luxurious locks and the Pitbull’s short and spiky fur. Think business in the front, party in the back.

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for – the color options! Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix could come in various hues, from classic black and white to a snazzy spotted pattern. Remember that the shade of your dog’s coat will also depend on which genes they inherit, but that’s part of the fun. It’s like opening a surprise bag, except instead of getting a plastic toy, you’re getting a furry best friend for life.

What Colors Do They Come In?

We know you’re drooling over the prospect of bringing a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix into your life, and we’re here to dish out the deets on the colors you might expect to see in your furry friend’s coat. Get ready to bark with excitement because these colors are nothing to shake a stick at:

First up, we’ve got brown. Brown coats are like a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly night – comforting and cute. Next, we’ve got black – sleek, shiny, and mysterious. Your pup is always ready to attend a fancy gala event.

For those who want a little sunshine in your life, yellow might be your color. It’s bright, cheerful, and perfect for Instagram photos. And if you’re a fan of purity and innocence, white is the way to go. Just be sure to keep those muddy paws away!

Now, let’s talk about fawn. It’s like a caramel macchiato for your pup’s coat – rich, delicious, and a little fancy. If you want to keep things interesting, the tricolor is where it’s at. It’s like a party on your pup’s coat – multiple colors, all in one place! And finally, we’ve got brindle – a unique pattern that adds some serious spunk to your pup’s look.

There you have it, folks. The colors of the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix are all wrapped up in a bow for your viewing pleasure. Now, love your furry friend in all their colorful glory! And don’t forget to cite your sources – we got our info from the American Kennel Club, because we’re not just funny, we’re responsible too.

Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Temperament

People tend to freak out at the mere mention of a Pitbull. Don’t judge a doggo by its breed! Pitbulls can be friendly, loyal, and intelligent if they’re brought up in a loving environment and well-trained.

It’s not rocket science, just give your pup some love, socialize them with people and even children, and watch them turn into a good boy or girl.

Now, imagine taking all that awesomeness of a Pitbull and combining it with the cuteness and charm of a Shih Tzu. Mind-blown yet? This mix is like a superhero, combining the superpowers of loyalty, affection, protection, and more! It’s the ultimate family companion; even your children will love it. They’ll be like, “Mommy, can we keep it forever?”

But hold up, don’t get too excited just yet. This breed can develop separation anxiety, like a canine version of FOMO, when not with its owner. So train your dog and be consistent with it, or you’ll end up with a furry little drama queen.

Luckily, this breed is super smart, so training shouldn’t be too difficult as long as you’re consistent. Trust me; your dog will thank you for it by being a good boy or girl every day.

Pitshih Size

Size matters, but not in the way you think. When it comes to the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix, the size of the parents determines the size of the pup. Pitbulls can be as big as a small car, weighing anywhere from 22 to 78 pounds and towering 14 to 24 inches. Meanwhile, the Shih Tzu is small but mighty, tipping the scales between 9 to 16 pounds and standing 8 to 11 inches tall (with good posture, of course).

So what can you expect from the offspring of this unlikely couple? Well, your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix will likely fall in the middle of its parents’ measurements. Don’t worry, you won’t need a forklift to carry it, but it won’t fit in your purse either.

Expect a medium-sized pooch that will be bigger than your average Shih Tzu but smaller than your average Pitbull. As for weight, we’re looking at a range of 16 to 30, or even 40 pounds, depending on the size of the parent breeds. It’s all about genetics, baby!”

Pitbull Shih Tzu Mix Health Problems

All dog breeds have their quirks, including health concerns you need to know about. But did you know that mixed breeds are like the superheroes of the dog world? They breed out the pesky health issues that purebred breeds inherit. Woof, woof! But don’t get too comfy yet. Your fur baby may still have a few health issues to watch out for.

