top of page

Shih Poo Dog Registration

Breed Standard for Shih Poo:

General Appearance:

  • The Shih Poo is a small to medium-sized dog with a compact and well-proportioned body.

  • They should have a balanced and elegant appearance, combining traits from both the Shih Tzu and the Poodle.

  • The overall appearance should convey intelligence, alertness, and charm.

Size:

  • Shih Poos typically range in height from 8 to 18 inches (20 to 46 cm) at the shoulder, depending on the size of the Poodle parent.

  • Weight can vary widely, but generally falls between 8 to 18 pounds (3.6 to 8.2 kg).

Coat:

  • The coat of the Shih Poo can vary widely depending on the genetic contribution from the Poodle parent.

  • It may be curly, wavy, or straight, and can be of various colors, including black, white, brown, cream, or a combination thereof.

  • The coat should be of medium length, dense, and may be low-shedding or hypoallergenic, like the Poodle parent.

Head:

  • The head should be proportionate to the body, with a slightly rounded skull.

  • Eyes are typically large, round, and dark, expressing a warm and affectionate demeanor.

  • Ears may be floppy or semi-prick in shape, and they should be set high on the head.

Body:

  • The body of the Shih Poo should be well-muscled and compact, with a level topline.

  • Chest should be deep and well-developed, providing ample room for lung capacity.

  • Legs are straight and sturdy, providing agility and grace in movement.

Tail:

  • The tail may be natural or docked, depending on individual preference and local regulations.

  • When undocked, the tail is typically of medium length and may be carried gracefully over the back.

Temperament:

  • Shih Poos are known for their affectionate, playful, and sociable nature.

  • They are intelligent dogs that thrive on human companionship and enjoy spending time with their families.

  • Shih Poos are typically good with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age.

shih poo

The Shih Poo, a delightful crossbreed resulting from the union of a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, has been capturing hearts with its endearing personality and adorable appearance. This popular hybrid combines the playful and affectionate nature of the Shih Tzu with the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle, resulting in a companion that excels in providing love and companionship to individuals and families alike. While the Shih Poo may not be officially recognized as a breed by traditional kennel clubs, registering with the Designer Kennel Club (DKC) holds numerous benefits for both breeders and owners.

 

The Shih Poo: A Unique Crossbreed
The Shih Poo typically exhibits a compact and well-proportioned body, often adorned with a soft, curly, or wavy coat that comes in various colors, including black, white, brown, and cream. Their expressive eyes and gentle facial features add to their overall charm, making them irresistible companions for dog lovers of all ages.

 

In terms of temperament, Shih Poos are known for their affectionate, loyal, and sociable nature. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy spending time with their families, whether it's cuddling on the couch or engaging in interactive play. Shih Poos are also intelligent dogs that respond well to training and enjoy learning new tricks, making them ideal companions for obedience training and other canine activities.

 

Why Registration Matters
While the Shih Poo may not be recognized as a breed by traditional kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Kennel Club (UK), registering your Shih Poo with the Designer Kennel Club offers several important advantages:

 

Breed Recognition: Registering your Shih Poo with the Designer Kennel Club provides official recognition of this beloved crossbreed. It acknowledges the unique qualities and characteristics that define the Shih Poo, contributing to its status as a recognized designer breed.
 

Pedigree Documentation: Registration with the Designer Kennel Club ensures that your Shih Poo's lineage is documented, offering valuable insight into its genetic background. This information can be crucial for breeders making informed breeding decisions and for owners interested in understanding their dog's heritage.
 

Health Monitoring: The Designer Kennel Club maintains records of registered Shih Poos, allowing for the tracking of health information and genetic data within the breed. This helps identify potential health concerns and promotes responsible breeding practices aimed at preserving the well-being of Shih Poos.
 

Community Engagement: Registering your Shih Poo with the Designer Kennel Club facilitates connections with fellow enthusiasts and breeders within the Shih Poo community. It provides opportunities for networking, sharing knowledge, and participating in events and activities dedicated to celebrating this beloved crossbreed.
 

Preserving the Legacy of the Shih Poo
The Shih Poo represents a delightful fusion of traits from its Shih Tzu and Poodle parents, making it an affectionate, intelligent, and charming companion. While not recognized as a breed by traditional kennel clubs, registering your Shih Poo with the Designer Kennel Club offers numerous benefits, including breed recognition, pedigree documentation, health monitoring, and community engagement.

By taking this important step, you contribute to the ongoing recognition and preservation of the Shih Poo breed, ensuring that these wonderful dogs continue to bring joy and companionship to families for years to come.

bottom of page