German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix: Info, Pictures, Temperament & Traits

Breed Overview

When people think of German Shepherds, a protective, loyal companion often comes to mind. On the other side of the coin is the Shih Tzu. Meaning “little lion,” the Shit Tzu is a sassy and small companion dog. However, when you breed the two, the end result is a spunky, affectionate, and deeply devoted family pet that will follow you everywhere.

Are you considering adding a German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix to your home? Here’s everything you need to know about this unique dog.

German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix Puppies

German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix Characteristics

A less popular hybrid dog than any of the “doodle” breeds, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is on the less pricy end of the cost spectrum. It is also possible to find this adorable dog at a shelter.

3 Little-Known Facts About the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix

1. Shih Tzus Are an Ancient Breed

In fact, the breed is more than 1,000 years old and originally came from ancient Tibet.

2. German Shepherds Make Great Guide Dogs

The very first dog to aid a blind person was a German Shepherd. Their high intelligence and loyal and loving nature make the German Shepherd an ideal service dog.

3. They’re Quite Athletic

Thanks to the German Shepherd’s nimble ways, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is an athletic dog that can excel in agility courses.

Temperament & Intelligence of the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix🧠

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is a great pet for almost everyone. An active and energetic dog, this mix would do best in a home with people who love to exercise. If properly socialized and trained, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix can thrive in households with young kids and other pets.

A super-smart mix, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is easy to train and loves to learn complicated tricks. With patience and time, you can develop your dog into a capable and well-trained pet.

Are Shih Tzu German Shepherd Mixes Good for Families?🏡

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is a great pet for families with or without children. He can do well in homes with teens and even small children. Due to the large size of the German Shepherd, this mix breed can be a tad on the bigger side. This makes it rather easy for him to accidentally injure a small child. Always keep a close eye on your youngsters when they interact with any dog.

Educate them about the proper ways to interact with a dog. They should never bother the dog when he’s eating, rough house with him, or pull on his ears or tail. Additionally, efficiently train and socialize your German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix to behave around kids.

Do Shih Tzu German Shepherds Get Along with Other Pets?🐶 😽

Yep! The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix can be a wonderful addition to a multi-pet house. As with kids, it is critical to socialize your German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix to properly interact with dogs, cats, and all of your other pets.

Things to Know When Owning a German Shepherd Mix:

Now that we’ve discussed this hybrid dog’s personality, let’s dive into everything you need to know about caring for a German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix.

Food & Diet Requirements

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix varies greatly in size. He can either be smaller, like a Shih Tzu, or inherit a German Shepherd’s larger frame. As such, you need to feed your pet a high-quality diet that caters to his size, activity level, and age. The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix can consume between two and three and a half cups of kibble divided into two meals each day. Ensure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water.

Exercise🐕

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix has high energy levels and needs to be exercised for at least an hour per day. Long walks, trips to the dog park, and plenty of time spent in the backyard will keep this mix tuckered out. You also need to keep your German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix mentally stimulated as well. Training classes, challenging puzzles, and interactive toys will keep your pup occupied for hours.

Training🦮

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is one smart cookie and can easily learn basic commands and complicated tricks. Positive reinforcement training techniques work best for this breed. Both of this mix’s parent breeds can suffer from stubborn streaks. Consistent, firm training combined with loads of patience will ensure you end up with a well-behaved dog.

Grooming ✂️

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix can either inherit the German Shepherd’s short, coarse coat or the Shih Tzu’s long, lush fur. Your dog’s grooming needs will largely depend upon his coat type. Aim to brush your German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix two times per week and take him to a professional groomer four times each year. Trim his nails as needed. Clean his ears and eyes regularly and brush his teeth every day.

Health Conditions❤️

A rather healthy hybrid dog, the German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is still prone to certain health issues later in life. Hip dysplasia, allergies, patellar luxation, bladder stones, and snuffles can develop in this mix. Routine wellness visits with your vet, plenty of exercise, and a quality diet will ensure your dog lives well into old age.

Male vs Female

The male German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix might be larger than the female and more prone to aggression.

Final Thoughts

The German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix is a great dog for almost everyone. Loving, intelligent, and athletic, this mix would do best with an active family or couple that lives in a home with a big backyard. Training and socialization are key to ensuring your dog turns into a wonderful companion for years to come.

If you are on the hunt for a unique breed, consider adding a German Shepherd Shih Tzu Mix to your family today.

• Also see: German Shepherd Jindo Mix: Pictures, Care Guide, Temperament & Traits

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay