The Shih Tzu Husky mix is uncommon. Breeding them with regular methods is unusual because of their huge size differences. This hybrid breed is really rare. Shih Tzu is a pampered lapdog, and Husky is a hardworking dog, so mixing them is surely a matter of wonder. In this article, I have shared the necessary information to give you a primary idea of the Shih Tzu Husky mix. You’ll have some extra info at the end of the article.
History of Shih Tzu Husky Mix
It’s common for Shih Tzu or Husky owners to not know the true origins of their beloved pups. The confusion can grow even more when they encounter a Shih Tzu Husky breed mix, a breed that has gained popularity only in recent times!
The Shih Tzu was originally from China and Tibet. They were adored as lapdogs by royal families. They showed elegance and wealth. They also had other amazing uses, and they used to be foot warmers in winter. Have you thought of such a thing?
The Husky is known as a hardworking dog, unlike the Shih Tzu. Its roots can be traced back to Siberia, where it played important roles like transporting food, pulling sleds, and supporting hunters in their endeavors. They were not lazy, as you can see!
Even today, Shih Tzus continue to be beloved companions, enjoying lounging on their owner’s lap, while Huskies stay true to their roots, still hard at work pulling sleds. It’s incredible how their roles have endured!
A Shih Tzu Husky breed mix is exceptionally special because these two breeds have had such different histories! Depending on which traits they inherit more from each breed, they might excel as watchdogs or guard dogs, making them a unique blend of characteristics. They might give you a lot of surprising characteristics!
How Big Will a Shih Tzu Husky Mix Get?
A xShih Tzu Husky breed mix can be as small as 8 inches or as tall as 18 inches. The height can vary a lot because Shih Tzus and Huskies are very different in size.
As for their weight, Shih Tzusky pups can range from 10 to 59 pounds. The weight they end up being depends on whether they take after their Shih Tzu or Husky parent. So, these pups can come in different sizes, just like people!
Shih Tzu Husky Mix Appearance
When you have a Shih Tzu crossed with a Husky, it’s a delightful surprise to see how their appearance turns out, given the vast differences between the two parent breeds. You never know which traits they will inherit!
Shih Tzu’s Appearance
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy little dog. They are around 8 to 11 inches tall, cute, tiny size, right? They weigh between 9 to 16 pounds, easy to pick! With big, dark eyes and pendant ears, they have a cute and endearing look, but their short face gives them a brachycephalic trait.
Their soft and long double coat comes in various solid colors like white, black, tan, and gold. They can also have a mix of two colors, such as white and black or white and black.
Husky Appearance
Huskies, on the other hand, are robust, muscular, and medium-sized dogs with a height ranging from 20 to 23.5 inches and weighing between 35 to 60 pounds. They won’t give you that much easy-to-pamper vibe like Shih Tzu! They have a wolf-like appearance, and they have striking blue or brown eyes that might even be bi-colored.
Their ears are triangular, and their bushy tail adds to their charm. The Husky has a thick double coat, short to medium in length, and comes in unique colors and patterns. You’ll find common colors like black and white, copper and white, or pure white.
The Shih Tzu Husky breed mix is truly interesting because their appearance can be a wonderful blend of both parent breeds or may even show a little of each. It’s a delightful mystery to see what they’ll look like! No breed has such unique outcomes like them!
Shih Tzu Husky Mix Size and Weight
Typical Height of Shih Tzu:
- Height: Typically stands at 8 – 11 inches at the shoulder.
- Weight: Usually weighs between 9 – 16 pounds.
- Lifespan: Can live for 10 – 16 years.
Typical Height of Husky:
- Height: Usually measures between 20 – 23 inches at the shoulder.
- Weight: Generally weighs between 35 – 60 pounds.
- Lifespan: Typically lives for 12 – 15 years.
Coat Color of Shih Tzu Husky Mix
Coat color in the Husky Shih Tzu Mix can vary widely, with options ranging from solid black to brindle. Predicting the coat colors and patterns of your Tzusky becomes easier if you know the coat colors of its parents. When both parents have pure colors, like black or white, the puppies will likely also have the same pure color.
However, if the parents have different pure colors, the puppies may inherit one of the colors or even a mixture of both. The most unpredictable outcome occurs when one or both parents have mixed-colored fur.
Shih Tzu Husky Mix Temperament
The Shih Tzu Husky mix is a super friendly and smart breed. He loves to make his owners happy, and he is a fast learner. A reward or punishment system works for him. He needs a lot of exercises to stay happy and avoid boredom or mischief.
He has an athletic nature, so he must exercise a lot. It is great to have a large yard or access to a park. It will allow him to run and play as much as he wants.
How long does Shih Tzu Husky Mix live?
Shih Tzu Husky Mix dogs usually have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, especially if they receive proper grooming and care.
However, despite their relatively long life expectancy, they are prone to various health issues. They often inherit many of the diseases that affect Shih Tzus, with eye problems being quite common among them.
Additionally, they may also experience some general health conditions that are common among dogs in general. Proper care and supervision will keep your pup healthy and active!
Shih Tzu Husky Mix Health
Health is an important aspect of the Shih Tzu Husky mix. They are generally healthy. But they can be prone to some health issues, such as allergies, hip and elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. To ensure your dog’s well-being, you have to work closely with a veterinarian. So you have to be really attentive in case of their health. Good health is important for your dog’s longevity. Don’t forget to look after them in your busy days also.
Bathing Your Shih Tzu Husky Mix
Shih Tzus needs a bath more often, like every 3 weeks, while Huskies can go longer, about every 3 months. Your Shih Tzu Husky mix will fall somewhere in between. When they get dirty or start to smell, it’s bath time!