First up, Hip Dysplasia. It’s a common issue that can affect any breed, even the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix. It’s when the hipbone slips in and out of the socket like a slippery paw-cream cone. Trust us, it’s not fun and can make your pooch limp. The good news is that you can get your fur baby tested for it. Just bark to your vet about it.

Then there’s Brachycephalic Syndrome, a fancy way of saying “smooshed-face breathing troubles.” Unfortunately, this can happen to breeds with those adorable smooshed faces, like the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix.

It can make it hard for your fur baby to get enough air through their nose, which is no fun for anyone. So, let them breathe easily by monitoring their breathing and talking to your vet if you have any concerns.

Next up, allergies! The Pitbull dog breed is known to be prone to some allergies, so your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix could inherit this trait. It can come in various forms, from food to grooming products. To keep those pesky allergies at bay, try using products made for sensitive skin, watch out for different foods, and make a note if certain foods give your dog allergies.

Last but not least, dental issues. The Shih Tzu breed is prone to dental issues, like a prince with a weak spot for sweets. So, clean your fur baby’s teeth to avoid any dental disease. They can also have issues with their teeth overcrowding in their mouth. Don’t worry. Your fur baby can still rock a smile that will make you melt.

Remember, your fur baby’s health is nothing to bark at. If you ever have any concerns, bark it up to your veterinarian. Take your fur baby to regular check-ups to keep an eye on their health as they age. They’ll stay healthy and happy, like a tail wag!

Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Life Span

When it comes to mixed-breed dogs, the life span can be all over the place. But fear not, your Shih Tzu Pitbull mix will likely have a long, healthy life…unless they inherit some pesky health issues. Those darn genetics!

Shih Tzus typically live anywhere between 10 to 16 years, while American Pitbull Terriers can thrive for 8 to 15 years. So, based on this info, you can expect your precious little Shih Tzu Pitbull mix to stick around for a solid 8 to 16 years. That’s like…64 to 128 in dog years, right?

But hey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. If you ever have any concerns about your furry friend’s health, it’s best to consult a vet. Trust us, your Shih Tzu Pitbull mix will appreciate the TLC, and you’ll get the peace of mind to keep on lovin’ them to the fullest.

Living Conditions

Are you tired of apartment living limiting your dog breed options? Well, look no further than the Pitbull Shih Tzu mix! This small to medium-sized breed is perfectly happy to snuggle up with you in your cozy studio or share a mansion with you if you’re feeling fancy.

This breed is also great for those who aren’t exactly marathon runners. You won’t have to drag yourself out of bed at the crack of dawn to get this pooch some exercise. With just 30-60 minutes of daily exercise, even grandma can take this pup for a stroll around the block. Don’t expect them to keep up with you on your next 10-mile run.

And let’s address the elephant in the room – the Pitbull reputation. Yes, some people may think Pitbulls are naturally aggressive, but with the right upbringing, your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix will have the sweetest disposition ever. Treat them with love, care, and respect, and they’ll be the best family companion you could ask for.

Don’t miss out on this incredible adaptable, low maintenance, and loving breed. Your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix will thank you with all the cuddles and kisses you can handle.

Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Exercise

Alright, folks, let’s get those tail-waggers moving! Your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix may look like a little couch potato, but don’t be fooled – this breed needs its daily dose of exercise. We’re talking 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity, folks. But don’t fret; you don’t have to do it all at once. Just break it up into 20-minute chunks throughout the day, and voila – happy and healthy pup!

Now, hold your horses and don’t go overboard with the exercise, or your furry buddy might end up with a serious case of brachycephalic syndrome. We know it sounds like something out of a sci-fi flick, but trust us, it’s not pretty. This little pooch’s squished-in face makes it hard for them to breathe, especially during intense workouts. So take it easy, give your four-legged friend plenty of water, and watch for any concerning signs during exercise.

And don’t worry, exercising with your pup can be fun and easy! Take a stroll around the block, play fetch in the backyard, or even hit the local dog park. It’s a win-win situation – you get to burn some calories, and your dog has a blast. If you neglect their exercise needs, your furry buddy might start acting up in the house, and nobody wants that. So let’s get moving, people – your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is counting on you!

