Last Updated on February, 2025
Shih Poos, the delightful result of mixing Shih Tzu and Miniature or Toy Poodles, bring a unique charm to the world of canine companionship.
But just how long can you expect these adorable hybrids to be a part of your life?
The answer lies in a complex interplay of factors, from their size and generation to the care they receive.
On average, Shih Poos grace our lives for an impressive 12 to 17 years, boasting the longest lifespan among both Poodles and Shih Tzus.
In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of Shih Poo lifespan, common health issues, life stages, and the intriguing concept of hybrid vigor.
So, if you’re a devoted Shih Poo parent or considering becoming one, join us on a journey to understand and cherish these beloved companions for many happy years to come.
Quick Summary
Shih Poo breeds have a lifespan of 12-17 years, which is longer than both its parent breeds, due to a concept called “hybrid vigor.
These dogs have potential health issues inherited from their parent breeds such as breathing, dental, ear, and eye problems.
Proper care and attention, including choosing an ethical breeder, proper diet, exercise, grooming, and regular vet checkups, can extend the Shih Poo lifespan and improve their quality of life.
Table of Contents
How Long Do Shih Poos Live?
The lifespan of a Shih Poo can largely vary, considering its parent breeds are Shih Tzu and Toy Poodle Or Miniature Poodle.
Shih Poo’s lifespan depends on various factors such as size and generation.
(More on this later) These variations will determine whether your shih poo will have a shorter or longer lifespan.
On average, however, Shih poos live from 12 TO 17 years.
Fun fact: Shih Poos have the LONGEST LIFESPAN of all Poodles, and Shih Tzu’s out there!
These adorable lap dogs live longer than larger dogs. They also inherit their parent’s superior qualities.
So, Shih Poos pups have won the GENTIC LOTTERY already!
Common Shih Poo Health Issues
Let’s face it. Mixed-breed dogs are less likely to have many health issues than pure-breed dogs. However, they are more likely to inherit their parent’s health issues.
Small dogs LIVE LONGER than the larger dogs out there. With that in mind, since Shih Poos are miniature, you can expect them to have a longer lifespan.
Now that you know the lifespan of a Shih Poo, it is equally important to know its common health conditions, so you can take prompt action if anything arises:
Choosing an ethical breeder can prevent (To a certain extent) many of the above health problems and extend the Shih Poo lifespan.
Shih Poo Life Stages
This designer dog breed has four stages of life.
Pup phase (0-6 months)
Shih Poo puppyhood lasts from birth up to six months. During this time, your Shih Poo puppies will learn things that stick for their whole life.
It’s a reasonable period to socialize your adorable little pup with humans and other pets. (Get them fully vaccinated before you do so.)
Potty training during this time is also important.
Teach them good manners. This is a crucial time that you learn how to calm down your overactive puppy.
Your pups will also put on half their adult weight from 3rd month onwards. Feed the right amount of formulated puppy food to avoid obesity.
Adolescence (6-18 months)
These are your pup’s teen years. Puppies mature sexually, causing them to go through hormonal changes.
Make sure to consult with your vet to spay or neuter the pup.
This crossbreed will finish teething during this time and have a full adult coat. They will also grow full in their height.
Adult life (1-10 years)
Congrats! Your cute pup is a full-grown adult now. Make sure that you switch to adult dog food formula during this time. Your furry friend will benefit from all the nutrients. It will also improve your dog’s health.
Shih Poos make GREAT COMPANION dogs. Adult Shih Poos will become more calmer and friendlier with age.
Senior (10+ years)
Shus Poos will be calmer as they enter their senior years. Your once-active pup will be slow and steady. Make sure you adjust the dog’s diet to avoid obesity.
Check on their health frequently. Paying a visit to your local vet every six months is recommended.
Shih Poo Generations, and it’s Affects
HYBRID VIGOR!
What is it? Hybrid pups have BETTER health conditions and life expectancy than their purebred shih tzu and Poodle birth givers.
Hybrid vigor is strongest in the first generation. Shih Poo’s lifespan depends on its generation.
If your Shih Poo puppy is first gen, they have a better chance of surviving longer.
These stronger surviving features will diminish with each generation (e.g., F2, F3, etc.). But don’t worry, Shih Poos live longer and have better health than their parent breed.
To have a better understanding, pay attention to the table below.
Shih Poo generation | Life expectancy |
F1 Shih Poo | 12 to 17 years. |
F1 b Shih Poo | 12 to 17 years. |
F2 Shih Poo | 12 to 16 years. |
Can You Extend Shih Poo’s Life Expectancy?
While it’s impossible to make them live longer than their average age, paying attention to the facts below will ensure they live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Providing proper care, such as choosing an ethical breeder, offering a suitable diet, regular exercise, grooming, and routine vet checkups, will ensure this your hybrid breed will inherit fewer health issues.
A healthy bloodline will improve the Shih Poo life expectancy. Small dog breeds tend to live longer if they don’t develop many serious health conditions.
Aging Signs of a Shih Poo
An aging Shih Poo will show signs of Calmness. When they reach their senior years, your dog will enjoy less time being active. (Shorter walks and less playtime)
Shih Poos will gain weight and lose muscle mass when they reach seniority.
Shih Poo owners should pay attention to behavioral changes as well. Your dog will change their sleeping habits and bathroom habits.
If your furry friend is aggressive, he is in pain. Consult a vet immediately when you notice these changes.
Tips to Keep a Shih Poo Healthy
Keep them happy and healthy with proper diet, exercise, grooming, and regular vet checkups.
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FAQs
The Bottomline
Shih Poo Dogs, the captivating fusion of Shih Tzu and Poodle genetics, possesses an impressive lifespan of 12 to 17 years, outlasting both Shih Tzu and Miniature Poodle Parent Breed.
As we’ve explored their longevity, common health concerns, life stages, and the concept of hybrid vigor, it’s evident that these charming companions bring joy for many years.
Whether you’re a devoted Shih Poo parent or considering becoming one, remember that responsible care choices, from ethical breeding to proper diet, grooming, exercise, and vet checkups, can further enhance their quality of life.
Here’s to cherishing your Shih Poo for a long and happy journey together.
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