Remember to use a dog-specific shampoo to keep their skin happy and avoid irritation.
Training Your Shih Tzu Husky Mix
Training a Tzusky is quite manageable. This dog has a great memory and will follow your commands if you practice regularly. If you only give instructions occasionally, it might become confusing. So, make sure to train your Tzusky regularly and reward it with treats to keep it motivated.
Exercising the Shih Tzu Husky Mix
Exercising your Shih Tzu Husky mix is essential to keep her happy and healthy. Despite her small size, she’s likely to be a lively and playful dog. The Shih Tzu may become destructive if she doesn’t get enough exercise, so it’s crucial to provide her with regular activity.
However, as a brachycephalic breed (with a flat face), be cautious not to overexert her. On the other hand, the Husky has high energy levels and loves the outdoors, requiring plenty of vigorous exercise. Since she has a strong prey drive, it’s crucial to always keep her on a leash and provide a safe, secure place for her to run around.
During hot weather, be mindful of the Shih Tzu Husky mix’s thick coats, as it can make her vulnerable to overheating. Exercise her during the coolest part of the day and keep her in an air-conditioned environment to prevent discomfort.
While the Shih Tzu can swim, her long coat and flat face can make it challenging for her in water. As for the Husky, she doesn’t have a natural inclination to swim coming from Siberia. So, it’s best to avoid taking them swimming to cool down. Focus on providing other suitable ways to keep them active and happy.
How to Groom a Shih Tzu Husky Mix?
Grooming a Shih Tzu Husky Mix requires attention, as both Shih Tzus and Huskies have thick, double coats. Your pup’s fur could be longer like a Shih Tzu’s or shorter like a Husky’s, but either way, they need medium to high grooming care.
To properly groom a Shih Tzu Husky, you’ll need suitable products and specific tools like brushes and trimmers that match their fur type.
Since the Shih Tzu Husky tends to shed a lot, regular brushing is essential to prevent tangles. It’s a good practice to brush them at least 1–2 times a week, and if they have longer fur, consider brushing them three times a week.
Like any other dog, keeping their ears, teeth, and nails in good condition is important to ensure their overall well-being and happiness.
Shih Tzu Husky Mix Feeding
Feeding a Shih Tzu Husky Mix can be a bit tricky. They have hearty appetites and tend to gobble up their meals quickly. While they may not steal your food, it’s crucial to ensure they are getting the right amount to maintain a healthy weight.
Here are some feeding guidelines:
For a mature adult Shih Tzu Husky Mix, it’s recommended to provide about 3/4 cups of food per day for every 10 pounds of body weight (or 5% of their total weight).
Since the average adult Shih Tzu Husky Mix weighs around 15-20 pounds, feeding them about 6 oz. or 3/4 cup of food daily would be ideal.
Instead of one large meal, it’s better to split their daily portion into two smaller meals. Feeding them breakfast in the morning and lunch in the afternoon around 4 pm can help prevent overeating and keep their digestive system active throughout the day.
Dental hygiene Of Shih Tzu Husky Mix
Many dogs can get a tooth problem called periodontitis. But you can help prevent it by using good dental water additives. Just add the right amount to your dog’s water, and it will keep their teeth and gums healthy by stopping plaque from building up and wearing them down.
Are Shih Tzu Husky mixes good dogs?
Shih Tzus are wonderful, affectionate, and friendly dogs. They are perfect for home life. They absolutely love being with their owners and have been cherished lapdogs throughout history, even by emperors!
Rescuing a Shih Tzu Husky Mix
If you’re considering giving a Shih Tzu Husky mix a loving home, adoption from a nearby shelter is a great option. Reach out to dog rescue centers. Inform them of your interest in this particular breed. Give it all the love that you have!
Do Shih Tzu Husky Mixes Make Good Family Dogs?
In most cases, they make great family pets because they are kind and get along well with kids.
However, because they have lots of energy, they might not be the best choice if you have little toddlers around.
It’s worth mentioning that if your Shih Tzu Husky mix inherits the flat face from the Shih Tzu side, it could lead to health problems. So, we don’t really recommend this breed as a suitable pet.
Pros and Cons of a Shih Tzu Husky Mix
Cons of Shih Tzu Husky Mix
1. Breathing Issues: Some of these cute pups might have a flat face, which could lead to breathing troubles.
2. Overheating: They’re not great at handling hot weather and might get too toasty.
3. Shedding: Be ready for some fur all year round.
4. Separation Anxiety: These doggies can get a little sad when you’re not around.
5. Houdini Huskies: Huskies can be escape artists, so keep an eye on them.
6. Training Challenge: Teaching them tricks might be a bit tough.
7. Small Pets Beware: Watch out for small animals and birds because Huskies might see them as snacks.
8. Grooming Galore: Get ready to brush and pamper them a lot.
9. High Energy: These pups are full of beans, so be ready for action!
Pros of Shih Tzu Husky Mix
1. Love and Loyalty: They’re big on love and loyalty.
2. Kid and Pet Friendly: If they grow up with kids and other pets, they get along great.
3. Long Lives: These furry friends tend to stick around for quite a while.
4. Watchdog Potential: They make good watchdogs, keeping an eye on things for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Shih Tzu Husky mix, or Shih Tzu Husky breed, is a one-of-a-kind companion for those seeking a loving and loyal four-legged friend. With their charming blend of traits, these dogs have carved a special place in the hearts of many. This guide has equipped you with the essential knowledge to embark on your journey with this fascinating breed. From understanding their temperament and care requirements to tips on training and health considerations, you’re now ready to welcome a Shih Tzu Husky mix into your life with confidence and joy.