Pitshih Feeding

How much should you feed your furry friend? Well, it all depends on how big your little monster is. If your Pitshih is more petite, one cup of dog food should suffice. But if you’ve got yourself a beefy boy, you might need to up the ante and give them three cups daily. And don’t forget to adjust the amount of food based on your pup’s weight. No, you can’t just eyeball it.

But what kind of food should you give your Pitshih? You’ve got options, my friend. You can go with dry dog food, wet food, or even a combination of the two. Some dog owners like to give their furry friends a raw diet.

Talk about a fancy feast! Remember, no matter what food you choose, it’s important to break it down into smaller meals throughout the day. Don’t let your pup go hog wild and eat all the food at once. That’s not healthy for anyone involved.

Oh, and a quick word of caution. Keep an eye out for any food allergies your doggo might have. Some pups are sensitive to certain foods, which can give them a rash or itchy skin. Trust us, you don’t want your Pitshih scratching like a maniac all day.

It’s not a good look. So be a good pet parent and do your due diligence. Your dog (and their skin) will thank you for it. And if you need more information, don’t forget to consult with your vet. They know their stuff.

Pitbull Shih Tzu Mix Grooming

The Pitbull Shih Tzu mix is a unique breed that requires regular grooming to maintain its overall health and appearance. Grooming your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix can involve various tasks, such as brushing their coat, trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth. Regular grooming can help keep your pet healthy and looking its best.

One of the most important aspects of grooming a Pitbull Shih Tzu mix is brushing its coat. This breed’s fur can be long and dense, so it’s important to brush it regularly to prevent matting and tangling.

Regular brushing also helps to distribute the natural oils in your pet’s coat, keeping it shiny and healthy. You may also want to trim your pet’s coat, especially during summer, to keep them cool and comfortable.

Trimming your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix’s nails is another important grooming task. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even lead to health problems, so it’s important to trim them regularly. If you’re uncomfortable trimming your pet’s nails, a professional groomer can help.

Cleaning your pet’s ears and brushing their teeth are also important parts of their grooming routine. Use a damp cloth to gently clean the inside of your pet’s ears, being careful not to push any debris further inside. Brush your pet’s teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Overall, grooming your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix is important in keeping them healthy and happy. With regular attention to their coat, nails, ears, and teeth, you can help your pet look and feel their best. If you’re uncomfortable with any aspect of your pet’s grooming routine, consider consulting a professional groomer for assistance.

Pitbull Shih Tzu Mix Training

Training your furry friend shouldn’t be harder than doing a Rubik’s cube with your eyes closed. And guess what? If you’re consistent with your training, it’ll be smoother than a baby’s bottom! Train your pup when it’s a wee little thing, and keep training it when it’s an adult – because hey, you never stop learning, do you?

Now, it’s no secret that the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix is a smart cookie – I mean, they’ve got two of the most intelligent breeds in the dog world in their genes! So, start with the basics, like potty training. Trust us, it’s not rocket science, but it’s an important step that’ll give you the confidence to keep going.

And here’s the secret ingredient to making your pup a genius – positive reinforcement! Give your dog a treat, a belly rub, or even a song and dance (okay, maybe not the last one) every time it does something good. This way, your doggo will feel like it’s on cloud nine, and training will be a walk in the park for both of you!

Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Puppies

Finding a breeder for a mixed puppy can be a bit of a challenge. You might have to search far and wide to find a breeder with these puppies for sale, but trust us, it’s worth the effort. After all, buying from a breeder instead of a puppy store or mill is like buying organic produce instead of frozen TV dinners – it’s just better for everyone involved.

But the hard work doesn’t stop once you’ve found your breeder. Like a human child, a puppy needs a lot of love and attention to grow up happy and healthy. That’s right; you’ll have to be a real nurturer to ensure your furry friend is well-tempered and doesn’t end up biting the mailman. But don’t worry, we believe in you – you got this.

Of course, taking care of a puppy isn’t all sunshine and doggy kisses. These little guys can be expensive, so make sure you’ve done the math and can afford to give your pup the best care possible.

And don’t forget about the vet bills and puppy supplies you’ll need to keep your new family member happy and healthy. It’s like having a baby, but one that barks instead of cries (which we think is a major plus).

So before you swipe your credit card, be sure to do your due diligence. Ask about the parents’ health, request pictures, and even meet the breeder and the dogs in person if you can. After all, you don’t want to end up with a puppy that’s more Pitbull than Shih Tzu (or vice versa) or has been treated poorly by a sketchy breeder.

Do your homework, and you’ll be rewarded with a loyal companion that will love you unconditionally for years to come.

Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Litter Size

Just like you can never tell how much dip your guests will take at a party, you can never predict the exact number of puppies a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix will give birth to. It all comes down to the size of the mommy dog because size does matter.

If the mommy is a dainty Shih Tzu, expect a modest litter of three to four little rascals. But if she’s a big-boned American Pitbull Terrier, you look at a brood of five to ten.

Basically, whichever parent is carrying the load will determine how many mouths you’ll have to feed. So, buckle up and get ready for a pack of between three to ten bouncing puppies. And trust us; you’ll need all the help you can get to take care of them – just don’t call us when you’re up to your eyeballs in poop!

Sources:

• AKC. (2022). American Pitbull Terrier. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/american-pit-bull-terrier/
• Shih Tzu Daily. (2022). Shih Tzu Pregnancy: Signs, Stages and Care. Shih Tzu Daily. https://shihtzudaily.com/shih-tzu-pregnancy/

Key Takeaways

Woof woof, your friendly doggo expert here is ready to give you the lowdown on the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix. If you’re short on time, don’t worry, I’ll give you the Cliff Notes version of this article in this section.

• First up, let’s talk nicknames. This mixed breed is affectionately known as the “Pitshih” – and no, that’s not a typo! It’s a mashup of its parent breeds, the Pitbull and the Shih Tzu.
• Don’t let the Pitbull in the name fools you – this pup won’t be as big as its traditional Pitbull cousins. It’ll be small to medium in size, making it a perfect fit for various homes.
• When it comes to appearance, this breed is a bit of a wild card. Your dog could take after either parent or a mix of both. So, expect the unexpected!
• One thing you can count on is that the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix is a friendly, loyal, and intelligent breed. They’re great family companions, even though the Pitbull parent sometimes gets a bad rap.
• Of course, no dog breed is perfect, and this mix is no exception. Some health concerns to watch out for include hip dysplasia, allergies, and brachycephalic syndrome. But don’t worry, with proper care and attention; your pup can still live a long and healthy life – between 8 to 16 years, to be exact.
• Like any dog, the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix needs exercise to stay happy and healthy. So, don’t forget to take your furry friend out for walks and playtime. Trust us; you don’t want to deal with destructive behavior resulting from pent-up energy!
• When it comes to feeding your pup, remember to choose food based on its size and weight. And, to ensure your doggo is well-behaved, start training them when they’re young and keep up with it throughout their life. Socialization is also key for this mixed breed.
• Lastly, a word on where to get your Pitbull Shih Tzu mix. We can’t stress this enough – please only purchase from a reputable breeder, not a pet store or puppy mill. Your furry friend deserves the best start in life, so choose wisely! And that’s it, folks – now you’re ready to welcome a Shih Tzu Pitbull mix into your home with open arms (and a big ol’ bag of treats).

FAQ

This section will find very common questions about the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix.

Close Relatives of the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix

Here you will find some dog breeds that are similar to the Shih Tzu Pitbull mix:

• Shih Tzu
• Pitbull
• Pitbull Pug Mix
• Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix
• Shih Tzu Lhasa Apso Mix