Shoodle
Breed: Shoodle, Shihpoo (Shih Tzu x Poodle)
Temperament: Sweet, affectionate & playful
Approx. Size: 20 - 30cm at the withers
Weight: 3-8kg
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Maintenance: Medium
Recommended for: Most families, couples or singles - though not suited to incredibly fast and active families. A Shoodle enjoys going for walks and visiting the park, though will not excel in endurance
Temperament: Sweet, affectionate & playful
Approx. Size: 20 - 30cm at the withers
Weight: 3-8kg
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Maintenance: Medium
Recommended for: Most families, couples or singles - though not suited to incredibly fast and active families. A Shoodle enjoys going for walks and visiting the park, though will not excel in endurance
Personality, characteristics and temperament
Affectionate, sweet and cheeky little characters who enjoy the company of people and other pets. Sociable yet alert, the Shoodle is a fun loving and playful creature. Both the Poodle and the Shih Tzu make excellent companion dogs, whom thrive on the companionship of people and other pets. This is a dog who enjoys to be a part of the household/family environment, and will take pride in outings and activities. Though the Shoodle is a very friendly dog, early socialisation and training will benefit you and your puppy - bringing out the best in your four legged furry friend. The Shih Tzu is often referred to as being clown like, and the Poodle is known to be in the Top 3 Most Intelligent Dog Breeds, and both of these traits are often reflected within the Shoodle cross breed. The result is a smart dog, who is eager to please - though not as serious as some Poodles are known to be.
Though Shoodles will enjoy times outdoors, they make fantastic indoor dogs - well suited to apartment dwellers. Their small size, laid back and easy going nature, is an ideal pet for many town houses/units. Relatively quiet if well trained, be sure not to encourage 'small dog syndrome' with your cute little buddy. Raising a dog with good habits, is much easier than correcting bad ones. Though social, the Shoodle will alert its family of any unfamilar activity or sounds, such as strangers around the home, or unexpected noises during the night.
Grooming your Shoodle
The amount of grooming required for a Shih Tzu cross Poodle will depend on the type of coat. These dogs generally have a low/non-shedding coat type, and the length of the coat you desire - will determine the amount of grooming required. For dogs with a longer and unclipped coat, regular brushing will be required to avoid knots and matting. For those who prefer a short to mid length coat, brushing will be required less frequently than those with a full length coat. Weekly brush and tidy is plenty to keep a well groomed, clipped Shoodle looking its best.
Training your Shoodle
The Poodle is a highly intelligent breed, and though the Shih Tzu is much more fun and easy going - it does not always pick things up so quickly. The cross of the two breeds allows for a dog who is fun to train, as long as sessions are kept short and sweet - with lots of positive reinforcement. Being that both breeds are great companion dogs, they are often willing to please their owner - just be sure to start training and socialisation early on. Puppy preschool is recommended, even if you are not a first time dog owner. For any further training tips and advice, please contact us.
